According to National Geographic, a study found there are some 8.7 million species on the planet. While we haven’t even discovered a quarter of these creatures, the ones we have range from domestic pets to some of the weirdest animals ever seen. While everyone knows what a lion or a shark looks like, have you ever seen a sparklemuffin? Or how about the infamous Tasmanian devil? These weird animals are found in all parts of the globe but are rarely seen by humans in our everyday lives. 

To shed some light on these bizarre creatures, we have chosen to highlight some of the weirdest animals going around. These species can be found on land, in the water, or in the air. Some are small animals you wouldn’t even notice if you walked past them, while others are larger beasts that could do you a lot of damage. Read on to discover some of the most unusual animals on the planet. 

1. Glass Frog

While most glass frogs are green in color, they can also be transparent and translucent. This is where the amphibian gets its name from. You can actually see the insides of the frog, which makes for remarkable viewing. Found around South America, the glass frog lives along rivers and streams. When threatened, it has the ability to change its skin color to match its surroundings

2. Chinese Water Deer

From a distance, the Chinese water deer looks like any other deer. Get closer and you will see why it is on this list. The Chinese water deer has developed two long canine teeth that stick out of its mouth. It looks like a vampire, which is why this species is often known as vampire deers. Despite the scary looking teeth, these deer don’t eat meat, preferring to graze on grass and other vegetation. 

3. Sparklemuffin

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Officially known as Maratus jactatus, this species of spider is commonly referred to as a sparklemuffin. The name comes from University of California researcher Madeline Girard, who discovered the jumping spider in the woodland forests of Wondul National Park in 2015. Along with the name, this strange variation of the Australian peacock spider is just five millimeters in length. While the females have black bodies, it’s the colorful bodies of the males that make these spiders stand out. Vibrant and eye-catching, the spider’s bodies, along with a strange mating dance, help them find a female to procreate with.