Animals use their tails for various purposes such as communication, balance, defense, and even for swimming. Tails can help animals to communicate with each other through body language and signals. Tails also play a crucial role in maintaining balance while running, climbing, or jumping. Some animals use their tails as a defense mechanism, like lizards that can detach their tails to distract predators. Additionally, aquatic animals like fish and whales use their tails for propulsion and steering while swimming.