What are Large Animals?
Large animals are those species that are typically larger than humans, weigh more than 10 kg (22 lb), or have a body length greater than 05 m (1.6 ft). Common large animals include horses, cows, elephants, rhinoceroses, bears, tigers, and sheep. All of these animals are usually associated with farm lands, fields, grasslands, forests, and savannahs, but may also be found in urban areas such as parks and zoos.
Large animals play a vital role in many ecosystems and provide important services to humans. They are important sources of food, provide transportation, and serve as working animals in some areas of the world. Additionally, large animals are sources of inspiration for many art forms such as literature, music, and visual arts. Lastly, their presence in cultural and religious practices is often rooted in historical traditions and are sometimes seen as symbols of strength, wealth, and power.
Below are five of the most common types of large animals and their role in the natural world:
Horses: Horses have been part of human society since the ancient times. They are used in transportation, agriculture, and racing, among other activities. They have been bred to have specific physical or temperamental traits, such as speed, strength, and endurance. In some places, horses are still used as working animals and as a source of meat.
Cows: Cows are one of the most important domesticated animals and serve a number of roles in the agricultural sector. They provide milk, which can be used for drinking, cheese making, and other dairy products. They also provide beef and leather, which are used for clothing, furniture, and other purposes. Additionally, cows are often used in animal-assisted therapy and as therapy animals.
Elephants: Elephants are the largest land mammal in the world and one of the most iconic large animals. They play a crucial role in the ecosystems of their habitats, as research has shown that they help disperse seeds and make trails for other animals. Similarly, they are integral to many cultural practices in some parts of the world and have been used as working animals throughout history.
Rhinoceroses: Rhinoceroses are large herbivorous animals that inhabit grasslands and savanna. They are highly endangered due to their involvement in the illegal wildlife trade and habitat loss due to human activities. Despite their daunting size, rhinoceroses are docile and slow-moving animals, although they will charge when they feel threatened or surprised.
Bears: Bears are large omnivorous animals that inhabit areas in the northern hemisphere. They are found in forests, tundras, and mountains and are experts in catching fish and other small animals. Bears are important components of many ecosystems and are culturally significant to some Indigenous populations around the world.
Sheep: Sheep are herbivorous animals that inhabit a variety of grasslands, meadows, and pastures. They provide important resources to humans, including milk, meat, wool, and leather. Sheep are also important in the cultural traditions of some religions and are often used as symbols of purity.
Large animals play an essential role in the natural world and have been an important part of human society since the beginning of civilization. They provide resources to humans as well as spiritual, cultural, and ecological services. It is important to protect large animals from extinction and continue to foster their presence in the natural world.