What are native animals?

"Native animals" are animals that naturally occur in a specific geographic region, meaning they have evolved and adapted to that particular environment over a long period of time. They are considered indigenous to that area. Here's a breakdown:

* Natural occurrence: They weren't introduced by humans, but have been present for generations, thriving in the local ecosystem.

* Evolution and adaptation: They've developed specific characteristics and behaviors to survive the region's climate, food sources, predators, and other environmental factors.

* Importance to the ecosystem: They play vital roles in maintaining balance and health, like pollination, seed dispersal, predator-prey control, and nutrient cycling.

Examples of Native Animals:

* North America: Bald eagles, gray wolves, bison, red-tailed hawks, black bears

* Australia: Kangaroos, koalas, wombats, emus, dingoes

* Africa: Lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, gorillas

* South America: Jaguars, macaws, sloths, capybaras, anacondas

Key points to remember:

* Native animals are not the same as domesticated or introduced species.

* Introduced species are brought in from other regions, sometimes unintentionally, and can negatively impact native ecosystems.

* It's crucial to protect native animals and their habitats to ensure their survival and the health of the entire ecosystem.

By understanding the concept of "native animals," we can better appreciate the biodiversity of our planet and the importance of conservation efforts.