Test Your Animal Knowledge with Challenging New Quiz

A newly launched quiz is inviting participants to challenge their knowledge of animals, ranging from the exotic to the more familiar. This quiz comes in light of recent research revealing significant gaps in understanding among the British public regarding basic animal distinctions.

According to data from the global working animal welfare charity SPANA, only 42 per cent of respondents could differentiate between a leopard and a cheetah. The findings further highlighted that 62 per cent were unsure about the differences between a crocodile and an alligator. Alarmingly, 42 per cent mistakenly believed that penguins inhabit the Arctic, when in fact, they are native to Antarctica.

The quiz not only presents an opportunity for fun but also serves as an educational tool. For instance, just 37 per cent of participants claimed they could confidently identify the differences between a donkey and a mule. Moreover, only 30 per cent knew how to distinguish between an alpaca and a llama. Misconceptions extended to flight capabilities as well, with seven per cent of adults incorrectly asserting that ostriches can fly, and six per cent believing the same about penguins.

Despite these knowledge gaps, the research indicated that 82 per cent of respondents could correctly identify the blue whale as the largest mammal in the world. SPANA’s chief executive, Linda Edwards, expressed concern over the lack of awareness regarding working animals. “People everywhere are still learning about animals – yet working animals remain largely invisible,” she stated.

Edwards emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges faced by working animals, such as horses, donkeys, camels, and oxen. The survey also revealed that 42 per cent of participants rated their animal expertise at seven out of ten or higher, with television being the main source of information for 51 per cent of respondents.

The survey highlighted key concerns regarding the welfare of working animals. Long working hours were cited by 31 per cent of respondents as a primary issue, followed by limited legislation protecting these animals (22 per cent), and lack of access to veterinary care (18 per cent). Additionally, 11 per cent of participants pointed to the ongoing climate crisis as a significant concern for working animals.

In response to these findings, Edwards remarked, “The British public are right to be concerned about working animals, whose welfare is often overlooked. They are at the frontline of the climate crisis, facing extreme weather that threatens their habitat and lives.”

SPANA is committed to improving the lives of working animals by ensuring they receive necessary veterinary care, offering training and support to their owners, and educating children about animal welfare. In light of these efforts, this quiz serves as both a fun challenge and a call to action for greater awareness and understanding of the vital role that animals play in our lives.