Tom Cooke
When we think of black-and-white animals, two quickly come to mind: zebras and pandas. However, nature’s incredible artistry goes beyond these mammals and extends into the sea and the air. Several animals showcase monochrome stark contrasts and striking patterns. Today, we’ll focus on 15 of the most beautiful among them.
Panda
These big, round bears are native to China and bear unique black and white markings. They primarily feed on bamboo, which makes up 99% of their diet. Despite their bear classification, they have a gentle demeanor and are often seen eating or lounging in bamboo forests. Pandas were endangered animals until 2021.
Zebra
Zebras are African equines known for their black and white stripes, unique to each individual, and believed to help with camouflage, confuse predators, and regulate body temperature. Zebras live in herds, and they have powerful kicks that defend them from threats.
Dalmatian
These medium-sized dogs have white coats with black or liver-colored spots. They are intelligent and energetic and often used as firehouse mascots or in fire safety education for children. This breed has a long history of being carriage dogs, running alongside carriages to guard them and guide horses. They also have a reputation for being agile and obedient.
Penguin
They are flightless birds primarily found in the Southern Hemisphere, especially Antarctica. Their distinctive black and white plumage helps them blend into the water while swimming and hunting for fish. Penguins are highly adapted to aquatic life, with flipper-like wings for swimming and a layer of insulating blubber to stay warm in cold waters.
Skunk
Remember those small mammals that can spray a foul-smelling liquid as a defense mechanism? Those are skunks. These nocturnal animals feast have a black-and-white coloration, with some species having varying degrees of white markings. Despite their smelly reputation, skunks help to control insect populations and are generally docile unless provoked.
Orca
These brilliant killer whales are marine mammals found in oceans around the world. They feed on fish, seals, and even other whales and have a black back and white chest and sides. Orcas live in tight-knit groups called pods, use complex vocalizations to communicate, and are impressive hunters—beaching themselves is one of their techniques.
Magpies
Magpies are birds with black-and-white plumage and long tail feathers. These highly intelligent birds exhibit complex social behaviors and problem-solving abilities. They are omnivorous, eating insects, fruits, and small animals. In some cultures, magpies are considered omens, as various superstitions surround them.
Cows
These large mammals are domesticated and used as livestock for meat, milk, etc. Some breeds, such as Holsteins, have distinctive black and white markings. As herbivores, cows eat grass and other plant materials. They are social animals and may form close bonds with herd members.
Ruffed Lemur
The black-and-white ruffed lemur lives only in Madagascar. You’ll know them by their striking black and white fur and long, bushy tails. These creatures are arboreal, spending most of their time in trees, where they feed on fruits, leaves, and nectar. Their loud vocalizations help them communicate with each other and mark their territory.
Colobus Monkey
Colobus monkeys are a group of Old World monkeys from Africa. While they are primarily black, they have a distinct white mantle and tail. Colobus monkeys are folivores, mainly feeding on leaves, which is reflected in their large, complex stomachs. They live in troops and possess acrobatic skills.
Black-and-White Hawk-Eagle
The black-and-white hawk-eagle is present in Central and South America. It is known for its striking black and white plumage, with black upperparts and white underparts. The hawk-eagle is a skilled hunter that preys on birds and little mammals.
Black-and-White Warbler
This small songbird lives in North America. It has beautiful black-and-white stripes that run along its body. The warbler is a migratory bird, spending the winter in Central America, Florida, and the West Indies and migrating to the north and eastern parts of North America in the summer to breed. It feeds on insects and spiders, which it finds by hopping along branches and probing into crevices.
Argentine Giant Tegu
Also called the black-and-white tegu, it is a species of lizard from South America. It has a black body and white stripes or spots and can grow up to four feet and beyond in length. The omnivorous reptile eats insects, fruits, and little mammals. Because they are social, people consider them as pets.
Eastern Kingsnake
The eastern/common kingsnake is a non-venomous snake present in almost every country. Its black and white bands, which run along its body, make it beautiful. The kingsnake is a constrictor, and it can imitate the coloration of the venomous coral snake to protect itself from predators.
Butterfly
Several species of butterflies, such as the Caper White and the Cabbage White, have black-and-white patterns. Their black-and-white appearance helps them camouflage and deter threats. Butterflies undergo a metamorphosis from egg to caterpillar to pupa to adult, with the adult stage being the winged butterfly. Their food is nectar from flowers, and they play an important role in pollination.
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