Which of the following is NOT a basic characteristic used for animal identification?

Seasonal changes are not typically considered a basic characteristic used for identifying animals. When professionals or enthusiasts identify animals, they usually rely on more permanent and consistent traits such as distinctive markings, which include patterns, colors, or shapes unique to a species or individual. Sounds can also assist in identification, as many animals have specific calls or vocalizations that can delineate species. Movement may refer to breeding season behaviors or migration patterns, but these are not stable traits and can vary widely. Seasonal changes, on the other hand, are temporary and not useful for identifying an animal’s species or individual characteristics consistently throughout the year, making them less applicable in the context of animal identification.