A first-order carnivore is an animal that eats primarily other animals and does not eat plants. They are also known as primary carnivores or obligate carnivores.

Here are some key characteristics of first-order carnivores:

* Diet: Their diet consists almost entirely of meat. They get their energy and nutrients by hunting and consuming other animals.

* Trophic level: They occupy the second trophic level in a food chain, feeding on herbivores or other primary consumers.

* Examples: Some common examples of first-order carnivores include:

* Wolves: Hunt large prey like deer and elk.

* Lions: Hunt zebras, wildebeest, and other herbivores.

* Sharks: Feed on fish, squid, and other marine animals.

* Hawks: Hunt small mammals, snakes, and rodents.

It's important to note that there are some exceptions to the rule. Some animals may be considered first-order carnivores, but they might occasionally consume plants, like berries or fruits. This does not change their primary carnivorous status.

Here's a simple way to think about it: if an animal primarily eats other animals to survive, it's a first-order carnivore.