Emma's Earth Explorations

The Ocelot :  Leopardus pardalis Description : Ocelots are medium-sized of body length 21-37 inches  with an added tail length of 7-15 inches.   The size of Ocelots resemble ordinary house cats, but these are fierce wild cats with sharp fangs and retractable claws for hunting. Ocelots have  unique markings on their golden-tan fur; in fact, no two Ocelots have the same markings! They have white fur on their bellies and a white spot on their round ears, which can detect the quietest of footprints. Like most cat species, Ocelots have a keen sense of sight and hearing.  Habitat : Preferring habitats with dense vegetation, Ocelots have adapted to a number of biomes such as thorn scrubs, marshes, tropical rainforests, mangrove forests, and savanna grasslands. They can be found anywhere from the southern US to South America with the exception of Chile.  Diet : These carnivorous wild cats will eat all kinds of meat including frogs, rabbits, rodents, monkeys, a...

Would you believe that this giant, barrel-shaped creatures is related to the tiny household guinea pig?   The Capybara:   Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Description : The Capybara is the world's largest type of rodent, around 3-4 feet in length with reddish-brown fur. Although unseen in the picture above, the Capybara also has a tail and slightly webbed feet, making it adept at swimming. They are actually semi-aquatic animals and can hold their breath for up to five minutes! Habitat : Capybaras live in densely forested areas that have a water source nearby, such as ponds, marshes, and swamps.  They can be found all over South America with the exception of Chile.  Diet : Capybaras are herbivores and grazers; their diet is composed of grass, aquatic plants, and occasionally fruit. Over 80% of their diet is grass. The Capybara's front teeth are able to graze shorter grass types that cattle and other animals are unable to eat. In addition, Capybaras often regurgitate the...