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10 Weird Animals Most People Don’t Know Exist

10 Weird Animals Most People Don’t Know Exist

The animal kingdom is far larger than many of us ever realize. With new animals still being discovered regularly, it’s no surprise that many folks don’t know about some of the most unique creatures currently sharing our planet. Here are ten of the countless unique and interesting animals that most people don’t even know exist.

1. Civet

This small, lanky mammal is a primarily nocturnal creature found in the tropical forests of Africa and Asia.

2. Binturong

Also known as the Asian bearcat, the binturong is native to South and Southeast Asia, and is known for having musk glands that produce a scent compared to that of popcorn or corn chips.

3. Lowland Streaked Tenrec

Part of the little known tenrec family, this colorful fellow lives in Madagascar and is the only mammal known for rubbing body parts together to create sound, something more commonly seen with insects and snakes.

4. Saiga Antelope

Looking straight out of a sci-fi film, the saiga antelope is a critically endangered species that once had a large, spacious habitat covering many countries but is now found only in one Russian location.

5. Okapi

Sometimes known as the forest giraffe or zebra giraffe, the okapi lives in Central Africa, though it is now considered endangered due to loss of habitat and hunting.

6. Pink Fairy Armadillo

Many know of traditional armadillos, but not many have heard of the much smaller pink fairy variety. Living in burrows underground, storms are of particular risk to these critters, as if their fur gets wet they cannot properly thermoregulate and often suffer hypothermia.

7. Tufted Deer

Named for the dark tufts of fur on their heads, tufted deers are arguably far more well-known for the male’s signature fangs. Yes, you aren’t imagining it – these are fanged deer, and they are found primarily in China.

8. Fossa

This bizarre, cat-like mammal is actually more closely related to the mongoose family, and is the largest carnivorous mammal on Madagascar, averaging between 12 and 19 pounds.

9. Rock Hyrax

Also called the rock rabbit or rock badger, the rock hyrax has long tusk-like upper incisors, weigh nearly 9 pounds, and inhabit varying areas in central and southern Africa.

10. Patagonian Mara

Weighing anywhere from 18 to 35 pounds and is one of the largest rodents found in Argentina. Resembling a jackrabbit or hare, the Patagonian maras are a monogamous animal and are threatened predominantly by human hunting.

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