When we talk of whiskered creatures, we tend to automatically think of our pet dog or cat. The animal kingdom, however, is bristling with numerous mammals possessed of this key anatomical feature. In fact, mammal species without whiskers are actually a minority. And besides terrestrial beasts, several fish and bird species are also blessed with a crop of this stiff, functional hair. But why exactly do animals have whiskers, and how do they work?
To find out, click on and read through this gallery of wonderful whiskered wildlife.