Animal lifespan refers to the length of time an individual animal lives, which can vary significantly across species. Factors influencing lifespan include genetics, environment, diet, and predation. For example, small animals like mice may live only a few years, while larger animals like elephants can live for several decades. In the wild, many animals face threats that can shorten their lifespan, such as disease and predators. Conversely, animals in captivity, like those in zoos, often live longer due to regular food supply, absence of predators, and medical care. Understanding animal lifespan helps in conservation efforts and improving animal welfare.