Beauty is in the Eye of the Beholder

Known as “clowns of the sea,” Atlantic puffins are charming birds. They have plumage that is black and white, bright orange beaks, and colorful facial markings. These birds inhabit the North Atlantic, spending most of their time at sea, coming ashore to breed. The male’s bright beak and facial markings help attract a mate. Puffins are also excellent swimmers and divers, using their wings to “fly” underwater in pursuit of fish.

Axolotls are also known as Mexican walking fish. They are native to Mexico and known for their pinkish-white skin, frilly gills, and expressive eyes. Axolotls primarily eat a diet consisting of protein-rich foods like fish, worms, and insects. They can be seen walking on the ocean floor.

Bengal cats are a domesticated feline breed known for their leopard-like spots and sleek, muscular build. They have a wild appearance but exhibit a friendly and playful temperament. Their coat patterns can vary from spotted to marbled, each one unique and eye-catching. These cats are highly active and intelligent, requiring plenty of mental and physical stimulation.

Blue Morpho butterflies are known for their iridescent blue wings. They inhabit the rainforests of Central and South America. The vivid blue coloration is due to microscopic scales on the wings that reflect light, giving the butterfly its shimmering appearance. As pollinators, they contribute to the health and diversity of rainforest flora. Additionally, their larvae help control plant populations by feeding on leaves.

Hyacinth macaws are the largest parrots on Earth. They have amazing bright blue plumage and bright yellow eye rings. These birds inhabit South America, particularly Brazil. They are known for their size, strong beaks, and social nature. Hyacinth macaws are highly intelligent and from strong bonds with their mates. They favor large nuts, particularly from palm trees such as acai and bocaiuva, consume seeds from various plants, and enjoy fruit like mangoes and papayas.

Mandarin ducks are among the most beautiful birds on Earth, They have vibrant, bright, and multi-colored plumage. These ducks are native to East Asia. Their feathers have intricate patterns and include orange, green, blue, and purple hues. In many Asian cultures Mandarin ducks symbolize love, fidelity, and happiness. Pairs of Mandarin ducks are often featured in art and literature as representations of romantic harmony. They forage on land and in water, often dabbling to reach food, and may also graze on grass and other vegetation. They are omnivores, and their diet is based on seasonal availability and habitat.

Mandarin fish display a kaleidoscope of bright colors. These fish swim the waters of the Pacific and are usually found in coral reefs. They can be admired in bright blue, orange, and green hues with intricate patterns. At dusk they indulge in a “mating dance.” During this ritual, the male and female rise together in a synchronized dance before spawning. They dine on small crustaceans, worms, and other tiny marine organisms.

Peacocks, particularly Indian peafowl, are known for their tail feathers that they spread in an amazing display. Their iridescent feathers have eye-like patterns, which shimmer in shades of blue, green, and gold. The male peacocks use their spread tails to attract females. Peacocks have significant cultural and historic importance and in many cultures symbolize immortality, renewal, and pride. They forage on the ground, using their beaks to scratch and dig for food. They are omnivorous and adapt their diet based on availability in their environment.

Red pandas have adorable faces and reddish-brown fur. They inhabit the eastern Himalayas and southwestern China. These pandas have close relations with raccoons and weasels. They have interesting bushy tails. Red pandas are arboreal and feed on bamboo but will also dine on fruit, berries, and small mammals.

Known as Ghosts of the Mountains, snow leopards have thick, lovely fur with striking rosettes. They are among the most beautiful big cats on Earth. These leopards live in the mountainous regions of Central and South Asia. Snow leopards are adaptable to harsh environments and are known for their agility and strength. They can leap up to 50 feet into the air. Snow leopards are solitary hunters and hunt at dawn or dusk. They dine on wild sheep, goats, and small mammals.

White Bengal tigers are known for their snow-white fur with black or dark brown stripes. This genetic mutation, known as leucism, results in a stunning and unique appearance. They inhabit places in India. White Bengal tigers are carnivores. They hunt large ungulates such as deer, wild boar, and buffalo.