10 of the Fattest & Chubbiest Animals in the World

Black Rain Frog

The chubby Black Rain Frog, despite its small size, is a spherical blob of muscle. They inflate themselves with air to appear larger to predators. Their high-protein diet helps them pack on muscle, useful for digging and defensive screaming.

Hippo

Hippos, often misrepresented as fat, are actually muscular with little need for blubber in tropical climates. Their thick skin and muscular bodies allow them to run through water and avoid infections, making them formidable despite their hefty appearance.

Actaeon Beetle

The Actaeon Beetle larva, the heaviest beetle larvae in the world, can weigh over 200 grams. It spends three years growing by munching on wood hummus and plant cores before its brief adult life of about 100 days.

Walrus

Walruses support their massive weight with a layer of insulating blubber, comprising around 20% of their body weight. This fat helps them survive in the harsh Arctic conditions, providing protection and insulation.

Manatee

Manatees, despite their appearance, have no blubber. Their cylindrical shape is due to muscle, confining them to warm waters. They are sensitive to temperature changes and prefer thermal springs to stay warm.

Guinea Pig

Guinea pigs are born with around 14% body fat, similar to human infants. This fat is accumulated in utero and decreases with age. Researchers study guinea pigs to understand the long-term effects of maternal nutrition on offspring.

Elephant Seal

Elephant seals have around 40% body fat, essential for surviving long periods underwater and during breeding seasons without food. They rely on their blubber for insulation and energy, gaining it after birth through their mother's milk.

Blue Whale

Blue whales accumulate significant fat, gaining up to 50% of their weight in blubber during feeding seasons. This fat provides energy and buoyancy during their long migrations to breeding grounds, where they eat minimally.

Army Cutworm

The Army Cutworm, an immature moth form known as the 'miller moth', has a remarkable 72% fat content. This high-fat content makes it a rich food source for predators like bears, showcasing an unusual adaptation in the insect world.

Capybara

The capybara, native to South America, holds the title of the world’s largest rodent. With their rounded bodies and short legs, they can weigh up to 150 pounds. These social and semi-aquatic animals have a chubby appearance.

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