The Mandrill

The largest of all monkeys, the mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx) is a vividly unique primate. The males have an unmistakable appearance - easily identifiable by the sky-blue and scarlet-red skin on their face, as well as an ombre of galaxy fading into crimson on their rump. This spectacular colouration makes the mandrill one of the most colourful …

The Common Octopus

With their extraordinary camouflage techniques and ingenious defences, the common octopus (Octopus vulgaris) is one of the most intelligent of all the invertebrates. This species is a mollusc belonging to the class Cephalopoda, and is widespread in tropical and warm temperate oceanic waters. Their vast distribution is a testament to the octopus' ability to continuously adapt. The common …

The Nile Crocodile

The largest freshwater predator in Africa, the Nile crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) is a formidable hunter with a great historical significance. They are widespread throughout sub-Saharan Africa, where they feed mainly on fish - like their Indian relative, the Gharial. However, these reptiles are opportunists so will attack almost anything unfortunate enough to cross its path, …

The Red Panda

The red panda (Ailurus fulgens) is an arboreal, solitary mammal native to the high-altitude, temperate forests of the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. The red panda's unique appearance has caused some confusion among zoologists. Up until recently, some zoologists classified the red panda with the raccoons (Procyonidae), whilst others placed it in the bear family …