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Global Animal Guide
Adult male lion with a full mane resting on the African savanna at golden hour

Thursday, 13 August 2026

The world's animals, explained

Clear, trustworthy guides — quick answers, facts, habitats and FAQs. Clear guides. Real-world rescue links when you want them.

Male smooth newt in breeding dress with wavy crest swimming in a clear garden pond

Animal of the Day

Smooth Newt

Lissotriton vulgaris

The smooth newt (Lissotriton vulgaris) is Europe's most widespread newt, breeding in ponds and ditches from the UK across the continent into western Asia. Adults are carnivorous on invertebrates, return to water each spring, and are listed Least Concern — still common in many UK gardens.

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World Animal Rescue Network funds partner-led animal rescue. Guides on this site stay informational; when you want to give, we send you to WARN's own pages.

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Frequently asked questions

What is Global Animal Guide?
Global Animal Guide is a free wildlife encyclopedia with answer-first animal guides — quick facts, habitats, diets, conservation status and FAQs. Every guide is built for clarity. Links point to World Animal Rescue Network for readers who want to support rescue work.
How do I find a specific animal?
Use the search button (⌘K on desktop) to find any animal by name, browse the Animals A–Z index, explore by region or category, or start from our most searched animals on the homepage.
Are the animal facts reliable?
Yes. Facts are compiled from established conservation and zoological sources, cross-referenced with Wikipedia and Wikidata entity links, and reviewed against our editorial standards. Each guide includes sources where available.
Does Global Animal Guide support wildlife charities?
Yes. The site links to World Animal Rescue Network. Contextual notes on animal guides link to verified appeals.