Bear
The Polar Bear, the world's largest land predator, prospers in the harshest environments. Males can be 3m tall and weigh 650kg (1,400lb), while females weight about 250kg (550lb). Single bears trek up to 5,000km (3,100mi) across icy seas and tundra in search of food.
The Cheetah is the fastest land animal at 95 km/h (60mph). Unlike other "big cats" it does not roar - however it does purr and make high pitched yelps, barks and chirruping sounds. They are found in Africa and in some parts of Asia.
The African, or Cape Buffalo is a member of the "Big Five", with the elephant, rhino, lion and leopard. Weighing 700kg (1,500lb), they are unpredictable, and dangerous if cornered. They have been known to ambush men and are often accused of deliberate savagery, but are placid if left alone.
Dogs
There are more than 700 types of pure breed dogs. The common belief that dogs are colour blind is false. Dogs can see colour but it is not as vivid as we see; it is like our vision at twilight. Dogs and cats, like people, are either right-handed or left-handed
The African elephant is the largest living land mammal. The muscular trunk serves as a nose, hand, an extra foot, signalling device and a tool for gathering food. With 40,000 muscles, the trunk performs movements as delicate as picking berries.
The Gorilla is the largest of the living primates; male gorillas weigh up to 200kg, yet are shy and retiring. They will, however, protect their family groups valiantly. They eat a variety of plants, including wild celery, bamboo, thistles, stinging nettles, bedstraw and certain fruit. An endangered species, only about 630 remain. Their quest for survival was made famous by Dian Fossey, portrayed in the movie "Gorillas in the mist."
