Wildlife veterinarian Richard Kock is in awe of the alien-like saiga antelope. The animal is perfectly adapted to the Kazakh steppe's harsh habitat and can withstand the freezing temperatures of winter and searing heat of summer. That's partly thanks to its pendulous nose. The big snout filters out dust kicked up by the herd during summer migrations and cools the animal's blood. In winter, it heats cold air before it enters the lungs.

About "My favorite"

With all the talk of endangered species, the value of biodiversity and the usefulness of ecosystems, we sometimes forget why plants and animals are really worth protecting: because we love them, or depend on them for our own wellbeing. People from all walks of life and in all parts of the world have a favorite species. The reasons are many - perhaps because it is beautiful, or fascinating, or it helps them secure a livelihood. Meet some of these people and their favorites in our series "My favorite."