California condor: Rare and majestic, this critically endangered bird faced extinction but has made a slow recovery through captive breeding and reintroduction efforts. Population now estimated at 518.
Naked mole-rats: Hairless and nearly blind, these wrinkly rodents live underground in large colonies, communicate with dialects, and can live up to 30 years.
Proboscis monkeys: Males with big noses attract females, while their webbed feet make them excellent swimmers. They live in trees near rivers and sleep in bands on the water's edge.
Warthogs: Wild pigs with pig-like noses, protruding tusks, bristled bodies, and wart-like pads. Well-adapted to savanna habitats and burrows.
Star-nosed mole: Bizarre nose with 22 sensitive appendages for feeling underground. Highly effective hunter with sensitive sensors.
Monkfish: Initially unappetizing but now a delicacy. Ugly appearance with mottled skin, overbite, and razor-like teeth. BetterWorseSameWas this response better or worse?
Marabou stork: Large scavenger with featherless head. Unattractive habits, gular sac for courtship. Lazy behavior, excessive panting when hot.
Male elephant seals: Develop large nose, resemble elephant trunk. Nose aids in mating, generates loud roars for dominance.
Horseshoe bats: Unique appearance resembles ear. Adapted for echolocation, navigate swiftly. Noseleaves shaped like horseshoes aid in sonar detection.
Red-lipped batfish: Unique appearance with bright red lips. Function not fully understood, possibly for attracting mates. "Walks" instead of swimming, uses dorsal fin as a lure for prey.