The greatest experience that anyone can wish to participate in is to have a close encounter with the largest creature in the entire world which is the magnificent Blue Whale. These marine mammals’ can grow up to 30 meters in length and can weigh up to 180 metric tons or more. Their tongues alone can weigh as much as an elephant, and their hearts, as much as a vehicle. They were once numerous in our oceans, but were hunted almost to extinction by whalers in the nineteenth century. Today they are still an endangered species, but they have so far survived. These magnificent creatures can be seen on whale-watching tours in certain parts of the world at certain times of the year. So if you still don’t know what to do or where to go to this summer vacation, why not go on a whale-watching tour? For instance, the South Coast of Sri Lanka is currently known as one of the very best locations (amongst the top two or three) for such magnificent tours. People that have been there say that Blue Whales were by far the most commonly encountered species, with sightings on 14 out of 14 days (and an average of 4.5 sightings per day). "Wow"…this definitely does makes the South Coast of Sri Lanka one of the very best places to see Blue Whales in the entire world!
Tuesday 31 May 2011
Saturday 28 May 2011
Meet The Slowest Mammal In The World
The tropical forests of Central and South America are the home of Sloths, which are renowned for being the slowest mammals in the world. In fact, they are so incredibly inactive that algae actually develops on their fur. The plants give the fur a greenish color that serves as a useful camouflage for the sloths (it helps them blend in with the green leaves of their rain forest home).
There are two main species of sloths, they are known as the two-toed sloths (genus Choleopus) and three-toed sloths (genus Bradypus). These sloths are identified by the number of long, claws that they have on their front feet. Two-toed sloths are somewhat larger and tend to spend more time hanging upside-down than the three-toed sloths, who will often sit upright on a tree branch. The facial coloring of the three-toed sloth makes them look like they're always smiling. Three-toed sloths also have an advantage that not many other mammals have; they possess extra neck vertebrae that allow them to turn their heads almost all the way around!
There are two main species of sloths, they are known as the two-toed sloths (genus Choleopus) and three-toed sloths (genus Bradypus). These sloths are identified by the number of long, claws that they have on their front feet. Two-toed sloths are somewhat larger and tend to spend more time hanging upside-down than the three-toed sloths, who will often sit upright on a tree branch. The facial coloring of the three-toed sloth makes them look like they're always smiling. Three-toed sloths also have an advantage that not many other mammals have; they possess extra neck vertebrae that allow them to turn their heads almost all the way around!
Sloths spend most of their life hanging from trees, and are generally nocturnal animals. Their strong grip comes from their long claws which are used as hooks. These drowsy tree-dwellers sleep a lot – about 15 to 20 hours every day! And even when they are wide awake, they barely move at all. The two-toed sloths are generally silent. They eat primarily leaves, but also shoots, and fruits from the trees and get most of the water they need from juicy plants. Their bodily functions are so slow that they come down to the ground to relieve themselves only once a week. Once on land, they slowly move about by digging their front claws into the dirt and dragging their bellies across the ground. If caught, these animals have no chance to escape predators, such as big cats, and must try to defend themselves by biting fiercely, hissing, slashing with their claws, and shrieking. This might sound strange, but apparently sloths are surprisingly good swimmers. They sometimes fall directly from rain forest trees into rivers and stroke efficiently with their long arms.
The three-toed sloths are known to emit a long, high-pitched scream that echoes through the forests as "ahh-eee". Because of this cry, these sloths are even nicknamed "ai" (pronounced "eye") in Latin America. Two-toed sloths do well in captivity, on the other hand, three-toed sloths don't.
The three-toed sloths are known to emit a long, high-pitched scream that echoes through the forests as "ahh-eee". Because of this cry, these sloths are even nicknamed "ai" (pronounced "eye") in Latin America. Two-toed sloths do well in captivity, on the other hand, three-toed sloths don't.
Source: National Geographic
Unique And Incredible Eye Makeup
All it takes is some imagination and a professional to create incredible eye makeup. They can create just about anything you want, whether it´s Halloween eyes, Easter eyes, Sea eyes, Snow-white eyes or just something completely surreal. My favorite is as you would expect Animal eyes, for instance "Cheetah eyes".
Though not appropriate for the office, incredible eye makeup looks are just the thing for whenever you want to create a fantasy effect to your face, for instance, going to a Halloween, Costume, or any other kind of wild party. Experiment with your professional ahead of time and you can astonish everyone with your originality. The result can be as fantastic as some of these eye makeup masterpieces taken from katiealves.deviantart gallery. Check it out - there are many other incredible looks!
Though not appropriate for the office, incredible eye makeup looks are just the thing for whenever you want to create a fantasy effect to your face, for instance, going to a Halloween, Costume, or any other kind of wild party. Experiment with your professional ahead of time and you can astonish everyone with your originality. The result can be as fantastic as some of these eye makeup masterpieces taken from katiealves.deviantart gallery. Check it out - there are many other incredible looks!
Sunday 22 May 2011
Human Gets Close And Personal With A Giant Octopus
Wow… Have a look at this amazing video recording as Steve Leonard gets so close and personal with a “Giant Octopus” in the extremely cold sea waters. Would you have the courage to get this close to an “Extreme Animal” with gigantic eyes and pale blue blood? Well, I am sure that it is an awe-inspiring experience. Octopuses are highly intelligent creatures, possibly the most intelligent of all invertebrates.
Saturday 21 May 2011
Come And Have A Look Inside A Bear´s Den
Have You Ever Wondered What A Bears Den Looks Like inside? If so, have a look at these interesting images. In my opinion, it actually seems to be very cozy.
Why Dogs Love To Stick Head Out Of Moving Car
Have you ever wondered why do dogs love to stick their heads out the window of a moving car? Well, as you can see by the below images, they sure do grab the attention of all the people they pass by. The great majority of dogs exhibit this behavior, and it is probably because of their keen sense of smell which is one thousand times more sharp and sensitive than a humans. By exhibiting this behavior they get the chance to smell other people, smell different kinds of foods and they get acquainted with the scent of other dogs.
But did you know that allowing these pets to stick their heads out of car windows can also be dangerous? For instance, the dust and dirt particles in the air at that speed can harm your pet’s eyes, nose or throat. Dogs are wonderful pets and dog owners love to have their pets around, so what you can do is open the window just a little bit (but not so much that they can stick their head out) so that they can feel the air and smell the smells.
But did you know that allowing these pets to stick their heads out of car windows can also be dangerous? For instance, the dust and dirt particles in the air at that speed can harm your pet’s eyes, nose or throat. Dogs are wonderful pets and dog owners love to have their pets around, so what you can do is open the window just a little bit (but not so much that they can stick their head out) so that they can feel the air and smell the smells.
Who Would Kill Gorillas And Why?
WARNING: Video Contains Graphic Images
In order to reach deeper into the forests, logging companies build roads and as a result of this the roads allow poachers to follow and ship their catch to markets. At this current rate, illegal hunting could wipe out the last of the lowland gorillas in a decade…
Poachers kill gorillas for profit. The hands are made into ashtrays and sold to tourists or anyone willing to buy them. Other parts of the body like the feet are also sold for profit. The problem is that all of the poachers that do this are “uneducated” and some are also extremely poor. A dead gorilla can bring a tremendous sum of money for most of them. These people need to be educated so that they can respect wildlife. They don´t seem to understand what an ecosystem is, or what damage they cause by killing wildlife. To them, it is just an alternative to make money and they are willing to break the law because they can profit so very much just by killing one animal. Unfortunately, these people are not the only uneducated people... for instance, tourists who buy souvenirs such as gorilla hands and feet are worse than uneducated, they are "demented" people. It is a really sad situation!
Poachers kill gorillas for profit. The hands are made into ashtrays and sold to tourists or anyone willing to buy them. Other parts of the body like the feet are also sold for profit. The problem is that all of the poachers that do this are “uneducated” and some are also extremely poor. A dead gorilla can bring a tremendous sum of money for most of them. These people need to be educated so that they can respect wildlife. They don´t seem to understand what an ecosystem is, or what damage they cause by killing wildlife. To them, it is just an alternative to make money and they are willing to break the law because they can profit so very much just by killing one animal. Unfortunately, these people are not the only uneducated people... for instance, tourists who buy souvenirs such as gorilla hands and feet are worse than uneducated, they are "demented" people. It is a really sad situation!
See Eggs Of Pregnant Frog Through Her Transparent Skin
Have a look at this awesome image of a pregnant See-Through-Frog almost bursting with eggs, we can actually see right through her! This species was recently rediscovered in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Like most of the “vanished” amphibian species, this species simply hadn't been seen for many decades, and its status was completely unknown, until it was rediscovered during recent field expeditions, which took place between the years 2009 to 2011. It is always “good news” when we hear that “vanished” species have been rediscovered!Source and for more information...
Thursday 19 May 2011
Meet The Most Poisonous Fish In The World
The Sea may seem quiet and peaceful, nevertheless, you should be aware that there are many dangers lurking beneath the surface. I read an article the other day about the deadliest creatures living in the sea, and one of them is the Stonefish (belonging to Synanceiidae family), which is cosidered as the most venomous fish in the world.
These incredible fishes are the “masters of camouflage”; they have a grayish-brown color and often resemble a rock, which makes it even more dangerous, as people unintentionally step on them, thinking that they are stones. Stonefish have 13 grooved spines on their back that inject very potent venom once pressure is placed on them (for example, when a larger fish attacks the Stonefish or when a person steps on the Stonefish). The Stonefish´s venom causes excruciating pain, shock, temporarily paralysis, and eventually tissue death. Depending on how deep the sting is, this venom can kill a human in a few hours unless he receives medical attention. “Stonefish are only dangerous if stepped on or caught”.
The stonefish feeds on other small fish or shrimp. The victim hardly notices the Stonefish because of its great camouflage (looking exactly like a rock). The fish will wait for its victim to swim by and then with lightening speed the fish opens its mouth and sucks the victim in. Stonefish reach up to about 15 inches (35 cm) in length and live in the Indo-Pacific region and northern Australian waters. They are primarily marine, however some species are known to live in rivers.
These incredible fishes are the “masters of camouflage”; they have a grayish-brown color and often resemble a rock, which makes it even more dangerous, as people unintentionally step on them, thinking that they are stones. Stonefish have 13 grooved spines on their back that inject very potent venom once pressure is placed on them (for example, when a larger fish attacks the Stonefish or when a person steps on the Stonefish). The Stonefish´s venom causes excruciating pain, shock, temporarily paralysis, and eventually tissue death. Depending on how deep the sting is, this venom can kill a human in a few hours unless he receives medical attention. “Stonefish are only dangerous if stepped on or caught”.
The stonefish feeds on other small fish or shrimp. The victim hardly notices the Stonefish because of its great camouflage (looking exactly like a rock). The fish will wait for its victim to swim by and then with lightening speed the fish opens its mouth and sucks the victim in. Stonefish reach up to about 15 inches (35 cm) in length and live in the Indo-Pacific region and northern Australian waters. They are primarily marine, however some species are known to live in rivers.
Saturday 14 May 2011
International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW)
Founded in 1969, IFAW (the International Fund for Animal Welfare) saves animals in crisis around the world. With offices in 15 countries, IFAW rescues individual animals, and advocates for the protection of wildlife and their habitats.S.O.S - How To Break Up A Dog Fight
Have you ever witnessed two or more dogs fighting? Not so long ago our two house dogs had a fight and it was an awful experience. We tried to break them up and the only thing that crossed our minds at that moment was to through water into their faces (at that moment we only had 2 buckets at hand), but it was useless! Rex is a Rottweiler and Spotty is a Dalmatian mixed with and unknown breed. They stopped fighting about 10 minutes later because Spotty managed to get loose and ran away. They have always been jealous of each other, but we had no idea that they would ever start such a horrible fight. After that unfortunate incident, my family and I decided to find out more about what to do when 2 or more dogs are fighting without the risk of getting injured. There are so many websites with many different opinions, and we read many of them and came across a website that has quite effective methods such as the blanket method, rear leg method, water hose method and so on. Please check out hubpages.com before you get caught in the same situation as we did!Best Of Cats Taking A Nap In The Most Awkward Positions
Have a look at some very funny poses of cats that were caught taking a nap. Some fell asleep in the most awkward position. I am sure that those of you who have a cat at home have already seen your cat fall asleep in the strangest place and/or position! Cats are lovable creatures, don’t you agree?
More funny images: damncoolpictures
Source: uproxx
The Incredibly Beautiful Lionfish
I few days ago I spoke about my great experience at the Sea-Life Aquarium, well on that day I also took a few photos of the Lionfish which I found incredibly beautiful because of their graceful fins, colorations and cautious movements. Turkey fish, Dragon fish and Scorpion fish are a few other names that are used for the Lionfish. Lionfish are native to the Pacific and Indian oceans, but have recently been found in the warm waters of Atlantic Ocean, far from their natural home. It is uncertain how they established themselves there but one theory is that the Lionfish were discarded by unsatisfied aquarium enthusiasts.There are over 20 different species of Lionfish (the Volitan Lionfish is the most popular). The lifespan of the Lionfish is of about 15 years in the wild and they can grow up to 15 inches in length. Lionfish are known for their venomous spines that are deadly to their prey, but luckily not to humans, nevertheless, a stinging can cause severe pain and can be life threatening for people suffering from allergies, even so, they are very popular aquarium fish. Lionfish take advantage of their beautiful different colored strips that serve them as camouflage to hunt their prey. When they are relatively close enough, Lionfish quickly open their jaws to snap up their prey. Lionfish always swallow their prey whole.
Lionfish are considered a delicacy in certain countries, on the other hand, in other countries they are prized mostly in the aquarium trade, mainly due to their spectacular looks. There are various types of Lionfish available in aquarium stores, but the Volitan Lionfish are considered the most popular, and are the ones usually kept. Lionfish are known to be peaceful, extremely tough and disease-resistant tank inhabitants that are well-matched for the intermediate saltwater aquarists. In the aquarium a Lionfish should be fed live shrimp and live fish for best results because they are voracious predators. A varied diet can keep them satisfied and healthy. Lionfish need a large well lit aquarium tank with the following water conditions: 75-79° F/24-26C and a salinity of 1.027. If you want to know more about how to set up an ideal Saltwater fish Tank go to Buzzle.com
Source: Aquatic Community
Tuesday 10 May 2011
Sunday 8 May 2011
Have You Ever Been To A Tiger Meeting?
I have a big passion for Aircrafts, but unfortunately I have never been to a NATO Tiger Meeting which in my opinion must be breathtaking. I work near an Air force Base (Maceda/Ovar – Portugal, distance 2.8km), and now and then I hear the incredible sound of the F16´s when they perform low flybys right above our building (as a result of landing and takeoffs), but when I turn to look out the window, they are nowhere to be seen! I have only been once to the Red Bull Air Race in Portugal and I really enjoyed it very much. Like I said, I love Aircraft’s!!
I came across an awesome site with hundreds of incredible images of Aircrafts that have the most beautiful art/paintings on it (tiger paintings are my favorite). The below images were taken from this site. If you also have a big passion for Aircrafts, then you “must” definitely have a look at this site: “Florennes Aviation Society – Photo Galleries”. By the way, for those of you who are in France, don´t forget about the NATO Tiger Meeting in Cambrai Airbase (from 9th to 20th of May). For more details about where NATO Tiger Meetings are held, go to: NATO Tiger Association
I came across an awesome site with hundreds of incredible images of Aircrafts that have the most beautiful art/paintings on it (tiger paintings are my favorite). The below images were taken from this site. If you also have a big passion for Aircrafts, then you “must” definitely have a look at this site: “Florennes Aviation Society – Photo Galleries”. By the way, for those of you who are in France, don´t forget about the NATO Tiger Meeting in Cambrai Airbase (from 9th to 20th of May). For more details about where NATO Tiger Meetings are held, go to: NATO Tiger Association
Saturday 7 May 2011
The Best Way To Manage Your Money Is With Credit Sesame
Readers, if you need to manage your finances in a much better way because of loads of debts that unfortunately leave you with hardly any money at the end of the month, then I have good news for you! A few days ago I came across an interesting website; it contains a free online credit and debit management tool that is devoted to helping people that are unable to keep track of their expenses with success. Credit Sesame will offer you unbiased recommendation, help you borrow smarter and monitor your credit and debit online and in one place. It simply takes a few minutes to sign up with Credit Sesame´s service and its website is extremely easy to navigate (you will be asked for sensitive information, but don’t let that bother you, because at Credit Sesame, security and privacy issues are number one priorities, and they take it very seriously).Once you’ve signed up, you will start receiving useful information within minutes. Credit Sesame´s patent pending technology evaluates your financial profile, then analyses thousands of loans from very important banks in opposition to your debt situation and offers you the three finest alternatives that will help you save the most money over time. In addition to offering appropriate banking to consumers, it also automatically follows and monitors your loan and debt information in order to help you maintain on top of your finances. Credit sesame is completely free and without obligation. It is a definitely “must have” for those who are trying to improve their financial situation. Many people are satisfied with this website, so don’t waist anymore time and check Credit Sesame out for a Free Credit Score!
Tuesday 3 May 2011
Nurse Shark At The Sea Life!
Guess what? I went to the Sea-Life aquarium a few days ago and it was awesome - I loved every minute of the entire aquarium! The tanks are built in such a way that it actually made me feel as if I were inside the aquarium (walking under and in the middle of the fishes, sharks and so on…) I saw so many interesting deep sea creatures, but the Nurse sharks were my favorite (see above photo taken by me).Nurse sharks are large (about 0.75-4 m (2-13 ft) long), sluggish and docile creatures that are usually harmless unless provoked. No one is sure how they got their name; however, it might be because of the suction sound that they make when they are swallowing because it sounds similar to a baby who is breastfeeding.
Nurse sharks prey on bottom dwelling fish, shrimp, squid, crabs, octopus, lobster, sea snails, sea urchins, and coral. They have conspicuous barbels (type of whisker-like organs that sense touch and taste), that help them locate potential food. Nurse Sharks are nocturnal animals and are generally inactive during the day. It is in these hours of daylight that nurse sharks can be found together in groups (they have a peculiar habit of sleeping stacked on top of each other while they are resting).Despite this, the nurse shark is a solitary hunter and will spend the dark nights hunting alone.
Nurse sharks are ovoviviparous (they produce eggs within the female´s uterus), which can give birth to 20-30 pups at once. The pups tend to be around 30 cm long and are already fully developed. They reach maturity at about 15 to 20 years old. Nurse sharks can be found in the eastern Pacific Ocean and the western Atlantic Ocean. They live in warm waters and are bottom-dwelling sharks, which live in sandy beaches, mudflats, and sandbars. They are common in coral reefs. Nurse Sharks do not migrate as the water becomes cooler; their activity level simply decreases.
If you want to observe the beauty of the sea life, there is no better place than the Sea-Life aquarium. I really enjoyed it and I am absolutely sure that you won’t be disappointed. Sea-Life aquarium has 35 locations all around the world (I went to the Sea-Life aquarium in Portugal-Porto). Have fun guys!
Source: enchantedlearning.com
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