1. Multicellular organisms: Animals are made up of multiple cells that work together to carry out various functions.
2. Heterotrophic: Animals cannot produce their own food and must obtain nutrients by consuming other organisms.
3. Movement: Most animals are capable of some form of movement, whether it be crawling, swimming, flying, or walking.
4. Sexual reproduction: Most animals reproduce sexually, with two individuals coming together to produce offspring.
5. Nervous system: Animals have a well-developed nervous system that allows them to respond to their environment and coordinate their movements.
6. Diversity: The animal kingdom is incredibly diverse, with over a million known species ranging from microscopic organisms to large mammals.
7. Symmetry: Many animals exhibit some form of symmetry, whether it be bilateral (two-sided) or radial (multi-sided).
8. Specialized cells and tissues: Animals have specialized cells and tissues that perform specific functions, such as muscle cells for movement and nerve cells for communication.
9. Development: Animals typically go through a series of developmental stages, from embryo to adult, with distinct changes in form and function.
10. Adaptability: Animals have evolved a wide range of adaptations to survive in different environments, from camouflage to protective shells.