Which Camera Should I Get?

Okay, so a couple of years ago I got a camera for my birthday. It was a Casio Exilim EX-Z75. After a while, it stopped working. As I am typing this, I am trying to recharge the battery, but the charger keeps flashing the charging light. Anyways, I was just looking for the battery and decided I may as well buy a new camera. I would be taking pictures of friends, family, and lots of pictures of NATURE AND ANIMALS! My parents would probably get it for me as an early birthday present, and would like for it to be no more than $400, $500 at the most. I don't really care what kind it is, as long as it'll work, and be usable for a long time to come. If you need any additional information, just ask. Oh, and if it's one of those black cameras that are really nice,can you tell me information about the lenses? Thanks so much!