It resembles a fox, and it has ‘wolf’ in its name, but this canine creature is actually neither. It is, so far, the only species in the “Chrysocyon” genus. The name means “Golden Dog.” It’s the largest canine in South America, standing thirty-five inches at the withers (which is the shoulder blades of an animal that walks on four legs).
Living in the South American savanna, it’s an important part of the environment, especially in seed dispersal. You see, the maned wolf eats fruit, and then…the seeds are…dispersed. Its loud call is called “roar-barking,” but it communicates mostly through scents. They’re handsome fellas to be sure.
Golden Tortoise Beetle
This lovely little fellow is native to the Americas. This species of beetle ranges in color from reddish-brown with little black spots to gold, and sometimes even metallic, earning them the nickname "gold bug".
They tend to change color in different conditions, such as during times of disturbance, like when it is touched by a researcher.
Australian Peacock Spider
Australia has lots and lots of weird animals. Many of them are dangerous, too, though this colorful guy here doesn't seem to be very dangerous, since it's only five millimeters across. They're also just so fabulous.
With the scientific name “Maratus Jactatus,” these spiders also have a moniker that's much more whimsical: Sparklemuffin, which comes from the researcher that discovered it, Madeline Girard. The males of these colorful spiders not only have a big, beautiful bodies to attract the ladies but they also coyly lift a leg off the ground to signal to the gals that they're ready to woo.
Patagonian Mara
Also known as the Patagonian cavy, Patagonian hare, or dillaby, the Patagonian mara is a herbivorous rodent from the mara species, which also includes capybaras, beavers, and porcupines.
Only found in Argentina, they can grow to a max size of around thirty inches. Their feet are compressed, turning them almost hoof-like in design, and the mara is easy to pick out thanks to the white underside as well as the orange flanks and chins. They are monogamous, though the couples often breed in large warrens with numerous other couples.
Naked Mole-Rat
If you're a fan of the classic Disney cartoon “Kim Possible,” then you're already plenty familiar with this one. For the rest of you: Introducing the naked mole rat, which manages to be both cute and incredibly disturbing.
These burrowing rodents are the only species in the genus “Heterocephalus” in the rodent family. Its unusual physical traits (hairless, pain insensitivity, and strange method of regulating heat) make it singularly suited for the harsh East African environment. They, and the Damaraland mole-rat, are the only eusocial mammals in the world. Bees are also eusocial, so imagine a hive, but with naked mole rats.