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[Updated on February 9, 2022]

The world is a wild and wonderful place, filled with millions of cool animals most of us have never even heard of.

Growing up feeling like a bit of an odd bird myself, I've always been fascinated by strange animals and weird insects. I even studied ornithology and entomology in high school.

The Duck-billed Platypus and the Praying Mantis were both early childhood favorites of mine. Today we feel special affinity for weird looking animals such as the Pangolin and the Dugong, which we snorkeled with in Coron, Palawan .

Getting to see strange animals such as the Baird's Tapir (in Corcovado National Park ), Bushbaby (in Meru National Park ), Flightless Cormorant (in the Galapagos Islands ), and Hoatzin (in the Peruvian Amazon ) in the wild has been one of our favorite parts of traveling the world together.

If you're attracted to weird birds, unusual amphibians, and other cool creatures like we are, then you'll love our epic guide to 70 cool, strange, and weird animals around the world!

READ MORE: What is Ecotourism? (The History & Principles of Responsible Travel)

COOL & WEIRD ANIMALS GUIDE

  1. Strange Amphibians & Weird Reptiles
  2. Weird Birds
  3. Weird Creepy-Crawly Creatures
  4. Unique Mammals
  5. Unusual Nocturnal Animals
  6. Cool Animals from the Sea

STRANGE AMPHIBIANS & REPTILES

Strange Animals: Weird Amphibians Around The World -Axolotl
Male Axolotl via Maxpixel

1. Axolotl

Latin Name: Ambystoma mexicanum

Habitat: Mexico's Lake Xochimilco and Lake Chalco

Size: Length: Up to 12 in; Weight: 2.11 to 8 oz

Diet: Trout, salmon pellets, bloodworms, earthworms, waxworms

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered, population decreasing

Also known as the Mexican Walking Fish, this amphibious salamander is critically endangered, and nearly went extinct in 2010.

They're weird animals because they don't go into metamorphosis like other salamanders: Even adults remain aquatic and gilled.

They're frequently used for research by scientists due to their ability to regenerate limbs.

Once a staple of the Aztec diet, they're now the focus of conservation efforts in Mexico City, where local NGOs are building "Axolotl shelters."

READ MORE:40 Fascinating Christmas Traditions in Mexico

Ugly Amphibians Around The World -Atretochoana Eiselti also known as the
Atretochoana eiselti, also known as the "penis snake". Photo by Matt Roper

2. Atretochoana

Latin Name: Atretochoana eiselti

Habitat: Brazil near the mouth of the Amazon and in the Madeira River

Size: Length: 2.4 feet; Weight: 1.76 to 3.52 oz

Diet: Small fish, worms

Conservation Status: Data Deficient

This odd amphibious species was first discovered on an expedition to the Brazilian rainforest in the late 1800s.

But most people had never heard of them until workers found six of these bizarre, eyeless creatures in 2011 while draining a portion of the Madeira River (a tributary of the Amazon) for a controversial hydroelectric project.

It's also known as the "penis snake," and it's easy to see why.

They're limbless, with snake-like bodies marked with earthworm-like rings, and heads that look like a portion of the male anatomy.

READ MORE: 20 Biggest Forests in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

Unusual Amphibians Around The World -Chinese Giant Salamander
Chinese Giant Salamander by J. Patrick Fischer via CC BY-SA 3.0

3. Chinese Giant Salamander

Latin Name: Andrias davidianus

Habitat: Rocky hill streams and lakes

Size: Length: Up to 5.9 feet; Weight: Up to 65 pounds

Diet: Insects, millipedes, horsehair worms, amphibians, fish, freshwater crabs

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered, population decreasing

The largest amphibian in the world, this critically endangered salamander can reach lengths of up to 5'9" and weigh up to 65 pounds.

Fully aquatic, they're primarily found in the rocky mountain streams and lakes of China but have been introduced in Japan and Taiwan.

They have crazy vocalizations– from barking and hissing to whining and crying– which has earned it the Chinese nickname "the infant fish."

Unfortunately, the Chinese also consider it a delicacy and use it in traditional medicine.

READ MORE: The Meaning of the Lorax (10 Eco-Lessons)

Strange Frogs Around The World -Clawed Frog
Clawed Frog by Brian Gratwicke (Flickr: Xenopus laevis) via CC BY 2.0

4. Clawed Frog

Latin Name: Xenopus laevis

Habitat: Grassland ponds, streams, and lakes in arid and semi-arid climates

Size: Length: 4 to 5 inches; Weight: 2 to 2.5 oz

Diet: Brine shrimp, shrimp pellets, waxworms, bloodworms, mealworms, insects, minnows

Conservation Status: Least Concern, population increasing

The Xenopus genus includes 20 species of aquatic frogs found in sub-Saharan Africa.

What makes them weird is the fact that they cannot hop, so they have to crawl long distances in order to get from one pond to another.

The frogs have eyes on top of their flattened heads, but no eyelids or eardrums. They also cannot move their tongue, so they use small fore limbs to help during feeding.

When the lakes, ponds, and potholes they tend to favor dry up, the frogs may lie dormant for a year awaiting rain.

READ MORE: 20 Largest Lakes in the World (by Continent)

Unusual Turtles Around the World- Eastern Long Necked Turtle
By Andy Mitchell from Glasgow, UK (Eastern Snake-necked Turtle) CC BY-SA 2.0

5. Eastern Long-Necked Turtle

Latin Name: Chelodina longicollis

Habitat: Wetland and swampy areas, streams rivers; common in eastern Australia

Size: Length: 9.84 in to 11 in; Weight: 15.6 to 28.7 oz

Diet: Fish, crustaceans, mollusks, amphibians, worms, insects

Conservation Status: Data deficient

Like a reptilian giraffe , this aptly-named turtle (commonly found in eastern Australia) has a snake-like neck that's almost as long as its entire carapace.

Rather than retracting its head back inside as you might expect, this "side-necked turtle" bends it sideways into its shell.

When threatened, the Eastern Long-neck will emit a terribly noxious odor from its musk glands, which has also earned it the nickname "The Stinker."

READ MORE:20 Weird & Cute Australian Animals

Odd Amphibians Around the World -Glass Frog
Glass Frog by Geoff Gallice from Gainesville, FL, USA CC BY 2.0

6. Glass Frogs

Latin Name: Centrolenidae

Habitat: Tropical rainforests

Size: Length: 0.78 to 3 in

Diet: Insects, spiders

Conservation Status: Least Concern

Commonly known as Glass Frogs, members of the amphibian family Centrolenidae all share a similar small size and lime green background colors.

What makes them strange animals is the fact that certain species have translucent abdominal skin that allows you to see their insides.

This includes their heart, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and (in the case of females) eggs!

It's also a helpful feature for escaping predators, since the frogs are primarily active at night.

READ MORE:The 15 Best Kauai Waterfalls

Weird Turtles Around The World, Mata Mata Turtle
By Dick Culbert from Gibsons, B.C., Canada (Chelus fimbriatus) CC BY 2.0

7. Mata Mata Turtle

Latin Name: Chelus fimbriata

Habitat: Streams and swamps in the Amazon and Orinoco basins

Size: Length: Up to 18 in; Weight: 30 pounds

Diet: Fish, frogs, insects

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

This South American freshwater turtle is found in the Amazon and Orinoco basins, primarily in slow-moving streams and swamps where it can stand in shallow water and stretch its nose to the surface to breathe.

It's an unusual, ancient-looking creature that's clearly made for camouflage.

It has a horny snout and flattened, triangle-shaped head that looks like fallen leaves, and a brown/black shell said to resemble bark.

Measuring up to 18 inches long and weighing some 30 pounds, it's a large, trippy-looking turtle!

READ MORE:Top 15 Female Wildlife Conservationists & Animal Rights Activites

Weird Lizards Around The World -Mexican Mole Lizard
Mexican Mole Lizard by Marlin Harms via CC BY 2.0

8. Mexican Mole Lizard

Latin Name: Bipes biporus

Habitat: Mexico's Baja California region

Size: Length: 7.1 to 9.4 in; Weight: 3 oz

Diet: Ants, termites, insects, larvae, earthworms

Conservation Status: Least Concern, population stable

These bizarre animals, which are also commonly known as the 5-Toed Worm Lizard, are endemic to Mexico's Baja California region.

Measuring up to 9.4 inches long, it looks like a freaky hybrid– part earthworm, part mole, part salamander.

It's got a blunt head; a slender, ribbed, pink body; and two tiny forelimbs that it uses to dig underground.

They live there, close to the surface, and only emerge at night or after heavy rains.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Festivals in the World for Your World Travel Bucket List

Weird Looking Frogs Around The World, Pinocchio Frog
Pinocchio Frog, photo © Tim Laman via Conservation International

9. Spike-Nosed Tree Frog

Latin Name: Litoria pinocchio

Habitat: Rainforest of the Foja mountains of Indonesia

Size: Spike: 2.5 mm

Diet: Insects

Conservation Status: Data Deficient

Colloquially known as the "Pinocchio Frog," this unusual animal was discovered during a Conservation International and National Geographic Society expedition to Indonesian New Guinea in 2008.

Its nickname comes from the fact that the tree frog's elongated nose grows rigid and erect when he's calling out to prospective mates, but otherwise remains limp and deflated.

Not much else is known about the species, other than the fact that it lives in the rainforest of the Foja Mountains .

READ MORE:How to Avoid Products with Palm Oil

Weird Looking Amphibians Around the World -Purple Frog
Purple Frog via EdgeofExistence.org

10. Purple Frog

Latin Name: Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis

Habitat: India's Western Ghats

Size: Length: 6 to 9 cm; Weight: 5 to 6 oz

Diet: Termites

Conservation Status: Endangered

Also known as the Indian Purple Frog or Pignose Frog, this grape-colored goliath looks like Grimace (if he was a fat frog with a small head and a pointy snout).

Endemic to India's Western Ghats, the endangered frog's proboscis is designed to help it feed on its favorite food, termites.

They spend the majority of their time underground: They only surface to breed once a year, for two weeks during India's monsoon season.

A breeding pair will lay up to 3,000 eggs annually in rocks along streams, then head back underground again.

READ MORE: Indian Animals: A Guide to 40 Incredible Indian Wildlife Species

Indian Gharial
Indian Gharial, photo by DaFranzos via Pixabay

11. Indian Gharial

Latin Name: Gavialis gangeticus

Habitat: Freshwater rivers, sandbanks

Size: Length: 8.9 to 16 feet; Weight: 350 to 550 pounds

Diet: Fish, Insects, crustaceans, frogs

Conservation Status: Critically Endangered, population increasing

Another unusual animal in India , the Alligator-like Gharial is notable for its long, narrow snout and a bizarre grin comprised of nearly 100 teeth.

These critically endangered reptiles can grow up to 15 feet long and weigh nearly 2,000 pounds.

Once ranging all across South Asia, there are currently less than 1,000 left in the wild. These days they can only be found along rivers in India and Nepal.

What makes these unique animals different from other crocodilians is that, instead of having to stalk their next meal, they can locate prey by picking up vibrations in the water through sensory cells in their sensational snouts.

READ MORE: The 15 Best Places to Visit in India for Nature Lovers

European Legless Lizard, aka Scheltopusik or Palla's glass lizard
"Scheltopusik IMG_8446" by OZinOH is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

12. European Legless Lizard

Latin Name:Pseudopus apodus

Habitat:Wooded areas in southern Europe, the Balkans, southern Crimean coast, Black Sea coast, & central Asia

Size:Length: 2 to 3 feet; Weight: 7.05 to 14.10 oz

Diet:Crickets, mealworms, waxworms, cockroach nymphs

Conservation Status:Data deficient

Also known as the Scheltopusik or Palla's Glass Lizard, the European Legless Lizard is found throughout Eastern Europe and Central Asia.

Their nickname comes from an age-old myth that they would shatter like glass if bothered. Strangely enough, this old wives' tale is partially true!

These lizards are one of the few strange animals that uses caudal autotomy, and will break off their tail in an act of self-defense if they feel threatened.

European Legless Lizards are often mistaken for snakes, due to their lack of legs and ability to reach up to 4 feet in length.

In fact, they so closely resemble snakes that they were used in the snake pit scene in the classic adventure film, Indiana Jones & theRaiders of the Lost Ark.

READ MORE: 40 Fascinating Facts About the Amur Leopard

Vietnamese Mossy Frog photo
"File:Mossy Frog (68400615).jpeg" by DarwIn is licensed under CC BY 3.0

13. Vietnamese Mossy Frog

Latin Name:Theloderma corticale

Habitat: Cliffs and rainforests in northern Vietnam

Size:Length: 2.5 to 3.5 in

Diet:Crickets, cockroaches, earthworms

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

These weird looking animals appear just as their name would suggest– mossy. They're verdant green with black spots, and their skin is covered in tubercles and spines.

Found mostly in northern Vietnam, this semi-aquatic amphibian species spends most of its time in the water, laying on rock crevices where they're nearly indistinguishable from moss itself.

This sort of camouflage comes in handy when they're threatened. As does their ability to throw their voices up to 13 feet to confuse their predators!

READ MORE:  40 Fascinating Facts About the Saola (a.k.a Asian Unicorn)

WEIRD BIRDS

Amazing Birds Around The World -California Condor
California Condor by USFWS Pacific SW

14. California Condor

Latin Name:Gymnogyps californianus

Habitat:Rocky shrubland, coniferous forests, oak savannas

Size:Length: 43 to 55 in; Weight: 20 to 24 pounds

Diet:Dead animal carcasses

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population increasing

The largest land bird in North America, the odd-looking California Condor won't be winning any beauty contests anytime soon.

But what makes this critically endangered scavenger one of the world's weirdest birds is its size.

Ranging in length from 43 to 55 inches and weighing 15 to 31 pounds, their massive wingspan of 8 to 10 feet has had them confused with small airplanes on more than one occasion.

These animals are cool. They've also got some impressive skills, such as soaring for more than three miles without flapping their wings.

READ MORE:  List of National Parks in America by State

Strange Birds Around The World: Galapagos Flightless Cormorants
Flightless Cormorants by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

15. Flightless Cormorant

Latin Name:Nannopterum harrisi

Habitat:Rocky shores of volcanic islands

Size: Length: 2.91 to 3.29 feet; Weight: 5.5 to 11 pounds

Diet:Fish, octopus, squid

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population stable

Found only in the Galapagos Islands, this is one of the most rare bird species in the world, with around 1000 left.

The Flightless Cormorant is an odd bird, with black and brown feathers, brilliant turquoise eyes, and low growling voices.

Their stubby wings are about 1/3 the size they'd need to fly, but in the water they could give any sea lion a run for its money.

They use their webbed feet and powerful legs to dive down to the bottom of the ocean in search of fish, eels, octopus and other small prey.

READ MORE: 30 Amazing Galapagos Islands Animals

Weird Looking Birds Around The World-Two Hoatzins in the Peruvian Amazon
Two Hoatzins, photo by Mary Gabbett

16. Hoatzin

Latin Name:Opisthocomus hoazin

Habitat:Forests along streams, mangrovs, swamps in South America

Size:Length: 25 to 26 in; Weight: 1.78 pounds

Diet:Marsh plants

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

Also known as the Canje Pheasant (or punk-rock bird), Hoatzin are genetically enigmatic, and there's been intense scientific debate about their evolutionary connections to other species.

The pheasant-sized bird, whose chicks possess claws on two of their wing digits, is also called the Stinkbird due to the manure-like odor caused by its unique digestive system.

Their noises are just as odd, including a bizarre variety of groans, croaks, hisses and grunts that are often associated with its body movements.

READ MORE:40 Fascinating Facts about the Hawaiian Goose (a.k.a.Nene Goose)

Weird Birds Around The World, Kakapo
By derivative work: Snowmanradio (talk) Strigops_habroptilus_1.jpg: Mnolf CC BY-SA 2.0

17. Kakapo

Latin Name:Strigops habroptila

Habitat:Coastal areas, scrublands, tussocklands

Size:Length: 23 to 25 in; Weight: 4.4 to 8.8

Diet:Plants, seeds, fruits, pollen

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population increasing

The Kakapo is one of the world's most endangered species, with a known population of around 125.

New Zealand 's "Owl Parrot" is an undeniable odd animal– large, flightless, nocturnal and ground-dwelling, weighing up to 9 pounds at maturity.

It's the only parrot in the world that mates by lekking: Males line up to put on a mating display en masse, and the females pick their favorites.

Unfortunately, these lovebirds only breed an average of three times a decade, when the fruit of the Rimu tree is abundant making it one of the most endangered birds.

READ MORE: Endangered Species that Mate for Life

Odd Birds Around The World-Long-wattled Umbrellabird
Long-wattled Umbrellabird by Francesco Veronesi from Italy CC BY-SA 2.0

18. Long-Wattled Umbrellabird

Latin Name:Cephalopterus penduliger

Habitat:Forests in Colombia and Ecuador

Size:Length: 1.14 to 1.37 feet; Weight: 11.28 to 20.10 oz

Diet:Insects, lizards, fruit

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

Primarily found in the humid forests of Colombia and Ecuador , the Long-wattled Umbrellabird's features are as bizarre as their name.

The males have a magnificent coiff-like crest Elvis would kill for, with hair-like feathers that extend out over their bill.

Their wattle is even weirder: It's long, black, and hangs down 16 to 17 inches from the middle of their chest.

They can inflate it during courtship rituals to draw attention or retract it against their chest during flight.

READ MORE: Wildlife in the Ecuadorian Amazon

Ugly Birds Around The World -Marabou Stork
Marabou Stork by Lip Key via CC BY-SA 2.0

19. Marabou Stork

Latin Name:Leptoptilos crumenifer

Habitat:Savannas, grasslands, swamps, and riverbanks in Sub-Saharan Africa

Size:Length: 3.9 to 4.3 feet; Weight: 9.9 to 18 pounds

Diet:Carrion, human food waste, fish, insects, frogs, lizards, snakes, rats

Conservation Status:Least Concern

Found in Africa south of the Sahara, the Marabou Stork has a face only a mother could love.

With their long, skinny legs and feathers that look like a black jacket worn over a white dress shirt, it's easy to see how they earned their nickname, "the undertaker bird."

And then there's the massive bill, the bald pink head, and a featherless wattle hanging from their neck.

Weighing up to 18 pounds, with a wingspan that can measure over nine feet, this is one of Africa's most huge and hideous birds.

READ MORE: Animals in Kenya: A Guide to 40 Species of Kenyan Wildlife

Unusual Birds Around The World - OilBirds
Oilbirds by The Lilac Breasted Roller via CC 2.0

20. Oilbird

Latin Name:Steatornis caripensis

Habitat:Evergreen lowland and montane forests

Size:Length; 16 to 19 in; Weight: 12.3 to 16.8 oz

Diet:Fruit

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

The Oilbird, known in northern South America asguácharo, is a striking beauty by contrast: Reddish-brown, with diamond-shaped white spots edged in black.

What makes this cave-dwelling fruit-eater odd is the fact that it is nocturnal and finds its food by using echolocation (much like bats and dolphins ).

And because its preferred food is the fruit of the oil palm (from which palm oil is produced), the aptly-named bird was once hunted and boiled down in order to extract their oil for use as fuel.

READ MORE: 10 Famous Underground Caves for Your World Bucket List

Strange Looking Birds Around The World-Shoebill Stork
Shoebill Stork by belgianchocolate via CC 2.0

21. Shoebill

Latin Name:  Balaeniceps rex

Habitat:Freshwater swamps and marshes in east Africa

Size:Height: 43 to 55 in; Length: 39 to 55 in; Weight: 8.8 to 15.4 pounds

Diet:Fish, young crocodiles, frogs

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

Also known as the Whalehead or Shoe-billed Stork, this strange bird is named for the shoe-like shape of its humongous bill, which allow it to catch surprisingly large prey.

They're found in east Africa, primarily in large tropical swamps from Sudan south to Zambia.

Seeing them in the wild is… well, wild, because they tend to stand silent and motionless for long periods of time.

With a height of 43 to 55 inches and a wingspan up to 8 feet 6 inches, these funny looking birds are hard to miss.

READ MORE:  Endangered Elephants of East Africa

Strange Birds Around The World -Sri Lanka Frogmouth
Sri Lanka Frogmouth by Koshy Koshy via CC 2.0

22. Sri Lanka Frogmouth

Latin Name:Batrachostomus moniliger

Habitat:Forests in the Western Ghats of South India and Sri Lanka

Size:Length: 9.1 in; Weight: 1.5 to 23.6 oz

Diet:Insects, frogs, mice

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population stable

Related to the Nightjars, this small Frogmouth is found in the Western Ghats mountain range of South India and Sri Lanka.

They live in the dense undergrowth of tropical forests, where their grey-brown feathers make them very difficult to see.

What makes them weird is their oversized head, which gives the nocturnal bird a wide field of binocular vision, and the gaping wide hooked bill for which they are named.

The short, stiff bristles around their eyes are another attractive distinguishing feature.

READ MORE: Conserving Sri Lanka Wildlife Using Poachers as Protectors

Most Amazing Birds Around The World-Superb Bird of Paradise
A male Superb Bird of Paradise by Natasha Baucas via CC 2.0

23. Superb Bird of Paradise

Latin Name:Lophorina superba

Habitat:Rainforests of New Guinea

Size:Length: 9.84 to 10.23 in; Weight: 1.9 to 3.7 oz

Diet:Fruits, berries, seeds, insects, amphibians, small reptiles

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

If you've watched award-winning environmental documentaries such as Planet Earth, you've probably seen the dazzling mating dance that makes this iridescent New Guinea beauty so special.

Their female population is unusually low and competition for mating privileges is fierce.

Males will meticulously prepare their dance floor before loudly calling the object of their affection.

The dance is spectacular: He spreads his black feather cape and blue-green breast shield widely, snapping a beat with his tail feathers while hopping around her.

Most of the females will reject 15 to 20 suitors before giving one consent!

READ MORE: Galapagos Birds: 25 Spectacular Species

Horned Screamer bird
"Screaming Screamer" by Billtacular is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

24. Horned Screamer

Latin Name:Anhima cornuta

Habitat:Freshwater lagoons, tropical wet savannas, lakes

Size:Length: 1.08 to 1.23 feet; Weight: 6.9 to 7.7 pounds

Diet:Aquatic plants, seeds, stems, leaves

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

Although Horned Screamers are related to Swans, you wouldn't be able to tell from these funny looking animals' appearance.

As their name indicates, they have a horn-like appendage projecting from the top of their head. It seems to serve no particular purpose, unlike the spurs on their wings (which are used for fighting).

These unique birds clearly like to be heard, and have a very distinct call that is often performed as a duet between mating males and females.

The Horned Screamer resides in the marshes of South America, and is the official bird of the Department of Arauca in Colombia .

READ MORE: The Best Things to Do in Cartagena, Colombia

Victoria Crowned Pigeon
Victoria Crowned Pigeon, photo by InspiredImages via Pixabay

25. Victoria Crowned Pigeon

Latin Name:Goura victoria

Habitat:Lowland and swamp forests of northern New Guinea

Size:Length: 29 in; Weight: Up to 5.5 pounds

Diet:Fruit, seeds, grains, small invertebrates

Conservation Status:Near Threatened, population decreasing

Named after the British Monarch Queen Victoria, these colorful Pigeons are striking in their beauty.

They are powder blue with a purple chest and boast an intricate almost lace like crown that, along with their poise, makes them appear undeniably royal.

These interesting animals are the largest pigeons in the world and are the closest living relative to the extinct Dodo bird.

Native to the forests of New Guinea, Victoria Crowned Pigeons do not like to be alone and typically travel in pairs or small groups.

People are often surprised by their call which isn't like other pigeons' soft "coos," but rather a hollow "boom."

READ MORE: 35 Beautiful Birds of Hawaii & The Polynesian Triangle

WEIRD CREEPY CRAWLY CREATURES

Weird Looking Insects from Around The World -Giant Fishing Spider
By Dick Culbert of Gibsons, B.C., Canada (Ancylometes bogotensis-Giant Fishing Spider) CC BY 2.0

26. Amazon Giant Fishing Spider

Latin Name:Ancylometes

Habitat:Near ponds, lakes, rivers, and streams in South America

Size:Length: Up to 8 in; Weight: 0.4 oz

Diet:Insects, tadpoles, small fish

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Proving big can be beautiful, this spectacular spider can grow up to 8 inches, with a brilliant green, gold, and white body.

Found in South America, they're semi-aquatic and usually seen at the edge of pools or streams.

There they wait for ripples that advertise prey (insects, tadpoles, and even small fish), then run across the surface to grab it and inject their venom.

Some subspecies of these weird creatures can even encase themselves in a silver air bubble and climb beneath the water.

READ MORE: 21 Incredible Animals That Live in the Amazon Rainforest

Unusual Insects Around The World -Assassin Bug
By JJ Harrison (jjharrison89@facebook.com) – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

27. Assassin Bug

Latin Name: Reduviidae

Habitat:Rainforests

Size:Length: 0.2 to 1.6 in; Weight:

Diet:Ants, bees

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

These alien-looking predators are related to the plant-eating Shield Bug.

But they've adapted a piercing proboscis with which they feed upon their victims (ants and bees are their favorites).

The ninja-like skills for which they're named include coating themselves with ant carcasses to disguise their pheromones and covering their legs with tree sap to grab bees out of mid-air with their sticky claws.

They may not look like much, but these clever carnivores have some seriously deadly moves!

READ MORE:15 Harmful Traditionas & Cultural Practices

Biting Insects -Army Ants (Dorylus_sp.)
By Bernard DUPONT from FRANCE (Army Ants (Dorylus sp.) CC BY-SA 2.0 (7073859635)

28. Driver Ant

Latin Name:Dorylus laevigatus

Habitat:Central, east, and southern Africa, tropical Asia

Size:Length: 4.52 cm

Diet:Insects, arachnids, earthworms

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

If you've ever seen a b-movie in which humans or animals are unexpectedly swarmed by hyper-aggressive ants, these merciless army ants (primarily found in central and east Africa) are likely the inspiration.

Sometimes called safari ants, they attack en masse, which often proves deadly for small animals when their colonies number up to 20 million members.

Their bite is painful, and their powerful jaws remain locked even if you kill the ant. Locals are known to use them to suture wounds in case of a medical emergency.

READ MORE: Top 10 Tanzania National Parks for the Ultimate Safari

Giant Insects Around The World -Giant LongLegged Katydid
By Wikipedia Loves Art participant "The_Wookies" CC BY 2.5

29. Giant Katydid

Latin Name:Arantia fasciata

Habitat:Montane forests of Malaysia

Size: Length: Up to 6 in

Diet:Leaves, grass, fruit, tiny insects

Conservation Status:Least Concern

There are some 6,400 species of katydids in the Tettigoniidae family, which are closely related to crickets.

But the Giant Long-legged Katydid, found in the montane forests of Malaysia , are easily the largest.

They can grow up to 6 inches long– large enough to cover your hand– with antennae that can grow even longer. It's leaf-life wings make great camouflage, but their long legs are relatively useless.

They cannot jump well, and rarely fly. Their high-pitched mating call makes them one of the loudest insects in the world.

READ MORE:What is an Eco Lodge? The Top 20 Eco Resorts & Eco Hotels in the World

Ugly Insects Around The World -Hickory Horned Devil
By Bob Warrick – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0

30. Hickory Horned Devil

Latin Name:Citheronia regalis

Habitat:Deciduous forests in the eastern United States

Size: Wingspan: 3.75 to 6.1 in

Diet:Leaves, walnuts, pecans, buttonbush, filbert, ash

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Widely found in deciduous forests in the United States, the Regal Moth (a.k.a. Royal Walnut Moth) is as beautiful as any butterfly we've seen, with stunningly vivid colors.

But in the larval stage they're known as Hickory Horned Devils, and look like something out of a horror film director's nightmares.

They eventually turn green, with huge black-tipped red horns and what look like little black spikes all over their bodies.

The nocturnal feeders don't sting, but they do curl up into a j-shape during the day that makes them look like bird poop.

READ MORE:What is Permaculture Gardening? An Intro to Permaculture Design & Principles

Large Insects Around The World -Giant Jumping Stick
By Ltshears (Own work) [Public domain], via Wikimedia Commons

31. Jumping Stick

Latin Name:Proscopiidae

Habitat:Forests and grasslands in the tropics and subtropics

Size:Length: 2.6 in

Diet:Leaves, green plants

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

This skinny beanpole looks like a common Giant Walking Stick. But it's more closely related to the Locust, and is named for its ability to jump and kick like a kung fu master.

Its hind legs are 2.5 times as long as its front and middle legs, allowing it to propel its 2.6-inch body up to 3 feet in a single bound.

They're also known for their odd, elongated faces, with a Grasshopper-like mouth and large eyes on a stalk that help it look for predators and attract mates.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Things to do in Kauai, Hawaii

Odd Insects Around The World -Lantern Fly
By Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia (Lantern fly) CC BY-SA 2.0

32. Lantern Fly

Latin Name:Lycorma delicatula

Habitat: Southeast Asia, United States

Size:Length: 1 in

Diet:Sap, excrete

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Don't let the name fool you. This odd-looking Amazonian insect looks more like a moth than a fly, and their massive peanut-shaped heads don't light up.

They have vivid spots on their wings that some people believe help to scare off predators by mimicking the eyes of a much larger animal.

There's also a myth in certain local populations that if the bug bites someone (which it doesn't), they'll die if they don't have sex within a day. I wonder how many young men have used that line?

READ MORE: The Effects of Mass Tourism (How Overtourism is Destroying 30+ Destinations)

Beautiful Insects Around The World -Orchid Mantis
By Pavel Kirillov from St.Petersburg, Russia (Orchid mantis after lunch) CC BY-SA 2.0

33. Orchid Mantis

Latin Name:Hymenopus coronatus

Habitat:Humid regions of Malaysa

Size:Length: 1 to 3 in

Diet:Bees, butterflies, moths, crickets, flies, beetles

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

This is arguably among the world's most beautiful insects outside of the butterfly family.

The Orchid Mantis is one of several species of flower mantises, which look like and mimic the flowers upon which they're often found.

Their brilliant colors can change,and range from white and yellow to pink and brown.

Each of its four legs resembles flower petals, which they use to their advantage by swaying to lure insects, then eating them.

They've also been known to eat larger vertebrates, such as lizards and frogs.

READ MORE: The 13 Most Beautiful National Parks in Thailand

Strange Insects Around The World -Scorpionfly
By Clinton & Charles Robertson from Del Rio, Texas & College Station, TX, USA (Scorpionfly) CC BY 2.0

34. Scorpionfly

Latin Name:Panorpa nuptialis

Habitat:Wooded areas, ravines

Size: Length: Up to 1.2 in

Diet:Dead insects, nectar, rotting fruits

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

What fresh hell is this? Picture an ancient insect that dates back some 174 million years, with the long beak of a pterodactyl, the coloring of a wasp, and the stinger of a scorpion.

Then imagine it's closely related to a flea and scavenges the bodies of dead invertebrates. Sounds haunting and horrifying, right?

The fact that the stinger is actually enlarged genitals might make you feel a little better, but the fact that there 350+ species of them probably won't.

READ MORE: The 15 Most Haunted Hotels in America

Weird Insects Around The World, Venezuelan Poodle Moth
Venezuelan Poodle Moth, photographed by Dr. Arthur Anker via Creative Commons

35. Venezuelan Poodle Moth

Latin Name:Artace

Habitat:Canaima National Park in Venezuela

Size:Length: 1 in

Diet:Herbaceous plants

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Discovered in Venezuela's Gran Sabana region by Kyrgyzstan's Dr. Arthur Anker in 2009, this unusual insect looks like a cross between a poodle and an angora sweater.

Ankara's odd (some might say adorable) discovery went relatively unnoticed for several years, until someone posted his photo of the fuzzy white moth with bulging black eyes and bizarre antennae online.

It quickly went viral, but the moth (which experts believe belongs to the Artace genus) has yet to be confirmed as a new species.

READ MORE: 40 Green Travel Tips (The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Travel)

Eastern Goliath Stick Insect (Eurycnema goliath)
"Eurycnema goliath (Goliath Stick-Insect)" by Arthur Chapman is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

36. Eastern Goliath Stick Insect

Latin Name:Eurycnema goliath

Habitat:Forests of northern and eastern Australia

Size:Length: Up to 25 cm

Diet:Eucalyptus, acacia, callistemon

Conservation Status:Least Concern

Found in northern and eastern Australia, these cool animals are the largest phasmids in the continent, with females reaching lengths of up to 25 cm.

Due to their large size and smaller wings, females cannot fly like their male counterparts do.

Their camouflage is pretty amazing. It's nearly impossible to see them when their hiding in the treetops because of their green color and stick-like figure.

When neecessary due to threats, they'll make a sharp hissing sound and open their wings to uncover a red underside. Both of these defenses are designed to ward off predators.

READ MORE: Things to Do in Australia for Nature Lovers

UNIQUE MAMMALS

Unusual Mammals Around The World-Bactrian Camel
Wild Bactrian Camels via pixabay

37. Bactrian Camel

Latin Name:Camelus ferus

Habitat:Steppes of Central Asia

Size:Height: 5.9 to 7.5 feet; Length: 7.38 to 11.48 feet; Weight: Up to 1,000 pounds

Diet:Plants, bones, other animals' skin

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population decreasing

Native to the Steppes of Central Asia, the Bactrian Camel is differentiated from its more familiar Arabian cousins by the fact that it has two humps.

It has genetically adapted well to the region's extreme climate.

It has squishy foot pads that work like snowshoes to help it keep its footing in the desert sand, and a coat that is remarkably which in winter and nearly bald in summer.

Unfortunately, though the domesticated species is plentiful, the wild ones are critically endangered.

READ MORE: 30 Facts about the Mongolian Horse (a.k.a.Przewalski's Horse or Takhi)

Weird Large Animals Around The World: Baird's Tapir
Baird's Tapir, photo by Bret Love & Mary Gabbett

38. Baird's Tapir

Latin Name:Tapirus bairdii

Habitat: Rainforests, montane forests, deciduous forests, flooded grasslands

Size:Length: 6.6 feet; Weight: 330 to 880 pounds

Diet:Leaves, twigs, fruit, seeds

Conservation Status:Endangered, population decreasing

Looking like a bizarre cross between a pig, a donkey and a rhinoceros, this cow-sized mammal is an endangered species endemic to Central and South America.

Known as the Mountain Cow in Belize , it is celebrated as the national animal. Baird's tapir is most active at night but are frequently seen during the day.

One famously attacked the Costa Rican Minister of Environment in 2006, and we were fortunate to catch one taking a catnap in Corcovado National Park .

READ MORE: 40 Amazing Costa Rica Animals

Male Chinese Water Deer by Altaileopard [Public domain]

39. Chinese Water Deer

Latin Name:Hydropotes inermis

Habitat:Rivers and islands of China and Korea

Size:Length: 2.5 to 3.3 feet; Weight: 20 to 31 pounds

Diet:Coarse grasses, vegetables, beets, reeds

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

More similar to a Musk Deer than a true Deer, Water Deer are proficient swimmers who live along the rivers and islands of China and Korea.

But the Chinese subspecies is particularly unusual. What makes this deer one of the strangest animals is that it has prominent tusks, which are actually elongated canine teeth.

These especially long teeth led to the Chinese Water Deer's English nickname, the Vampire Deer.

Able to swim for several miles, the Chinese Water Deer can also pull their canines tusks back by using their facial muscles.

READ MORE: 20 Longest Rivers in the World by Continent

Unusual Animals Around The World, Lowland Streaked Tenrec
Lowland Streaked Tenrec, photographed by Frank Vassen via Creative Commons

40. Lowland Streaked Tenrec

Latin Name:Hemicentetes semispinosus

Habitat:Tropical lowland rainforest in northern and eastern Madagascar

Size:Length: 5 to 6 in; 3.17 to 7.05 oz

Diet:Earthworms

Conservation Status:Least Concern

Genetically, the Tenrec is like a cross between a shrew, an opossum and an otter, with a 5-6 inch body, long snout and vestigial tail.

These unique animals are the only mammals known to use stridulation for generating sound, a method more commonly associated with insects and snakes.

Found only in the rainforests of Madagascar, its bright yellow stripes and barbed quills signal danger for predators, especially when the Tenrec vibrates them.

READ MORE: Madagascar Animals

Odd Mammals Around The World -Markhor
By Rufus46 – Own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

41. Markhor

Latin Name:Capra falconeri

Habitat:Mountain ranges from Afghanistan to northern India

Size:Length: 4.3 to 6.08 feet; Weight: 71 to 243 pounds

Diet:Grass, leaves

Conservation Status:Near Threatened, population increasing

This large wild goat grazes on grass and lives in mountain ranges from Afghanistan to northern India , but it's the national animal of Pakistan.

The male Markhor can grow to over 200 pounds, has a crazy amount of hair on their chin and chest, and boasts spectacular spiraling horns atop their heads.

The world's population got down to around 2,500, but has rebounded by 20% in the last decade.

Its Persian name translates as "snake eater," and locals believe the foam they release while chewing cud can extract snakebite venom.

READ MORE: 40 Interesting Facts About Snow Leopards

Weird Rodents Around The World, Nutria
Nutria, photographed by Petar Milošević via Creative Commons

42. Nutria

Latin Name:Myocastor coypus

Habitat:Freshwater marshes, wetlands

Size:Length: 17 to 25 in; Weight: 15 to 22 pounds

Diet:Insects, freshwater mussels, crustaceans

Conservation Status: Least Concern, population decreasing

Also known as the Coypu or river rat, this large, semi-aquatic rodent is native to subtropical South America.

It's also been introduced on other continents by fur ranchers, but it is a destructive species with its feeding and burrowing behavior turning it into an an invasive persona non grata.

The nutria has front legs for excavating roots, rhizomes, and burrows, and webbed hind feet to aid in swimming.

Weighing up to 37 pounds, they look a lot like the R.O.U.S. from The Princess Bride.

READ MORE: The 20 Best Cultural Festivals Around the World

Weird Marsupials Around The World, Quokka
Quokka, photographed by Sean McClean via Creative Commons

43. Quokka

Latin Name:Setonix brachyurus

Habitat:Small islands off the coast of Western Australia

Size:Length: 20 to 30 in; Weight: 6 to 11 pounds

Diet: Leaves, stems, bark, grass

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

With a small population primarily found on small islands off the coast of Western Australia , this adorable marsupial was originally confused for a wild cat or a giant rat.

But the adorable animal actually looks more like a tiny Kangaroo , measuring approximately 20-30 inches long and weighing 6 to 11 pounds.

The cute Quokka has little fear of humans, but it is illegal to touch or feed them, as it can make the Vulnerable species sick. Fines for doing so start at $300.

READ MORE: Animal Selfies: The Problem with Putting Ego Over Responsibility

Unique Mammals Around The World -Platypus
By Stefan Kraft – Selbst fotografiert am 20.9.2004 im Sydney Aquarium., CC BY-SA 3.0

44. Platypus

Latin Name:Ornithorhynchus anatinus

Habitat:Freshwater lakes, rivers, lagoons, farm dams, streams

Size:Length: 17 to 20 in; Weight: 1.5 to 5.3 pounds

Diet:Annelid worms, insect larvae freshwater yabby and shrimp

Conservation Status:Near Threatened, population decreasing

Want to know just how extremely weird the Platypus is?

The first scientists to study them (back in 1799) deemed them fake, made from sewing several different weird animals together!

It's easy to understand their confusion. This adorable oddball has the bill of a Duck, the feet of an Otter, the tail of a Beaver, and venom in the spur of the male's foot.

It's also one of only two mammals in the world that lays eggs.

They were once hunted for their fur but are now protected throughout their range in eastern Australia.

READ MORE: Tasmanian Devil Conservation on Maria Island

Weird Mammals Around The World - Saiga Antelope
By Navinder Singh (By email from Ej Milner-Gulland) CC BY-SA 4.0

45. Saiga Antelope

Latin Name:Saiga tatarica

Habitat:Grasslands, open woodlands, semideserts, steppes

Size:Length: 3.25 to 4.58 feet; Weight: Up to 150 pounds

Diet:Plants, low growing vegetation

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population decreasing

Though their range today is limited to Russia and the 'stans of Central Asia, this critically endangered antelope species had a vast range during the Ice Age.

Standing 24 to 32 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 150 pounds, these bizarre animals are known for their bloated shnozz, which looks a bit like someone docked an Elephant's trunk.

But the nose serves a valuable purpose, warming frigid air during winter while cooling and filtering out dust in the summer.

READ MORE: 50 Facts About Elephants (for World Elephant Day)

Weird Animals, Zebra Duiker
Zebra Duiker, photographed by Kispál Attila via Creative Commons

46. Zebra Duiker

Latin Name:Cephalophus zebra

Habitat:Lowland primary rainforests of West Africa

Size:Length: 30 to 35 in; Weight: 40 to 45 pounds

Diet:Leaves, shoots, seasonal fruits

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

Also known as the Banded or Striped-back Duiker, this diminutive antelope species is found in the lowland primary rain forests of West Africa .

Thought to be one of the earliest of the Duiker species to evolve, they're tiny (30-35 inches long, weighing 40-45 pounds), with short, sharp horns.

Their Zebra-like stripes help them hide from the many predators that eat them.

They also have super-powerful nasal bones, which allow them to use their face to crack open the tough exterior of certain fruits.

READ MORE:50 Fascinating Facts about Giraffes

Sulawesi Babirusas at Singapore Zoo
"File:Babirusa, Singapore Zoo 2.JPG" by I64s, licensed under CC BY 2.5

47. Sulawesi Babirusas

Latin Name: Babyrousa celebensis

Habitat:Swamps and rainforests of Indonesia

Size:Length: 2.75 to 3.58 feet; Weight: Up to 220 pounds

Diet:Leaves, fruits, berries, mushrooms, insects, fish

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

Of all the mammals in the world, the male Sulawesi Babirusas is the only one to have vertically growing canine teeth.

Their not-so-pearly whites actually grow through their skin and curve back towards their forehead, ultimately reaching up to 17 inches long.

Native to the rainforests and swamps of Indonesian islands , these unusual animals are not picky eaters. Their diet consists of everything from leaves and insects to fish, and even smaller Babirusas!

Their antler-like teeth, along with a stocky body and slender legs, led to their name: Babirusas means "pig-deer" in the Malay language.

READ MORE: Fascinating Facts About Bornean & Sumatran Orangutans

Proboscis Monkey at Sepilok Forest Reserve
Proboscis Monkey at Sepilok Forest Reserve, photo in Public Domain

48. Proboscis Monkey

Latin Name:Nasalis larvatus

Habitat:Mangrove swamps, lowland rainforests

Size:Length: 1.7 to 2.5 feet; Weight: 21 to 45 pounds

Diet:Leaves, seeds, unripe fruits, insects

Conservation Status:Endangered, population decreasing

These weird animals earned the name Proboscis from their bulbous noses, which can grow up to 7 inches long.

Though they may appear odd to us, they also prove that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Because Proboscis Monkey males actually use their ginormous noses to attract female mates.

Found in the jungles of Borneo (including the Kabili-Sepilok Forest Reserve ), these monkeys are largely arboreal. spending most of their time in the trees. But, surprisingly, they are extremely strong swimmers as well.

Due to palm oil deforestation and other forms of habitat destruction, their populations have declined sharply in recent years. So the species is currently listed as endangered on the IUCN Red list.

READ MORE:50 Interesting Facts About Gorillas

UNUSUAL NOCTURNAL ANIMALS

Weird Nocturnal Animals Around The World: Aye Aye
Aye Aye, photographed by Frank Vassen via Creative Commons

49. Aye-Aye

Latin Name:Daubentonia madagascariensis

Habitat: Rainforests and deciduous forests on the east coast of Madagascar

Size:Length: 14 to 17 in; Weight: 4 pounds

Diet:Nuts, nectar, fungi, insect grubs

Conservation Status:Endangered, population decreasing

These endangered Lemurs are the world's largest nocturnal primate and have furry gremlin faces, rodent-like teeth, and long Crypt Keeper-style fingers.

To find food, the Aye-Aye first taps on trees to find grubs, then chews a small hole before using their narrow middle finger to pull a tasty meal out of the wood.

Some superstitious locals believe these weird animals to be harbingers of evil or death and will often kill them on sight.

READ MORE: Madagascar: Conserving Ring-Tailed Lemurs

Weird Flying Mammals Around The World- Colugo
By Dermoptère.JPG: Didasteph derivative work: Medeis (Dermoptère.JPG) CC BY-SA 3.0

50. Colugo

Latin Name:Cynocephalus volans

Habitat:Forests of southeast Asia

Size:Length: 14 to 16 in; Weight 2 to 4 pounds

Diet:Leaves, fruits, flowers, shoots, insect

Conservation Status:Vulnerable

Found in the forests of Southeast Asia, these gliders are also known as Cobegos or Flying Lemurs (but they're not true Lemurs).

They're the world's most skillful gliding mammals, using flaps of extra skin between their legs to soar from tree to tree.

Measuring 14 to 16 inches long and weighing just two to four pounds, their light build allows them to "fly" up to 230 feet.

But they're not very strong, so they have to hop slowly up the trees using their sharp claws.

READ MORE: Top 15 Things to Do in Coron, Palawan (Philippines)

Weird Flying Animals Around The World, Honduran White Bat
Honduran White Bat, photographed by Geoff Gallice via Creative Commons

51. Honduran White Bat

Latin Name:Ectophylla alba

Habitat:Jungles of Central America

Size: Length: 1.5 in; Weight: 0.2 oz

Diet:Fruit, vegetation

Conservation Status:Near Threatened

Also known as the Ghost Bat, this tiny (1.5-inch) cutie is one of only two white bat species in the world.

They're found only in the jungles of Central America, where they're usually seen hanging in colonies of up to 6 from heliconia plants.

They'll actually cut the large leaves of the plant, which causes them to fold down into a tent that protects the colony from rain and predators.

They are one of 15 different Latin American bat species known roost in this type of natural tent.

READ MORE: The 16 Best Mayan Ruins to Explore

Egg Laying Mammal -Long-beaked Echidna
By User:Jaganath – Transferred from English Wikipedia., CC BY-SA 3.0

52. Long-Beaked Echidna

Latin Name:Zaglossus bruijnii

Habitat: Tropical hill forests, sub-alpine forests

Size:Length: 18 to 30 in; Weight: 20 pounds

Diet:

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population decreasing

This freaky-looking fella, found in New Guinea, is one of only two mammals in the world known to lay eggs. Yet they have the fur and lactation abilities of other mammals.

They also have a pointy, beak-like snout that's two-third the length of their head; spiky spines scattered among their hair; and, in the case of males, spurs on each of their hind legs.

There are three living species of Echidnas, but unfortunately all of them are classified as critically endangered and they're rarely seen during the day.

READ MORE: 20 Tallest Mountains in the World by Continent

Weird Carnivorous Mammals Around The World, Olinguito
Olinguito, photographed by Mark Gurney via Creative Commons

53. Olinguito

Latin Name:Bassaricyon neblina

Habitat:Forests of the northern Andes Mountains, Ecuador and Colombia

Size:Length: 13 to 17 in; Weight; 2 pounds

Diet:Fruit, insects, nectar

Conservation Status:Near Threatened, population decreasing

Colloquially known as the "kitty bear," this cuddly cutie is actually from the raccoon family.

It was discovered in the Andes of Colombia and Ecuador in 2013, making it the first new carnivorous mammal seen in the Western Hemisphere in 35 years.

Though they resemble the Kinkajou, they're more closely related to Coatis, with extended muzzles and anal scent glands.

Not much is known about this relatively new species, but they are believed to live in trees and be solitary and fairly reclusive.

READ MORE:Best Coffee in the World (A Gourmet's Guide to 30 Types of Coffee

Unusual Animals Around The World-Pangolin
By David Brossard via flickr CC 2.0

54. Pangolin

Latin Name:Pholidota

Habitat:Tropical and flooded forests, savanna grassland

Size:Length: 12 to 39 in; Weight: 8 to 29 pounds

Diet:Ants, termites, larvae

Conservation Status: Near Threatened

There are eight species of Pangolin found on two different continents (Asia and Africa).

But due to poaching, deforestation , and the fact that they're the most heavily trafficked mammals in the world, two are endangered and two are critically endangered.

They look like some sort of ancient Armadillo/pine cone hybrid, with overlapping armored scales, long tongues, and stink glands like a Skunk's.

They're solitary animals, living in hollowed trees and burrows, and curl up into a ball when threatened.

READ MORE: Saving Endangered Asian Animals (Best Conservation Programs)

Weird Insectivorous Mammals Around the World, Solenodon
Solenodon, photographed by Seb az86556 via Creative Commons

55. Solenodon

Latin Name:Atopogale cubana

Habitat:Forests in Cuba, the Dominican Republic, and Haiti

Size:Length: 12 to 14 in; Weight 1.8 to 2 pounds

Diet:Insects, earthworms, small reptiles, amphibians, fruits

Conservation Status:Endangered, population decreasing

These nocturnal, burrowing insectivores are found in Cuba , the Dominican Republic , and Haiti ,

They're endlessly fascinating to phylogenetic researchers because they closely resemble a species that went extinct near the end of the dinosaur era.

Solenodons may look like rodents, but they're more closely related to shrews and moles.

They're also the only mammals in the world that inject their prey with venom, using special grooves in their teeth.

READ MORE: 20 Best Caribbean Islands to Visit (If you Love Nature & Hate Crowds)

Weird Small Animals Around The World, Tarsier
Tarsier, photographed by mtoz via Creative Commons

56. Tarsier

Latin Name:Tarsius tarsier

Habitat:Forests in southeast Asia

Size:Length: 4 to 6 in; 1.1 to 5.6 oz

Diet:Insects, birds, bats, snakes, lizards

Conservation Status:Vulnerable, population decreasing

With a longer fossil record than any other primate genus, fossils suggest the enormous-eyed Tarsiers of Southeast Asia haven't evolved much in the last 45 million years.

The only thing that has changed is their size: Their bodies measure 4-6 inches, with tails twice as long.

These interesting animals have enormous eyes (16mm wide– as big as their brain!), super sensitive ears, and uniquely shaped head makes them great at catching prey such as bats, birds, and insects.

Their long bodies also make Tarsiers great leapers.

READ MORE: The Best Environmental Charities and Animal Charities

Weird Animals, Yapok
Yapok, photographed by IMARWXp via Creative Commons

57. Water Opossum

Latin Name:Chironectes minimus

Habitat:Freshwater streams in Latin America

Size:Length: 28 in; Weight: 1.7 pounds

Diet:Fish, crabs, freshwater shrimp, frogs

Conservation Status:Least Concern, population decreasing

Known locally as the Yapok, this semiaquatic opossum is found near freshwater streams and lakes in Latin America, from Mexico south to Argentina .

The Water Opossum is the only marsupial in the world in which both sexes have a pouch.

The males place their genitalia inside their pouch while swimming (kind of like a banana hammock) in the water , which helps streamline their bodies.

The pouch is also water-tight, which keeps their young dry even when the parent is swimming.

READ MORE: Isla Holbox, the Hidden Gem of Quintana Roo, Mexico

Weird Burrowing Animals Around The World, Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat
Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat, anonymous photo via Creative Commons

58. Wombat

Latin Name:Lasiorhinus kreffti

Habitat:Queensland's Epping Forest National Park

Size:Length: 3.28 feet; Weight: 90 pounds

Diet:Leaves, grasses

Conservation Status:Critically Endangered, population stable

Once common in Australia, the Northern Hairy-Nosed Wombat is now one of the most rare animals in the world. It is critically endangered and found only in Queensland's Epping Forest National Park.

With a backwards-opening pouch and teeth that never stop growing, it's the world's largest (90 pounds) burrowing mammal.

As weird animals go, we think this one's a cutie!

Unfortunately they're also critically endangered due to predators such as the Dingo, with less than 100 individuals remaining.

READ MORE:Top 10 Australian National Parks (For Your World Bucket List)

Naked Mole Rat
File:Nacktmull.jpg" by Einer flog zu Weit is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

59. Naked Mole Rat

Latin Name:Heterocephalus glaber

Habitat:Grasslands of East Africa

Size:Length: 5.1 in; Weight: 1.2 oz

Diet:Tubers, roots

Conservation Status: Least Concern, population stable

Appearing just as you would think based on their name, these strange looking animals have wrinkly pink skin as if they were completely missing a coat of fur.

Found in East Africa, Naked Mole Rats are the longest living rodents in the world and are one of the rare eusocial species.

This means they live in communities of several dozen, led by one dominant female rat. They make their homes in intricate underground burrows, which are dug with their large front teeth.

They don't have ears at all and have such tiny eyes that they are practically blind. They rely heavily on their sense of smell and pay close attention to vibrations in the ground.

READ MORE: Maasai Mara Conservancies: Community-Based Wildlife Conservation

COOL ANIMALS FROM THE SEA

COOL ANIMALS FROM THE SEA, Dumbo Octopus
Dumbo Octopus, photographed by Mike Vecchione via NOAA

60. Dumbo Octopus

Latin Name:Grimpoteuthis

Habitat:Ocean floor

Size:Length: 8 in; Weight: 13 pounds

Diet:Copepods, isopods, bristle worms, amphipods

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Found only at extreme ocean depths of 10,000 to 13,000 feet, Grimpoteuthis is a genus containing 13 species of Octopus, whose webbed tentacles look like an umbrella when spread.

Theses cool animals are known for the prominent ear-like fins, which jut out comically just above their eyes (much like a certain flying Elephant from the Walt Disney stable).

Though they're found in deep waters all around the world, they rank among the most uncommon animals of the Octopus species.

READ MORE: 40 Alaskan Animal Species

Weird Animals in the Ocean, Frilled Shark
Frilled Shark, photographed by Citron via Creative Commons

61. Frilled Shark

Latin Name:Chlamydoselachus anguineus

Habitat:Sea floor of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans

Size:Length: 6.6 feet

Diet:Squid, fish, other sharks

Conservation Status:Least Concern

One of the world's most rarely seen creepy animals, the Frilled Shark crosses the line into frightening, WTF territory.

Found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans at depths of up to 5,000 feet, this rare "living fossil" is a positively prehistoric species of shark .

Its monstrous appearance includes an eel-like body, six frilly pairs of gill slits, and 300 trident-shaped teeth in 25 rows that allow it to rip through prey like a knife through hot butter. Cute, huh?

READ MORE:Arctic Animals: 30 Species of Arctic Birds, Mammals & Whales

Weird Tiny Sea Animals, Glaucus Atlanticus
Glaucus Atlanticus, photographed by Taro Taylor via Creative Commons 2.0

62. Glaucus Atlanticus

Latin Name:Glaucus Atlanticus

Habitat:Temperate and tropical waters

Size:Length: 1.2 in

Diet:Portugese Man o'War jellyfish

Conservation Status:Data deficient

More commonly known as the Blue Dragon or Blue Sea Slug, this inch-long nudibranch is just as lethal as it is lovely.

The creature preys on the Portuguese Man o' War (which is pretty darn dangerous in its own right).

It stores venom in its finger-like cerata, producing a sting that causes fever, shock and even death.

These beautiful badasses are pelagic: they float upside down by using the surface tension of the water to stay up, where they're carried along by the winds and ocean currents.

READ MORE: 30 Cool & Weird Ocean Animals Around the World

Weird Sea Creatures -Humpback Anglerfish
Javontaevious at English Wikipedia CC BY-SA 3.0

63. Humpback Anglerfish

Latin Name:Melanocetus johnsonii

Habitat:Bathypelagic zone of the open ocean

Size:Length: 2.9 to 18 cm

Diet: Crustaceans, shrimp, other fish, snails

Conservation Status:Least Concern

The horrifying Humpback Anglerfish (a.k.a. Humpback Blackdevil) is a species from the family Melanocetidae, or Black Seadevils.

Found at depths of 5,000-15,000 feet, they're 7 inches long, globular, and black as pitch, with a cavernous mouth filled with huge, fang-like teeth.

Made famous by a scene in Finding Nemo, these fish are definitely one of the coolest animals in the ocean.

They use a bioluminescent "fishing lure" (known as the illicium) on their heads to attract its unsuspecting prey. All in all, it's a haunting creature we never wish to see in real life!

READ MORE: 40 Fascinating Blue Whale Facts (From Size to Diet to Conservation)

Irrawaddy Dolphin
Irrawaddy Dolphin By Stefan Brending via CC BY-SA 3.0 de

64. Irrawaddy Dolphin

Latin Name:Orcaella brevirostris

Habitat:Shallow, near-shore tropical and subtropical marine waters

Size:Length: 4.8 to 9 feet; Weight: 420 pounds

Diet:Cephalopods, fish, crustaceans

Conservation Status:Endangered, population decreasing

With their formidable foreheads; short, round faces; and broad, rounded flippers, this Southeast Asian species look like some anime artist's cartoonish rendering of a dolphin.

Interestingly, their genetic make-up is closely related to the Killer Whale .

Unlike any other dolphin, the Irrawaddy Dolphin's u-shaped blowhole is placed on the left of the midline and opens towards the front.

Their short beaks are also very different from those of other dolphins, with 12-19 peg-like teeth on each side of their jaws.

READ MORE: How To Grade Captive Dolphin Facilities

Scary Looking Animals Around The World, Japanese Spider Crab
Japanese Spider Crab, photographed by Michael Wolf via Creative Commons

65. Japanese Spider Crabs

Latin Name:Macrocheira kaempferi

Habitat:Temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean near Japan

Size:Length: Up to 18 feet; Weight: Up to 42 pounds

Diet:Shellfish, dead animals, algae, plants, small fish, mollusks

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

The Japanese name for this species is taka-ashi-gani, which literally translates to "tall legs crab."

These crazy animals– whose legs can span 12 feet in length, weigh up to 42 pounds, and crawl along the ocean floor like a creepy spider– looks like something that might attack Tokyo in the next Godzilla movie.

Orange, with white spots along the legs, these crabs reportedly have a very gentle disposition despite their daunting appearance.

READ MORE: Japan Photos: 15 Pictures from a Dream Come True

Weird Sea Creatures Around The World Mantis Shrimp
Mantis Shrimp, photographed by Silke Baron via Creative Commons

66. Mantis Shrimp

Latin Name:Stomatopoda

Habitat:Shallow or subtropical waters

Size:Length: 3.9 to 18 in

Diet:Fish, crabs, shrimp, worms

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

It may look like a cross between a crayfish, a praying mantis, and a colorful parrot, but the Mantis Shrimp is not to be trifled with.

Its raptorial appendages move so quickly, they literally boil the water around them, producing shockwaves strong enough to kill prey!

Seeing its vivid colors amongst the coral reef last year in Coron, Palawan was one of the most exciting and memorable experiences we've ever had while snorkeling or Scuba diving during our travels.

READ MORE: Ecotourism in Costa Rica

Strange Sea Animals Around The World, Red-Lipped Batfish
Red-Lipped Batfish, photographed by Rein Ketelaars via Creative Commons

67. Red-Lipped Batfish

Latin Name:Ogcocephalus darwini

Habitat:Deep waters of the Galapagos Islands

Size:Length: 15.7 in

Diet: Mollusks, small fish, crustaceans

Conservation Status:Least Concern

Also known as the Galapagos Batfish, this freaky-faced fish is found in the Galapagos Islands at depths of 10 to 250 feet.

In addition to its red lips, the fish (which is a terrible swimmer) is distinguished by its ability to "walk" on the ocean floor using its pectoral fins.

Once they reach maturity, their dorsal fin evolves into a single spine-like projection that they primarily use to lure prey, including crustaceans and other small fish.

The illicium on its head is used for the same purpose.

READ MORE: Galapagos Islands Animals

Weird Sea Animals Around The World -Sea Pen
By Andrepiazza (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0

68. Sea Pen

Latin Name:Pennatulacea

Habitat:Tropical and temperate waters

Size:Length: 2 to 6 feet

Diet:Plankton

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Easily among the weirdest animals on this list, the colorful Sea Pen appears less like an animal and more like an ancient writing implement.

These unusual looking creatures' quill-like appearance is created by multiple polyps (each of which has eight tentacles) branching out from a single central stalk.

Found in less turbulent waters ranging from 33 to 6,600+ feet, some species can grow over six feet tall, usually positioning themselves in a current that provides a steady supply of plankton.

READ MORE:Hawaiian Mythology (Intro to Hawaiian Gods, Goddesses and Legends)

Weird Fish Around The World -Warty Frogfish
By Steve Childs from Lancaster, UK (Warty Frogfish) CC BY 2.0

69. Warty Frogfish

Latin Name:Antennarius maculatus

Habitat:Sheltered rocky and coral reefs in the Indo-Pacific region

Size:Length: Up to 5.9 in

Diet:Shrimp, fish

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Though it's also known as the Clown Frogfish, this globulous, warty wonder is no joke.

Found in the Indo-Pacific region, this voracious carnivore attacks any small animal within its strike range and has a huge mouth that can consume prey its own size.

Females may even eat males after mating if he doesn't move away.

They also have the ability to change colors for camouflage in their environment, which is also aided by their biofluorescence.

READ MORE: Going Green: 60 Earth Day Tips

Ribboned Sea Dragon at Newport Aquarium
"Ribboned Sea Dragon" by David441491 is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

70. Ribboned Seadragon

Latin Name:Phyllopteryx taeniolatus

Habitat:Coastal waters, rocky reefs, seagrass meadows

Size: Length: Up to 12 in

Diet: Small planktonic crustaceans

Conservation Status:Data Deficient

Ribboned Seadragons are not in fact true seadragons, but a member of the pipefish group. They're also known as Pipe Horses and can be found in the Indo-Pacific region.

Their stunning colors vary based on the depth of water they reside in. Those in shallow water are usually a greenish-yellow color, while those found in deeper waters appear more brownish-red.

Their appearance is quite striking, as they have ribbon-like protrusions along their body as well as a long, tubular snout.

They can be distinguished from the Weedy and Leafy Seadragons by their tail, which they use to grab onto sea grass while looking for prey. –by Bret Love, with additional reporting by Christina Maggitas

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Source: https://greenglobaltravel.com/weird-animals-around-the-world/

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