Animals exhibit a variety of bodily colorations and patterns or markings, which have evolved for a number of reasons. Some are useful as camouflage. Both the spots on a lion cub and the stripes on a tiger serve to break up the visible outline of the animal in long grass. Anolis caroliensis showing blending camouflage and counter-shading. ... Binomial name Panthera leo (Linnaeus, 1758) The Lion (Panthera leo) is a mammal of the family Felidae. ... Tigers (Panthera tigris) are mammals of the Felidae family and one of four big cats in the Panthera genus. ...

Other markings are meant to be seen, serving as visual warnings that the bearer may be dangerous in some otherwise non-obvious way. The distinctive black-and-white coat of a skunk is a potent reminder of its malodorous scent-spraying capabilities. The highly venomous coral snake displays conspicuous red, yellow, and black bands, alerting potential foes that an encounter may be life-threatening. The similarly-patterned, non-venomous scarlet kingsnake sports red, black, and yellow bands, causing most animals to maintain a respectful distance from this "sheep in wolf's clothing." The striking pattern symbolizes the animals ability to survive despite being seen by potential predators. Any animal that develops to disregard its markings, while probably killing the target in the short term, will also take heavy damage itself and ultimately be at an evolutionary disadvantage. This will only work during a period in which copy-cat behavior hasn't yet taken overhand. As soon as that boundary is breached, predators will grow to disregard the pattern, and new patterns may emerge. Genera Conepatus Mydaus Mephitis Spilogale Skunks are medium-sized mammals with black-and-white-fur belonging to the family Mephitidae and the order Carnivora. ... This article is about the toxin. ... Species About 65 General Information The coral snakes (Micrurus and Micruroides) are two genera of about 65 snake species, found in tropical South America and southern USA. They are venomous and related to Old World cobras, and are the most venomous snake in the New World. ...

Other markings, such as the points of the Siamese cat, are the result of selective breeding for aesthetically pleasing characteristics. The Siamese is one of the first distinctly recognised breeds of Oriental cat. ... Selective breeding in domesticated animals is the process of developing a cultivated breed over time. ...