As a society, we like to think that we know a lot about the animals that inhabit our earth. From the majestic elephants to the tiny bees, we have studied their behaviors, habits, and physiology. However, there are some surprising facts that will blow your mind and make you appreciate these creatures even more.

1. Dolphins are excellent problem solvers
Dolphins are known for their high intelligence, but did you know they can solve complex problems? Scientists have conducted experiments that showed that dolphins can solve problems such as opening a jar by manipulating a specific lever. They can also recognize themselves in a mirror, which is a sign of high intelligence.

2. Capuchin monkeys have a unique way of cracking nuts
These small monkeys are known for their ingenuity – they use stones to crack open nuts. But what’s even more surprising is that they use different techniques depending on the size and hardness of the nuts.

3. Elephants can communicate over long distances
Elephants communicate with each other through a series of trumpets, rumbling sounds, and other vocalizations. These sounds can travel up to 5 miles and are used by elephants to locate their family members or warn of potential threats.

4. Cows have best friends
Cows are social animals and often form strong bonds with each other. They can recognize their friends and show signs of distress when separated from them.

5. Emus can run backwards
Emus, the flightless birds native to Australia, can run at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. What’s even more impressive is that they can also run backwards, making them an incredibly agile species.

6. Ants can hold their own weight up to 50 times
Ants may be small, but they are incredibly strong. They can carry objects that weigh up to 50 times their own body weight. If human beings had the same strength as ants, we could lift a car over our heads.

7. Octopuses can squeeze through tiny spaces
Octopuses are known for their intelligence and their ability to adapt to their environment. They can fit through small spaces by squeezing their soft bodies and even escape from an aquarium by unscrewing a jar lid.

8. Bees can recognize human faces
Bees are an important part of our ecosystem and are responsible for pollinating many of our crops. But did you know they can also recognize human faces? Scientists have observed that bees can differentiate between human faces and respond differently to familiar and unfamiliar faces.

9. Sloths only poop once a week
Sloths are slow-moving animals with a unique metabolism. Rather than eating a lot of food, they have a low energy rate and only defecate once a week, making them one of the most efficient animals in the world.

10. Orangutans can use tools
Similar to dolphins, orangutans have shown an ability to use tools to solve problems. They can use sticks to poke insects out of trees, and even make tools by breaking branches to use as weapons.

In conclusion, as much as we think we know about animals, there is always more to learn. These surprising facts show us how amazing and unique these creatures are and how much we can still discover about them.