Ruminant animals are a group of mammals that have a unique digestive system, allowing them to break down tough plant materials. They possess a specialized stomach with four compartments: the rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum. This structure enables them to ferment and digest fibrous foods like grass and leaves efficiently. Common examples of ruminants include cows, sheep, goats, and deer. These animals often regurgitate food, known as "cud," to chew it again, which aids in digestion. Ruminants play a vital role in ecosystems by helping to recycle nutrients and maintain grassland health.