The Friendliest Hamster Breed Is Also Easy To Hold
Other Cute AnimalsThe Friendliest Hamster Breed Is Also Easy To HoldByCynthia AnayaFeb. 2, 2025 9:25 am ESTBetterTomorrow/ShutterstockThey may not ever top any "most popular pet" lists, but hamsters can make great companions for anyone who prefers a pocket pet over a more traditional pet. Part of the rodent family, these critters are relatively easy to care for, intelligent, and entertaining with their cheek-stuffing and wheel-spinning behavior. Syrian hamsters — also known as golden hamsters — are one of the friendliest hamster breeds and they're easy to hold.Weighing only 4 to 5 ounces and reaching about 7 inches in length when fully grown, this breed is a popular choice for children. In fact, they're one of the most popular hamster breeds in the United States for owners of all ages. Their personality is likely one of the reasons; they're known to be playful, curious, and easy to tame and handle.Over time, you may even be able to learn how to tell if your hamster likes you. However, just as with any other small or new pet, you should consider a few safety precautions when handling your Syrian hamster for the first time, and every time.How to safely handle your Syrian hamsterCatherine Falls Commercial/Getty ImagesAfter bringing a Syrian hamster into your home for the first time, it may be tempting to want to immediately pick them up and hold them, but this isn't the best approach. Your new fur baby will probably want to explore their new habitat freely, without being restricted by a hand wrapped around their body. Give your hamster time to explore and get cozy in their new home. Consider making a list of things that hamsters can eat before bringing them home, and let them sniff around and eat before picking them up.When you do handle your hamster, keep your hand tight enough around them to prevent dropping them, but loose enough to allow them to breathe freely and wiggle around a bit. Avoid carrying them too high from the ground, and always place something soft beneath them, in case they jump or fall out of your grasp.Another factor to keep in mind when handling your pet is that they should be the only hamster you handle within one enclosure. Syrian hamsters prefer to live alone in their tank or cage. They prefer solitude, so don't force them to have a roommate. Doing so could result in a territorial scuffle, leaving you wondering how to get rid of your hamster. Luckily, these friendly critters do great on their own, and will get used to being handled over time.
A Rare Mammal Discovered In North America Now Faces A New Threat
NewsA Rare Mammal Discovered In North America Now Faces A New ThreatByAdam SymchukJuly 4, 2025 1:25 pm ESTChristina Dutkowski/ShutterstockThere are three types of bears in North America: the black bear, the grizzly bear (also known as the brown bear), and the polar bear. Among the three, the most common is the black bear, with an estimated 600,000 to 900,000 in North America. Yet, among the black bears, there is an extremely rare variant known as the Kermode or Spirit bear, which appears white due to a recessive gene, with a population of fewer than 500.The discovery of a Kermode bear is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, often requiring active effort to spot one. For photographer Shelley Lindaas, who grew up in Terrace, British Columbia, where the bear was spotted, she had dreamed of encountering a Kermode since childhood. Lindass, who would capture the photos of the extremely rare bear, told CBC in a 2025 article, "They were sitting right on the highway," adding, "I get unusually excited when I see any wildlife...but I was off the charts excited." Despite this remarkable discovery, Lindass stressed the importance of keeping her discovery silent, stating, "I always wait until August before I post pictures, and I get bombarded by other wildlife photographers about where I took them."Lindass's concern over sharing the location of a Kermode is shared by others who have captured photos of the rare mammal, expressing the importance of minimizing animal-human interaction. With many bears already under threat due to people not respecting boundaries, the uncommon Kermode may be at even greater risk due to its rarity.How humans pose a threat to the rare Kermode bearKensCanning/ShutterstockMany people are unsure of the best way to respond to a bear when walking a dog or alone. Yet, it is essential in these interactions to keep a safe distance and respect a bear's space. At home, keeping food stored correctly is also key to avoiding unwanted interactions.In British Columbia, Canada, where the Kermode bear was spotted, the province euthanized 603 bears in 2023 after being considered a threat to humans. Issues such as leaving out trash, pet food, or greasy barbecues are the primary causes of bears becoming comfortable entering human spaces and leading to dangerous encounters. Moreover, directly feeding bears can lower their natural fear of humans and turn them into nuisances. For the unique Kermode bear, people's desire to get a closer look can have disastrous effects on its safety through direct interaction or carelessness.Photographer Shelley Lindaas's discovery of a Kermode bear highlights the surprising beauty of nature, but it also acts as a reminder to tread carefully to ensure such remarkable creatures stay safe. For more articles on fabulous finds in nature, check out the abandoned building a few arctic polar bears call home, or learn about South America's largest mammal thought extinct that was spotted in a protected zone.
The Less-Common Type Of Pet That Has The Longest Lifespan By Far
Other Cute AnimalsThe Less-Common Type Of Pet That Has The Longest Lifespan By FarByCynthia AnayaMarch 10, 2025 3:25 pm ESTMonica Fecke/Getty ImagesImagine being able to have the same pet in your home for decades. If you're lucky, you might have the opportunity to enjoy two decades with a dog or cat, but this is rare; most pet parents only get one decade with their canine or feline companion, if that. Dogs and cats snag the top two spots as the most-popular pets in the United States, but they don't live very long. However, when comparing the average lifespans of popular pets, tortoises top the charts. Many tortoise species can live up to 100 years or more, placing them among the longest-living pets.Outliving and saying goodbye to a beloved pet is never easy, and the grief can last for weeks, months, or even longer. If you want to share the rest of your life with the same pet — one that could very well outlive you — a tortoise could be a great option. Just like with dogs, the lifespan of these reptiles varies by size. Small dogs, such as those that weight under 10 pounds, tend to live longer than larger ones, but the opposite is true for tortoises, with larger tortoises tending to outlive smaller ones.Lifespans of common pet tortoise speciesMint Images/Getty ImagesThere are an estimated 49 known tortoise species in the world, and they're found on every continent except Australia and Antarctica (brr!). Due to their size, some species are more popular than others as family pets. You can find small ones under 5 inches long, like the Egyptian species. Others can grow to be 3 feet long and weigh more than 140 pounds, like the sulcata, also known as the African spurred tortoise, which is actually one of the most unusual pets owned by celebrities (Leonardo DiCaprio in this case). Regardless of size, however, many tortoises can surpass 80 years of age, even in the wild.Leopard and Greek tortoises are among the species that live the longest — 100 years or longer — followed by the Hermann's tortoise and Egyptian tortoise. These latter species can live for 70 to 100 years. Some sulcata tortoises have surpassed 100 years, but on average, they live for 30 to 50 years. The Russian and Mediterranean species typically reach 50 years of age, and many even see their 100th birthdays. The red-footed species has one of the shortest lifespans among tortoises at 25 to 50 years.However, as with any other pet, habitat, enclosure, and diet play big roles in a pet tortoise's lifespan and quality of life. With improper care, a tortoise's life could be cut short. So, do your research on the species you're considering to ensure you can provide the long-term care it'll need to live a long life.
How Horses Transformed Human Society
Other Cute AnimalsHow Horses Transformed Human SocietyBySanaphay RattanavongFeb. 12, 2025 9:25 am ESTGraphics Ark/ShutterstockFrom the rise of empires to the birth of global trade, no animal has shaped humanity quite like the horse. Domesticated around 4,200 years ago in the Pontiac-Caspian steppe — or around a thousand years later than historians previously thought — horses revolutionized human societies in ways that no other creature could. Their speed and endurance extended trade routes across continents, connected distant cultures, and forever altered the nature of warfare.The impact of horse domestication was so profound that it became the foundation for the rise of empires and the cultural and technological exchanges that shaped civilizations. Beyond trade routes and battlefields, horses eventually became a staple on our farms and could even be found parading the White House grounds as some of the longest-living presidential pets. While it's hard to make out, the rumbling of their hooves on the earth still reverberates across our modern world like a giant bell that has not stopped ringing. What made horses such powerful catalysts for change, and how did they come to play such an outsized role in human history?How horses helped grow empiresSabine Hagedorn/ShutterstockThe domestication of horses redefined how humans traveled, and by extension, how we fought. With the development of spoke-wheeled chariots around 2000–1800 B.C.E., horse-drawn vehicles became a military game-changer, providing speed, maneuverability, and a psychological edge on the battlefield. The Sintashta culture, one of the earliest adopters of chariot warfare, leveraged these innovations to expand their influence, laying the groundwork for later empires.As technology advanced, chariots gave way to cavalry. Mounted warriors soon became the backbone of armies across Eurasia, from the steppes of Central Asia to the battlefields of the Roman Empire. The advantages were undeniable: Horse-mounted troops could outmaneuver infantry, raid distant territories, and cover vast distances with unmatched speed. Beyond combat, horses also enabled humans to manage farms, further boosting economic productivity. Their ability to carry goods over long distances connected previously isolated regions, spurring trade and cultural exchange. The strategic advantages of controlling horses were so significant that they became symbols of power, wealth, and prestige in societies across the ancient world. Paleogeneticist Ludovic Orlando, research director at the French National Center for Anthropobiology & Genomics of Toulouse for University of Toulouse–Paul Sabatier, told CNN that the "horse was equally the animal of farmers, warriors, and kings ... found in rural and urban contexts alike, and in extremely diverse environments."Horses as cultural connectorsDougal Waters/Getty ImagesBeyond their utility as a means of mobility and conquest, horses became the information infrastructure of cultural connection and influence — a sort of proto-internet, with riders conveying messages and the visual impact of the horses inferring plenitude and power. As domesticated horses spread rapidly across Eurasia, in addition to goods and people, they also carried ideas, languages, and traditions. The rise of horse-powered societies coincided with the spread of Indo-European languages, reshaping the linguistic landscape of the ancient world. In many cultures, horses took on profound symbolic roles, appearing in art, mythology, and religious rituals. From the steppe cultures to Mesopotamia and Egypt, horses represented strength, freedom, and prosperity. They were depicted in rock carvings and pottery, and revered as sacred animals in various traditions. Horses have also forged connections with other animals domesticated by humans. Most notably, Dalmatians, famously known as "carriage dogs," were bred to accompany horse-drawn carriages, serving as both protectors and companions. This eventually led to the Dalmatians' historic role in firehouses.The horse's ability to connect distant regions fostered unprecedented cultural exchange, becoming the backbone of early globalized societies. By linking regions, they profoundly shaped the course of human history. Even today, we measure the power of our modern vehicles using an equine term: "horsepower." This cultural and symbolic legacy endures, reminding us of the horse's unparalleled role in shaping the interconnected human story.
Everything To Know Before Adopting A Duck As A Pet
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsEverything To Know Before Adopting A Duck As A PetByCynthia AnayaJan. 31, 2025 11:25 am ESTCavan Images/Getty ImagesWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.While a bit unorthodox, ducks can be kept as pets, legally, in most states. Perhaps you've wanted a pet duck ever since you saw Joey and Chandler with one on "Friends," or maybe you just always enjoyed feeding ducks as a child. Ducks can show affection and be entertaining as well. Whatever the reason, ducks can make good companions and offer some of the same benefits that dogs and cats do. However, you should consider the daily activities, requirements, and restrictions associated with adopting a duck as a pet, all of which could pose an inconvenience.On a positive note, keeping ducks fed is as easy as keeping a more traditional pet fed; you can purchase a bag of duck feed pellets from pet stores and online retailers, such as Mazuri Waterfowl Layer Food for Ducks. Ducks also feed on grass, including weeds, and rid yards of pests, so they can serve as great lawn-maintenance animals. Some owners consider this type of waterfowl high-maintenance and challenging to care for because of their needs, while others feel the opposite. With this in mind, it's best to consider all variables of ownership before bringing your own personal Donald or Daisy home to be part of your family.They can be messyLinas Toleikis/Getty ImagesAll pets can have bowel accidents in undesired places, but their water bowl is not one of them for most. Ducks, on the other hand, naturally defecate in water, even if it's the same water they bathe in and drink. This means that whatever drinking water you have prepared for them might contain their droppings and need to be replaced regularly. Ducks also enjoy playing in mud and dirty water puddles, so by the end of the day, they could be covered in feces-tainted water and dirt.It's also important to note that ducks excrete waste frequently — about every 10-30 minutes — which equates to roughly 100 times a day. Since they don't spend all their time in water, you'll find their droppings not just in their water containers but in their enclosure and your yard. The good news is, duck waste makes good fertilizer, due to its nutrient-dense nature. You just need to compost it first before applying it to any plants or soil.Some ducks can be boisterousHam patipak/ShutterstockYou might find the sounds of ducks quacking at a park or while you're kayaking down a creek harmless and maybe even appreciated. When the quacking happens in your backyard throughout the day, however, you might not feel the same way about it. Your neighbors might also have an issue with this, especially if the quacking wakes them up.Although all ducks vocalize in some way, some species and breeds are noisier than others. Mallard ducks, particularly the females, quack often to communicate in different ways. One duck owner on the Reddit subreddit r/ducks reported that their female mallard quacked constantly while in her large enclosure, despite being well-fed and having humans interact with her. Female call ducks, as their name implies, are also known to vocalize loudly and frequently.At the quiet end of the "quack spectrum" are Muscovy ducks. Instead of quacking, this species makes hissing and cooing sounds to communicate. These sounds will likely be too quiet to bother you or your neighbors. You may not even hear them unless you're standing nearby.They should be kept contained outdoorsWirestock Creators/ShutterstockUnlike furry indoor pets, ducks should spend most of their time outside in their natural habitat. You can bring them inside on occasion, but they thrive best and should live in an outdoor environment. Living in the great outdoors meets their natural instincts and behaviors that a standard indoor environment can't.Another reason to keep your pet duck outdoors is their frequent bowel movements and water activities. Ducks love to swim and play in water, and remember, they also poop in water — and poop often. You probably won't want them leaving droppings all over your carpet, so keep them outside instead and ensure they have water in the form of a pond, kiddie pool, or tub to play and bathe in. Have a separate, smaller water source available for drinking that's deep enough for them to fully cover their heads.It's also recommended to have a fenced-in yard, but more importantly, ducks need a pen with netting or some other type of predator-proof shelter with a roof. When you let them out of their enclosure to play, only do so while you're home and able to keep an eye on them. They should be placed in a roofed shelter when you can't watch them, as well as overnight.They crave companionshipMatthias Rohrberg/Getty ImagesDucks can be compared to humans in some ways, including their desire for companionship. They enjoy socializing with other ducks and can get lonely without other feathered friends to quack, swim, and waddle with. With that in mind, it's best to adopt a pair of ducks (or more!) or adopt a second shortly after bringing the first home if a pair isn't immediately available. The ducks can be of the same or different breed or species.Another option is to complement your pet duck with other birds, such as geese or chickens. All of these birds can generally share the same enclosure without any issues. Certain dogs can also become your duck's sidekicks. However, there are some caveats. Some dogs — especially large ones — see ducks as prey and may want to chase or harm them. This behavior can be avoided by adopting a puppy and duck at the same time, choosing a small dog that weighs under 10 pounds, and/or training. In any case, you should closely monitor all initial interactions between the two animals.Caring for them is time-consumingFertnig/Getty ImagesSome pets don't require much beyond food, water, toys, comfortable bedding, the shelter of your home, and waste cleanup. At the end of a typical day, you might end up spending all of two minutes on feeding and cleanup, if necessary. Caring for ducks, on the other hand, requires a lot more time. One owner on Reddit's r/pets shared their daily routine for caring for their two ducks, totaling 40 minutes every day. They spend 20 minutes in the morning and 20 minutes in the evening. Their daily routine includes filling all water stations and food bowls, relocating the ducks from a garage coop to a yard pen, and cleaning the coop wood shavings in the morning. In the evening, the owner puts fresh wood shavings in the coop, moves the ducks back to the coop, adds fresh food and water, and washes all the water stations.Other duck owners' daily routines differ. However, if you want your duck to have a clean habitat and to be safe and comfortable every day, you'll need to put effort toward this goal. If you have enough time to devote to a morning and evening routine, or if you have someone to help you, caring for a duck can be manageable, easy, and enjoyable. Otherwise, you might find it too demanding and overwhelming, so be sure to thoroughly consider these daily requirements of ownership, and aim to understand duck behavior before deciding to adopt one.
Can You Keep Seahorses As Pets In Your Home Aquarium?
Other Cute AnimalsFishCan You Keep Seahorses As Pets In Your Home Aquarium?ByCori ChapmanFeb. 24, 2025 1:25 pm ESTDiego Grandi/ShutterstockYou may have seen seahorses while out at an aquarium, but did you know that they can be kept as pets at home as well? It may not seem so because seahorses are often known to be harder to keep fish. However, they can be kept in home aquariums with some preparation and care. Seahorses were only bred in captivity relatively recently. Initially, wild seahorses were caught and placed in aquariums, but many died shortly after due to stress and starvation from refusing to eat. Luckily, seahorses were finally successfully bred in captivity, helping to create a population that was more at home in home aquariums, readily accepted hand-feeding, and was less stressed out by transport.Before you care for a seahorse at home, you should have the right setup to ensure they stay happy and healthy. To add seahorses to an aquarium, the tank should be at least 18 inches tall to allow them to happily move around. A wide tank is also a good idea, as seahorses prefer to move side to side as well. The size and number of seahorses also impact the size of the tank — so go larger if you are keeping multiple. You can even go extra big by making a DIY 300-gallon tank at home for the ultimate experience. It's also good to make sure the tank has plenty of good bacteria to support a healthy ecosystem.Friendship and feeding of your seahorseAire Images/Getty ImagesSeahorses may seem exotic and need a lot of care, but they can be easy if you know what to do. Seahorses are rather social creatures, so having at least a pair helps maximize happiness for your beloved water pets. It's important that the pair is the same gender, otherwise, you may find yourself with several (thousand) more seahorses in the near future! You might also want to keep these delicate creatures away from other carnivorous aquarium fish that may think they're a tasty snack.Regarding their diet, seahorses are carnivorous, so should eat a variety of foods. You can offer Mysis shrimp, though it is best to avoid frozen shrimp and look for fresh. Other than Mysis shrimp, any small crustaceans are suitable for a seahorse's diet. Captive-bred seahorses are also very friendly when it comes to feeding time. They enjoy being hand-fed for more interaction than some other fish. Their food can be left in the aquarium, but any uneaten portions should be removed to keep the aquarium clean. Owning a seahorse can be a fun, and interactive, experience. It's best to ensure you have a properly set up tank and know the basics of caring for them before bringing one home. Once you're ready to go, you can have some fun watching these adorable creatures swim around.
The Unique Situation Many Sea Turtles Across The US East Coast Face
Other Cute AnimalsThe Unique Situation Many Sea Turtles Across The US East Coast FaceByCynthia AnayaJuly 19, 2025 9:25 am ESTTetsuo Arada/ShutterstockSea turtles are among the few sea animals that humans occasionally have the opportunity to see both in the water and on land in the wild. Unfortunately, they're also among the ones that need rescuing at times. In the colder months, sea turtles can end up stranded on beaches, but not always from injury, illness, or low tides. Sometimes, the frigid water temperature in the fall and winter months causes these creatures to become cold-stunned until they end up washed ashore, in desperate need of help.Sea turtles become cold-stunned when the water temperature drops to 50 degrees Fahrenheit, resulting in hypothermia. Not long after the exposure, they can become so weak and lethargic that they lose their ability to swim and begin to float at the surface. Depending on the tide and wind speed, they may remain on the surface, floating, or become stranded on a beach. In fact, dozens of them have wound up in the latter predicament on the beaches of Cape Cod in Massachusetts, Long Island in New York, and other areas that experience cold winters.Unfortunately, there's no magic wand that we can dip in the oceans to make them warmer. There are, however, ways you can help a sea turtle that's stranded as a result of cold-stunning, should you ever encounter one while hiking with your dog along the beach.How to help a cold-stunned, stranded sea turtleMahmud Hidayat/ShutterstockIn addition to Cape Cod and Long Island, cold-stunned sea turtles have been reported in Pamlico Sound, North Carolina; Mosquito Lagoon and St. Joseph Bay in Florida; and bays statewide in Texas. However, it can happen anywhere that the water dips below 50 degrees Fahrenheit. If you happen to be walking down the beach in the late fall or winter and come across a stranded sea turtle, your actions can save its life.First, call your local stranding network, as you won't be able to give the turtle the care it needs on your own. Be prepared with location details and the turtle's status. Keep in mind that a cold-stunned sea turtle will need to be removed from its location by a professional wildlife rescuer and rehabilitated in a designated facility. These animals sometimes develop pneumonia, infections, and other conditions related to the cold water, so they require specialized veterinary treatment before they can be released back into the ocean.The rehabilitation process could take months, partially because the rehabilitators sometimes have to wait for warmer weather, even if they opt to relocate the turtles to the south. With the rise of cold-stunning, staff and volunteers at wildlife sanctuaries take a proactive approach to rescue by monitoring the beaches during stranding season. If you live near a coastal area where cold-stunning could occur, contact your local wildlife sanctuary to see how you can help. Want to learn more about sea turtles? Check out the beautiful place in Malaysia where sea turtles might swim up to you.
This Therapy Horse Went Viral For An Adorable Talent That Helps Kids In Hospitals
Other Cute AnimalsThis Therapy Horse Went Viral For An Adorable Talent That Helps Kids In HospitalsByCynthia AnayaJuly 28, 2025 10:09 am ESTHeckRasier Productions/ShutterstockWho wouldn't want to be serenaded awake after a stressful experience at the hospital? A girl at Shriners Children's in Pasadena, California, experienced this firsthand, but to her surprise — and delight — the musician was a miniature horse. Yes, pets that aren't cats or dogs can become therapy animals. The Instagram account Mini Therapy Horses shared the moment in a July 2025 post, and the video went viral shortly after. The 17-year-old horse, named Black Pearl, energetically rubbed her muzzle across a mini keyboard near a girl's bedside to help her wake up from anesthesia and lift her spirits.minitherapyhorses / InstagramBlack Pearl is one of several horses used as therapy animals in hospitals, schools, and other facilities through the nonprofit organization Mini Therapy Horses. Victoria Nodiff Netanel, an experienced equestrian, founded the organization in 2008. She initially adopted Black Pearl as a companion with no plans to train her, but things changed when she realized how much the horse seemed to enjoy learning. "At some point, I got the light bulb moment when you think, 'Wow, maybe I could combine my love of horses to helping other people,'" she told USA Today after the children's hospital video exploded online.Today, the organization includes nine mini horses, all of whom have been trained by Netanel, but playing an instrument isn't the only skill these horses have. Valentina Blue, the newest addition to the herd, is also learning how to use a large skateboard.The science behind using mini horses as a form of therapyElizabeth W. Kearley/Getty ImagesEven without diving into scientific research, it's easy to understand the likability of miniature horses, similar to that of dogs with dwarfism. While full-sized horses are undeniably majestic, mini horses add even more charm with their short snouts, big eyes, and small bodies. It would be hard for any animal lover to look at a 3-foot-tall horse with a gentle face and not want to pet or hug it.In the 2010s, a team of researchers set out to prove the benefits of these animals, with the goal of expanding the field of animal-assisted therapy. For their study, published in January 2020 in the Psi Chi Journal of Psychological Research, they invited 50 college students and 17 airport travelers to interact with the horses for as long as they wanted. The participants filled out a survey about their emotions before and after interacting with the horses. Responses revealed a decrease in negative moods and stress and an increase in positive moods, similar to the emotional benefits of owning a pet.Honey's Mini Therapy Adventures, another organization like Mini Therapy Horses, serves as additional proof of equine therapy benefits. According to the University of Florida Health, which has collaborated with the organization, mini therapy horses are keenly aware of people's behaviors and have strong nonverbal communication skills. This allows them to be tuned into humans' needs. Both patients and hospital staff have expressed positive feedback about the minis. Whether it's by playing a keyboard, strolling in on a skateboard, or just standing silently, mini horses continue to help adults and children alike.
A Celebrity Horse Breed Known For Its Calm Nature Is Hard To Find In America
Other Cute AnimalsA Celebrity Horse Breed Known For Its Calm Nature Is Hard To Find In AmericaByAdam SymchukFeb. 25, 2025 1:25 pm ESTLois GoBe/ShutterstockHorse cross breeding dates back millennia, with mentions of mules (a horse crossed with a donkey) appearing in the Bible during King David's reign around 1000 BCE. Before that, the Botai people of Kazakhstan were the first recorded to domesticate and breed horses, dating back 5,500 years. Over 400 breeds and crossbreeds have been raised to fit particular needs, and horses have even helped transform human society.The drum horse is an example of people cross breeding horses to fulfill a role. This equine can be seen carrying soldiers and drums during the Band of the Household Cavalry (formerly Band of the Life Guards) processions. The regal, tall, and calm demeanor of the modern-day drum horse — prized for its ability to navigate British processions — comes from combining traits of Clydesdale, Gypsy Cob, and Shire breeds.Despite their agreeable nature and prominence in British processions, which have earned them celebrity status, the drum horse breed is exceptionally rare in America due to its specialized role and lack of substantial breeding stock. Additionally, the breed's tumultuous history has contributed to this scarcity.How the drum horse became rareLois GoBe/ShutterstockA singular change to the Shire Registry resulted in certain patterned shire horses — piebald (large uniform patches of black and white) and skewbald (large white patches on any other color) — being removed. The Shire Horse Stud Book, established in 1878, was essential in tracking and protecting the lineage of Shire horses. Once these patterned horses were excluded, they fell out of favor with the upper class and became a staple working breed among the Roma people. These piebald and skewbald Shire horses went on to become integral in forming the modern-day Gypsy Cob.As original Shire patterning began to disappear, piebald and skewbald horses again became highly prized. The modern drum horse is created through selective breeding of Clydesdales and Gypsy cobs to reproduce the traditional colored Shire's patterning. Sabino-patterned horses — defined by unique white spotting — also serve as drum horses, although piebald or skewbald coloring is still preferred for leading processions.The Royal British drum horse that helped cement the breed's celebrity statusLois GoBe/ShutterstockThe drum horse breed would not enjoy nearly the same celebrity status if it were not for one remarkable stallion, standing at 17.1 hands high (5 feet 9 inches): Galway Warrior. Registered initially under the royal name "Beauty" to Her Royal Majesty the Queen, Galway Warrior was sold in 1993 to recoup funds after a massive fire at Windsor Castle forced the royal family to pay taxes.Galway Warrior's son, Chew Mill Guinness, was imported to the States and used as a stud and show horse. However, a few months after his arrival, professional jouster turned premium Shire horse breeder Jeff Bartko arranged for Galway Warrior himself to come to the United States. Galway Warrior made an appearance at Breyerfest in 2003, leaving a lasting, joyful impression on people who love horses fortunate enough to see him. He died on July 2, 2009 at 26 years old, yet his lineage lives on through his offspring. While the drum horse may still be rare, their celebrity status and unique ancestry make for an intriguing breed.
A Pet Bird Known For Following Commands Can Live For Over 80 Years
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsA Pet Bird Known For Following Commands Can Live For Over 80 YearsByRosie GovinMarch 8, 2025 3:25 pm ESTMurilo Mazzo/ShutterstockWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links."Polly want a cracker?" More like, "Polly want a lifelong companion!" If you're thinking about taking in a pet bird, it's important to know that some of the most beautiful, charismatic birds out there also have some of the longest lifespans of all pets. An extremely intelligent, communicative bird, the umbrella cockatoo, also known as the white cockatoo or the great white-crested cockatoo, can live for up to 80 years, so bringing one into your home is as close to a lifetime commitment as it gets.Umbrella cockatoos are tropical birds native to Indonesia, and they have that signature white crest that pops up when they are excited or agitated. In fact, most of their body is white, with the exception of yellow feathers under their wings and tails. They're medium-sized birds that get up to 18 inches in length, but as far as pet birds go, they're quite a presence. Not just physically, either — umbrella cockatoos are birds with big personalities who require an involved pet parent.Umbrella cockatoo personalityPadodo/ShutterstockUmbrella cockatoos require lots of love, attention, and stimulation, so they're not the best choice for the absentee pet owner, and they should be adopted by experienced bird owners. In the wild, these birds live in groups, so they don't spend much time alone, and they don't adapt well to those kinds of situations. Umbrella cockatoos that are left alone for too long could develop destructive behaviors, like chewing on their feathers or screeching.These birds are super smart — some are able to learn upwards of 50 words, they love to play and are very affectionate, and they can use tools like twigs to scratch themselves. You can't say that about too many types of pets! While they form strong connections to the people in their lives, they can also be described as moody.Umbrella cockatoos can be extremely playful one second and then turn on a dime and bite and scream the next. Let's just say that umbrella cockatoos are not among the quietest pet birds. Keep in mind that they typically don't do well with big changes or major shifts in their routine, like new family members (aka babies) or new daily schedules. If you are prepared for an occasionally fair-weather friend who is nevertheless fascinating and quite fond of their companions, the umbrella cockatoo may be an option for you.Umbrella cockatoo caretatianaput/ShutterstockAs the umbrella cockatoo is on the larger side for a pet bird, they need a considerable amount of room. Their cages should be as large as possible, big enough that there's room for a play stand, like MCage's Wrought Iron Parrot Play Gym. A bird that is kept in too small of a space is at risk of injuring themselves or getting sick. Ideally, you can also include some enrichment objects like swings, ladders, and chew toys that exercise their beak to keep them occupied. They also require 10-12 hours of sleep every night and regular baths to control the dust from their down.You're probably wondering what an umbrella cockatoo can and can't eat. Nutritious pellets made for cockatoos should make up the bulk of their diet, but because they are natural foragers, they should also be supplied with a variety of fruits, vegetables, and wholesome grains like quinoa. These should make up about 20% of their overall food intake. Nuts can be given as an occasional treat. Like most other pets, umbrella cockatoos should also have access to fresh water at all times.Intelligent, playful birds like the umbrella cockatoo need lots of exercise and mental stimulation every day to the tune of two hours minimum outside of their cages. This will stop your cockatoo from screaming for attention. They can learn games like rolling a ball back and forth and tricks like saying words. Cockatoos love routine, so it's a great idea to schedule their playtime and stick to that schedule. Overall, these birds are great, long-lived friends if given enough care and attention.
2 Different Endangered Species Are Making A Miraculous Comeback In The Same National Park
News2 Different Endangered Species Are Making A Miraculous Comeback In The Same National ParkByAdam SymchukJuly 14, 2025 9:25 am ESTTaras Vyshnya/ShutterstockCurrent extinction rates range from 0.01% to 0.1% annually, with conservative estimates by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) suggesting that between 200 and 2,000 species are lost each year. These stats serve as a reminder of the impact that climate change and habitat destruction have on wildlife. Luckily, despite these persistent challenges conservationists face worldwide, the western quoll and the brushtail possum are two amazing animals that have made a comeback from the brink of extinction, proving that perseverance can pay off.Both the western quoll and brushtail possum were introduced to Australia's Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park in 2014. The western quoll, once widespread throughout southern Australia, became near-threatened due to predation by introduced species and habitat loss. The brushtail possum population had been sharply declining in central Australia for nearly 60 years due to European settlement. Both mammals were previously observed in the park after their introduction, but concrete numbers were not available until recently. In May 2025, a five-day operation of rangers and volunteers were able to catch, scan, and release 135 Western quolls and 30 brushtail possums; a healthy growth in population over ten years.Australia has a unique biodiversity due to various factors, such as its location on one side of the massive 'invisible fence' that animals in Asia won't cross. People outside the country may never have the chance to see these remarkable creatures up close, but the two mammals are integral to Australia's ecosystem and culture.The western quoll and the brushtail possum are integral to AustraliaAdwo/ShutterstockAbout the size of a domestic cat, the western quoll is recognizable by its white spots offset by its dark fur. The nocturnal, carnivorous marsupial is the largest of its kind in southern Australia. As a top predator, the spotted animal plays a vital role in maintaining a balanced ecosystem. For the Indigenous people of Australia, the western quoll is an integral part of their culture, appearing in creation stories and its image used in ceremonies.Comparatively, the protected brushtail possum has a peculiar status in Australia, as its ability to live alongside humans makes it a pest to many; in neighboring New Zealand, the brushtail is an invasive threat. Still, the omnivorous mammal plays a crucial role in Australia's ecosystem, helping to disperse seeds and pollinate plants, as well as removing mistletoe, which threatens the country's eucalyptus trees.The comeback of the western quoll and brushtail possum in the Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park is a remarkable success story of two species defying the odds in southern Australia. For more stories on conservation efforts, check out South America's largest mammal thought extinct that was spotted in a protected zone.
This Zoo's Controversial Request For Unwanted Pets Has The Internet Fiercely Divided
NewsThis Zoo's Controversial Request For Unwanted Pets Has The Internet Fiercely DividedByCynthia AnayaAug. 6, 2025 10:25 am ESTAbim Images/ShutterstockZoos have been offering people rare opportunities to see and learn about animals up close for centuries, but to continue doing so, they often rely on community support. When making requests of the public, they usually ask for financial donations, volunteers, and similar forms of support, but a zoo in Denmark is asking for a much more unorthodox donation: unwanted pets to feed their predator animals. The request has been ruffling feathers online since it was first announced on Facebook on July 31, with many calling it "sick" and "crazy." Still, others support the idea.Aalborg Zoo started its post with a question: "Did you know that you can donate smaller pets to Aalborg Zoo?" It later clarified that it's specifically seeking chickens, rabbits, and guinea pigs since these animals comprise a large portion of their captive predators' diets. The goal is to mimic big cats' prey in their natural habitat, minus the hunting. Owning a big cat as a pet or as a zoo animal still requires dietary upkeep, after all. The zoo promises to "gently euthanize" each animal that's donated before feeding it to the predators. "That way, nothing goes to waste – and we ensure natural behavior, nutrition and well-being of our predators," the post reads.Although not mentioned in the Facebook post, the zoo's website states that it also accepts live horse donations. Horses aren't the only large animals that Danish zoos have killed to feed other animals, either. The Copenhagen Zoo shot a young, healthy giraffe named Marius to feed its big cats in 2014 even though protests had pushed back against it.Some call the zoo's request barbaric, while others say it's a 'win win'Photofex_AUT/ShutterstockSocial-media readers were quick to express their outrage when the Aalborg Zoo's news dropped. One X user suggested releasing the predators into the wild as a better alternative — this way, they wouldn't need to be fed by the zoo workers. Other comments on Facebook are flooded with condemning words like "disgusting" and "unbelievable." One even called it "a cheap publicity stunt." However, the responses imply that some critics might have based their comments solely on headlines and assumed "pets" referred to dogs and cats, not rabbits and chickens.Of the readers who seemed to have read the full articles about the situation, a small percentage supported the Aalborg Zoo's request. One commenter called it a "win win solution for pets that already have to be put down." Another praised the idea of donating an old riding horse to lions to help save a healthy animal. They called it "common sense," with the claim that it would save the donor money if they don't have to pay to put the horse down.Another comment read that this feeding practice is "nothing new," and the Aalborg Zoo's deputy director, Pia Nielsen, confirmed this in an emailed statement. "For many years ... we have fed our carnivores with smaller livestock. When keeping carnivores, it is necessary to provide them with meat, preferably with fur, bones, etc. to give them as natural a diet as possible," she said (via CNN World). As the controversy continues, the zoo's request forces a wider conversation about ethics, public perception, and the unseen realities of animals in captivity. Interested in other unique zoo stories? Find out why cheetahs at zoos sometimes have support dogs. Or, if you need something uplifting, check out these bunnies that will hop right into your heart because they're so precious.
1 Of The Ocean's Most Terrifying Predators Is A Menace Even To Sharks
Other Cute Animals1 Of The Ocean's Most Terrifying Predators Is A Menace Even To SharksByAdam SymchukMay 26, 2025 9:25 am ESTTrudie Ottolini / 500px/Getty ImagesThe great white shark is renowned as one of the most terrifying creatures in the ocean, due to its frightening portrayal in films like "Jaws" and "The Reef." However, there is a proficient and deadly hunter of the deep that is more fearsome than the great white: the orca. Orcas, known as "Killer Whales," dominate the oceans with their ability to hunt efficiently in packs. Yet, recent incidents suggest orcas are an even greater menace than previously thought.Sharks have been washing ashore off the coast of Gansbaai, South Africa, since 2017, with large chunks of their abdomen missing. These attacks were attributed to two killer whales after they killed eight sharks in a year, eating only their livers in all instances but one. In 2023, sharks in Australia were found washed up on shore in a similar state. How did scientists figure this out? Biologist Isabella Reeves, part of the Shark Ecology Group at Flinders University, discovered Orca DNA in the bite wounds of sharks, stating "This suggests that such predation events may be more widespread and prevalent across the globe than previously believed."The incidents in Australia with Reeves' discovery proved prophetic. A year later, a 2024 study published in Frontiers in Marine Science showed that, after a six-year monitoring period of killer whale populations, they exhibited similar predation patterns on whale sharks along the coasts of California and Mexico. Three witnessed attacks were carried out by a single male orca, with a fourth attack attributed to a female. Killer whales have a diverse diet and will even eat seabirds and other whales. Yet, the targeting of sharks for their livers has led the scientific community to speculate about the reasons behind this behavior.The reason why some orcas are killing sharks only for their liversmr_tigga/ShutterstockWhy target livers? Speaking with Scientific American on the trend, Isabella Reeves of Flinders University in Australia shared about the orca, "As a long-lived animal with a single set of teeth, minimizing tooth wear may be the key to a long and healthy life, supporting the selection of soft tissues where feasible." The organ, rich in fats and nutrients, may also be selected to compensate for elements missing in the orca's diet; availability and/or type of prey can also lead to selective diets. Marine life off the coast of California has faced significant challenges, including the recent heartbreaking stories of sea lions and dolphins attacking humans caused by harmful algal bloom toxins. Orcas have been similarly affected by climate change, migrating further north than ever before to chase herring, their primary food source. In April 2023, researchers at McGill University published their findings in the Journal of Animal Ecology, which presented the most comprehensive study of orca diets to date. They found that diet varied between different sample groups, indicating that there is still much to learn, including how climate change may affect their behavior.Currently, great white sharks are listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List with decreasing numbers; the recent tagging of the largest great white shark in the Atlantic — and the only sexually mature one — is indicative of a lack of mature populations. Moreover, the appearance of orcas can displace shark populations, further upsetting the marine ecosystem. Interested in more about recent environmental changes? Read our article on the dangerous predator problem in Houston, Texas, that keeps growing.
Which Birds & Animals Produce Ultrasonic Sound?
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsWhich Birds & Animals Produce Ultrasonic Sound?ByDaniel ZimmermannUpdated: Aug. 22, 2025 3:04 pm ESTAlones/ShutterstockOn average, the highest pitch that the human ear can hear is about 20 kilohertz, which is 20 thousand cycles per second. If the frequency of a sound is greater than 20 kilohertz, it is called ultrasonic sound or ultrasound. Believe it or not, a number of animals are capable of emitting ultrasonic frequencies and use it for several purposes. These are the animals capable of producing ultrasonic sounds.OilbirdAgami Photo Agency/ShutterstockSteatornis caripensis, the oilbird of South America, forages during the night and sleeps in caves during the day. To fly about without injury in the shadowy world in which it lives, the oilbird employs echolocation. The sounds that it produces for this purpose include frequencies in the ultrasonic range. But most of its echolocation frequencies are lower than 20 kilohertz. So ultrasonic frequencies may not be too important in the oilbird's life, according to the International Journal of Avian Science.BatsImagebroker/dieter Mahlke/Getty ImagesIn the 18th century, clever experiments by Lazzaro Spallanzani demonstrated that bats did not use their eyes to find their way around in darkness, but something else. Much later, Griffin and Galambos began to unravel the secrets of the ultrasonic emissions and the echolocation that bats use to fly in the dark, according to the British Society of Rheumatology. Besides avoiding obstacles, bats use ultrasound to find and catch insects. Not all bats have the same dexterity in echolocation. Some species are better at it than others.Dolphins and WhalesMartin Prochazkacz/ShutterstockDolphins and toothed whales use echolocation to navigate and locate prey. This echolocation takes the form of a rapid series of clicks, often emitted at ultrasonic frequencies. Toothed whales and dolphins have no vocal chords, but produce the sound by structures in the nasal passage called "phonic lips" according to the Journal of Experimental Biology. Another class of whales produce song, usually in ranges audible to the human ear, but often slipping into frequencies higher than 20 kilohertz, according to the Department of Physics and Astronomy of Georgia State University.MothsAndy pash/ShutterstockSome night-flying moths of the family Noctuidae (like the Maliattha ritsemae moth pictured above) produce ultrasonic sounds while flying. Contact between the edges of their hind wings produces the sounds, according to D.A. Waters and D. Jones of the School of Biological Sciences, Bristol. The moths also can hear the bats' ultrasound. This helps them escape predation. Other moths of the family Arctiidae use ultrasound in courtship. They produce the sound by means of structures called tymbal organs, according to the Journal of Insect Behavior.MicePavlina Popovska/Getty ImagesWhen male mice perceive the pheromones of a female counterpart, they respond with ultrasonic sounds. These seem to be courtship songs, according to Timothy E Holy and Zhongsheng Guo.FrogsVince Adam/ShutterstockAmolops tormotus, a frog endemic to China, produces ultrasonic sounds. It uses ultrasound to communicate with other frogs, according to Archives. Huia cavitympanum (pictured), a frog that resides in Borneo, has the same ability, according to the Publication of Peer-Reviewed Science.GrasshopperQuentin Jeandel / 500px/Getty ImagesSome grasshoppers use ultrasonic frequencies in their mating calls, according to the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences of North Carolina State University.ReferencesSoftpedia: Top 7 Ultrasound Emitting AnimalsNCBI: Ultrasonic Songs of Male MiceWiley Interscience: Ultrasonic Frequencies in Bird SongOxford Journals: A Brief History of Musculoskeletal UltrasoundGeorgia State University: Ultrasonic Sound
What Is A 'Soul Pet' And How Do You Know If You've Found Yours?
Pet ParentingPet CompatibilityWhat Is A 'Soul Pet' And How Do You Know If You've Found Yours?ByCynthia AnayaMarch 26, 2025 9:25 am ESTOscar Wong/Getty ImagesPets are more than just animals. They deserve the warmth and protection of a home, the comfort of some of the best dog beds, and the love of a family, because they're family, too. Without even trying, dogs, cats, and other pets can form a powerful, unbreakable bond with their owners unlike any other. Thousands of people who have experienced this bond refer to the pet as their "soul pet." Like a soul mate, a soul pet involves the belief that a specific animal is destined to be in someone's life based on their intense emotional connection.Some people have more than one soul pet in their lifetimes, but others have only one despite having multiple pets. So, how do you know when you've found your soul pet? The answers vary from person to person, as they can involve variables like personality, species, breed, previous experiences, age, and other factors. However, if there's one thing they all have in common, it's that they include an emotional attachment, a deep love, and a palpable difference compared to other pets the person has owned.Both pet owners and veterinary experts have offered their thoughts on the topic on social media, in magazine interviews, and in other places. More specifically, they shared the criteria that a pet must meet to gain the title of "soul pet."You love being next to each otherDrazen_/Getty ImagesWhen you truly love a person, you want to be near them. You look forward to spending time together and enjoy each other's company, which may include physical touch. Many people feel this same way about their pets, but not all pets reciprocate the sentiment. Certain animals and breeds tend to be less affectionate than others, so while some welcome the proximity and touch of their owners, others do not. This lack of reciprocation could prevent a close human-animal bond from forming. On the other hand, if you find yourself wanting to be close to your pet and it joyfully returns your affection as if it were born to love you, there's a good chance you've found your soul pet.It's easy to know when a pet loves being around you, particularly a dog or cat. It'll follow you around the house, cry if you're in your closed bedroom without it, cheerfully greet you at the front door when you come home, or jump on the sofa or lay on the floor next to you the moment you sit down. Or, if it's a cat, it might rub its face against your leg or headbutt you. A soul pet just can't get enough of you, and you can't get enough of it, either. You may not even know why you feel so drawn to it, but the connection feels natural. A soul pet will do that to you.You feel like you understand each otherUrbazon/Getty ImagesOf course, most animals can't speak, but dogs, cats, and other species can definitely understand certain things when their owners speak. It might be a command, a question, a complaint, or a praise. They hear specific words and phrases so often that they know how to interpret them. Someone with a soul pet might be able to interpret their companion's means of communication as well, whether it's audible or physical.One pet parent on Reddit claimed they could decipher their soul cat's meows and body language, stating, "I understood what he meant by his tone and expression." They continued, "I could always predict his behavior, what he'd like/not like, and he'd seek me out for protection, even when startled, instead of hiding."A soul pet might be able to understand what you need in return, even when you don't use words. Many dogs can also sense their owners' sadness or depression and respond by resting their heads on their lap or just sitting beside them. This simple act has the power to create a deep and emotional connection, converting a regular pet to a soul pet.You've experienced a lot togetherYanya/ShutterstockIn many households, people spend more time around their pets than with their significant other or other family members they live with. Pets obviously don't have to go to work or school like humans do. They can't run errands (although we wish they could), and many follow their owners around the house from room to room. Perhaps yours is one of them. They're there when you wake up and come home. They're there when you sit down to relax or when you have a bad day and need a good cry. They're the relationship that remains, even when certain human ones don't.Whether you've had a pet for years or just a few months, these tender moments together can accumulate quickly. Before long, you realize that some of your favorite or emotion-filled home memories and even recollections of outdoor adventures or trips include your pet. Moving from one place to another, dealing with a breakup or loss of a loved one, people watching on the front porch, RV-ing across the country, and so on. If a pet is part of your personal journey, it becomes a soul pet, attached to you in its own unique, special way.Soul pets improve your moodPeopleimages/Getty ImagesAny pet can give you a sense of purpose, but that doesn't necessarily equate to giving you joy or improving your mood. It does for a soul pet, though. It might be from feeling the paws of your cat kneading your lap, touching its soft fur (or feathers), or having it rub its head against you. It might be witnessing its joy in seeing you come home from work every day that feeds your happiness. One Redditor shared this feeling with their soul pet, stating, "Everything just feels better when they're around, and you know that the feeling is mutual."Some pet owners can feel happier as a result of having a soul pet, even when they aren't in the room. Researchers have studied this correlation between mood and pets for years and continue to find proof that pets can, in fact, improve their owners' disposition. One 2013 study published in PLoS One found that anxiety levels dropped for children with autism after they played with guinea pigs. Therapy dogs are also used to reduce anxiety and other negative emotions in hospital patients. Although an animal doesn't have to be a soul pet to have this effect on people, the effect is sometimes what causes it to become a soul pet, especially when it's consistent.Soul pets leave a scar on your heart after they're goneComplexio/Getty ImagesYou may already suspect that you've found your soul pet, but sometimes it takes its absence to truly confirm it. The intense relationship between a human and a soul pet usually equates to spending a lot of time together, and the love is undeniable. However, the truth no pet owner wants to face is that one day, we have to say goodbye. This loss can be painful and overwhelming. "Even after they're gone, a soul pet leaves a permanent imprint on your heart," Dr. Liza Cahn, a Seattle-based veterinarian, told Newsweek.She added that soul pets can essentially leave a scar that no other pet can heal. One former dog owner confirmed this in a Reddit post, sharing, "I lost my buddy of 15 years ... I truly doubt I'll be getting another dog ... I think I found my guy, and we had a good run, and he was far better than I deserved, but I think to me that's what a 'soul pet' is." This person's experience mirrors that of others who have lost a soul pet. Some pets simply cannot be replaced because of the heart scars they leave behind. Sometimes, a specific human-animal bond is so deep that it can happen only once in a lifetime. A soul pet can touch our lives while it's in it, and beyond, and we're lucky to have such wonderful bonds with our furry, and feathered, companions.
Bizarre Animal Caught On Camera Has Florida Experts Baffled And People Guessing
Other Cute AnimalsBizarre Animal Caught On Camera Has Florida Experts Baffled And People GuessingByAdam SymchukMarch 29, 2025 1:25 pm ESTJeff Paules/Getty ImagesKnown for its unique flora and fauna, Florida is home to several species and subspecies found exclusively in the state. From the Florida bog frog to the Florida panther, the Sunshine State is as defined by its people and culture as it is by its wildlife. Because of the state's unique biodiversity, when a mysterious creature was caught on a trail cam, the South Florida Wildlands Association (SFWA), an organization dedicated to the conservation of Florida's Everglades, reached out to its online followers to ask for help identifying the creature.In a March 14, 2025, Facebook post, the South Florida Wildlands Association posted a photo with the text, "Captured on a trail cam on public lands in Southwest Florida. Looks a little bit wrong and a little bit right for a number of different species. Anyone want to venture a guess?" The accompanying image, taken at night by a friend of the SFWA, shows a slender, shadowy figure with glowing eyes and a feline body type.Many doubted that this was a sighting of a unique, "one-in-a-million" animal like the one spotted in Western Texas in 2022, believing it was likely an ordinary house cat. However, Florida's biodiversity — home to several endangered species, including its state animal, the Florida panther — has made experts skeptical that the answer is so straightforward, leaving professionals and the public alike to speculate.People are weighing in on what the bizarre animal caught on the Florida trail cam could beSouth Florida Wildlands Association / FacebookThe most common response online on the South Florida Wildlands Association (SFWA) Facebook post was that the above-photographed creature is simply a house or stray cat turned feral. One user stated, "This is a domestic shorthair, possibly feral. The bone structure is house cat, and the legs are too thin to be panther. Size also appears to be house cat in relation to the grass." However, others weren't as sure, with guesses ranging from it being a bobcat or baby jaguar to a more uncommon creature such as a jaguarundi — a wild cat breed common in Brazil, Peru, and Venezuela — or a rare black fox.The guess of a stray cat doesn't seem unwarranted, with the Palm Beach County Department of Public Safety Division of Animal Care and Control alone reporting monthly intake throughout 2024 anywhere from 231 to 700 monthly. Moreover, cats are one of the most invasive species, so finding one on a trail cam isn't out of the question. However, the SFWA Facebook page shed some doubt in the comments, posting, "Feral cat was exactly what we thought. But the public lands where this cam shot was taken also hosts many bobcats as well as panthers. Would guess life expectancy for a domestic cat living in the wild here would be very short."Many have settled on it being a feral cat despite the odds against it surviving in the area. Yet, with the Natural History Museum adding 190 new animals, plants, and minerals in 2024 alone, the creature caught on camera could be a unique discovery. Until another picture of the spotted animal materializes, the picture will keep professionals and the public guessing.
How Often You Should Clean Your Hamster's Cage (And The Best Way To Do It)
Other Cute AnimalsHow Often You Should Clean Your Hamster's Cage (And The Best Way To Do It)ByJessica DesrosiersFeb. 16, 2025 3:25 pm ESTOlga Dzhoshkuner/ShutterstockWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.A safe, clean environment is important for your hamster's well-being. It can help prevent health issues like hamster mites, which can be challenging to get rid of, as well as keep your furry, pocket-sized friend from getting ill. However, cleaning your hamster's cage might seem a bit daunting. How often should you clean it? Does everything need to be cleaned at once? Is it stressful for your hamster?To start, you should have a few items handy to help with cleaning. These include gloves, bedding, wipes, and cleaners like the Nature's Miracle Small Animal Cage & Surface Cleaner. You need to be cautious when using cleaning wipes if you have pets, so be sure to check that they — and your other cleaning supplies — are safe for hamsters before using them. You'll also want to use soap and water to clean any items that contain food or water, such as dishes and bowls. If your hamster lives in an enclosure with plastic tunnels, a bottle brush is also useful for cleaning out those smaller, enclosed spaces.Thankfully, there are also easy ways to reduce stress in your hamster when cleaning its cage. First, you can schedule cleaning in the evening or nighttime to coincide with your hamster's natural nocturnal cycle. In addition, you can spot-clean soiled areas while doing deep cleans less often or if your hamster has been ill. Another time-saving tip is to divide your hamster's enclosure into sections and then clean one section each day. This should help keep your hamster's scent in the enclosure and lower its stress levels.Create a schedule for hamster cage cleaningsommthink/ShutterstockCreating a cleaning routine with your pets can help ease stress for both you and your hamster, as well as help you stay on top of things. Where should you start, you may ask? Well, divide your cleaning into daily, weekly, and monthly tasks. Daily tasks include tidying your hamster's enclosure, replacing its food and water, and gently wiping down or scrubbing any soiled food or water dishes. You'll also want to inspect your hamster's bedding and replace anything that smells or looks soiled daily. If you have a dust bath for your hamster, replace the substrate daily, too. It should also be left no longer than 12 hours at a time in the enclosure to prevent excess soiling.Weekly and monthly cleaning should be more thorough, and you should move your hamster to a travel enclosure to reduce stress. Then, the fun begins. Be sure to completely change your hamster's bedding weekly. Next, remove all items from the enclosure and wash them. All toys and accessories should be wiped down or scrubbed at least monthly depending on how soiled they are. Then, dry all items thoroughly after cleaning to prevent mold growth. Once you're done, you can safely return your hamster to its enclosure to enjoy a happy and healthy place to explore.
How Often Should You Feed A Corn Snake? Less Than You Might Think
Other Cute AnimalsHow Often Should You Feed A Corn Snake? Less Than You Might ThinkByAdam SymchukApril 3, 2025 9:25 am ESTRMMPPhotography/ShutterstockWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.While many homes welcome cats or dogs, others opt for a pet that is considered more unconventional: snakes. Those who have accepted the scaly friends into their home often tout various reasons why snakes make great pets — from their calm nature, low maintenance, long lifespans beyond cats and dogs, unique bonding experience, and variety of species and patterns. For many snake enthusiasts, their first introduction comes from the corn snake, which is considered an excellent starter for its size and ease of care, particularly regarding feeding.How much to feed a corn snake depends on its age and size; in captivity, it can live to be 23 or older and grows between 2 to 6 feet in length. In conversation with Reptifiles, professional reptile husbandry researcher and consultant Mariah Healey outlined how the amount to feed a corn snake varies by age and size. Hatchlings, which can range from 8 to 20 inches, should be fed every 5 to 7 days to coincide with their quick growth; juveniles, which range from 20 to 45 inches, can then be fed every seven to 10 days; and the 'sub-adult' phase, where it is between 35 to 50 inches, requires feeding every 10 to 12 days. Once a snake matures and reach its full length, feeding should occur 14 to 21 days apart. However, there is some nuance with adult snakes as adjustments will be made for overweight adults, opting for meals every 21 to 45 days, and underweight corn snakes needing more frequent feeding every 10 to 14 days until back at a healthy weight. A senior corn snake over 18 years old also requires a more regular meal plan, eating every 10 to 14 days. There can be many nuances to feeding a pet snake, and adapting along with your snake and seeking professional advice or veterinarian input can ensure proper feeding times and amounts.What to feed a corn snakeMariano Sayno/Getty ImagesLike other snake breeds, a corn snake will thrive on a diet of primarily mice or rats. It is recommended to avoid live feed, as a struggling animal could potentially hurt a pet snake. Instead, mice or rats should be purchased frozen, thawed a day or two prior, and brought to room temperature an hour or two before feeding. The size of its meal factors in raising a healthy corn snake. To figure this out, any food given should be 1 to 1.5 the width of the corn snake at the broadest part of the body, ignoring the head. In some cases, a corn snake may need to take two smaller portions of food that should not exceed 10% of the snake's body weight. For a juvenile corn snake, the diet should start with small 'pinkies' (hairless mice) before moving to 'fuzzies,' or slightly larger mice. MiceDirect offers various sizes, including a Combo Pack of Small Pinkies specifically for a growing corn snake and a Combo Pack of 20 Small Fuzzies to allow the proper size of feed throughout a snake's life cycle.Snakes are carnivores, so adhering to an established diet and avoiding human food like vegetables, fruits, grains, and processed foods is essential. Quail eggs can be given as a treat, but it is best to stick to regular feed that meets its nutritional requirements. While feeding can be a bonding time for pet parents of cats and dogs, it is not the same case for snakes. Finding a routine and feeding the proper amount can help ensure a happy pet. A happy snake has a way of sssssssslithering straight into the hearts of its owner; treat it well, and the relationship can be rewarding one that lasts decades.Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search theAmerican Animal Hospital Association's online database.
The Massive 'Invisible Fence' Animals In Asia Refuse To Cross
Other Cute AnimalsFishThe Massive 'Invisible Fence' Animals In Asia Refuse To CrossByAdam SymchukJune 13, 2025 1:25 pm ESTAscentxmedia/Getty ImagesNature is shaped by boundaries, which is reflected in the unique biodiversity across the globe. This is evident in climate and landscape, with the freezing tundras of North America hosting vastly different flora and fauna than the hot deserts of Africa. Historically, the shifting of continents created land bridges that allowed many species to migrate from one landmass to another. However, one boundary that animals don't cross is known as the Wallace Line.Stretching across Southeast Asia, the Wallace Line establishes a clear boundary — an "invisible fence," according to Earth.com — between the wildlife of Asia and Australia. Despite the shortest distance between the two landmasses being only 15 miles, from Bali to Lombok, even bird and fish species haven't made the journey. The Makassar Strait, which flows between the Indonesian islands of Borneo and Sulawesi, is the primary reason for this divide, as its deep waters and strong currents create a barrier that has always been present; no land bridge has ever existed in this location.Interestingly, the Wallace Line isn't a landmark found on maps. Instead, it's a roughly crafted geographical divide named after naturalist Alfred Russel Wallace, who studied the biodiversity on both sides of this divide in the nineteenth century. However, it has become an established boundary for researching the differences in flora and fauna on either side and continues to play a crucial role in our understanding of the natural world.The Wallace Line was integral in developing the theory of evolutionAndrew Merry/Getty ImagesWhile we can now observe examples of evolution around us, even in the similarities between wolves and domestic dogs, the theory of evolution wasn't always so clear. Many people are already familiar with Charles Darwin and "On the Origin of Species," which proposed the concepts of natural selection and evolution. However, fewer are acquainted with Alfred Russel Wallace, who reached the same conclusion around the same time as Darwin. Despite Darwin's efforts to publish his work before Wallace, the two became contemporaries, exchanging information and research. Wallace's book, "The Malay Archipelago," published 10 years after "On the Origin of Species" in 1869, was dedicated to Darwin.Wallace's work, particularly his examination of biodiversity along the Wallace Line, further established the theory of evolution. Unlike anywhere else in the world, there is limited crossover between species along the Wallace Line, with the crab-eating macaque being the only land animal present on both sides. Instead, within a short distance of each other, you find vastly different animals; for example, nowhere in Indonesia do kangaroos coexist with tigers, despite their geographical proximity. By studying a wide range of life on both sides of the Wallace Line and deducing that the various species evolved due to environmental factors, Wallace developed his theory of natural selection, which coincided with Darwin's observations.The importance of the Wallace Line in modern conservation effortsAli Trisno Pranoto/Getty ImagesConservation is more essential today than at any other time in human history. This harsh reality has been highlighted by recent findings, such as the tragic poisoning of the California's sea lions and the increase in attacks on sharks by the ocean's deadliest predator. The Wallace Line presents researchers with a unique opportunity to study the adaptability of various species in response to climate change. Here, scientists have determined how specific species respond to climate shifts and which are better able to adapt compared to others that face challenges. For example, the animal species on the Asian side of the line have fared better at adapting to warmer weather, which could help them in the long run. The same sadly can't be said for the species on the Australian side. As climate change remains a significant concern for humanity, nature experiences its effects more acutely than we do. Changes observed along the Wallace Line can help us determine the future consequences of our actions on wildlife; it's one of the most critical areas in the world, even if it can't be explicitly found on a map.
It Turns Out That Cows Can Be Playful Pets & It's So Adorable
Other Cute AnimalsIt Turns Out That Cows Can Be Playful Pets & It's So AdorableByAdam SymchukApril 27, 2025 9:25 am ESTImages By Tang Ming Tung/Getty ImagesThe cattle industry is massive. In 2024, the United States Department of Agriculture reported that there were over 87 million cows in the U.S. alone. This staggering amount is higher than the combined population of the two largest states, California and Texas. With these high numbers indicative of our need for cattle for food and other animal products, it is often overlooked how sweet and playful a cow companion can be. These traits have led to many touting cows as great pets.The first farm animal sanctuary in the United States, Farm Factory, refers to cows as "Big Grass Puppies" due to their many similarities to dogs. Indeed, cows can get a serious case of the zoomies like some dogs, enjoy a thorough scratch in the perfect spot, and love playing with toys. Moreover, cows can feel the same deep feelings as dogs, as they form bonds with people and other animals, pick favorites, and experience a wide range of emotions.An owner willing to work with a bovine will also find that it has hidden talents. Cows can be trained to perform tricks to take treats through clicker training. A sturdy cow can also be trained to be patient enough to allow an owner to saddle up and go for a ride. Cows are remarkable animals that can make exceptional pets, given the proper environment and care. Not only can a cow form amazing bonds with others, but its intelligence, affection, and playfulness make it just as beloved by owners.People and other pets can make meaningful bonds with cowsMaskot/Getty ImagesWhile you can say that cows can make for great pets, stories of people bonding with a beloved bovine can drive home how remarkable that connection can be. In a Reddit thread, one user shared their experience growing up with pet cows when asked for advice on having one as a pet, stating, "If you're consistently nice to a cow, give it treats and attention, and even play with it, they'll recognize you and bond with you," before adding, "It's kind of cute having a cow run over to you excitedly to greet you." On the more humorous side of cow friendship, Elias Herrera has become a viral content creator by sharing clips of his pet cow, Bruce, joining him in daily tasks and often making a mess of everything. A cow's affectionate nature also makes interspecies friendships possible, as highlighted in The Dodo's TikTok, which shows the adorableness of an Australian sheepdog and his love for his cow companion. All these stories and kind words for the cuddly cow can undoubtedly make it seem like an ideal pet, but there are many potential challenges and reasons why it is uncommon.Cows are adorable and playful, but they are not easy petsSergey Pakulin/Getty ImagesWhile cows have the playfulness and intelligence of a dog, this does not mean they will be the right fit for every home. Space is key, as a single cow will need at least one acre of land, and 1.5 acres for a cow with a calf. Yet, even if you have the space, a proper pasture needs to be provided, and if the land is of poor quality, an acre won't be enough. During colder months, when cows eat the most to keep their body heat up, they can consume 2% to 4% of their weight in feed daily. That number may sound low, but when a female cow can weigh between 1,500 and 1,700 pounds an owner would need to provide up to 30 to 68 pounds of feed per day. That is a lot of food when considering a pet cow is a potential 25-year commitment. Cows are also considered livestock under the law, not pets. Purchasing a pet cow will likely have to be done at auction or private sale, which may not allow a potential owner to test compatibility. Compatibility is essential; not all cows want that human bond, and an overly affectionate cow can be challenging to manage. The various online accounts of people getting crushed or injured by a clingy bovine should act as a warning for an inexperienced owner.With how affectionate, playful, and adorable a cow can be, wanting one as a pet may seem like an exciting prospect, but with it comes many challenges. Instead, consider visiting a petting zoo or farm, where you can say hello, hug one, and get charmed by its silly personality but not have to deal with the responsibility of ownership.
Do Big Cats Get The Zoomies Like Smaller Felines?
Other Cute AnimalsDo Big Cats Get The Zoomies Like Smaller Felines?ByCynthia AnayaJune 26, 2025 9:25 am ESTSumaira35/ShutterstockDomesticated cats can be pretty entertaining. They chase their tails, chirp at birds through windows, and sleep in strange positions. Some cats also run around like maniacs and bolt across the room for no reason at all after their "zoomies" button has been activated. It's definitely a sight to see, but have you ever wondered if their larger cousins get the zoomies, too? After all, they have many other behaviors in common, including stalking, pouncing, and ambush hunting. Yes, tigers, snow leopards, and other big cats do get the zoomies, more formally known as frenetic random activity periods (FRAPs).Documentaries, movies, and social media reels often portray big cats hunting and killing their prey, leaving some viewers thinking they're angry predators who don't have any fun. On the contrary, these animals do play, and not just the cubs; adult cats enjoy playing, too, sometimes by simply running around as a small, lively house cat would. It's a natural behavior that many animals exhibit to release pent-up energy, and both zookeepers and pet owners have filmed these delightful moments.Big cats have been caught on camera enjoying the zoomiesNimit Virdi / 500px/Getty ImagesA tiger at a San Antonio zoo was caught on camera running through its grassy habitat, splashing in some water, playing with a barrel, and tossing around a toy in the grass. ABC News shared the adorable clip on Facebook. The same zoo also shared a clip of what appears to be the same tiger sprinting through the grass in different directions and jumping up on a palm tree. Needless to say, this cat was definitely enjoying life.Tigers aren't the only big felines that get in on the zoomies fun. Lions and snow leopards do, too. The Wildlife Sanctuary posted a clip on TikTok of a pride of lions playfully running around, chasing each other, and climbing. Northumberland Zoo captured footage on YouTube of a pair of its snow leopards zooming around, bouncing from rock to rock with bursts of energy.Even a big cat raised in a home as a pet, with no other pets around, can get stung by the zoomies bug. A pet puma named Messi who lives with a couple in a two-story home in Penza, Russia, proved it in a YouTube clip. Shortly after greeting his dad at the door, he grabs his toy and immediately darts across the room before climbing up the stairs and calming down. About a minute later, the sight of the same solo-play cat toy triggers his zoomies yet again. Turns out big cats can have just as much fun as small ones.
A Presidential Pony Braved An Elevator To Visit His Sick Rider On The White House's Second Floor
Other Cute AnimalsA Presidential Pony Braved An Elevator To Visit His Sick Rider On The White House's Second FloorByJessica DesrosiersJan. 20, 2025 9:25 am ESTGetty Images/Getty ImagesDogs have long walked the halls of the White House, along with a host of other presidential pets, such as the adorable first cat Willow Biden. One president, Theodore Roosevelt, was known for his collection of animals that filled the White House grounds, including ponies, sheep, dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, rats, snakes, and several more critters. In addition, Roosevelt's six children joined him and his wife at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW during his early 1900s presidency.One particularly notable pet was Algonquin, a beautiful Shetland pony gifted to Roosevelt's son Archie by the Secretary of the Interior Ethan Allen Hitchcock. Though imported from Iceland, Algonquin may have been named after a local Native American tribe, the Algonquin, meaning "they are our relatives". Archie loved Algonquin so much that they seemed inseparable, earning the adoration and attention of many White House photographers. However, when Archie came down with the measles, the two would have to be separated temporarily — or so some thought. Instead, an ingenious (or not so ingenious depending on who you asked) plan came to life.Algonquin's daring adventure through the White HouseHeritage Images/Getty ImagesAlgonquin's adventure happened in the first half of 1903. Aged 9 at the time, Archie was bedridden with the measles. He begged his mother to visit his pony, but she denied the request, as she felt he was too weak to leave his bedroom. Instead, a plan to bring Algonquin to Archie was devised. It's somewhat unknown whether the idea was hatched by White House footman Charles Reeder or Archie's brothers, Kermit and Quentin, however, the two (or three) worked together to bring Algonquin up to the building's second floor.Algonquin made the trip in the elevator, initially shivering and nervous, until he got his bearings. He was also reportedly enraptured by his reflection in the elevator's mirror — momentarily refusing to leave upon spotting himself. Once he arrived in the bedroom, Archie was ecstatic to see him. This spurred many fun stories and even artwork about the event, as well as deepening Archie and Algonquin's bond. When the pair traveled to their summer home, a local Washington, D.C. columnist wondered if Algonquin would be allowed to ride in the train car beside Archie. The pony was certainly a presidential pet with some special privileges.
One Of The Largest Blowfish You Can Own As A Pet Can Live For Over 20 Years
Other Cute AnimalsFishOne Of The Largest Blowfish You Can Own As A Pet Can Live For Over 20 YearsByAdam SymchukApril 7, 2025 9:25 am ESTContentus/ShutterstockAn aquarium offers a view into another world, inspiring wonder, education, and celebration of nature's beauty. For the determined aquarists, fish can also become a collection of unique species and color morphs to accentuate their aquariums. One choice that's certainly a showstopper is the long-living Mbu pufferfish, also known as the giant pufferfish because of its size.A native African freshwater species hailing from the Congo River, the Mbu pufferfish can grow to 30 inches long, though many reach a length between 24 and 28 inches. This measurement is double the size of the second-largest freshwater pufferfish, the Fahaka puffer, which can grow to 15 inches. At the same time, the Mbu is unique within the pufferfish family because it's known to inflate its muscles as a flex, commonly known as "practice puffs." For owners, this gives them a brief chance to see a pufferfish in action, as some other species only inflate due to environmental stressors.In captivity, an Mbu pufferfish can live to be over 20 years old with proper care and consideration. While not boasting the same pet lifespan as the long-living koi fish, a well-cared-for Mbu can become a long-term commitment for a potential owner. Considering the size and longevity of the Mbu, adequate care is essential in allowing it to reach its full potential, meaning this isn't a pet purchase to be taken lightly.The challenges of caring for a Mbu pufferfish to its full sizeexs_r/ShutterstockTo get a Mbu pufferfish to live its longest life and reach its maximum size, it needs a tank that's 8x3x3 feet or larger. This size likely means that fish enthusiasts need to purchase and construct the aquarium at home or build their own fish tank. The Mbu should also be the only one of its kind in any aquarium, and some owners advise keeping them entirely separate from any fish, though you can gauge how they react with others before separating them.An Mbu can be injured in interactions with fish bigger than it, stingrays, or tank-mates that may go after the same food. Generally, avoiding territorial or aggressive fish will make for a happier, more balanced tank. The puffer is known to be sensitive, and it displays this visually when its regular colors wash out and areas around its face darken. Addressing potential stressors when they appear will help longevity, and an Mbu should never be provoked into puffing up, which results from purposely stressing or scaring the fish.Feeding your Mbu pufferfish a balanced diet and wearing down its teeth with hard food are essential; this species needs a variety of feed, including high-grade pellets, frozen crayfish or crabs, snails, insects, and earthworms. Other considerations for a healthy environment include maintaining agreeable water values. Ultimately, with love and attention, the Mbu pufferfish can have an impressive lifespan beyond popular pets like cats and dogs and make for a remarkable addition to any collection.
If You Ever See Birds-Of-Paradise, They May Be Playing This Trick On Your Eyes
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsIf You Ever See Birds-Of-Paradise, They May Be Playing This Trick On Your EyesByAdam SymchukJune 20, 2025 1:25 pm ESTDanny Ye/ShutterstockBirds-of-paradise, comprising 45 different species, are primarily recognized by the males' unique and vibrant plumage. Due to their limited geographical range, birds-of-paradise are a rare sight; they are found in tropical forests, with the most prominent populations located on the island of New Guinea. For many bird enthusiasts, encountering one is a once-in-a-lifetime experience; yet, science has now revealed that these colorful creatures emit signals undetectable to the human eye, making the way we look at them entirely different than before.A study published in February 2025 in the journal Royal Society Open Science offers an insightful new perspective on birds-of-paradise, revealing that they glow under certain lights: UV, blue light, and ultraviolet. Under these conditions, the birds display even more vibrant plumage, with bright green and yellow being observed. Present in 37 of the 45 known birds-of-paradise, these bright colors are produced through biofluorescence, a process in which light is absorbed and then emitted as high-wavelength light, visible only under specific conditions. The study suggests that this light-producing process is utilized in both territorial disputes and in attracting potential mates.For people, this means that centuries of observing the majestic birds-of-paradise have led them to overlook the full spectrum of colors these radiant birds display to one another. Scientists still have much to learn about how animals perceive the world, as evidenced by other discoveries, from understanding the wild way deer see their environment to gaining deeper insights into unexpected scents that dogs can detect but their owners cannot. Biofluorescence in birds-of-paradise is a remarkable finding, but they are not only the vibrant birds that have been discovered to hide secret colors.Biofluorescence is being found more often in wildlifeEsli Kakauhe/ShutterstockBioluminescence is a trait in animals that is familiar, with many Americans growing up romanticizing the firefly or glowworm, which stands out like a little beacon against the night sky. This chemical reaction, observed in insects, aquatic life, and certain mushrooms, is a distinctive and easily recognizable trait. Researchers can easily identify which flora and fauna utilize bioluminescence, yet the non-visible light of biofluorescence continues to lead to new, fascinating discoveries.The platypus is already a wonder of nature with its duck bill, venomous leg spurs, and egg-laying traits. Yet in 2020, it was discovered that the unique mammal is also biofluorescent. As adept swimmers, capable of reading electric signals in the water, the study published in Mammalia proposes that they may use light to help confuse and evade predators. In 2019, a team of researchers in the U.S. found that two shark species, the swell shark and the chain catshark, distinguished by a uniquely bright and dark patterning, are biofluorescent on the lighter parts of their bodies. Researchers speculate that this process gives these sharks a unique advantage, allowing them to see each other easily and protecting them from certain microscopic organisms.The fact that birds-of-paradise, platypuses, and sharks share a common trait highlights the magnificence of nature. Yet, the recent discovery also reminds us that we still have much more to discover and learn about how animals communicate. Looking for more articles on our flying friends? Check out the best bird mothers in the animal kingdom, which will have you "aww"ing all day.
The Largest Snake Discovered In The World So Far Was Massive And Had A Huge Appetite
Other Cute AnimalsThe Largest Snake Discovered In The World So Far Was Massive And Had A Huge AppetiteByAdam SymchukMay 9, 2025 9:25 am ESTThePlanetaryGuy / XSnakes can be the object of horror for some, with 2% to 3% of the world having ophidiophobia (a great fear of snakes), according to a study published in Psychiatry Research. Others note that snakes make good pets and champion the unique bond they form with their scaly friends. Regardless of where people stand, the world's largest snake, the titanoboa (Titanoboa cerrejonensis), paints a terrifying picture of an ancient beast that once thrived over 50 million years ago.First unearthed in 2009 in a Cerrejón coal mine in northern Colombia, the titanoboa is a snake of intimidating proportions. Estimated to be 45 to 50 feet long and 3 feet wide, this giant snake likely weighed more than one ton. This makes the current record holder, the green anaconda — with females reaching 30 feet in length and weighing up to 550 pounds — seem small in comparison. A green anaconda can eat prey that ranges between 14% and 50% of its mass. If the titanoboa were similar, it could prey on animals the size of a grizzly bear or an Arabian horse. The exact diet of the titanoboa is unknown, though signs show it may have preyed largely on fish, having a jaw similar to known underwater hunters, and mostly lived in the water. While evidence points to a piscivorous diet, its size suggests it could have also preyed on large mammals, alligators, and smaller snakes. As a non-venomous boa, it would have to crush its prey before swallowing it.The remarkable discovery of the titanoboa offers a chilling image of a prehistoric beast that we thankfully don't have to contend with today. Moreover, the reason such a behemoth existed and eventually went extinct offers a fascinating look at the ever-changing natural world.How the titanoboa got so large and why it went extinctIppei Naoi/Getty ImagesThe sheer size of the titanoboa may seem fresh out of a work of fiction. However, megafauna have existed throughout history, from the largest wolf of all time, Epicyon haydeni, to the saber-tooth tiger that towers over modern-day wolves and wildcats. The titanoboa was likely able to thrive in the rainforests of South America due to a difference in temperatures compared to today. Snakes' metabolism slows down once they reach a specific size to ensure the cold-blooded animal can maintain a healthy body temperature. For the titanoboa, the temperature along the equator in the rainforests where it existed would've likely been around 10 degrees hotter on average to allow it to grow to gigantic proportions.The specific reason for the titanoboa's extinction remains unknown, but the leading theory is that climate and landscape changes led to its decline. As the temperatures became colder, smaller snakes began to thrive, diminishing the massive titanoboa's food source. The transformation of rainforests into grasslands due to climate change also reduced the hunting territory of the once-dominant boa. Despite the many unknowns about the titanoboa, its discovery reflects a fascinating period in Earth's history that allowed such giants to exist.Looking for more stories about nature's unique creatures? Check out the longest-living animal on earth, which is also one of the strangest.
The Amount You Can Expect To Pay When Buying A Horse (And The Hidden Costs Of Owning One)
Other Cute AnimalsThe Amount You Can Expect To Pay When Buying A Horse (And The Hidden Costs Of Owning One)ByJessica DesrosiersFeb. 19, 2025 11:25 am ESTKirill Ikonnikov/Getty ImagesOwning a horse comes with a lot more expenses than just the initial purchase price. In fact, there are many hidden costs to pet ownership you should consider before bringing a new equine friend home. These fall into two categories: upfront and long-term costs.Buying a horse may run you anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000(or more). Highly sought breeds or those that have received extra training will demand a far more substantial price tag. Other factors include the horse's age, experience, and health history. Costs can vary depending on where you live, too. You'll also need to pay another $250-$2,000 for a pre-purchase veterinary exam to check for any health issues. Lastly, don't forget the cost of transport if you don't have a trailer.A 2023 study done by Synchrony estimated that owners could expect to spend anywhere between $300,000 to $924,000 throughout the lifetime of a horse. That amount can go up or down depending on what you plan to use the horse for, such as shows and competitions or as a backyard pet. The study also calculated the average annual expense of horse ownership at $8,600 to $26,000 per year.Create a budget to help avoid surprise horse ownership costsJacob Wackerhausen/Getty ImagesHorses can live 30 years or more, making the potential financial impact of their lifespan an important consideration before buying one. You might have to contend with decades of annual costs on items such as food and board. To help you manage this significant investment, you'll want to plan an annual budget that includes all of the monthly and yearly expenses that come with horse ownership. Yearly expenses break down into several categories, including boarding, which can cost anywhere from $1,500 to $24,000 annually depending on the facility you use. Food, water, and supplements can range from $2,500 to $5,000 a year. In addition, equipment, tack, and supplies can be another $1,500 to $2,000. Veterinary care and farrier costs are also important expenses that can eat up anywhere from $1,500 to $5,000 annually. It's also a good idea to have a plan in place if you get a vet bill you can't afford.If you're considering purchasing pet insurance to cover costs, that can also run another $400 to $3,000 annually, including any expenses for specific cases like competition horses. Lastly, training and lessons for you and your horse can add another $2,400 to $3,500 annually. If you can afford it, setting up an emergency fund containing 3-6 months worth of expenses can go a long way towards shielding your finances if you encounter any unexpected costs.
What It Might Mean If Your Pet Hamster Has Matted Fur (And When To Worry)
Other Cute AnimalsWhat It Might Mean If Your Pet Hamster Has Matted Fur (And When To Worry)ByJessica DesrosiersMarch 4, 2025 11:25 am ESTSol De Zuasnabar Brebbia/Getty ImagesWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.Most hamsters are pros at keeping their fur looking great through self-grooming. You'll often see them happily rubbing their hands over their faces and bodies to clean their coats. Certain breeds, such as teddy bear hamsters, benefit from additional weekly brushing to stop mats from forming in their longer coats. Some hamsters also enjoy dust baths.However, if your hamster struggles to groom themself or you notice matted fur, it could be a cause for concern. Signs of illness, such as dull eyes, weight loss, diarrhea, or goop in the eyes or nose, in conjunction with matted fur mean it's time to visit the vet, per Animal Humane Society. One source of fur matting can be wet tail, a watery diarrhea potentially caused by factors like bacteria, stress, or poor diet. As it can result in serious dehydration, it's best to seek treatment from a vet ASAP.Parasites, both internal and external, can lead to matted fur through excessive scratching or diarrhea. Treating parasites like fleas on your hamster can prevent further issues. In addition, infections of the eyes and ears can lead to discharge that causes matted hair around the face. Other causes, such as cuts, scrapes, and skin infections, may produce matting around the affected skin. Luckily, you can do a lot to help prevent these problems.How to stop your hamster's fur from mattingMike_shots/ShutterstockGood nutrition, routine cleaning of your hamster's environment, and regular care can help reduce some of the causes of matted fur. Make sure your pet enjoys a balanced diet of hamster-safe foods, including grains, fresh fruit and vegetables, and the occasional treat. It's also a good idea to remove any leftover food or soiled water daily.The bedding in your hamster's cage should also be replaced weekly during cage cleanings. Using absorbent materials like Carefresh Paper Bedding or safe wood shavings will help keep the environment more sanitary. Avoid bedding made from pine or cedar to reduce respiratory issues. Clean food, water dishes, and accessories at least once a week.Keeping your hamster well groomed can also alert you to any parasites and matting before they become serious. Long-haired hamsters can be brushed weekly with a small pet brush or fine-toothed comb to remove dirt and debris. Meanwhile, short-haired hamsters may enjoy dust baths to help remove excess oil from their fur. If you notice any changes in your hamster's behavior or symptoms of illness, seek professional help.Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your pet's diet, exercise, or care. To find an accredited veterinarian in your area, you can search theAmerican Animal Hospital Association's online database.
The Best Bird Mothers In The Animal Kingdom Will Have You 'Aww'ing All Day
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsThe Best Bird Mothers In The Animal Kingdom Will Have You 'Aww'ing All DayByAdam SymchukMay 1, 2025 9:25 am ESTVladislav T. Jirousek/ShutterstockMotherhood takes many forms across the animal kingdom, from snakes that lay their eggs and let their offspring fend for themselves to African elephant calves that spend the first four to six years under a mother's watchful eye. Looking strictly at our feathered friends, there is variation to be found as well, with Cornell Lab's Clement Checklist recognizing 11,145 species of birds. That makes for many mothers, like their patient dog-mom counterparts, raising adorable baby chicks worldwide in various environments.All birds will raise their little hatchlings the best they can, given their environment and circumstances. However, considering what humans value in the mother-child relationship, some birds can be regarded as the best by exhibiting traits that make that bond so cherished. These protective mothers go above and beyond to ensure their little ones have a chance at success once they leave the nest. At the same time, the dedication and love of raising a chick will have you "aww"ing at their unwavering commitment and the bonds formed from hatching to that first step out of the nest.King penguins go to great lengths to protect their youngDavid Merron Photography/Getty ImagesPenguins have come to be revered as amazing mothers (and fathers). This trait can be attributed to the popular 2005 documentary "March of the Penguins," which showcased the birds' persistence in harsh climates, including the lengths they go to protect their young. The remarkable journey chronicled in the documentary has led to admiration and online homage in the form of adorably funny penguin memes. The title of best mother of the animal kingdom is deserved, as the penguin's plight goes above and beyond when compared to other seabirds.Penguins, particularly the king penguin, spend a lot of time raising their chicks. This period can last up to fifteen months and can be divided into two stages. The first is around 37 days, where the chicks are strictly guarded under the protection of their parents. During this time, the mother is the primary watcher, but she will leave to forage for food and let dad take turns watching over the newborn. Afterward, in stage two, the cute little fluffballs form communities called creches under the watchful eye of the larger community of parents. King penguins will spend a summer and two winters ensuring their offspring are safe and well-fed before letting them take their first waddles towards independence.One remarkable story highlights the bald eagle as a great motherJoseph Lacivita/ShutterstockJackie and Shadow, the recent online sensation, have had social media abuzz with the remarkable story of their quest to become parents. The Big Bear Lake duo in California had a hard road to parenthood, with a few failed attempts at hatching eggs before finally welcoming three eaglets to their nest. Since then, the public has been watching via a 24-hour camera set-up to monitor the family and capture moments highlighting the family's challenges and triumphs, with a particular love for Jackie as a dedicated mother. Jackie has stood guard against predators and has shown the bald eagle's exceptional commitment to keeping eggs covered and warm during harsh winter weather.Jackie and Shadow are not wholly unique in their parenting. Bald eagles attentively watch over their young for 10 to 12 weeks after they hatch and before they can fledge. During this period, the mother will seldom leave the nest other than to stretch her wings and relieve herself. The father becomes a dedicated protector and food gatherer, sharing feeding and protection duties when possible. With dedication, the two parents can raise one to three chicks to carry on the legacy of the majestic bald eagle and, hopefully, go on to raise their own families.Eider ducks will sacrifice their warmth and health for their youngAnsaharju/Getty ImagesAlthough the eider expresses many of the same behaviors as many other duck species, it faces unique challenges regarding parenthood due to the harsh climates in the northern hemisphere. Notably, to help keep its nest warm, a mother eider will pluck the down feathers from her chest to ensure proper insulation for her young during the 24-to-26-day incubation period. During incubation, the mother eider will not eat and can lose almost 45% of her body mass — certainly some serious dedication.They say it takes a village to raise a family, and the eider ducks embody this sentiment. A mother will lead her chicks to water when ready to leave the nest, joining other families to make a large group of up to 150 ducklings. A true gathering of a community, non-breeding females also aid in raising and protecting the young during this time. The group will stick together until the duckling is ready to prove itself independent, at around 55 to 60 days. A dedicated mother and a great community undoubtedly make the eider ducks "aww"-inducing bird families.Greater flamingos work together to raise their youngJksl/ShutterstockThe greater flamingo combines many traits of the best mother birds while going above and beyond in other ways. Notably, greater flamingos form small communities of 15 to 50 pairs and synchronize their breeding to ensure all chicks are raised together. This long-term community is built around monogamy, as many flamingos form lifelong pairings and rely on those parental and communal bonds to raise their young.Each pair lays a single egg, which incubates for 27 to 31 days. The little flamingo spends additional time under their mother to help strengthen their bodies before exploring outside their nest. A flamingo's nest requires a lot of hard work from both parents. Using mud, a pair of flamingos gather enough material to create a large, stable structure that stays safe and secure in shallow waters; these nests can be up to a foot tall.Once they hatch, parents must feed the chicks by mouth until their beaks grow from the straight ones they are born with into the curved ones of adults. Until they are old enough to function independently, the chick relies on its parents for food and the tight-knit community for protection and support. From the penguin to the flamingo, nature reminds us of the resilience and care required to raise a family; we can learn a lot from these remarkable feathered mothers.
Heartbreaking Things That Only Happen To 'Gentle' Wild Animals
Other Cute AnimalsHeartbreaking Things That Only Happen To 'Gentle' Wild AnimalsByAdam SymchukJuly 12, 2025 9:25 am ESTPosnov/Getty ImagesMany people want to get close to wild animals, and with so many adorable creatures, such as the red panda and penguin, it's easy to understand why. While many keep their distance, some wild animals seem to love humans, often appearing friendly and gentle. Sadly, for these kind creatures, they often end up being exploited or placed in unsafe situations and danger.Known as the "world's happiest animal," the quokka will approach humans with a naturally trusting nature. Yet, the adorable, gentle creature can contract human diseases if touched; for a vulnerable species, this makes its natural curiosity a detriment. In the seas, the Beluga Whale, known for its willingness to approach people and occasional heroism in saving people from drowning, has seen its population decline due to overhunting in certain areas. The exotic animal trade has also led to neglect, with creatures like the slow loris sold as docile pets. However, that gentleness only comes after poachers defang them so they cannot bite; many die during this process.It can be tempting to want to get close to a wild animal that seems gentle, but often these interactions have adverse effects, even when done with good intentions. Getting an animal accustomed to people can increase its risk of exposure to disease and aggressive behavior. Trying to capture that perfect social media-ready picture can increase an animal's popularity, leading others to exploit it. For animal enthusiasts, it is important to play an active role in ensuring the safety of Earth's gentle creatures.How we can protect these gentle animalsJaniel Kaffe/ShutterstockThere has been a shift in how people approach animal health and safety over time. These efforts are evident in actions such as the push to rescue young elephants from the heartbreaking lives they live in circuses. Still, it wasn't until 2016 that Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus committed to retiring its elephants. Education on pet ownership has also been key to the care given to exotic pets originally taken from the wild. Notably, the macaw's life cycle can reach up to 70 years in captivity, making it an heirloom pet. Not having someone to pass down a parrot to can lead to the gentle bird living its twilight years in a shelter, a sad reality many pet owners try to avoid. With education, potential owners can understand the responsibility they're taking on.When it comes to wild animals, no matter how gentle they may seem toward people, the safest approach is always to keep your distance. Touching, feeding, or getting as close as possible for a picture can be dangerous for both the animal and the human. For those who want to interact with wild animals, consider visiting local animal sanctuaries. Many offer educational programs that allow you to get close to the animals while learning about them and supporting their rehabilitation or conservation efforts.
There's An Amazing Way To Tell When Hummingbirds Will Be Visiting Your Yard
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsThere's An Amazing Way To Tell When Hummingbirds Will Be Visiting Your YardByAdam SymchukMay 31, 2025 1:25 pm ESTAngela N Perryman/ShutterstockWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.Getting your garden or porch ready to welcome a beloved fluttery guest, the hummingbird, is a multi-step process. You fill your space with plants that will help attract the tastiest bugs, get a bright red nectar feeder with the correct type of sugar water, and make plenty of safe spaces away from the prying eyes of predators. After all the preparation, bird enthusiasts want to ensure they get a chance to witness the feathered visitor themselves.Predicting when hummingbirds will visit is a guessing game, but there is now a way to better gauge when to be on alert to catch a glimpse of one. Hummingbird Central has a sightings and a migration map available to help bird watchers see when the energetic flyer may make its way to their home. The best part? The map is partly powered by community commitment and reporting to help keep information as up-to-date as possible; sharing a love of hummingbirds is always more rewarding when met with the enthusiasm of others.The busy flier can migrate up to 500 miles during the spring and fall, while some hummingbirds survive throughout the winter by traveling in a smaller region. Still, as a hummingbird can traverse up to 23 miles daily, the map provided by Hummingbird Central helps optimize the chances of finding one of these majestic, beautiful birds landing in your garden, porch, or balcony. The best ways to record your visit from a hummingbirdAndy Whitfield/ShutterstockUnfortunately, keeping a hummingbird as a pet would be a costly mistake that no one can afford, so enthusiasts need to figure out ways to get up close and personal with these magnificent flyers in other ways. For some, this includes finding inventive ways to use social media to document their encounters with hummingbirds. Some turn it into an event, inviting others and making it a competition with themed outfits to see who will be the first to attract a hummingbird successfully. Others also take to social media with their own unique creations and patiently wait to capture the encounter.Of course, not all people thrive on social media. For those not worried about their online presence, the prize of spotting a hummingbird is better celebrated as a personal experience. Purchasing a bird-watching logbook can provide personal enrichment in writing down your thoughts and details about the visit of a hummingbird and any other bird that happens upon your green sanctuary. Alternatively, for tech-savvy bird admirers, the moment won't be missed by using a TT Nature Hummingbird Feeder with Camera that can take video of a visit.However you choose to welcome and appreciate a potential colorful visitor, there are plenty of means to capture the experience based on your personality. The community-led tracking migration and sighting map from Hummingbird Central is just one of the many potential tools to help ensure a memorable encounter.
The Abandoned Building A Few Arctic Polar Bears Call Home
Other Cute AnimalsThe Abandoned Building A Few Arctic Polar Bears Call HomeByAdam SymchukJune 22, 2025 9:25 am ESTRobert Harding Video/ShutterstockMany of Earth's creatures find ways to adapt to changes in their environment, from the subtle shifts in migration patterns due to climate change to the more remarkable, such as the strange changes affecting the dogs of Chernobyl. For one team of wildlife experts on a rare expedition through Russia's remote Wrangel Island, an adorable and pleasant surprise occurred: Polar bears had made a home in an abandoned weather station and its accompanying buildings, which had been unused since 1992.Wrangel Island is a remote and vital site for the Arctic's biodiversity and one of the few places on Earth where large populations of polar bears can still be found. Professional photographer Dmitry Kokh detailed the finding in his article for The Guardian, where he and the wildlife experts encountered the curious community: "One day, bad weather is expected and the captain approaches a small island, Kolyuchin, to take shelter from the storm," after landing and taking shelter, he further noted, "The stormy wind and rain and the neglected buildings on the rocky shores all serve to make everything happening seem surreal. Suddenly, we notice movement in the windows of the houses. Someone takes out some binoculars and we see the heads of polar bears."The home-owning bears were a truly remarkable experience for Kokh. However, the photographer learned from Russian polar bear expert Anatoly Kochnev that the congregation of polar bears reflects a tragic contrast: The building satisfies the bears' natural curiosity while also serving as a means of protection from the human hunters they have come to fear. Although the polar bear population on Wrangel Island offers a sanctuary, the effects of human presence can still be felt.Polar bears are highly threatened animals due to climate change and human activityChasing Light - Photography By James Stone James-stone.com/Getty ImagesThe fantastic photos that Dmitry Kokh captured during his rare trip to the Wrangel Island nature reserve at the start of 2022 provide a fascinating and adorable glimpse into a world that many will never see. However, the polar bear remains one of the most threatened animals due to climate change and human interaction. These changes result in multiple impacts on polar bear habitats that threaten the species, including diseases, shrinking habitats, and disruption of food sources due to shipping disturbing seals. Direct interaction with people also poses a potential danger, especially when trying to figure out how to respond to a bear when a pet dog is involved.A 2020 study published in Nature Climate Change suggests that by 2100, polar bears may exist in only a few isolated pockets of subpopulations. Growing concerns are evident in the Southern Beaufort Sea, which spans Alaska and Canada's Arctic territories, where only 819 bears are estimated to remain as of 2025. Compared to the Chukchi Sea area, which includes Wrangel Island, the estimated number of bears is around 2,937. These low numbers highlight that now is a more critical period than ever to push for a future where the polar bear can thrive. Dmitry Kokh's photography highlights the duality of the polar bear's natural beauty as well as its need for protection. For more articles on conservation efforts, check out the amazing animals that survived near-extinction and made a comeback.
The Beautiful Place In Malaysia Where Sea Turtles Might Swim Up To You
Other Cute AnimalsThe Beautiful Place In Malaysia Where Sea Turtles Might Swim Up To YouByAdam SymchukJune 28, 2025 9:25 am ESTAleksei Kornev/ShutterstockFor animal lovers who love to travel, choosing the next destination often revolves around the chance to experience a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with nature. Swimming with dolphins or meeting a quokka in Australia have become bucket list experiences, as both are considered some of the friendliest wild animals that love humans. However, Malaysia's scenic Sipadan Island offers a unique experience where visitors can have sea turtles swim right up to them.The tiny island, covering only 40 acres in the Celebes Sea just off Borneo's coast, has become a haven for many travelers seeking a connection with nature. Here, green sea turtles are plentiful, often spotted near the water's surface resting on coral reefs. As a protected area, visitors must follow strict rules when interacting with wildlife. One user on Reddit shared their unforgettable encounter with Sipadan Island's turtles stating, "The numbers I saw there were insane. Almost like a busy airport with multiple turtles going up for air and some coming down back on the wall to rest."The beautiful Sipadan Islands, with their surrounding reefs and rich biodiversity, make it a top destination for visitors wanting to see green sea turtles up close. However, a meet-up with a shelled cutie is just one of the few memorable wildlife experiences visitors to the small Malaysian island can have.Sipadan Island is a global treasure for wildlife enthusiastsRichard Whitcombe/ShutterstockAlthough Sipadan Island itself is small, the surrounding protected area offers over 200 designated sites for divers to explore. The marine life is plentiful, and it is common for visitors to see over 20 green and hawksbill turtles during a single dive. However, with the site home to more than 3,000 marine species, visitors have the opportunity to swim alongside many other remarkable sea creatures.A visit from a shark or a stingray is almost guaranteed for those diving into the sea waters near Sipadan Island. For those intrigued by the ocean's other sea life, divers can also expect to find themselves in the middle of a tornado of barracuda or swimming alongside a parade of bumphead parrotfish. Rarer sightings, such as the appearance of a scalloped hammerhead shark, ensure that every dive into the deep is a new experience.Sipadan Island is cherished by visitors, especially those eager to see turtles up close and personal. For anyone who has ever dreamed of such an experience, now could be the ideal time to plan a trip. For enthusiasts interested in turtles, check out how they communicate and how fast they can run.
Something Strange Is Happening With A Chimpanzee Population In Nigeria
Other Cute AnimalsSomething Strange Is Happening With A Chimpanzee Population In NigeriaByAdam SymchukJuly 5, 2025 1:25 pm ESTMartin Pelanek/ShutterstockNature often finds ways to persist through challenges, whether from direct human actions, as seen in the strange case of Chernobyl's free-roaming dogs, or indirect human contact, such as adapting to habitat shifts caused by people-induced climate change. For a small, genetically distinct population of chimpanzees in Nigeria, their very existence sharply contrasts with growing conservation concerns.Footage of Nigerian-Cameroon chimpanzees has been captured on a trail camera within the Ise Conservation Area. With fewer than 25 individuals estimated to live there, this group is genetically distinct from others, having lived within the 8,000-acre conservation site apart from their closest relatives. In an interview with Mongabay, ecologist Katy Gonder, who previously studied this group in the '90s, described the discovery as surprising, saying, "The few genetic samples collected suggest they are a distinctive group with a unique genetic history distinct from their counterparts in eastern Nigeria and western Cameroon." She added, "It's remarkable that they are still present in such a small and isolated area."The discovery, though noteworthy, uncovers a small group within an already endangered species. The Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee is currently listed as endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature, with a report from 2015 indicating a decline in their numbers and estimates showing fewer than 6,000 individuals remaining. For the small troop of unique chimpanzees found in the Ise Conservation Area, many challenges lie ahead.Conservation efforts in Nigeria and Cameroon face challenges in helping chimpanzeesDavid Havel/ShutterstockThe discovery of the genetically unique Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzees in the Ise Conservation Area is an amazing case of animals that survived extinction and made a comeback. However, this group's situation stems from a long, tragic history. With their natural habitat shrinking due to increased cannabis cultivation and high black-market prices, the chimps only had their home become a protected zone in 2020 after their near-extinction became a priority for conservationists to save any remaining habitats.The rest of the chimpanzee population faces similar threats, with many seeking isolation to stay safe. Sadly, isolation also presents unique challenges, including an increased risk of diseases from outside sources and an inability to receive aid during potential catastrophes. These threats, which can determine the future of the chimpanzee, highlight the importance of protected areas in Nigeria and Cameroon. Fortunately, those who want to assist the chimpanzees of Ise and other vital conservation sites in the region can support initiatives like the SW/Niger Delta Forest Project.For more conservation updates, check out how South America's largest mammal thought extinct was spotted in a protected zone recently.
The Steps To Take If You Encounter An Injured Wild Animal
Other Cute AnimalsThe Steps To Take If You Encounter An Injured Wild AnimalBySanaphay RattanavongFeb. 10, 2025 11:25 am ESTLucas Ninno/Getty ImagesSeeing a hurt animal in the wild is heartbreaking, but intervening the wrong way can do more harm than good. Every year, well-meaning attempts to help wildlife lead to unintended consequences. For instance, one young Colorado girl mistook a coyote hiding behind and partially obscured by a tree for a dog and advanced toward it, resulting in an attack. In another case, someone removed a black bear cub from a tree to get a photo with it, causing the bear significant distress before it was rescued and released back into the wild. These incidents highlight the dangers of acting impulsively, as well as the importance of observing and understanding wildlife behavior. For starters, you can read up on the differences between domestic and wild dogs to understand them better.When you encounter an injured animal, begin with careful observation. Signs of distress may include visible injuries, abnormal behavior, or, in young animals, prolonged absence of a parent. However, not all lone animals need help — many, like fawns or baby birds, are often left alone temporarily, so it's important to consider this sign in tandem with others. Safety is also crucial. Injured animals can be unpredictable, so maintain a safe distance, keep children and pets away, and avoid direct contact. If handling is necessary, wear gloves or use a towel, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. Minimize stress for the injured animal and call for helpThomas B Lee/ShutterstockOnce you've assessed the situation and ensured your safety, the next step is to take action responsibly. For example, a family in Texas recently attempted to help a baby bird by folding a warm tortilla around it to protect it. This could have caused unnecessary stress, not to mention potentially cutting off its oxygen supply. The family called a wildlife rehabilitator after handling the bird, though this should've been the first step after noticing it was injured, per Animal Rescue of the Rockies.In contrast, one woman in Minnesota encountered a snowy owl trapped in a car grille. She carefully removed the owl, caressed it in a blanket, and left it in a hushed room overnight. In the morning, she transported it to a licensed wildlife rehabilitator. Her actions — minimizing stress and seeking professional help — potentially gave the owl its best chance at recovery.When you come across an injured wild animal, contacting professionals should always be your first step. While waiting for assistance — or transporting the animal — it's important to minimize its stress. Place the animal in a well-ventilated box lined with a soft cloth. Make sure it has enough room to breathe but not enough to move excessively, as this could worsen its injuries. Keep the environment as quiet and dark as possible to reduce fear and agitation, and avoid feeding or giving water to the animal unless directed by a professional. For species-specific advice, check out our guides on how to help a bird with a broken wing or how to help an injured duck.If you encounter an injured or sick wild animal, contact a local wildlife rehabilitator for help. To find assistance in your area, visit theHumane Society of the United States websiteorAnimal Help Now's online directory.
The Land Animal That Became A New Parent At An Age Humans Can Only Dream Of
Other Cute AnimalsThe Land Animal That Became A New Parent At An Age Humans Can Only Dream OfByAdam SymchukApril 13, 2025 1:25 pm ESTPhiladelphia Zoo / YouTubePeople can learn plenty from observing motherhood in the wild. Whether preparing for a new litter of puppies or visiting a zoo to see its latest little addition, seeing animals' love for each other across species can be eye-opening. While each new addition to a family is a little miracle unto itself, some hold a significance that makes them newsworthy.One remarkable birth occurred on April 4, 2025, at the Philadelphia Zoo. It was announced that a pair of Galapagos tortoises nearing their hundreds had hatched four eggs. It was the zoo's first birth of the near-extinct tortoise in over 150 years. The proud parents, the oldest residents at the zoo, were the aptly named Mommy and her partner, Abrazzo. Mommy, a long-time resident who arrived in 1932, is 97 years old, while Abrazzo is 96. While there have been successful hatchings, with the previous one in 2019 in Columbia, South Carolina, Mommy is on record as the oldest first-time mom among the Galapagos.Compared to humans, 97 is an outstanding age to live to, let alone become a mother. Yet, in captivity, the large tortoise can boast an impressive lifespan, with the oldest on record being Harriet at the Australia Zoo, at 175. Still, Mommy's motherhood isn't just a curiosity; it's a lifeline for her species, as the happy family will help with future conservation and awareness of the threatened tortoise.The importance of Galapagos tortoises hatchlingsPhiladelphia Zoo / YouTubeMommy and Abrazzo's four little ones are essential in helping to conserve the Galapagos tortoise population. There are only around 15,000 total left in the wild and captivity. However, there are various sub-species, some more endangered than others. The new hatchlings from the Philadelphia Zoo belong to the Western Santa Cruz Galapagos species; you can see the proud parents and babies in the video below from the Philadelphia Zoo YouTube channel.The Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise, with a population of 3,400, is registered as critically endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List. The birth of the four shelled siblings has increased the number of tortoises in captivity in American zoos to 48. In a statement by the vice president of animal well-being and conservation at the Philadelphia Zoo, Rachel Metz, reiterated the importance of the four new additions: "At one point, each of the Galapagos Islands had its own unique Galapagos tortoise, but sadly, several of them are now extinct. These hatchlings not only protect the species from extinction, but serve as important ambassadors to inspire guests to save wildlife and wild places."Those who want to see the adorable and historic additions to the Philadelphia Zoo can view them after April 23, 2025. Even if you can't make the trip, animal enthusiasts and lovers have plenty of reasons to celebrate the new addition and what it means for the longevity of the rare Western Santa Cruz Galapagos tortoise. Want to read more about remarkable events happening in the animal kingdom? Check out the article on the unique 'one-in-a-million' animal spotted in Western Texas.
The Dangerous Predator Problem In Houston, Texas, That Keeps Growing
Other Cute AnimalsThe Dangerous Predator Problem In Houston, Texas, That Keeps GrowingByCynthia AnayaApril 23, 2025 9:25 am ESTKrblokhin/Getty ImagesIn a perfect world, people wouldn't have to worry about predators snatching their beloved canine and feline companions from their yards; humans and wild animals could safely coexist in the same place. In the real world, however, this isn't the case. Wild animals can threaten humans and small animals when they start hunting near their homes. Residents of certain Houston, Texas, neighborhoods know this all too well, as they've been reporting an increase in coyote sightings over the past seven months, and some of their pets have gone missing.A homeowner in the Montrose area told KHOU11 in March that he's never seen a coyote near his home in the 55 years he's lived there. His neighbors have been singing a different song, though, as they've been busy posting photos and videos on social media of the predators lurking near their yards and sidewalks. The El Camino South neighborhood of Houston has also had confirmed sightings in September and November of 2024, according to a private community Facebook group seen by Cuteness.Coyote mating season spans from mid-January to early March, and from October to January, many young coyotes leave their family packs. These seasons of high activity could explain the Montrose spring sightings and El Camino South fall sightings. The appearances of these predators have raised concerns throughout these Houston neighborhoods for obvious reasons, serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting your pets.The dos and don'ts of protecting pets from coyotesCarol Hamilton/Getty ImagesIf you live near a coyote habitat, take safety precautions, especially if these carnivorous canines have been spotted on your street recently. Wild and domestic dogs have a lot in common, including their need for meat and water. Entering a yard in close proximity to humans might not be a coyote's first choice of where to find them, but if their search is successful, it might be their first choice later. Remove all food and water sources from your yard, and make sure your trash bins have lids and that bags are securely tied. Don't give coyotes a reason to stay or return.Another important "don't" to consider involves feeding coyotes intentionally. Some people think that feeding a wild dog could prevent it from hunting small dogs (such as those that weigh under 10 pounds) and cats later, but instead, it could actually further endanger them. It puts other humans in danger, too, because it can increase coyote visits and aggressive behavior, which could result in attacks and even deaths. This is why you should never feed coyotes.Aim to protect your pets by any means necessary. Don't leave them outdoors overnight or unattended in your yard during the day unless they're in a predator-proof enclosure; although coyotes are most active after sunset and at night, they hunt during the day as well. You may also want to consider coyote-proof fencing or coyote rollers to keep them out of your yard. Purchasing a Coyote vest for your dog or cat is another option.
A Low-Maintenance Gecko Breed Known For Its Coloration Can Live Up To 20 Years
Other Cute AnimalsA Low-Maintenance Gecko Breed Known For Its Coloration Can Live Up To 20 YearsByAdam SymchukApril 8, 2025 9:25 am ESTAlexandra Jursova/Getty ImagesJumping into the world of reptiles can be challenging, as everything from their day-to-day needs to their environment and food drastically differs from those of more popular pets. Yet, welcoming a reptile like a gecko into a home can create a unique bonding experience and the chance to observe how it grows and adapts to its environment. For new reptile owners, choosing a more low-maintenance option is often recommended, and one of the most popular choices is the leopard gecko, which gets its name from the leopard species of cats thanks to their shared color patterns.The leopard gecko's reputation for being low-maintenance comes from various reasons, starting with its cool, gentle, and calm demeanor. It also grows to be manageable for most new owners, around 7 to 10 inches. Feeding a gecko is also minimal; their diet consists of live insects, and they only need to be fed a few times a week. Additionally, managing an enclosure can often be done with spot-cleaning every day days and a thorough cleaning once a month.With proper care, the leopard gecko can also be a long-term companion. In captivity, a leopard gecko lives between 10 and 20 years. While determining the age of a gecko after reaching full maturity can be challenging, the oldest living leopard gecko on record is Gertrude from Germany, who is said to be over 40 years old and still kicking at the time of writing. With its potential longevity and low maintenance, the leopard gecko can be a perfect longtime companion and provide the first steps toward an owner becoming a gecko enthusiast.The importance of health and care in a leopard gecko's longevityanomaly026/ShutterstockGeckos might be low-maintenance, but they still require proper care. For instance, geckos need ample space despite their small size. For an adult, a 20-gallon aquarium with a range of temperatures to suit their needs is recommended. Flooring should consist of materials that are easy to clean and not typically ingested by geckos, such as paper towels, newspapers, or reptile carpet. Moreover, proper hiding places and clean spaces will help create a positive environment. Then, when it comes to food, which is typically insects, it needs to be purchased instead of found in the wild to avoid any potential toxicity.In addition to conditions that geckos can be predisposed to, such as anorexia, bacterial infections, and Metabolic bone disease, trauma can have long-term effects. Trauma can include a gecko being attacked by other pets, losing its tail after being held by its owner (never hold it by its tail), or falling from heights. Proper handling and staying aware of potential health concerns will allow lizard parents to recognize when medical follow-up is needed. This can include decreased appetite with weight loss, lesions or swelling on the skin, lethargy, difficulties breathing, or diarrhea. If in doubt because of unfamiliarity with a lizard companion, contact a veterinarian to see if an appointment is necessary.Catering to a leopard gecko's needs will help ensure longevity and good health, not to mention plenty of time to snap photos to share with other reptile pet lovers online. Ultimately, preparation and research remain essential in building that happy home for your new adorable reptile companion that may be a decades-long friendship.
One Pet Fish Type Can Live Longer Than The Rest (Here's How)
Other Cute AnimalsFishOne Pet Fish Type Can Live Longer Than The Rest (Here's How)ByAdam SymchukMarch 7, 2025 11:25 am ESTSimplyWandering/ShutterstockPet fish can be the perfect highlight in a stunning outdoor garden or a vibrant focal point in a room where their aquarium showcases the beauty of aquatic life. While some people dismiss fish as pets — citing perceived lack of intelligence or short lifespans relative to cost — many of these assumptions are based on misconceptions. In reality, fish can have an abundance of personality and some species are among the longest-living pets. One, in particular, stands out for its remarkable longevity: the koi. With proper care, these elegant carp can become lifelong companions, outliving popular pets like cats and dogs.Koi fish are cherished globally for their unique markings and docile nature. With the right care, they can live between 25 and 40 years under optimal conditions in domestic ponds and environments. This lifespan surpasses that of the goldfish, a fish that isn't as easy for beginners as once thought, which usually lives 10 to 30 years under proper care. However, the koi's impressive longevity does not come naturally, and owners must provide them with a tailored environment and adequate care to help them thrive.Replicating a Koi's natural habitat, maintaining a healthy diet, ensuring clean water, and allowing them to hibernate are essential steps for nurturing these prized fish and ensuring they live long, healthy lives.The ideal conditions for a koiWestend61/Getty ImagesKoi thrive best in an environment mimicking their native habitat, particularly an outdoor mud pond. A mud pond is an excavated area filled with water, often lined with Bentonite clay if the natural soil is unsuitable. These ponds cultivate natural food sources like algae, insects, and other invertebrates. Having ample space and encouraging natural behaviors is ideal for raising a koi.However, caring for koi goes far beyond simply building a pond and putting the carp in it. A potential breeder/owner must optimize oxygen levels, pH balance, and water quality. Koi also flourish in communities with other pet fish, even developing distinct personalities. They coexist well with goldfish if both species' needs are equally met.Wintering is crucial in helping koi achieve a longer lifespan. While this process requires careful preparation and presents challenges in changing feeding and maintaining their space, allowing koi to hibernate during winter mimics their natural environment and slows their metabolism. Although koi can live long lives, reaching their maximum life expectancy depends on carefully considering essential factors.Additional factors that can affect lifespanBoogich/Getty ImagesKoi fish are known for their impressive lifespan no matter where they are located. However, their longevity is even more remarkable in Japan, their country of origin. This can be attributed primarily to their cultural significance. In Japan, the Koi symbolizes various things such as courage, perseverance, bravery, virility, strength, and love; effigies of the fish are also often given as good luck charms for students before exams. This reverence for the pristine carp translates into more thorough care for the health and longevity of the koi.Japanese koi are considered a stronger breed than those in the West, with breeders focusing on maintaining a high-quality gene pool and achieving larger sizes. The best koi fish also rarely leave Japan, making it harder for outside breeders to achieve similar outcomes. Their care extends to feeding practices, as Japanese koi are often transferred to large earth ponds, allowing them to grow in spacious environments with access to natural food sources. In contrast, many Western koi owners prioritize growing their pet fish faster over offering a natural diet. Japan's cold winters also ensure that the carp undergoes a natural winterization, a process not always as adhered to by owners outside their native country. Regardless of where their koi originates, those willing to invest the effort will find a long-living, beautiful pet with abundant personality.
A Rare Bird Of Prey Saved In Iowa Was Hiding A Big Secret
NewsA Rare Bird Of Prey Saved In Iowa Was Hiding A Big SecretByAdam SymchukJune 18, 2025 9:25 am ESTGary Grossman / 500px/Getty ImagesThe state of Iowa is home to numerous green spaces, with 70 parks and recreation areas dedicated to allowing its residents to enjoy the outdoors. For birdwatchers, Iowa offers an impressive checklist of 432 species to find, including the state bird, the American goldfinch. Yet one of the rarer finds in Iowa is an osprey, with only 50 nests reported in the state in 2024. For two local bird watchers in Iowa, finding an osprey in need was a unique find. Yet, a surprise came when they learned it was a 19-year-old who played a crucial role in helping the population recover in the area.The couple discovered the osprey on a road with an injured wing, as reported by the Des Moines Register on June 6, 2025. After shielding the bird from oncoming traffic, members of Iowa Bird Rehabilitation, a volunteer-run rehabilitation center, arrived to retrieve the injured bird of prey. Later, while checking its tag, they found that the bird was 19 years old and had previously been part of an Iowa reintroduction program. The aged female had initially been part of conservation efforts back in 2006. Since ospreys generally only live to be around 10 to 12 years old, finding a 19-year-old specimen that played an essential role in helping rebuild the population in the area proved to be a remarkable find.Tagged as Y8, the osprey was previously given the opportunity to be counted among the best bird mothers in the animal kingdom, sheltered in a hack tower that allowed it to raise its young away from the eyes of predators. Decades later, being found, saved, rehabilitated, and returned to the wild again serves as a remarkable testament to the conservation efforts for the osprey in Iowa.The sad history of the osprey in the US (and its successful rehabilitation in Iowa)Vlad G/ShutterstockPollution caused by human activity can harm nature, a truth that is often understated and underreported. This is evident in recent stories, such as the heartbreaking cases of California's dolphins and sea lions attacking people. However, the story of the osprey illustrates how conservation efforts can pay off and help threatened species rebound. From the 1950s to the 1970s, the osprey population experienced a sharp decline due to the use of the synthetic insecticide dichloro-diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT), which caused eggs to thin and resulted in a high mortality rate among chicks. After the chemical was banned in 1972, the osprey population began to recover, although the bird of prey is still listed as endangered or threatened in some states.The program in Iowa is notable for its efforts, as the osprey had not nested in the area since colonial times. The initiatives that began in 1997 have allowed this bird of prey to find shelter and expand its range, which it would not have achieved on its own. Y8 was deemed integral to the efforts to enhance reintroduction initiatives after being introduced to the Lake Red Rock tower location in 2006, where she was reported to have raised three chicks before departing in 2014.As society continues to threaten wildlife through climate change and pollution, a success story highlighted by the unexpected discovery of an osprey in Iowa serves as a reminder of the importance of ongoing conservation efforts and their potential for success. For more stories on remarkable finds in the wild, check out the rare eagle that appeared in North America for the first time.
Scientists Couldn't Figure Out How Crocodiles Island-Hopped So Fast - Until They Saw This Unique Behavior
Other Cute AnimalsScientists Couldn't Figure Out How Crocodiles Island-Hopped So Fast - Until They Saw This Unique BehaviorByCynthia AnayaAug. 23, 2025 9:25 am ESTOutback To Coast/Getty ImagesCrocodiles may not be the friendliest of wild animals, but they can do some pretty remarkable things. They can live as long as humans in the wild, go months without eating, and have the most powerful bite of any living animal. Saltwater crocs, in particular, can also hold their breath with their unique respiratory systems for several hours while at rest. Also on the list of bragworthy skills is their ability to quickly travel from island to island, despite being mediocre long-distance swimmers. A 2010 study in the Journal of Animal Ecology found that saltwater crocodiles use favorable ocean currents and their ability to survive without food or fresh water for months to "surf" between islands.No, this doesn't mean the reptiles somehow learned how to ride waves on foam boards. It means they time their travel with changing tides, riding currents for stretches up to 6 miles at a time. Researchers in Australia made the noteworthy discovery after tracking 27 crocs with underwater sensors. They learned that the reptiles drive with the current, both in rivers and open seas. Between surges, they rested on riverbanks. After all, what's the point in exerting more energy to travel a shorter distance?Out of the crocodiles tracked, eight surpassed marathon distance, each traveling over 31 miles. One adventurous croc covered more than 34 miles through the open ocean, tackling over 6 miles a day. Another drifted a whopping 255 miles in 20 days, but one determined crocodile surpassed them all, gliding over 366 miles over 25 days.Some scientists think crocodile water surfing is accidental, not intentionalJames_Davies/ShutterstockDespite the data from the study, not all scientists agree on the crocodiles' water traveling behavior. James Perran Ross, a former wildlife ecologist at the University of Florida in Gainesville, thinks they're isolated mistakes, as opposed to intentional decisions. "Just heading off blindly downstream isn't much of a strategy," Ross told Scientific American. He believes the reptiles get caught in the current accidentally and end up having to go with the flow (pun intended).Craig Franklin, one of the original researchers and a professor at the University of Queensland in Australia, stands by his findings that crocodiles do deliberately surf water currents. He believes it's a conscious decision to cover more distance and use less energy. "...if it is a mishap, why have other crocodile species not also made the same mistake?" Franklin shared in the same Scientific American article. His research included only saltwater crocodiles, also known as estuarine crocodiles.If animals could talk, these reptiles could let us all know who's right about the surfing. Until then, we can enjoy the thought of crocodiles making the conscious decision to drift with the current for miles and miles to get from island A to island B in record time. Want to learn more about other giant reptiles? Read about the unique situation many sea turtles across the U.S. East Coast face.
How Feeders Can Reduce Bird Infidelity In Your Backyard
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsHow Feeders Can Reduce Bird Infidelity In Your BackyardBySanaphay RattanavongFeb. 6, 2025 9:25 am ESTBlightylad-infocus/Getty ImagesSurprisingly, the backyard bounty of your bird feeder has a real-world impact on avian fidelity. While your feathered visitors might seem like loyal lovebirds, their relationships are far more complex. Infidelity — scientifically termed extra-pair copulations (EPCs) or extra-pair paternity (EPP) — is astonishingly common in the avian world. A 2019 study published in Molecular Ecology found that 75% of the 342 bird species studied are known to engage in extra-pair paternity.Why do birds cheat? Evolution offers a few explanations. Female birds may seek genetically diverse mates to increase their offspring's chances of survival. In other cases, EPCs act as insurance against infertility or foster cooperative behaviors, like defense against predators. Species vary widely, too. For instance, well over half of reed bunting nests contain extra-pair offspring, while Florida scrub jays almost never stray.Not unlike in human society, this behavior isn't without risks. Male birds often reduce parental care if they suspect infidelity, while female birds risk punishment from their mates if caught. Yet, amid all this drama, your backyard bird feeder might be reshaping avian fidelity in surprising ways. Hanging a bird feeder in your yard can come with some hidden dangers, but it may just be the unexpected hero of this wild-winged love story.How backyard bird feeders lower bird infidelityBachkova Natalia/ShutterstockVariety may be the spice of life — and bird infidelity might be common — but your backyard bird feeder holds more sway over these behaviors than you likely thought. Research on house sparrows published in the journal Behavioral Ecology, for example, has revealed an unexpected trend: Supplemental feeding can significantly reduce the rates of EPCs. When food is abundant, competition for resources decreases, leading to more stable bonds and less temptation to stray.This phenomenon isn't limited to house sparrows, either. The aforementioned study in Molecular Ecology suggests that supplemental feeding affects behavior across various species by altering environmental pressures. In urban areas, where natural food sources might be scarce, bird feeders become a key resource that can stabilize bird communities and even impact genetic diversity. By reducing the drive to seek out multiple mates for survival-based reasons, feeders may be subtly reshaping avian breeding behaviors.However, it's not all rosy. Improperly maintained feeders can spread disease — fortunately, songbirds and other common winged creatures known to frequent our yards aren't known carriers of the avian influenza virus, or "bird flu" — disrupt natural foraging behaviors, and even lead to conflicts between species. To ensure backyard feeding remains a positive force, responsible practices are essential. This includes choosing species-appropriate seeds and strategically placing them to minimize risks from predators (looking at you, kitty cat!) and window collisions. Additionally, a homemade bird seed catcher can help keep the feeding area clean, but other small changes, like spacing feeders apart to reduce crowding, can also improve conditions for visiting birds and make them show visible signs that they're happy.
The Highest-Earning Celebrity Pets
DogsThe Highest-Earning Celebrity PetsByAdam SymchukJan. 18, 2025 9:05 am ESTSarah Morris/Getty ImagesThe celebrity landscape for pets has undoubtedly changed with time. While some may think of Lassie, Rin Tin Tin, Bud, or Beethoven, animals in the acting industry don't quite make the same money as their Instafamous counterparts (just look at the amazing lives of Taylor Swift's cats and their sizeable online followings). With millions of fans, these pets can rake in big bucks.To identify the highest-grossing earners, we looked at Instagram followings to pinpoint how much these pet influencers can make on a single sponsored post. As most famous pets expand past social media, other avenues of income will be touched on to get a more complete picture of the worth of these renowned canines and felines. All information, including current social media followers and engagement rates, was gathered in November 2024.The estimated price ranges per Instagram post were identified using Influencer Marketing Hub's Instagram Money Calculator. Meanwhile, we determined engagement rates via Trend Hero's Instagram Engagement Rate Calculator. Amounts for sponsorships, appearances, endorsements, and merchandising are not often disclosed, so monetary gains in these categories are mentioned only as potential additional earnings. All amounts were calculated based on available information; Instagram does not pay a fixed rate to its users.Nala Cat - $9,540 - $14,310 per sponsored postNala Cat has reigned supreme as the top-earning Instagram pet and held a Guinness World Record for the feline with the most followers on the platform since 2020 (she had 4.5 million as of late 2024). Nala's owner, Varisiri Methachittiphan, better known online as "Pookie," brought the feline home when she was 5 months old. In an interview with Muchiecat, Methachittiphan shared, "Even though I never intended to adopt a cat that day, when I saw Nala, I couldn't resist her big blue eyes. Once I had Nala in my arms, she looked up at me and licked my face. I knew it was meant to be." A year and a half later, Methachittiphan created an Instagram account for Nala with the goal of sharing her feline friend with those close to her; however, Nala's popularity steadily rose until she had captured a global audience.While Nala's estimated earnings per sponsored Instagram post are impressive, the beautiful kitty's worth goes beyond social media. She has her own cat food brand, Love Nala, which includes wet and dry food, supplements, and treats. The famous feline also inspired the book "Living Your Best Life According to Nala Cat," appeared in the 2018 film "Nine Lives" along with other cat celebrities like Lil Bub and Waffles, and won Tik Toker of the Year at the Shorty Awards with her following of over 200,000 people. All these accomplishments have led to Nala being valued at over $100 million. That is one rich kitty cat.Tucker - $8,275 - $12,412 per sponsored postThe golden retriever has a notable reputation as a family pet, and Tucker has become the poster child of that bond with over 3.9 million Instagram followers, 11.5 million TikTok followers, and 5.6 million YouTube subscribers. He rose to stardom pretty quickly, with the pup gaining 60,000 followers at only 6 months old. Adopted by Courtney and Mike Budzyn, the two went on to quit their jobs and focus full-time on managing Tucker's social media and other projects for the world's No.1 most followed doggo. Courtney spoke candidly about how much the famous pooch makes with The New York Post in 2023, "A YouTube-paid post can be anywhere from $40,000 to $60,000 for a 30-minute pre-roll. Instagram, we make about $20,000 for anywhere from three to eight stories."Like many influential pets, Tucker has expanded to ventures beyond social media. Through Tucker & Todd, the adorable golden retriever sells plushies, calendars, clothes, leashes, and bandanas, among other pup-related items. Tucker has also entered the wellness industry with his CBD oil, Tucker's Gold. The entrepreneurial golden retriever looks to keep building his legacy and growing his empire with his son Todd, who is an integral part of the Budzyn household and plans. With Tucker at 6 and his son at 3 years of age, they have plenty of time to build their impressive following together.Doug the Pug - $7,668 - $11,502 per sponsored postDoug's rise to pop culture icon status can be tied to a singular event: In March 2015, his owner uploaded a video of the adorable pug on an outdoor adventure with a pug balloon as Harry Nilsson's "Best Friend" played in the background. The footage received over 20 million views on Facebook on day one and led to appearances on various TV shows, including "Good Morning America." Yet owner Leslie Mosier always knew she had something special with her little friend. She enjoyed dressing him up and showing off his unique personality from when she first adopted him, falling in love as most owners do with their pugs and pug-mixes. Now Doug the Pug is known worldwide, with 3.6 million Instagram followers, 5.6 million Facebook followers, and 6.1 million TikTok fans.Doug the Pug has an edge over many of his fellow online pet celebrities as one of the few to step into voice acting. He provided the snorts and borks for Monchi in the 2021 Netflix Original animated film "The Mitchells vs. the Machines." While Doug has also tapped into merchandising, sponsorship, and his line of holistic products called Nonipup, the happy pug has also looked to inspire others. As the face of the Doug The Pug Foundation, he has brought awareness, smiles, and donations to kids with cancer and other life-threatening illnesses.Juniper - $6,998 - $10,497 per sponsored postJuniper has gotten a lot of help from her furry companions in building her online presence. Still, the "happiest fox" has become the face of the Juniper Wildlife Refuge, which gives a home to animals that cannot live in the wild. Jessika Coker adopted the red fox from family farm that specializes in ranched foxes that trace their ancestry back to the fur trade. Juniper, along with others like Jam Jar the skunk and Newt the raccoon, helped the Juniper Wildlife refuge Instagram page amass 3.3 million followers, with another 4 million fans on TikTok.Juniper's rise has certainly been a journey, and Coker used the fox's surprise stardom to create a home for many animals that need help in the Juniper Wildlife Refuge. Other residents include a surprise friend in Fig, a fox that charmed followers as it bonded with Juniper, becoming her first fellow fox companion. While conservation and awareness are at the forefront of Juniper's image, she, along with a couple of her friends, also sells art and merchandise while helping to raise money for other charitable causes. Fans can also support the pals through an Amazon wishlist or Patreon.Swaggy Wolfdog - $6,574 - $9,862 per sponsored postSwaggy Wolfdog is a newer addition to the list of Instafamous pups, a feat he's accomplished by bringing an abundance of style to the red carpet and other events. The partying Husky and his owner, who stays anonymous and goes by "Swagrman" online, have managed to amass a large fanbase, with 3.1 million followers on Instagram and 7.4 million on TikTok. As part of his rise to fame, he has appeared countless times alongside celebrities, including a picture with Taylor Swift that brought him to the attention of many.For Swaggy, it is all about bringing that drip wherever he goes, and showing that he has the cash to back up his bark. The dog even made headlines when, in September 2024, he lost a $100,000 diamond chain while appearing at the iHeartRadio Music Festival in Las Vegas. The sunglasses-wearing canine serves as the face of his own cryptocurrency when he is not too busy rubbing shoulders with the biggest celebrities. Is Swaggy Wolfdog a publicity stunt or a means to push crypto? The debate rages on, but he is also an adorable Husky who puts the swag in Swaggy, earning him a fan following. Just remember to exercise caution when taking financial advice from a partying dog.Venus the Two Face Cat - $4,682 - $7,023 per sponsored postAdopted in 2009 by owners Christina and Chris, Venus' remarkable appearance stunned many online. Some have even claimed that the unique look is fake, but the former stray has been quick to clap back, saying, "In the salon where I get my pedicures done, Photoshop and spray paint aren't even allowed" (via Independent). Venus' two-toned appearance is certainly rare but not unheard of, with the cat either being a chimera (two sets of DNA resulting from the fusion of two embryos) or extremely lucky. Most don't deny the feline's fabulous looks, which has led to her amassing 2.2 million followers on Instagram and Tiktok.Venus has followed in the footsteps of other pet celebrities, making special appearances and gaining sponsorships, including a deal with Chewy, an online pet food and supply store. However, unlike many other famous kitties on this list, Venus has yet to branch out into her own business ventures or merchandising. Christina, now the sole owner of Venus, has also started sharing the life of her many other pets, which include Roo, Diesel, Tater, Ginger, and Halo. A cryptocurrency uses the image of the split-colored kitty, but there doesn't appear to be a direct connection between Venus and this endeavor.Tuna - $4,028 - $6,042 per sponsored postThere is no way around it: Tuna is one of the most beloved, derpy dogs you will find online. With a charming smile punctuated by an overbite, recessed jaw, and "shrivelneck," the Chiweenie (Chihuahua x miniature Dachshund) saw a pretty quick rise to fame two years after Courtney Dasher adopted him thanks to Instagram featuring an image of the pup on its official page. Since then, the charming little pooch with a knack for taking hilarious photos in and out of costume has garnered a following on Instagram of 1.9 million people.Tuna's presence remains primarily on Instagram, but the doggo has branched out into other ventures. Together with Dasher, the pup penned the book "Tuna Melts My Heart: The Underdog with the Overbite," which gives a behind-the-scenes look at Tuna's life while driving home that all pets deserve a loving home regardless of their appearance. On his official site, Tuna also sells plushies and an annual calendar (not available at the time of this writing), so you can take a piece of the charming little Chiweenie home yourself.Loki the Wolfdog - $3,816 - $5,724 per sponsored postLoki the Wolfdog certainly lives a life many naturalists can admire, with much of the canine's social media showing him happily traveling with owner Kelly Lund and his brother, Raven. While the Husky, arctic wolf and Malamute mix certainly has that image of a wild-bred pup, Loki's adorable antics and tendency to misbehave have also made him an endearing persona online.Lund spoke about Loki's independent nature and their unique bond in an interview with Backpackers.com, saying, "I receive love from Loki by watching him and listening closely as he explores and fills his nose and eyes with the world around him. I just need to give him the opportunity." Building on this sentiment of allowing Loki to explore, the wilderness-loving doggo has gained 1.8 million Instagram followers.An active member of his community in Colorado through his work as an outdoor recreation coordinator, Lund has used Loki to help convey the importance of exploration and exercise. His career and Loki's wanderlust led to the wolfdog having a line of natural CBD products, gear, and merchandise on his official site to celebrate those who love to travel with their pets. Lund shared some of his journey with Loki, who he first met in 2012, in the book "Wild Together: My Adventures with Loki the Wolfdog."Suki Cat $3,604 - $5,406 per sponsored postAn adventurous and energetic Bengal cat, Suki has built an audience through her various treks across the wilderness of Canada (where she is from), Europe, and South America with her owner, Martina Gutfreund. A well-trained kitty, Suki's love of exploration and expressive personality have earned her an impressive following, which includes her 1.7 million Instagram followers and just under 100K TikTok fans and YouTube subscribers. At 7 years of age, Suki's online presence is only likely to grow with more adventures.Amidst their journeying, Suki and her human found the time to write a book called "Travels of Suki the Adventure Cat." Beyond this, the Bengal thrives on time in nature rather than merchandising. Her busy schedule also means that Suki has only had a few chances to meet with fans, with a rare appearance at the Edmonton Cat Fest in 2019 marking one of the few times she strutted her stuff in public.Smudge - $3,180 - $4,770 per sponsored postSmudge's modest (at least comparably) 1.5 million Instagram followers is somewhat offset by his online fame, which puts him on par with (if not more popular than) the other cats on this list. Better known as "Table Cat," Smudge has been "yelled at" by Taylor Armstrong and Kyle Richards of "The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills" countless times over the years, at least in meme form. In fact, the white domestic cat may be the most memed feline currently online. This single image also led to success on Facebook, with the cat having many dedicated meme pages and his official Facebook page amassing over 100k followers.Owner Miranda Stillabower took Smudge in at a time when she was not actively looking for a new companion; however, she instantly fell for his charms when she met him. Stillabower spoke to Munchiecat about how the infamous photo came to be, "He freaks out if he doesn't have his own chair. So he'll hop onto someone else's before they sit down, or he'll meow at everyone throughout dinner. That's how Smudge found himself in front of a plate of salad." Growing his brand off of his famous photo, Smudge has plenty of merchandise available on his official site. The salad-despising puss also likes to give back to his community, with his Instagram page linking to donation requests for Furry Tales Rescue in his home province of Ontario.Bunny $3,180 - $4,770 per sponsored postBunny is one smart sheepadoodle (sheepdog x poodle); her owner, Alexis Devine, says that she has taught her over one hundred words since bringing her home in 2019. While some online have been quick to challenge this claim, Bunny's followers adore the playful, clever pooch and the advice given by Devine, a professional dog trainer. Also helped by her sibling, Otter, the three have built a large online fanbase with 1.5 million Instagram followers, an 8.6 million TikTok followers, and over 330k YouTube subscribers.Bunny's impressive work with the soundboard to express her wants and feelings has certainly inspired many to train their canine to speak. This focus has led to Bunny and Devine becoming spokespeople for FluentPet, including events held by the company behind soundboards for pets. You can see the range of FluentPet products on Amazon. The remarkable duo also came together to write the well-received book "I Am Bunny: How a 'Talking' Dog Taught Me Everything I Need to Know About Being Human."Brodie that Dood - $2,971 - $4,456 per sponsored postBrodie is one big fluffy dood, with the 80-pound curly goldendoodle catching looks wherever he goes. His owner, the aptly-named Cliff Brush, has made his dog's luxurious locks a viral sensation when, during COVID, he took to sharing their lives to help entertain those stuck at home. Their online antics resulted in a healthy following on various platforms, with 1.4 million on Instagram, 6.9 million on TikTok, and 5.46 million on YouTube.Brush initially tried to capitalize on Brodie's success with ideas like an official backpack or a dog park/bar. However, the pieces finally fell into place when the pair settled on the most apparent answer with such a giant mascot: dog hair products. Floof by Brodie aims to become the glorious golden doodle's bread and butter, selling various canine grooming items and supplies. Brodie still has his backpack, which he sells through Little Chonk, and the doggo is always happy to meet with his fans. Still, Brodie and his bro stay grounded, as Brush said in an interview with Tubefilter, "Our content is ever-evolving, and the underlying theme is we're best friends and I want to show that off."
The Strange Object North Carolina Residents Might See In Trees That's Not A Bird's Nest
Other Cute AnimalsThe Strange Object North Carolina Residents Might See In Trees That's Not A Bird's NestByAdam SymchukMay 22, 2025 9:25 am ESTProtean Visuals/ShutterstockBirds use various materials to build their nests, ranging from mud and rocks to sticks and twigs and other found materials. As birds are among the best mothers in the animal kingdom, a nest serves as a welcome reminder of the bond between mother and chick. However, in North Carolina, residents have spotted something unexpected — leafy balls that look like bird nests, but are home to a completely different creature: squirrels.These leafy bundles are called dreys, and they are constructed as a shelter by squirrel species that thrive in suburban environments. Due to their size, the Eastern gray squirrel makes the largest drey. These gray squirrel dreys are particularly common in North Carolina, where the Eastern gray squirrel is the state mammal. A Facebook post from the NC (North Carolina) Wildlife Resources Commission highlighted the commonality of dreys, with people from the state chiming in. One user replied to the post saying, "There is a drey on nearly every one of our trees." Others expressed surprise at either learning what a drey was or that others had not already been aware of it.Dreys can be found across the U.S.; North Carolina is not the only state where the busy squirrel makes itself a home. They also come in various sizes, depending on the space the squirrel species needs. Red squirrels, for example, make dreys, but these may be harder to spot due to being much smaller or even be mixed up as a bird's nest. Regardless of where they appear or their size, this squirrel fortress plays a vital role in the adorable rodents' environment and should be respected.How squirrel dreys work and what to do if you find oneSunshower Shots/ShutterstockDreys are constructed similarly to bird nests, using various environmental materials. However, a drey is made from softer materials that can include leaves, moss, feathers, grass, and bark, as opposed to stones or mud, which are sometimes used in bird nests to build a solid foundation. Instead, squirrels achieve stability by building along the trunk of a tree rather than on a branch. Some dreys can be constructed to be around the size of a soccer ball, ranging between 1 and 2 feet in diameter for larger squirrels.The drey can be used as a nursery, but functions primarily as a shelter in the winter months. Since tree squirrels don't hibernate, they need a warm, dry refuge between food hunts in winter. They're very warm, too, as the inside of a drey can be many degrees warmer than the outside air in the coldest months. A drey also keeps out predators and water, with its opening purposefully constructed toward the tree's base for safe entrance and exit.Given how essential a drey is to a squirrel's environment, it's crucial not to disturb it. Keeping any curious cats away will help ensure they remain undisturbed. Even if the real reason a cat brings home dead animals is quite cute, dealing with the mess and the loss of life can be heartbreaking. Squirrels are also very territorial; they are not among the wild animals that love humans and should be left to their own devices. Next time you spot a leafy ball in the trees, admire it from afar to not encroach on a squirrel's cozy winter fortress.
The Way Deer See The World Is Beyond Wild
Other Cute AnimalsThe Way Deer See The World Is Beyond WildByAdam SymchukJune 12, 2025 9:25 am ESTPhotographycornwall/Getty ImagesThe ability to see the world through the eyes of animals has long fascinated many nature lovers. This interest has led researchers to examine our closest companions; we now know more about a dog's eyesight than that of many other creatures on Earth. Yet, beyond our close furry friends, science continues to advance our understanding of the eyesight of various animals. Deer, in particular, offer a fascinating perspective on how some wildlife interprets their environment visually.One of the most remarkable ways deer perceive the world is through their interpretation of motion, seeing it similarly to what we would describe as slow motion. The flicker fusion rate, which determines how much visual information can be processed at any given moment through interpreting light movement, is higher in deer than in humans. This allows deer to interpret visuals at up to 120Hz compared to a human's 60Hz, enabling them to see movement up to four times more clearly. Additionally, a deer's eyes allow it to see better in low light. Deer have dichromatic vision, seeing colors similar to dogs, with blues and yellows standing out more prominently than other colors. While this means humans perceive a wider range of colors, this is not a disadvantage for deer as it allows them to navigate the terrain around them more easily, particularly in dim light.A deer's ability to see the world in slow motion, which allows it to interpret the movements of predators, along with its ability to see specific colors more vividly, is essential for staying safe. However, this ability represents just one of many tools that various deer species employ to navigate the wild.Deer use more than their eyesight to navigate the wildernessVaclav Matous/ShutterstockKeen eyesight give deer an advantage in the wild, but the rest of their senses are equally integral. A deer's sense of smell is 1,000 times better than a human's, with humans having 5 million scent receptors compared to a deer's 250 million. With the wind in the right direction, a deer can smell a hunter from a mile away. Deer also communicate with one another through scent. Marking with urine is a way for them to communicate their personal information to others, particularly during the rutting season when bucks can pass along info on their prowess and social standing to potential mates.Those who have seen deer up close are likely to have noticed that their ears function like little satellites, capable of operating independently to capture a wide range of sounds from all around them. Their ears' ability to act separately is enhanced by their capacity to perceive a broad spectrum of frequencies, including sounds that humans cannot detect. If that isn't enough to help keep them safe from predators, deer can also sort sounds around them more effectively, avoiding overstimulation or confusion in the same way a person would if bombarded with a lot of noise at once.The science of how various animals sense the world is still ongoing; we are even learning more about our canine companions, with recent studies showing that dogs are better at understanding our words than we initially thought. For deer, there may still be much to learn about how they use their various senses to communicate. Still, a deer's strong eyesight, hearing, and sense of smell serve as a poignant reminder of the remarkable toolset available to wildlife to help it thrive and survive in its environment.
If You Find A Stranded Sea Turtle At The Beach, Take These Steps Immediately
Other Cute AnimalsIf You Find A Stranded Sea Turtle At The Beach, Take These Steps ImmediatelyByCynthia AnayaJune 15, 2025 9:25 am ESTDario De Dobbelaere/ShutterstockPicture this: You're jogging on the beach at sunrise, and you spot a large object on the sand a few hundred feet ahead of you. As you get closer, you realize it's a 300-pound sea turtle. After snapping some shots and sending them to your "pics or it didn't happen" friend, you know you need to do something, but what? Unless you have experience in this department or are otherwise familiar with sea-life rescue, you'll be left scratching your head. Turtle strandings are common and can occur for various reasons, including cold stunning, injury or illness, starvation, unusual weather, and fishing gear entanglement. Unfortunately, sea turtles can also wash up on shore after dying in the water, or they can die on the shore after being stranded for a long period of time. If you find a turtle that's still alive, your actions can make the difference in its chances of recovery and release, so it's best to be smart and act wisely. Reading these steps will help you be more prepared. From calling the right people for help to leaving the turtle undisturbed, everything you do should prioritize the turtle's safety. It's also worth mentioning that similar steps apply if you spot an endangered whale or other sea animal.Call your local marine life stranding network for help with the sea turtleschnehe/ShutterstockThousands of sea animals become stranded on a beach somewhere in the world every year, and thousands of professionals are available in coastal areas across the globe to help them. While you may feel compelled to physically do something as soon as you see the turtle, the first thing you should do is call a stranding network for help. The sooner you call for assistance, the sooner the turtle can recover and be released back into the water by a team of trained professionals.You can find the number of your local stranding network by visiting the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Fisheries website and selecting your region, assuming you spotted the turtle in the United States. You can also do an online search for "sea turtle rescue + your location" for a list of places nearby that you can call. Be prepared to answer any questions the responder might have, including your exact location on the beach and the turtle's description.Give the sea turtle space, and stay quietBrianscantlebury/Getty ImagesIt's natural to want to be helpful if you find an animal in need, so the last thing you want to do is inadvertently harm the sea turtle in a careless attempt to rescue it. Unless you're a trained professional, it's best to keep your distance from the reptile. NOAA Fisheries recommends staying at least 150 feet away. A beached sea animal might behave defensively and bite you. It won't know that you're trying to help it and could become distressed as it sees you approaching. In fact, California's dolphins and sea lions have been attacking humans increasingly in 2025, so be extra careful.While keeping your distance, you should also stay quiet and calm. Don't shout or make other loud noises, as these sounds may upset the turtle. This is especially important to remember if the turtle is nesting; after all, not every turtle on shore is stranded. Female turtles intentionally swim ashore to nest, but a frightened nesting turtle might scurry back into the water before she's laid her eggs. There are even events called false crawls, which is when a sea turtle comes onto land but doesn't lay eggs — not from being scared away but for other reasons, like the beach being too rocky.Leave the sea turtle where it isBackyardproduction/Getty ImagesYou may have seen videos on the internet of people with seemingly good intentions pushing a beached sea turtle back into the water. While some of these videos appear to have a happy ending that include the turtle swimming away, the true ending after the filming stops isn't always known. Not every turtle survives after being moved back into the water, and unfortunately, some animal rescue videos are staged, with people intentionally endangering an animal off-camera so they can "rescue" it while being filmed.Despite what you've seen online, don't attempt to move the sea turtle yourself or with a friend. Don't try to push it back into the water with the assumption that being submerged in saltwater is the only thing it needs at that moment. Remember, some turtles wash up on shore because they're injured or sick. These turtles require professional medical care or rehabilitation before being released back into the water. That means if you return a turtle to the water in this condition, you could actually jeopardize its well-being.Minimize other disturbances to the sea turtle, if possibleBrianscantlebury/Getty ImagesWhile you may be doing the right thing by not moving or touching the turtle or making loud noises, it's important for everyone around you to do the same. Other animals, such as barking dogs, and bystanders can inadvertently create disturbances, too, which can cause distress for the turtle. If there's anyone nearby, or if you notice people or dogs approaching, encourage them to also keep their distance and stay quiet for the turtle's sake. Let them know about the possible dangers that they can cause.Of course, you only have control over your own actions, so while you might discourage others from bothering the turtle, there's no guarantee they'll listen. After all, some people would rather prioritize their desire to be a hero over an animal's safety with hopes of gaining their 15 minutes of fame. If necessary, you can call NOAA's National Enforcement Hotline at 800-583-1964 to report incidents of people disturbing the turtle.If you can, stay with the sea turtle until help arrivesGiovanny Gava/Getty ImagesThe wait time before a rescue team arrives to help the turtle depends on a number of factors, including the time of day and how far away the rescue center is. Since there's a possibility that the turtle will end up waiting longer than five or 10 minutes, stay with it if you can, until the professionals find you.If you're on the scene when help arrives, it will give the rescuers the opportunity to learn of any status changes from you since you first made the call. They may also ask additional questions that they didn't ask when you called. Plus, your staying with the turtle will hopefully increase the odds that the turtle will be safe from any ill-willed people or animals. And of course, you'll probably want to witness the rescue process anyway, so it's a win-win if you stay. Interested in learning more about other reptiles similar to sea turtles? Check out the largest tortoise ever recorded in captivity.
The Largest Wolf Of All Time Makes Even A Dire Wolf Look Small
DogsThe Largest Wolf Of All Time Makes Even A Dire Wolf Look SmallByAdam SymchukApril 19, 2025 1:25 pm ESTJonathan Chen / Wikimedia CommonsNow living primarily on the screen and made popular by shows like "Game of Thrones," the dire wolf is more than just a work of fiction. It once existed and may have coexisted with gray wolves and humans on Earth before going extinct approximately 13,000 years ago at the end of the last ice age. The dire wolf would have cast an intimidating figure, weighing between 150 and 200 pounds and measuring 6 feet long. While impressively large, the dire wolf is considerably outsized by the Epicyon haydeni, a dog-like species that existed millions of years ago.Eight feet long and standing at almost three feet at the shoulder, the average Epicyon haydeni would weigh between 220 and 276 pounds, though the largest ever found was a whopping 370 pounds. That is heavier than a full-grown male gorilla or an upright piano. These measurements put the ferocious ancient species at double the size of most dire wolves and triple that of many modern gray wolves that range from 60 to 145 pounds and 3 to 5 feet long.Just as some dog breeds have gone extinct, the Epicyon haydeni went extinct around 12 to 6 million years ago. Modern humans would never have encountered the gigantic, intimidating figure. Still, the magnificent beast is undoubtedly a fascinating prehistoric creature, something those who have their own big dog at home will understand. Thankfully, science has been able to paint a picture of the life of the wolf-like giant.The life and extinction of the large Epicyon haydeniEric Polk / Wikimedia CommonsEpicyon haydeni belongs to the Canidae family, which includes foxes, wolves, dogs, coyotes, jackals, and hyenas; the latter of which is believed to be descended from the ancient species. It is also part of the now-extinct subfamily, Borophaginae, which means "bone-crushing dogs". The intimidating family name is apt, as a hypercarnivore (living on a diet of 70% meat), it would have fed on a range of larger mammals, using its powerful jaws to bring down its prey.Fossils of the Epicyon haydeni have been found throughout the United States, ranging from Texas to Montana. The first fossil was discovered in 1858 by Dr. Ferdinand Vandeveer Hayden, from which the big mammal gets its name. While it is unknown whether or not they hunted in packs, as an apex predator, the ancient canid would have been unlikely to have many other species prey on it. Still, it would have faced competition from other now-extinct species, such as the giant bear, Agriotherium, which weighed over 1,400 pounds.Despite its size and strength, the Epicyon haydeni is believed to have gone extinct due to a tale that is as old as time: the rivalry between cats and dogs. Notably, the migration of other predators, such as the saber-toothed tiger (Smilodon), outpaced the bone-crushing dog when hunting. A declining food source led to fewer offspring, ultimately causing the once fearsome Epicyon haydeni to die out. While long gone, the giant canid showcases the remarkable process of evolution, from prehistoric wonder to the large dire wolf to our modern-day wolves and dogs.
South America's Largest Mammal Thought Extinct Was Spotted In A Protected Zone
Other Cute AnimalsSouth America's Largest Mammal Thought Extinct Was Spotted In A Protected ZoneByAdam SymchukJune 1, 2025 9:25 am ESTWrangel/Getty ImagesNature never ceases to amaze in its perseverance despite many challenges, such as climate change, pollution, and invasive species. Stories like the recent heartwarming discovery researchers made about the Yellowstone bison or the unique one-in-a-million animal spotted in Texas are just a few examples of the remarkable persistence of nature and the animal kingdom. Yet, at the start of 2025, the discovery of the once-thought-extinct giant mammal, the South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris) in the Costa Verde region, stands out as one of the most exciting of the year.The last recorded sighting of the South American tapir in the region was at the Serra dos Órgãos National Park in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in 1914, before they were pushed out of the area due to urban development. The South American tapir is listed as vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List, but has been considered extinct in the region after a 100-year hiatus. However, a recent sighting of not just one, but a mother with two offspring, was made in the 38,000-hectare Cunhambebe State Park, established in 2008 to help protect vulnerable species.Caught on a trail camera set up by Rio de Janeiro's State Institute of Environment (INEA) in February of 2025, the organization collected over a hundred photos and a video of the adorable trio marking their return to the region. An INEA representative commented on the discovery with Diario AS, "This challenge reflects the importance of protected areas and conservation efforts in the recovery of emblematic species." To understand the importance of the young family of tapirs, it's good to know how essential the conservation of the tapir is for the region.The South American tapir is an ancient animal important to the regionMichel Viard/Getty ImagesFound in South America, the large, lowland tapir may seem almost alien to those who have not seen one before. Due to its prehensile snout, the large mammal appears to be an amalgamation of other familiar animals, like pigs or anteaters. Despite this appearance, the tapir is more closely related to rhinos and horses. Casting an impressive figure, the tapir is the largest land mammal in South America, weighing between 300 and 700 pounds.Yet it is not just looks that have made the tapir one of the most admired mammals of the region; the tapir's lineage dates back to the Eocene era, 56 to 33.9 million years ago. The large land mammal has outlived countless others, including the dire wolf, and the largest wolf of all time before that. This shows remarkable perseverance in the face of numerous challenges, including the tapir's demanding lifecycle, as mothers have one baby per pregnancy with a gestation period of 13 to 14 months.The tapir is a living fossil, and its global population, which includes four species found in South America and Southeast Asia, presents an opportunity for conservationists and animal enthusiasts to observe an ancient species. Although the tapir still faces global challenges, the recent emergence of a new family in the Costa Verde region of South America after a hundred-year absence is important in the continued conservation of the one-of-a-kind animal.
14 Ways To Make Moving With A Pet So Much Easier
Pet Parenting14 Ways To Make Moving With A Pet So Much EasierByLisa MaloneyApril 27, 2025 9:05 am ESTStandret/ShutterstockMoving house is challenging enough — but when you add pets into the mix, you're dealing with living, feeling creatures who probably have some strong opinions about the sudden upheaval all around them. Whether you're trying to herd cats who disappear at the first sign of moving boxes or dealing with uncontrolled chewing as a sign your dog is stressed out, taking the time to do a little advance planning, lay down some key supplies, and understand certain types of training and familiarization can help make moving with pets ever so much easier.Have a go-bag for your petlarisa Stefanjuk/ShutterstockAnyone who's moved once or twice will know how important it is to have everyday essentials ready to grab during your move. This goes double for your pet, who has neither the thumbs nor (probably) the reasoning skills to pack for themselves. You can be the shining hero, however, if you add essential items for your pet in the "go-bag" you carry for yourself during the move — or perhaps give them a go-bag of their own.For humans, go-bag essentials might include snacks, toiletries, medications, important papers, and a fresh change of clothes (or at least fresh socks and underwear). The travel essentials for your dog or other pets really aren't all that different: Think food and water bowls, plus the food and water of course; then add treats, a favorite blanket or bed, favorite toys, vaccination records, a leash and harness, kitty litter, and so on. Your goal is to include everything your pet needs in a typical day, plus reassuring comfort items and anything else you could imagine needing in an emergency. For your pet's comfort, practice beforehandEyeem Mobile Gmbh/Getty ImagesMoving comes with new experiences for everybody. For you, that might mean the challenge of sorting through your accumulated life possessions and choosing what makes the cut to come with you to your new home. For your pet, the new experiences could mean anything from spending extended time in a carrier, going for long car rides, staying in a hotel, or even flying in an airplane. The more you can do to break these experiences down into their most basic components, and then give your pet an opportunity to get familiar with them in advance, the easier it'll be for both of you. For example: If you're planning to drive your pet cross-country during a move, start by getting your pet used to the carrier you'll use while in the car. Leave the carrier out and open so your pet can explore it, and consider scattering a few treats inside as an extra lure. Once your pet goes into the carrier willingly, consider using it as a feeding station. There is no surer, faster way of building a positive association with the carrier than pairing it with food. Once your pet is comfortable inside the carrier, you can get it used to going for car rides. Start short and work up to longer rides/drives, with plenty of treats along the way. Some of the other "skills" that might come in handy during a move include leash-training your dog (and sometimes, your cat), using a travel litter box or pee pads, meeting new people and pets, and simply exploring new environments. Even pet birds might enjoy an opportunity to get used to traveling in a travel cage since it might be substantially smaller than what it's used to at home. Preserve your pet's routineOlga Pankova/Getty ImagesOur furry friends aren't just creatures of habit — they can be downright neurotic about it. The more of their normal routine you preserve throughout the move, the easier it'll be for them to adjust. As a bonus, because your pet's daily schedule is probably predicated to some degree on your own, preserving its sense of normalcy might bolster your comfort level, too. If you're not sure how to structure your pet's routine during the move, try writing out the elements of your pet's life as you move through the day. When do you feed it, walk it, play with it, give it puzzle toys or other items for enrichment, or tuck it away for bed? That will give you the skeleton of a schedule to build your moving day(s) around, which doubles as a framework for building out the "new normal" routine once you've moved. Take your pet with youAleksandarnakic/Getty ImagesIn a similar vein, unless you're employing a company that specializes in moving pets over long distances, the safest place for your pet to travel is with you. Not only will your pet be more comfortable that way, but you're also uniquely suited to "read" your pet's tells and identify what sort of support it needs during the move. For example, if you know your pup is prone to car sickness, you're already a step ahead in terms of identifying potential problems and, hopefully, dealing with them before they get too serious. Identifying hurdles like motion sickness is exactly why it's so important to practice the elements of moving beforehand. If you wait until the big move to put your pet in the car, there might not be much you can do about the motion sickness. However, if you've tried it beforehand and spotted that your furry loved one is feeling ill, you'll have time to talk to your vet about anti-nausea medication or other remedies.Consider all of the boxesBymuratdeniz/Getty ImagesIt's worth taking a minute to imagine what a sudden deluge of moving boxes might look like from your pet's point of view. We all know cats love boxes, but even they might be put off by their sudden appearance, or the disappearance of your belongings into them. Whatever kind of pet you have, there are two general approaches to keeping it comfortable around moving supplies. One is to turn the unfamiliar into something familiar, by collecting packing boxes early and giving your pet a chance to explore them. The other is to pack out of sight of your pets, which usually boils down to keeping your pets out of whatever room you're packing in on any given day. Either way, remember that having lots of boxes around can create hiding opportunities for small pets like cats, so it's important to keep track of where your pets are and always check inside boxes before sealing them up. It's also very important to know when it's time to separate your pets from the chaos of moving for their own safety, no matter how comfortable they might seem in the moment.Keep your pet close and containedsophiecat/ShutterstockFew things are as heartbreaking as realizing that your best furry (or feathered, or scaled) friend has gone missing during a move. This especially applies to cats and dogs and free-ranging birds, all of whom are more likely to have the run of the house than, say, a lizard or a fish. Happily, there's a lot you can do to keep your pets from escaping or getting lost. The number one thing is to designate a safe, contained place for them — whether that means a separate room with a big sign on the door to keep it closed, or a large cage or crate that gives them enough room to be comfortable, but still keeps them safely contained. If the moving or home environment is too chaotic for that to feel like a secure solution, consider boarding your pet with family or friends, or even at a professional boarding facility, for the most intense days of the move. Although none of you will enjoy being apart from each other, it's worth the peace of mind to know your pet won't panic and slip out the door in the middle of the chaos. Pet-proof the new place, then let them exploreCunfek/Getty ImagesJust as it's a very smart move to keep your pets tucked in a safe, secure place during all the bustle of moving boxes and furniture out of your old home, it's equally important to ensure your pets have a safe place as people are hustling in and out of your new home. If you let them free-roam right away, even a pet who's previously stuck close to home might be so discomfited by the experience of moving that it goes into hiding, dashes through open doors, or even sets off in search of the familiar digs you just moved out of.If you start with a designated "safe room" for your pet, full of familiar toys, beds, crates, and your pet's other belongings, it'll be able to become comfortable in that new space. Once the immediate hustle and bustle of moving in is over, consider expanding that comfort zone just a room or two at a time, keeping your pet well-supervised when it first explores any new area. Make sure you spend plenty of time with it during this settling-in period: After all, you're its emotional support human.At the same time — or ideally, before you've moved your pet into the new place — you can set about making your new home pet-safe. Look out for known hazards like unsecured cleaning supplies that a nervous (or curious) chewer might get into, pest control items that might've been placed by the previous tenants or owners, the cords to window blinds, electrical cords your pet might chew, uncovered swimming pools, and anything else that might look tempting. Consider crate training and research carriers beforehandDiane Keough/Getty ImagesIn a general sense, crate training a puppy or older dog — or even a cat — is all about giving your pet a designated safe place, which can be invaluable during the inevitable chaos of moving house. That crate training is especially useful when the designated safe place can travel with you. If the crate you've been using is too large or unwieldy to travel with, it's worth taking the time in advance to familiarize your pet with whatever travel carrier you've chosen to use instead. If you're traveling by plane, train, or any other service that has regulations about which pet carriers are acceptable, put in some research beforehand to make sure you're choosing the right carrier for your pet. At a minimum, your pet should be able to stand up, sit down, and turn around inside the carrier comfortably, and there should be adequate ventilation. If your pet is coming in an airplane cabin with you, you might prefer a soft-sided carrier that's easier to tuck under the seat in front of you. If your pet is traveling via the pet hold in the belly of the plane, however, a hard-sided carrier is the standard.A note about very large or tall dogs: Many airlines have limits on what size carrier they can accommodate in the pet hold, and owners of very large dogs sometimes struggle to find a travel carrier that's large enough for their dog but also small enough to be accepted on the plane. In this case, it's especially vital that you research the requirements ahead of time: If your pet can't fit into the hold of the plane, you can hire a professional pet-shipping service to get them to your new residence.Plan for your pet's comfortoasisamuel/ShutterstockWe humans are well-equipped to handle the stress of a long move, especially if it involves extremely hot or cold temperatures. We can add or remove clothing layers to stay comfortable, and have thumbs to operate an air conditioner or heater. Our pets, on the other hand — pun not intended — don't have those useful thumbs, and aren't able to speak out loud to tell us how they're feeling. They're also permanently zipped into their fur coats which, although they're great for some degree of temperature regulation, can only stretch so far to handle extreme heat or cold.Due to this, it's on us to plan for the comfort, safety, and well-being of our furry friends while traveling. At a minimum, consider how you'll maintain a comfortable temperature for your pet on your chosen mode of travel, and make sure you give it sufficient breaks to relieve itself, eat, drink, and also play or at least stretch its legs. If you're making a cross-country drive, for example, you might want to break it up into shorter days so your older dog doesn't have to spend all day curled in his travel crate. Or, if you have a cat who you know will be miserable in cars or hotels no matter what, you might choose to do the drive in fewer, longer days, and get it over with as quickly as possible. Make sure your pet is microchipped and the microchip is registeredMaria Sbytova/ShutterstockIf your pet does go missing, having it microchipped greatly increases your odds of being reunited. A 2014 study published in The Veterinary Journal found that pets with microchips were 21 times as likely to be reunited with their owners — as long as your microchip registry is kept current with your correct information. In most cases, this update can be done online via your pet's microchip manufacturing company website.If you're not sure whether your dog, cat, or other pet is microchipped, now is the perfect time to double-check and, if necessary, get it done. As you move, don't forget the vital step of updating your pet's microchip registry with your new address and any other changes in contact information. The same applies to your pet's collar and tags.Provide familiar comfort items before, during, and after the moveSvetlana Rey/ShutterstockYour pets use their keen senses to make sense of the world around them — especially their sense of smell. With that in mind, it's a true kindness to pre-stock your new home with as many familiar comfort items as possible, to help your pet settle in and realize this is now "home." This can mean keeping your pet's favorite toys or bed ready and available during the move. This can also mean bringing pieces of your clothing that you've already worn — so the clothes smell like you — or maybe favorite blankets that smell like home.After your move, items such as a cat tree or your dog's crate can also be familiar places to relax. The more familiar things you can have deployed around your new home before your pet even arrives, the easier it'll be for it to understand that it is, once again, exactly where it needs to be.Choose pet-friendly accommodations if you need themLightField Studios/ShutterstockIf your move takes more than one day, pet-friendly mobile apps or a few prudent online searches can help you track down pet-friendly accommodations. Whether you're staying in a hotel or a short-term rental, take a minute to make sure what sort of pets it accepts. Often, "pet-friendly" really means dog-friendly, and travelers with cats, birds, or other pets may find themselves out in the cold. Some locations may also have weight limits or pet number limits.Similarly, make sure you understand any extra fees associated with bringing your pets, as well as any rules that apply. For example, some hotels forbid leaving your pets alone in the room, even if they're crated. While that's safest — because there's no chance of housekeeping accidentally letting them out — it also means that if you can't split your party and send someone out while another person stays with your pet, you might struggle to get necessities like grocery runs taken care of safely. Consider your (new) local regulations regarding petsPeopleImages.com - Yuri A/ShutterstockWill your pet be on the right side of the law in your new home? There's only one way to be sure: Do some research beforehand. Some of the factors most likely to change from one locality to another include leash laws for dogs (and cats), and whether it's legal to let your pets outside unattended. Learning the lay of the (new) land ahead of time can help you save on fines, criminal penalties, and the social challenges that often come from violating local norms. Some countries even ban certain dog breeds, especially bully breeds, or place them under strict regulation. For example, American bullies are banned from the United Kingdom, Turkey, and the United Arab Emirates, and their presence is heavily regulated in the Republic of Ireland, where they must be muzzled and kept on a fairly short leash when out in public. That's not the sort of thing that you'd want to find out after you've already moved. Finally, as long as you have your research hat on, go ahead and do a little legwork to identify emergency vet clinics near your new home. It's hopefully unlikely that you'll need one but, if bad luck strikes and you do have a pet emergency after moving, you'll be glad you took the time to identify emergency services. Talk to your vet before your moveMiniseries/Getty ImagesYour veterinarian is an absolutely vital source of support throughout your pet's life, so make sure to stay in close contact with them before, during, and after your move. They can provide you with any paperwork you might need — including health certificates and vaccination records — along with preventive medications, suggestions to mitigate the stress of the move for your pet, and information about any new parasites or health conditions that might be an issue in your new home. Depending on how your pet is handling the move, your veterinarian might also prescribe calming medications to make the relocation easier for everybody — and if you're moving too far away to stay with the same vet, they might be able to refer you to a veterinary clinic near your new home. Moving can be stressful for you and your pets. Luckily, taking the time to research beforehand, setting up a positive, comforting environment before and after the move, and just giving your pets a little extra love and care can help ease the transition to a new space.
Do Pet Parrots Actually Understand What Human Words Mean? It's Complicated
Other Cute AnimalsBirdsDo Pet Parrots Actually Understand What Human Words Mean? It's ComplicatedByAdam SymchukJuly 6, 2025 9:25 am ESTVH-studio/ShutterstockThe desire to communicate with pets is a long-held dream among many loving owners. When it comes to our most common companions, we continue to learn how dogs understand our words and what cat noises really mean. However, for the most talkative pet, the parrot, how much language birds actually understand and how much is just associating words with specific actions remains uncertain.Many experts are conflicted about how much parrot behavior is a result of simple mimicry and how much is associated with specific human actions. Dr. Irene Pepperberg of Harvard told Audubon that parrot communication in human language may stem from the need for safety in numbers, stating, "A single bird in the wild is a dead bird; It can't look for food and look for predators at the same time." Therefore, wild birds speak to each other to keep each other safe. In the same article, specialist Dr. Timothy Wright explains that a parrot may say something like "Hello, how are you?" when it sees its owner, but this response is likely the result of learning through repetition rather than understanding the words as an actual greeting and question.While a clear answer to whether parrots understand human language remains vague, there is still much to learn about the way parrots communicate. Moreover, feathered pet parents should not feel any less love or wonder for their companions' impressive skill set.Parrots are intelligent and capable of learning many different wordsWirestock/Getty ImagesEven if parrots mimic their owners and react to cues and daily interactions, this doesn't diminish the birds' remarkable ability to learn another language. For example, the African grey parrot has the most extensive human vocabulary, with the capacity to learn over 1,000 words and an intelligence similar to that of a young toddle (think 2 to 3 years old).A 2024 study by cognitive biologist Dr. Désirée Brucks at the Max Planck Institute for Ornithology in Germany found that African grey parrots also possess striking social intelligence (via Parrot Essentials). The study involved two parrots separated but able to pass objects to each other. One received shiny objects, while the other did not. Both had access to food from humans, but the parrot with the shiny objects started sharing with the other in exchange for food from its cohabitor, even though there was no incentive to do so other than to help one another.Ultimately, parrots possess a rich vocabulary and remarkable intelligence. So, while it's still unclear whether parrots actually know what human words mean or if they're simply mimicking us, it's clear that they're smarter than many may have thought. For more unique bird stories, check out how birds-of-paradise play an interesting trick on our eyes.
Make The Cutest DIY Litter Box For Your Bunnies Using An IKEA Must-Have
Pet ParentingDIY Project IdeasMake The Cutest DIY Litter Box For Your Bunnies Using An IKEA Must-HaveByJessica DesrosiersMarch 3, 2025 3:25 pm ESTTanja Ivanova/Getty ImagesWe may receive a commission on purchases made from links.Rabbits can run very fast and get the "zoomies" when excited and having fun. In addition, bored rabbits may kick at their cages at night — a sign they need a little more space to dash around. However, while giving your rabbit more opportunities to explore your home is good, they still need an area where they can safely go potty. Luckily, you can turn an IKEA storage table into a beautiful spot to keep your rabbit's litter box out of the way. This hack is great for containing your pet's messes without detracting from your home's decor (though it will require some personalization if you live outside of the U.K. or Australia).To try the hack at home, cut a square in the side of a HOL Storage Table large enough for your bunny to fit through. Cutting along the natural seams of the table's weave can ensure there are no loose edges. Then, sand down the sides to remove any sharp bits your rabbit can get cut on. Finally, open the lid and place your rabbit's litter box inside. You may want to entice your pet to check it out by offering a few treats such as hay hung above it.How to make the DIY rabbit litter box work for youViolet_Nyx / RedditWhile this hack is great for pet owners in the U.K. and Australia, the HOL Storage Table isn't sold outside of these locations. There are a couple of alternatives you can use if you're located in the U.S. IKEA offers the NÄMMARÖ Storage Box, which features a similar size and design. Be aware, however, that it is composed of stained wood, which may not be suitable for bunnies that like to chew on furniture. You can strip it and re-stain with a pet-safe wood stain to play it safe.Another alternative is a Wooden Grid Side Table by ZLHome. Though smaller in size than its IKEA counterpart, it features a similar, hackable design. It's made of pine wood, but isn't stained. Untreated pine should be thoroughly dried to ensure it doesn't cause any issues for rabbits.Regardless of the box you use, make sure your rabbit's litter is accessible and easy for you to clean up. If they still make a bit of a mess, giving your rabbit a bath can help them stay clean while roaming about. You can also add some additional personal touches to this hack, such as a comfy cushion for your rabbit to lounge on top or fun, rabbit-safe treats to make the space more welcoming.