Nature is full of amazing and breathtaking wonders. The patterns and colors of animals are definitely some of them. Did you know that all these patterns aren’t just a coincidence? Every serves a purpose, whether for hiding or mating purposes.
I’m sure you can think of many, like the zebra or the leopard print, but have you ever heard of the pink dolphin, a real natural phenomenon?
If you’re curious to discover more remarkable patterns and learn about their purposes, here are 10 creatures who proudly wear them. Let’s see which one catches your eye.
1. Zebra
Zebras are likely one of the first animals you thought of when thinking about patterns.
Their black and white stripes are one of the most popular patterns that many use in fashion, interior design, art and similar. Have you ever tried to rock some zebra pants?
But, zebra’s stripes aren’t there just for looks, these help them camouflage and hide from predators. Combined with their friendly and playful nature, these creatures make some of the cutest out there.
2. Lionfish
Many fish seem regular and standard, but others really do put on a show. From changing colors to glowing in the dark.
What makes the lionfish stand out is its unique patterns. The bold vertical lines, combined with long venomous spines, make this creature look even cartoon-like.
These patterns can help them camouflage themselves, but sometimes make them stand out even more, it all depends on the environment and situation they are in.
Even though we probably won’t be able to see them eye to eye, it’s cool to know that something like this is out there.
3. Whale Shark
Did you know that the whale shark is the world’s largest fish, but not considered a threat to humans? They sure do sound intimidating, but in reality aren’t that aggressive.
What adds to their gentle nature are the unusual dots and lines covering their whole body, except for their white belly. These markings are unique to each individual. Think of them as fingerprints on human fingers.
Like many other creatures, they use their spots to camouflage themselves, but also to communicate with each other.
Would you be brave enough to go swimming with them, or is that a pass?
4. Peacocks
One of the most recognisable bird species is definitely the peacock. Besides their striking blue heads and necks, the real show stoppers are their trails.
Covered in huge green feathers, each with a unique feature, the so-called eyespot. As peacocks spread their trails, they dance around their crush trying to catch their attention.
Besides making them a charmer, the trail also intimidates predators, shows the peacocks’ health and strength, and helps communicate among each other.
The combination of the peacock’s stunning green and blue shades, along with its graceful movements, makes it one of the most unique and royal animals. Don’t you agree?
5. Dalmatian
Another black and white combo, but this time with dots which vary in so many shapes and sizes.
These doggos are mostly born completely white, but their spots appear within their first 10 days of life. I can see why Cruella was so drawn to these spots.
Did you know that besides being black, their spots can occur in other colors like a blue-grayish, brown, or the so-called lemon spots?
Their adorable looks, combined with their friendly and energetic nature, make them one of the most popular dog breeds.
6. Menelaus Morpho Butterfly
The Menelaus Morpho really does stand out among the so many beautiful patterns and colors seen on butterflies.
What makes this species so special is the striking and electric blue with the black edges of their wings. These features make them one of the most admired butterfly species.
Even though harmless and fragile, many people are scared of butterflies or even develop phobia. It sounds funny, but I might just be one of those people…
7. Chameleon
The winner of this list can easily be the chameleon, a lizard species well known for its color changing abilities.
Their skin can change color based on temperature or light, or for hiding and camouflage. Imagine how many awkward conversations could have been avoided if we could change color and just disappear.
Their color-changing ability can also show their emotional state. A brighter and more intense color might signal aggression or dominance, while a darker color could indicate stress or fear. From green, to blue or even red, these creatures make real magic happen!
8. Leopard
Another popular pattern in the fashion world, used for so many years in various occasions, is the leopard print. This exotic print, made of black and golden-brown dots, symbolizes wealth and luxury.
Even kings and monarchs showed their power by using leopard like prints, but nowadays many find it rather tacky.
Their patterns come in different shapes, sizes and shades, but no matter the differences, it is one of the most recognisable patterns in the animal world.
Is the leopard print a yay or nay?
9. Pink Dolphin
In a world full of regular dolphins, why not be the pink one?
The reason for this creature being pink isn’t as unique as the color itself. The explanation is simple, the pink appears due to the blood vessels near the skin’s surface. But that doesn’t make this dolphin less cool.
The pink color is most prominent in adults, especially males which are also bigger than the females. Not only do these creatures have a unique color, but the intensity of their skin can change due to their emotional state.
There are only two different species of these dolphins and they are located in totally different locations.
10. White Tiger
Everyone has seen the beautiful black stripes on the orange fur of a tiger, but have you ever heard of the white tiger?
The reasoning behind their white coat is a recessive genetic mutation. This affects the pigmentation of their fur, making them be fully white, or have the characteristic black stripes on their fur.
Another characteristic is that their eyes are usually blue, which makes these animals even more unique looking.