Concealing coloration
Concealing coloration is when an animal hides itself against a background of the same color. For example, animals such as the snow shoe hare, snowy owl and polar bears in the Arctic have white coloring to blend in with the snow that surrounds them. In the deserts and grasslands many animals have tan and brown coloration that helps them blend into the background.
Disruptive coloration
Disruptive coloration is when animals have spots, stripes, or patterns to break up their outline so it doesn't stick out against the background. Animals like zebras, leopards, tigers and some fish use this type of camouflage.
Disguise
Disguise is when animals blend in with their surroundings by looking like another object. An insect that looks like a branch or leaf is using a costume to hide from predators. Walking sticks, some katydids and leaf insects use this type of camouflage.
Mimicry
Mimicry is when animals or insects look like other dangerous, bad tasting or poisonous animals or insects. They pretend to be what they are not. Some snakes, butterflies and moths use this type of camouflage. Examples are the scarlet king snake, the hawk moth and the Viceroy butterfly.