What You’re Called and What You Eat

Animals need to eat.  Here’s a fact you know is true every time your tummy growls: animals need to eat. Some animals eat plants. Some animals eat other animals. And some animals eat both. Scientists use special names for animals, depending on whether they eat plants, meat, or both. Let’s learn these special names: they’re big words, so get ready!

Do you eat both plants and meat?  If so, you’re an omnivore. An omnivore is an animal that eats both plants and animals. Bears are omnivores. They eat berries, and they eat small animals like fish. They also use their sharp claws to rip open logs and eat the insects they find there.

Do you eat only plants?  Animals that eat only plants are called herbivores. Some human beings choose to eat only plants and no meat. Many animals, including mice, cows, and horses, eat only plants. Even huge elephants eat only leaves, fruits, nuts, and grasses.

Do you eat only meat?  Some animals would rather eat meat most of all. Can you think of any? Dogs and cats, lions and tigers, sharks and snakes eat meat. They are called carnivores. A carnivore eats animal flesh, or meat.