The northern water snake looks ordinary at first glance, but they can grow larger than many people expect. While it’s no anaconda, it is still big enough to startle you if you’re out boating or fishing and not expecting it. Learning about this snake helps explain how northern water snakes live, hunt, and survive in busy lakes and rivers alongside people.

Adult northern water snakes typically measure between 24 and 42 inches. Females tend to grow larger than males, and the biggest individuals are usually well-fed females that have lived several years in productive habitats. However, researchers report that the maximum recorded size for a northern water snake is just over 4.5 feet, about the length of a shovel or rake. The rare specimens that reach the maximum end of their range are true outliers rather than typical examples.

Where Do Northern Water Snakes Live?

Northern water snakes live across much of eastern and central North America. They prefer freshwater habitats such as lakes, rivers, ponds, and marshes, especially areas with plenty of cover. Logs, rocks, and vegetation along the shoreline provide places to bask in the sun and hide from predators. These snakes often stay close to the water’s edge, where they can quickly escape if threatened.

How Does the Environment Affect Their Size?

Their size is closely tied to their environment. In areas with abundant food and few threats, northern water snakes can grow larger and live longer. They play an important environmental role in the wetland food chain and feed mainly on fish, frogs, and other amphibians, striking quickly and swallowing prey whole. A steady food supply allows them to build the body mass needed to approach the species’ maximum size. Quiet wetlands, farm ponds, and slow-moving rivers often produce the largest individuals because they offer both food and shelter.

Are They Dangerous to Humans?

Despite their size, northern water snakes are nonvenomous and pose little danger to humans. They belong to the colubrid family and lack venom glands or specialized fangs. However, they can be defensive if handled. A large individual may bite repeatedly and release a foul-smelling musk as a deterrent. Although their bite can be painful and may bleed more than expected, it is not medically significant.

A Quiet Giant in the Water

Seeing a northern water snake of this size in the wild would be an impressive experience. A thick-bodied snake as long as a rake can look even larger in the water, especially when it glides along the surface or coils on a log. Yet even the biggest individuals are more interested in escaping than confronting people. Large snakes demonstrate the remarkable potential of a species that lives quietly alongside people in lakes and rivers throughout North America.

The post How Big Can a Northern Water Snake Get? appeared first on A-Z Animals.

For most animals, survival is a game of chance. Sexual reproduction mixes DNA, keeping the gene pool diverse and giving evolution more options. When a species stops mixing genes, it usually goes extinct. But the Amazon molly didn’t just bend those rules; this all-female species tossed them out completely.

Born from a rare crossbreeding event over 100,000 years ago, this small fish has achieved what seems biologically impossible: it has thrived without sexual reproduction. It does not use genetic reshuffling, has no males of its species, and shows no sign of the genetic collapse that usually kills off clones.

Origins of an Immortal Fish

The Amazon molly (Poecilia formosa) traces its existence back to a 100,000-year-old rare evolutionary fluke: a female Atlantic molly (Poecilia mexicana) and a male sailfin molly (Poecilia latipinna) mated, producing a very unique hybrid. Under normal circumstances, this kind of cross-species match would produce sterile offspring (like a mule). However, this specific pairing did something entirely unexpected. Instead of resulting in a mule-like dead end, this union created a new lineage of fertile, all-female fish that stopped reproducing sexually altogether.

Because the original parents were two different species, they provided an exceptionally diverse genetic foundation for their offspring — a phenomenon scientists call hybrid vigor. This created a diverse and well-balanced set of genes (heterozygosity) right from the start.

This genetic blueprint proved so effective that the Amazon molly essentially “froze” it in place, producing cloned daughters — near-perfect genetic copies of the mother — and successfully locking in its most advantageous traits.

Typically, species lose genetic health over time if they don’t regularly combine their DNA with a sexual partner. In contrast, the Amazon molly started with a nearly perfect genome and, rather than allowing its DNA to degrade over generations, has successfully preserved it ever since.

The Art of Sexual Parasitism

Even though they are an all-female species, Amazon mollies haven’t completely cut ties with males. Their survival depends on gynogenesis, a form of asexual reproduction that still requires sperm to get started.

Amazon mollies mate with males from neighboring species, like Atlantic mollies, sailfin mollies, and broadspotted mollies (Poecilia latipunctata). However, there’s a catch: while the sperm helps trigger embryo development, the male’s DNA is discarded and never actually used.

Sperm from the male enters the egg to trigger development. However, since the egg already has a full set of the mother’s chromosomes, it rejects the male’s DNA entirely. This results in a daughter who is a genetic carbon copy of her mother.

It is an elegantly ruthless process that requires a delicate balance. The Amazon molly must remain similar enough to other fish to attract male attention from closely related species, but different enough from other species to avoid direct competition.

Beating Muller’s Ratchet

While the Amazon molly’s evolutionary long con is clever, biology suggests it should eventually fail. Usually, species that don’t combine DNA with a sexual partner face a fatal problem: without mixing genes, harmful mutations pile up over time until the species collapses. This phenomenon is known as Muller’s Ratchet.

The Amazon molly avoids Muller’s Ratchet by using another clever workaround called gene conversion — essentially, a molecular “copy and paste” tool. When a gene on one chromosome gets damaged or mutates, the cell identifies the glitch. The molly then overwrites the broken gene by copying a healthy version from its matching paired chromosome. While not as powerful as sexual recombination, this process is enough to keep the genome from deteriorating. In other words, while most asexual species are stuck with their genetic mistakes, the Amazon molly quietly edits them out.

Genetic Flexibility and Adaptability

Even more surprising, this process doesn’t erase all genetic variation. The species maintains subtle genetic differences between different family lines, a concept called clonal polymorphism. This provides just enough wiggle room to adapt and survive.

Recent research shows that these fish actually evolve differently from the neighboring species they depend on. Instead of perfectly mimicking their host species to blend in, they often do the opposite to avoid competing for the same resources. This strategy, known as character displacement, allows the Amazon molly to carve out its own niche. For example, when living with the bulkier sailfin molly, the Amazon molly often evolves a slimmer body shape, so it doesn’t have to fight for the exact same food or territory.

Differences in Clones

Amazon mollies may be clones, but they are far from identical biological photocopies. A 2017 study demonstrated this by isolating mollies immediately after birth and raising them in identical environments, matching their habitats, temperatures, and food sources. Researchers then compared these isolated fish to those raised in social groups to see how personality develops.

Even though these clonal sisters were genetically identical and raised in the same conditions, each developed her own consistent, individual personality. This suggests that individuality does not require unique DNA.

A Quiet Ecological Success

Geographically, the Amazon molly is highly effective at holding its ground. Its range stretches along the Gulf Coast, from the Tuxpan River in Mexico up to the lower Rio Grande in Texas. Since the mid-20th century, it has also successfully moved into several other Texas river systems.

These fish prefer quiet spots like backwaters, ditches, and weedy edges, and they are equally comfortable in freshwater or brackish water (a mix of fresh and salt water). Because they closely resemble other types of mollies, they don’t just fool the males of other species; they frequently prove difficult for human researchers to identify as well.

A Biological Challenge

As an all-female species, the Amazon molly represents a direct challenge to a core rule of biology: the idea that sex is mandatory for long-term survival. By starting with a nearly perfect genetic foundation and using a high-tech DNA repair system to maintain it, this fish has avoided the usual trap of asexual extinction.

This survival strategy, particularly gene conversion, offers new ways of thinking about evolution and genome health. Because similar repair mechanisms are involved in cancer and genetic disease, the Amazon molly has become an unlikely but valuable model for understanding human health.

The all-female Amazon molly proves that the “rules” of biology are not always set in stone. Evolution is resourceful, constantly finding clever workarounds to ensure survival.

By successfully bypassing the need for genetic mixing, this little fish forces us to rethink what it truly takes for a species to flourish over thousands of years. The unique species is a living reminder that nature often finds a way to thrive, even when it breaks the conventional mold.

The post How The All-Female Amazon Molly Survives Without Males appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Deep within the dense foliage of Papua New Guinea lives the world’s smallest vertebrate. Meet Paedophryne amauensis, a terrestrial frog so small it’s nearly invisible to the naked eye. Not only do these miniature vertebrates represent the incredible specialization of evolution, but they also occupy such a small niche that they go unnoticed by predators, competitors, and humans alike.

First discovered back in 2009, these tic-tac-sized frogs rely on unique evolutionary adaptations to hide, go undetected, and remain efficient. Let’s learn more about these frogs and how they have carved out a life in one of the most biodiverse regions on the planet.

Contemporary Discovery

Louisiana State University herpetologist Christopher Austin and his PhD student Eric Rittmeyer discovered Paedophryne amauensis in August 2009 while exploring the biodiversity of Papua New Guinea. The researchers named the tiny amphibian after Amau village in the Central Province, near where it was found.

For years, these frogs were difficult to detect for several reasons, the most obvious being their incredibly small size. They are also easily camouflaged by the ample leaf litter that New Guinea rainforests provide. Additionally, they make calls that sound like insects. While out on a nocturnal mission, Austin and Rittmeyer triangulated the call from an unknown animal. That’s when they discovered the tiny frog by scooping up handfuls of leaf litter.

Impressive Attributes

Perhaps it’s not surprising that these frogs are a recent discovery, as they only grow to about 0.30 inches long. That makes them one of the smallest vertebrates in the world, second only to the Brazilian flea toad. These frogs live on land and lack a tadpole stage. Instead, members of this tiny species hatch as miniatures of adults, featuring a reduced skeleton and seven presacral vertebrae.

Within the Papua New Guinea wilderness, these frogs go unnoticed even as they make extraordinary jumps. Indeed, when they aren’t feeding on small invertebrates at night, these frogs can leap up to thirty times their body length! If they don’t land close enough to their compatriots, these frogs emit insect-like calls between frequencies of 8400 and 9400 Hz.

Paedophryne amauensis is so small that most vertebrate predators cannot see it at all. These itty-bitty jumpers enjoy an existence under the radar of fearsome predators like birds and snakes. Besides avoiding curious researchers, these frogs need only focus on staying wet. They accomplish this by remaining in dense and moist leaf litter. Since this is a newly discovered species, time will only tell what else researchers will learn about these smallest of vertebrates.

The post One of The World’s Smallest Vertebrates is a Frog That Fits on a Fingertip appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Service dogs are highly trained animals that assist individuals with specific disabilities, like blindness, hearing loss, mental health issues, and an assortment of other medical conditions. You’ve likely seen one of these hardworking, vested pups in action before.

There are various types of service dogs with differing levels of training and special skills. Wondering how much a service dog costs? We speak with experts to break down the true financial commitment of owning one of these well-trained pups.

How Much Do Service Dogs Cost?

According to US Service Animals, adopting a service dog typically costs between $10,000 and $30,000, with some as expensive as $50,000. 

For example, Cheyenna Wilde, Service Dog Training Instructor at Warrior Canine Connection, says that at her nonprofit, “it costs approximately $40k to train each dog—a process that takes roughly two years.”

“The cost reflects the full lifecycle of developing a highly skilled service dog, to include food, training, medical/veterinary fees, staff support, and other related costs,” she adds.

Additionally, the cost of adopting a service dog depends on a variety of factors, such as their specific training levels and skills.

“The cost of a service dog usually depends more on the type and complexity of training than on the breed itself,” Wilde explains. “For example, dogs trained for advanced medical alert work or as guide dogs need more specialized training, which can increase the cost. Choosing the right breed can also affect how successfully a dog completes training and its long-term health and longevity.”

Types of Service Dogs

Seeing-eye dogs are one of the most well-known types of service dogs. These guide dogs are trained to assist individuals with visual impairments or blindness. Hearing dogs are similar in nature, trained to alert hearing-impaired owners to alarms or other sounds. 

Another common type of service dog is a psychiatric service dog (PSD). PSDs are trained to support individuals with mental health disabilities, such as PTSD and anxiety.

“Service dogs, including psychiatric service dogs, are trained in specific tasks to assist a person with a disability,” says Amanda Conlon, Shelter to Service Program Director at Joybound People & Pets. “Psychiatric service dogs are allowed anywhere their handlers are permitted, such as a movie theater, hospital, or restaurant. They are highly trained and socialized to be safe and unobtrusive in public.”

Additional service dogs include ​​mobility assistance dogs, medical alert/response dogs, allergen detection dogs, and autism service dogs.

Common Service Dog Breeds

Any dog breed can be a service dog under the Americans with Disabilities Act. However, some breeds tend to have a more preferable temperament. Additionally, when it comes to mobility assistance dogs, larger or stronger breeds are best.

“At WCC, we are part of a purpose-bred breeding cooperative, where Golden and Labrador Retrievers are specially bred for health, temperament, and longevity,” Wilde explains. “They have friendly faces, are food-motivated, which makes them very trainable, and they’re happy, joyful dogs.”

Finding the Right Service Dog

First and foremost, consider the type of service dog you need (e.g., medical alert/response dogs vs. psychiatric service dogs). Then, work with an organization you can trust.

“Assistance Dogs International (ADI) has a list of accredited service dog organizations across the world,” Wilde mentions. “It’s important to work with reputable organizations that follow recognized service dog training standards … We recommend you ask questions about each organization’s breeding or sourcing practices, training approach, graduation rates, and post-placement support.”

While you might be seeking a quick adoption opportunity, you don’t want to rush the process.

“It’s important to be patient—high-quality programs often have waiting lists because careful training and matching take time,” says Wilde. “The national average wait time for a service dog is currently two years.”

Some service dog programs take up to five years. If you are in serious need of a service dog, consider working with an organization that offers faster placement. In the interim, you can use an emotional support animal. While these pets lack the high-level training of a service dog, they can help alleviate anxiety and provide comfort.

That being said, a highly trained service dog is typically worth the wait.

“The true impact of service dogs lies in the remarkable power of the human-canine bond,” says Wilde. “Developing a service dog takes years of careful planning, purpose breeding, training, and partnership, but the outcome is far more than a trained animal—it is a trusted partner that supports independence, confidence, and overall quality of life. For many individuals, the connection they share with their service dog becomes a powerful source of healing, stability, and daily support.”

The post How Expensive Are Service Dogs, Really? appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Anyone who has spent enough time around a service dog can tell you just how conscientious, caring, and patient these animals can be. They are trained to deal with tough situations and support marginalized people, handling stress with an unmistakable grace that eludes even the most emotionally intelligent humans. That grace extends to more nebulous psychiatric issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Indeed, the latest research in this arena provides a clear picture of just how effective service dogs can be in reducing the severity of PTSD symptoms in military veterans.

For decades, our four-legged friends have provided welcome care and compassion for veterans suffering from PTSD. However, earlier research and reports on service dogs for PTSD were often anecdotal or based on self-report, with limited rigorous clinical evidence. As recently as 2024, large-scale clinical studies have provided evidence of just how effective service dogs can be for veterans. By using longitudinal tracking and physiological markers, researchers have found that service dogs significantly lower PTSD symptoms as well as social isolation for veterans. Let’s learn more about this groundbreaking study and how its findings provide a welcome strategy of relief for long-suffering military veterans.

National Institute of Health Study

The notion that professional animal support and companionship could help people suffering from mental anguish has bounced around scientific circles for years. In 2024, researchers decided to test the theory scientifically. Enter Dr. Marguerite E. O’Haire, a professor at the University of Arizona. She spearheaded the largest ever nationwide study comparing service dog partnerships to usual care alone. The trial, supported by the National Institute of Health and the Department of Veterans Affairs, followed 156 veterans over a 12-month period, with some secondary analyses conducted at the three-month mark. Researchers compared those who received a service dog to those sitting on a waitlist while receiving standard clinical care. What they found was nothing short of spectacular.

Veterans paired with service dogs exhibited significantly lower PTSD symptoms across almost every tested metric. Indeed, 81 participants who received service dogs “reported significantly lower PTSD symptom severity, anxiety, and depression. They also reported “less social isolation and higher companionship than the 75 participants in the control group who were waitlisted for a service dog.”

More broadly, the study recorded considerable improvements in the “Big Four” areas of psychiatric distress: anxiety, companionship, depression, and social isolation. Comparing the results to the PCL-5, or the PTSD checklist, clinicians found that veterans paired with service dogs showed a much higher rate of clinically significant improvement. This means that their outlook and associated PTSD symptoms improved to a clinically significant degree, though most participants still met criteria for PTSD.

Cortisol Awakening

This wasn’t the only study of its kind to make considerable headway, either. A separate but related study was titled “The cortisol awakening response in a 3-month clinical trial of service dogs for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder.” This study, also featuring Dr. Marguerite E. O’Haire, tested the relationship between cortisol, PTSD, and service dog companionship. As the body’s main stress hormone, cortisol can make or break a person’s ability to relax. For veterans with PTSD, cortisol can be a self-inflicted weapon. Often, their ability to regulate cortisol is broken; this leaves them feeling exhausted yet hyper-vigilant.

This study, published in Scientific Reports, found that veterans with service dogs had cortisol profiles resembling those of healthy adults. More precisely, researchers found that “veterans with service dogs have a higher, less blunted CAR in comparison to veterans receiving usual care alone. In veterans with a blunted morning cortisol response, service dog placement could help boost their morning cortisol response.”

These findings point to a link between a service dog’s impact and physiological relief. When cortisol spikes, it can derail a person’s entire day, plunging them into waves of anxiety and panic. A service dog’s constant care helps regulate a veteran’s circadian rhythm, and therefore, their stress response system. This care could take the form of waking someone from a PTSD-related nightmare or simply grounding them during a panic attack.

Evolved Care

Both the cortisol awakening response study and the 2024 landmark study suggest that service dogs might be the missing link between medical and holistic care. PTSD prevents people from engaging in normal activities. This limitation is particularly evident in social engagement and participation. The 2024 NIH study, in particular, found that service dogs acted as a sort of social lubricant mixed with security guard. They allowed veterans to feel safe in unfamiliar environments and provided a social link to others.

Despite the multiple benefits of service dogs, there are still limitations to what these animals can accomplish when it comes to treating veterans with PTSD.

Geared But Grounded

Researchers have been careful to highlight the limitations of their results. They stress the fact that, while service dogs considerably reduce PTSD symptoms in veterans, they do not provide a “cure.” Symptoms indeed become more manageable for patients, but the underlying disorder remains. Much like a prosthetic limb, service dogs improve a patient’s function without providing a complete fix.

The 2024 NIH study also found that while service dogs greatly improve the wellbeing of veterans, veterans’ partners or family members don’t necessarily benefit from having a professional care dog in the house. Furthermore, the burden of caring for a dog affects patients differently. The food, exercise, and grooming requirements for a service dog may simply be too much for certain individuals, leading to even more stress. Additionally, because a canine companion makes the patient’s disability visible to the wider public, a service dog can lead to unwanted attention and questions.

The post What the Newest Research Reveals About Veterans with PTSD and Service Dogs appeared first on A-Z Animals.

I first read Lulu Miller’s Why Fish Don’t Exist in 2024. Interspersed with her personal exploration of finding purpose, Miller describes the story of David Starr Jordan, who named and described over 2,000 fish species (an estimated 20% of known species at the time). What captivated me most was how complex the biological category of “fish” truly is. Miller explained the fascinating biology of fish, including, for example, that lungfish are more closely related to humans than to salmon! In an effort to learn more about fish evolution, I studied everything fish-related I could find: how bony fish are the evolutionary ancestors of nearly all vertebrates, how ray-finned fish are ancestors to 99% of fish today, and how lobe-finned fish are precursors to tetrapods like amphibians, reptiles, birds, and humans.

Despite everything I learned, I still had questions: What did fish look like before the ray-finned and lobe-finned split? Were ancient fish distinct from one another? Did they share some of the same characteristics we still see in fish today? In 2026, a team from the Chinese Academy of Sciences’ Institute of Vertebrate Paleontology and Paleoanthropology (IVPP) published research on two bony fish fossils they discovered in South China. One fossil, named Eosteus chongqingensis, is the oldest near-complete, articulated bony fish fossil ever discovered. This rare find is revealing a host of new information regarding evolutionary change.

The History of Fish

Although some scientists argue that bony fishes diverged into ray-finned and lobe-finned fish during the late Silurian period, the general consensus is that the divergence occurred during the early Devonian period between approximately 419 and 339 million years ago. In fact, the Devonian period is sometimes called the “Age of Fish.”

Ray-finned fish, part of the superclass Actinopterygii, have thin, webbed fins stretched across bony spines. They make up a vast majority of fish in today’s world, accounting for 30,000+ species. If you’ve heard of catfish, sturgeon, or tuna, then you know of at least one ray-finned fish. Lobe-finned fish like coelacanths, in the Sarcopterygii superclass, have fleshier fins. There are also significantly fewer lobe-finned fish in existence than ray-finned fish.

Before this split occurred, bony fish were known as osteichthyans. Although scientists still use this term today, osteichthyans now also comprises tetrapods in addition to bony fish.

A better understanding of ancient osteichthyans could reveal how this common ancestor laid the foundation for animal life to evolve. The problem is that the fossil record has been relatively incomplete. As the IVPP authors point out in their first published study, “Osteichthyans…dominate modern vertebrate biodiversity, yet their pre-Devonian fossil record remains scarce and fragmentary.”

In other words, nearly all the fossils we’ve found came from the Devonian period. This is probably because animals in the Silurian period had softer bodies. Since soft tissues aren’t preserved as well as shells or bones, softer-bodied creatures are less frequently found in the fossil record. That’s not to say that soft-bodied animals can’t fossilize, just that fossilization is less likely.

What is Eosteus chongqingensis?

Although only uncovered in 2019, the Chongqing Lagerstätte, a fossil site in China, has become well-known for its well-preserved fish fossils. In the past, fossils discovered in the area include a shark-like cartilaginous fish called Shenacanthus vermiformis that had large, armored chest plates and Xiushanosteus mirabilis, an armored jawed fish.

E. chongqingensis was found in the same area. Because this tiny fish measured just 3 cm (around 1.2 inches) in length, it was definitely not one of the apex predators of its time. The fossil dates back to 436 million years ago, predating other fossils and microfossils of its kind.

Researchers noticed that E. chongqingensis had a mix of different traits, including:

• A generalized bony fish body, but with no bony fin rays
• Caudal fulcra, ossified (rigid/stiff) spines or scales on the tail fin
• A single dorsal fin on the back
• An anal fin spine normally found in placoderms (ancient armored fish like the Dunkleosteus) and cartilaginous fish

Essentially, E. chongqingensis has multiple evolutionary traits that we now see have been sorted into separate lineages. More importantly, scientists noted that traits associated with bony fish, like the dorsal fin and body shape, emerged earlier than they once thought.

The authors note, “Bayesian inference and the 50% majority rule consensus of the maximum-parsimony analysis place the new fish on the osteichthyan stem, whereas the strict consensus leaves its position unresolved.” In less scientific language, they’re saying that some analyses place E. chongqingensis as a relative right before bony fishes emerged. However, this isn’t fully proven.

Another Discovery

IVPP researchers also identified the head and trunk bones of another Silurian-period fish known as Megamastax amblyodus, which lived about 423 million years ago. They found M. amblyodus fossils in Qujing, a city located in China’s Yunnan province. Unlike E. chongqingensis, M. amblyodus was sizable. At one meter long, or around 3.3 feet, it was the largest Silurian vertebrate from that geological time period. This likely means M. amblyodus was an apex predator.

In the past, researchers found fragmentary M. amblyodus fossils. While this provided a general overview of the fish’s existence and rough size, there were still many questions about this creature. Researchers initially believed M. amblyodus might be a lobe-finned fish.

After nearly ten years, the authors, who published their findings in Nature, found the right advanced imaging and 3D reconstruction techniques to use M. amblyodus‘ articulated head and trunk material to learn more about its anatomy.

Megamastax amblyodus had a unique anatomy. First, the researchers found that its main blood vessels were likely arranged more similarly to those of cartilaginous fish. M. amblyodus also had more ancient anatomical features like a large front upper jawbone. But, perhaps most interestingly, Megamastax amblyodus actually showed more features of early bony fish, including:

• Extrascapular bones, or small bones in the neck area/behind the head
• Evidence of tooth reabsorption and replacement
• Two rows of cushion-like teeth sitting on blunt, individual bases

The Importance of the Teeth

M. amblyodus‘ teeth are important because they show what early bony fish dentition looked like. According to the research team, “Phylogenetic analysis places Megamastax within the osteichthyan stem, near the osteichthyan crown-group node.” In other words, M. amblyodus was a near-direct precursor to the earliest stages of bony fish evolution.

But the teeth also solved a scientific mystery. For decades, scientists in Europe’s Baltic region have been finding well-preserved tooth plates in Silurian rocks. It’s now clear that those were not isolated fossils, but part of M. amblyodus‘ jaw. Additionally, these fossils show how widespread osteichthyans were during the Silurian period.

The post 436-Million-Year-Old Fish Fossil Rewrites the Story of How Vertebrates Evolved appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Human-grade dog food has become a go-to for many dog owners. In a desire to give their dogs nutritional meals, owners have sidelined kibble and treats in favor of prepared human food. Unfortunately, dog owners can inadvertently include inappropriate ingredients in their dog’s food or give improper treats. These three toxic foods are often overlooked and routinely send dogs to the vet. When these foods are consumed, dogs can become sick and, without care, gravely ill.

Top Three Toxic Foods Sending Dogs to the Vet

Dog owners want to give their four-legged friends the best life possible. This begins with nutrition. Natural foods are a good place to start, as they are chock-full of vitamins and minerals. But according to Dr. Sara Ochoa, a California-based veterinarian with more than a decade of experience, not all foods are created equal.

“Based on clinical experience,” Dr. Ochoa explains to A-Z Animals, “chocolate, grapes, and onions/garlic are indeed among the most common foods that bring dogs to the vet due to their toxic nature.”

Because dogs have a different digestive system from humans, they metabolize food and any toxins in food differently. The top three offenders and their toxins include:

• Chocolate: Theobromine and caffeine, which affect the nervous system and heart
• Grapes: Unknown toxic compound leads to kidney failure
• Onion and garlic: Thiosulfates leading to hemolytic anemia

These foods should never be given to dogs. Even in small amounts, they can cause serious damage, some of which can be long-lasting.

Are There Surprising Foods Causing Unwanted Vet Appointments?

For many, the consumption of chocolate, garlic/onions, and grapes resulting in vet visits may not be surprising. However, these are not the only human foods that are toxic to dogs. There are others that can be problematic and should be avoided.

“Other surprising foods like macadamia nuts and certain artificial sweeteners, like xylitol, can also be harmful,” Dr. Ochoa explains to A-Z Animals. “Xylitol is increasingly common because it’s used as a sugar substitute in many “sugar-free” products, like gum and baked goods. It’s highly toxic to dogs, causing rapid insulin release, which can lead to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) and even liver failure.”

Additionally, Dr. Ochoa says that alcohol and avocados are also toxic to dogs.

Because these ingredients can easily be hidden in foods with preservatives or baked goods, it is important to always read labels before feeding a dog human food. Doing so will keep dogs from inadvertently consuming problematic foods and from dealing with the harmful side effects of doing so.

Signs and Symptoms of Dogs Consuming Toxic Foods

If a dog has consumed a toxic food, signs will appear relatively quickly. Many times, this can take anywhere from minutes to 24 hours after digestion.

Some of the most common signs that a toxic food has been ingested include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lethargy
• Loss of appetite
• Seizures
• Abdominal pain
• Tremors
• Coma
• Death

It is not an exaggeration to say that foods listed as toxic to dogs are indeed toxic. According to Dr. Ochoa, these symptoms warrant “veterinary care immediately” when they present.

Fortunately, in many instances, recovery is possible if care is sought at the first signs of illness. Dr. Ochoa says that if a small amount of toxic food is ingested, dogs may begin to feel better within a few days.

“For recovery, if a dog has ingested a small amount and is showing mild symptoms, they might start to feel better within a day or two with supportive care,” Dr. Ochoa states. “However, always consult with a vet to ensure the best care for your pet.”

Human Foods Safe for Dogs

While chocolate, grapes, onions, macadamia nuts, and anything with xylitol in it is off limits for dogs, does that mean dogs should never have human food? The answer is no. A variety of human foods are dog friendly; these foods are not only healthy but can also be better alternatives to dog treats.

“Feeding dogs natural human foods in moderation can be safe, but it’s important to know which foods are safe and which aren’t,” Dr. Ochoa tells A-Z Animals. “Many fruits and vegetables, like carrots and apples, are generally safe and can be beneficial.”

Some examples of human foods dogs can enjoy include:

• Apples
• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Watermelon
• Strawberries
• Cantaloupe
• Carrots
• Green peas
• Pumpkin
• Celery
• Cooked chicken
• Cooked turkey
• Cooked eggs
• Cooked lean beef
• Plain rice
• Plain oatmeal

Peanut butter is also a pup favorite. However, some brands include xylitol in their recipe. To ensure dogs are not inadvertently consuming the sweetener, read labels first!

While dogs can enjoy some human foods, it is always important to remember to give them only in moderation. Additionally, incorporate new foods slowly into their diet to prevent upset stomach, which can happen with an abrupt change in food.

Smaller Dogs Versus Larger Dogs Consuming Toxic Foods

If your dog accidentally gets into toxic foods, size matters in terms of amount consumed.

“The size of a dog can influence how they react to toxic foods,” Dr. Ochoa states. “Larger dogs may be able to tolerate a small amount of a toxic substance better than smaller dogs, simply because of their body mass. However, it’s important to remember that any amount of a toxic food can be harmful, regardless of size.”

This does not mean a “wait-and-see” approach should be taken if a dog is known to have eaten a toxic food. Instead, they should be taken to the vet for immediate care to mitigate any internal damage.

Do Dogs Need Some Human Food to Be Resistant to Stomach Issues?

One school of thought states that dogs need human food to support their resistance to stomach issues. However, according to Dr. Ochoa, this idea should be reconsidered.

“The idea that feeding dogs human food can make them more resilient to dietary indiscretions isn’t entirely accurate,” Dr. Ochoa explains. “Dogs have different digestive systems, and sudden changes in diet can lead to stomach issues. It’s best to stick to a balanced dog diet and use safe human foods as occasional treats.”

While allowing dogs to have human food here and there is not harmful, it is important to know which foods benefit, and which cause harm. If you have any questions, contact your local veterinarian for guidance on safely incorporating human food into your dog’s diet.

The post These are the Top 3 Foods That Routinely Send Dogs to the Vet appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Cats and people have lived together for thousands of years, but not every place rolls out the welcome mat for kitties. In some communities, free‑roaming felines cause serious trouble for native wildlife, especially ground‑nesting birds and small island species. Some towns have decided that cats must follow strict rules. It raises the question: how can we love our pets and still act as good neighbors to the wild animals around us?

Why Some Places Crack Down on Cats

Domestic cats may look cute and harmless, but they are highly effective predators that kill birds, small mammals, and reptiles when allowed to roam outdoors. Research shows that free-roaming felines have driven dozens of species to extinction and threaten many more. Ground-nesting birds are especially vulnerable because their eggs and chicks are exposed. This is particularly true for island species that evolved without predators. Such animals often freeze instead of fleeing, making them easy targets for hunting cats. When predatory animals enter these ecosystems, wildlife populations can decline rapidly.

New Zealand’s Battle Between Cats and Birds

New Zealand highlights this conflict clearly. With almost no native land mammals besides bats, its wildlife evolved without predators. Introduced cats quickly preyed on vulnerable species like flightless birds, lizards, and insects. Studies have linked feral cats to declines in endangered shorebirds and rare skinks. To protect the critically endangered kākāpō, conservationists relocated remaining birds to predator-free offshore islands with strict biosecurity.

Icelandic Towns with Curfews and Bans

New Zealand is not alone in rethinking pet policies; several towns in Iceland have adopted curfews or outdoor bans. In Akureyri, cats are not allowed outside at night, while nearby Húsavík requires pets to stay indoors entirely. Scientists note that Iceland’s wildlife evolved with few land predators, making seabirds especially vulnerable to predators. On offshore islands, felines have harmed colonies of burrow-nesting seabirds like Manx shearwaters and storm petrels.

European Laws That Favor Wildlife

Across the European Union, legal scholars argue that free-roaming pets may violate wildlife protection laws. EU rules require countries to prevent deliberate harm to protected animals, including native birds, and court decisions interpret “deliberate” to include knowingly accepting likely harm. Allowing domestic animals to roam where they may hunt wildlife can fit this definition. As a result, indoor-only pets or secure outdoor enclosures may become more common across Europe.

Restrictions in American Towns

In the United States, animal regulations are usually set by local animal control codes rather than national law. Many communities enforce “at-large” rules requiring pets to stay on their owner’s property or under control. Aurora, Colorado combines licensing, rabies vaccination, restraint rules, and spay or neuter requirements. Other towns limit how many cats a household can have or require outdoor animals to wear identification. Conservation groups say these laws help protect songbirds and ground-nesting species, especially when paired with education so owners understand the high stakes.

Our Cat and Wildlife Expert

We turned for additional insight to Kristiina Wilson, a certified cat behaviorist and owner of Cattitude Adjustment in New York City. She holds a master’s degree in animal behavior and conservation and has over 20 years of experience with domestic cats, including fostering feral cats. Her background also includes wildlife work, such as assisting injured birds at the Wild Bird Fund, supporting the NYC Parks Department raptor scouting project, and working with cheetahs through the Cheetah Conservation Fund.

Why Cats Are So Deadly

Wilson explains, “Cats have innate and hardwired hunting instincts that don’t just go away because they live indoors with us, or because we supply them with food. Cats are obligate carnivores (meaning they must eat meat to survive) and unowned or feral cats may spend between 10-12 hours a day working on getting food. Owned/housed cats who go outside will still hunt *recreationally* as their predator drive is so strong, but often just for 2-3 hours a day. However, that’s more than enough time for a serious impact on their local ecosystem. Cats are the leading human-associated cause of bird mortality, with ground nesting and fledgling birds at the most risk. Reptiles, amphibians, mice, voles, and chipmunks are also at risk.”

Bad for the Ecosystem, Bad for Cats

As a cat lover, Wilson is concerned not just for the wild ecosystem, but for the pets themselves.

“Allowing cats to roam free is as bad for them as it is for the ecosystem that surrounds them!” she asserts. “Cats who roam outside are at risk of attack from larger animals (cats are predators but also prey) such a coyotes, bobcats, bears, raccoons, etc., death from car strikes, poisonings, injuries, infectious disease etc. In my opinion spay/neutering should be required by law in every state. Doing so would help control populations of feral cats as well as help stop needless suffering of cats/kittens AND local wildlife from predation.”

Alternatives for Cat Owners

For cat owners who regret depriving their animal of freedom, Wilson suggests these alternatives: “Cat owners should use alternatives to simply opening a door and letting their cats wander randomly, such as catios and walking WITH their cat on a harness and a leash! Harm reduction methods include using Birds Be Safe collars on your cat, placing bird feeders high up and with baffles on them, etc.”

Beyond those outdoor precautions, Wilson emphasizes that indoors can become a much more enjoyable environment for our pets with a little forethought:

“Simulating hunting inside your home is amazing enrichment for your cat! I love to set up a bird feeding station right outside a window (as long as birds are safe from any outdoor cats who may prey on them), and pair that with a puzzle feeder that is shaped like a mouse. This way cats can watch the birds and STALK their prey and then pounce on and eat the “prey” puzzle feeder. Playing with your cats for at least 20 minutes a day (with a wand toy or similar, to really get them running and jumping with something they can catch) is also great. Lastly, make them an enrichment box! Fill a large cardboard box with crinkly paper, catnip, a stick from outside, some treats and toys and let them hunt for all the fun new things they can find!”

Protecting All Species

The communities that place limits on cats aren’t rejecting felines so much as they are expressing concern for birds and other small animals. Cats are simply doing what they evolved to do, at times in environments that have not evolved to withstand them. Thanks to curfews, containment laws, or simple changes at home, loving cats and protecting wildlife no longer have to be opposing goals. They simply require more intentional choices from communities and pet owners themselves.

The post The Growing Movement to Restrict Free-Roaming Cats appeared first on A-Z Animals.

After a busy day of work and errands, you finally relax at night, and the house feels calm and quiet. Then you hear scratching in the wall beside you. That small sound can signal a hidden mouse problem. And it’s a problem that can grow exponentially, as mice reproduce at an extraordinary pace. Learning how to notice an infestation early and knowing who to call helps protect your health, your home, and your budget.

Asking a Professional

We reached out for expert advice on this topic to Joel Miller, owner of Miller Pest Solutions, a company that serves Nebraska, Kansas, and Missouri. He has personally handled thousands of rodent jobs over his 19 years in the industry.

How to Tell If You Have Mice in Your Walls

Miller tells us that, “usually, the first thing people notice is the scratching. You’ll hear it at night because mice are nocturnal. It sounds like something scrambling around inside the wall, and it’s louder than you’d expect from something that small. After that, start looking for droppings. Mouse droppings are small, dark, about the size of a grain of rice. Check along your baseboards, under sinks, and in the back of cabinets. If there’s a decent population going, you’ll also start to smell it. Mouse urine has this strong musky ammonia smell, especially in tight spaces like pantries and closets. And pay attention to your dogs and cats. I can’t tell you how many calls I’ve gotten where the homeowner says, ‘my dog won’t stop staring at this one spot on the wall.’ Nine times out of ten, there’s mice back there.”

Dangers of Ignoring Mice in Your Walls

It can be easy to ignore a bit of scratching and put it off as a problem to think about later. That choice can bring serious health risks into your home. Mouse droppings, urine, and saliva can carry harmful bacteria and viruses that can contaminate food, counters, and dishes. Dust from dried droppings can spread disease when disturbed. Mice can also trigger asthma and allergies, especially in kids and people with breathing issues.

Mice cause hidden damage to your home as well. They chew on electrical wires to wear down their teeth, raising the risk of shorts and house fires. They shred insulation for nesting, which can create drafts and raise your power bills. And they also chew wood, drywall, and stored belongings, ruining boxes, clothing, and keepsakes.

Why Not Just Set Your Own Mouse Traps?

A lot of people respond to this problem by setting their own mouse traps. Miller explains why this may or may not work:

“If you catch one mouse in the garage with a snap trap, you’re probably fine. But here’s what I tell people. By the time you’re hearing them in multiple rooms or finding droppings in your kitchen regularly, you’re not dealing with one mouse. A single female can have up to 60 babies a year, and those babies can start breeding at six weeks old. It happens fast. The traps you buy at the hardware store will catch a few, but they’re not going to solve the problem if mice keep coming in through the same holes. That’s where we come in. We find every gap they’re using to get inside, and we seal it up with materials they can’t chew through. That’s really the difference.”

Professionals understand mouse behavior and common hiding spots, and their knowledge and experience helps them assess just how bad your infestation is. Professional services also bring tools and training that most homeowners lack. They know how to place traps safely around kids and pets. They also know how to tell mice from rats or squirrels. This matters because different pests require different strategies.

What the Pros Do During an Inspection

We asked Miller to walk us through exactly what happens when an exterminator comes to a home. “When we show up,” he says, “the first thing we do is a full inspection of the property, inside and out. We’re looking at the foundation, the roofline, utility penetrations, etc. We want to figure out where they’re getting in, and how bad it is. After that we set up snap traps and bait stations along the paths the mice are actually using. We don’t just throw traps in random spots. Every placement is based on what we found during the inspection. Then comes the most important part, which is exclusion. We go around and seal every single gap and opening the mice are using to get into the house. We use copper mesh and commercial-grade sealants. Stuff they absolutely cannot chew through. Then we come back for follow-up visits to check the traps, make sure the population is gone, and make sure our seal work is holding up. The whole point is to fix the problem for good, not just kill a few mice and hope for the best.”

But Do You Have to Kill It…?

Miller says he gets asked a lot about humane ways to remove mice without killing them. He explains, “The problem with catch and release is it doesn’t really work. Mice have a strong homing instinct so if you release them within a mile or so, they’ll find their way back. And if you take them far enough away, they usually don’t survive. They don’t know where to find food or shelter, and they get picked off by predators pretty quick. So, it’s not as humane as people think.”

“Honestly the most humane option is a snap trap. It’s instant. The mouse doesn’t suffer. Glue traps on the other hand… I’m not a fan of those. The mouse is stuck there panicking for hours. And poison takes days to work. So, if someone asks me what’s the most humane approach, I say snap traps for the ones that are already in your house, and seal up your entry points so no more get in.”

Keeping Mice Out for Good

Of course, wouldn’t it be great never to have mice in your home in the first place? Miller gives this guidance for homeowners to prevent initial infestations or repeat infestations after paying for an exterminator:

“Seal your house up. That’s the big one. People don’t realize a mouse can fit through a gap the size of a dime. Go around your foundation, check where your pipes and wires come through the walls, look at your dryer vent, your garage door seal, and anywhere the roofline meets the soffit. Stuff those gaps with copper mesh or steel wool and then caulk over it. Mice can’t chew through that. Inside, keep your food in sealed containers, don’t leave pet food sitting out overnight, and make sure your trash cans have tight lids. Outside, move your woodpile away from the house, trim back any bushes or branches touching the foundation, and honestly, I’d get rid of the bird feeder if you can. Those are mouse magnets. The best time to button everything up is September, early October, before it gets cold. That’s when they start looking for a warm place to spend the winter.”

Prevention and Action

The bottom line is basic prevention, and if this doesn’t work, decisive action. Sealing up entry points and establishing good habits like proper food storage will make your home less welcoming to mice. And if they do get in, deal with the problem decisively before the situation gets out of hand.

The post Mice in the Walls? Here’s How to Evict Them for Good appeared first on A-Z Animals.

When flames and smoke fill a home or barn, animals often panic due to fear. They hide, bolt, or fight against people trying to help them. Firefighters are trained to understand that fear; they learn how to work safely around animals while protecting people first. When every second counts, clear thinking and calm handling can save animal and human lives.

What the Fire Marshal Says

For experienced insight into this issue, we interviewed Randall Johnson, the Deputy Director/Fire Marshal for Campbell County, Virginia. Randall oversees the daily operations and administration of the fire division, coordinating eight volunteer fire departments in the county. He is also in charge of code enforcement and fire investigations.

What To Do Before an Emergency

Protecting your animals in the event of a fire starts with planning. Johnson recommends, “Put a pet alert sticker on the door closest to where the animals are in the house and another on the window of the room they will most likely be in. This will help the firefighters save time looking for your pet.” This is also important for firefighter safety, as a large dog could see firefighters as a threat and try to defend against them.

Fire safety experts also recommend keeping collars on pets at home whenever possible. Keep leashes, pet carriers, and muzzles beside main exits so they are easy to grab during escape. You should also include pets in family fire drills, so they learn the escape routine. Practice calling them from the yard with a firm, calm voice and reward them for coming to you.

Get Out and Stay Out

During family fire drills, prioritize getting out of the home without stopping to look for pets, and never reenter a burning building to rescue an animal. This is especially important to emphasize with children. Johnson explains why:

“Due to the fuels present in a modern home—i.e. more synthetic and less natural material—fire grows much more rapidly. Back when more natural materials were present in our homes we had 15-17 minutes to escape a house fire. With today’s fuels we have 3-5 minutes. There is no time for pets with this tight time frame. And going back in almost always results in a human fatality due to the rapidly changing conditions. One breath of those hot gasses can overcome someone.”

Think of it this way: you are the person who best knows your pet, where it might be, and how to call it so it responds. You need to get that vital information outside to the firefighters who have the gear and the training to navigate a smoky, burning house. So, the safest plan is to get out, stay out, tell firefighters about your animal, and call your pet to come to you from the safety of the yard.

Do Firefighters Enter Burning Homes to Save Animals?

Fire departments teach that human life always comes first. That rule stays firm, even when families beg rescuers to save pets. Standard guidelines say firefighters cannot delay rescuing people or controlling the fire to search for animals. After priority objectives are met, further action depends on the circumstances. Johnson explains:

“Nothing while fighting a fire is absolute. A lot of factors have to be examined upon arrival: the fire conditions, the percent of the home that is burning, whether or not the roof has collapsed, and whether there is a possibility of human victims. Most animal saves are made while firefighters are searching for human victims or for the source of the fire. A specific search for animals comes after protecting human life and controlling the fire, in the priority list.”

Once crews confirm no people are trapped and interior conditions appear relatively safe, many departments allow pet searches during regular sweeps. Firefighters may call for animals and check likely hiding places, such as beds and closets. But in dangerous rooms, they move quickly and grab animals as they pass instead of lingering to coax them out. The fire department may contact animal control officers to help with loose or aggressive animals outside the structure.

Training for Animal Behavior in Emergencies

In some departments, firefighter training includes specific lessons about animal behavior during emergencies. For example, Johnson says that the volunteer firefighters in his department learn that “most animals escape or hide during stressful situations. If they have a safe place they normally hide in the home, there is a good chance they will go there during a fire.”

Some departmental training programs cover things like how fear and pain can cause even gentle pets to be reactive. Instructors teach calm, low voices and slow, clear movements near frightened animals. Crews also learn safe restraint using leads, towels, or leashes. Many departments partner with veterinarians, animal welfare groups, or animal control officers for additional training.

Handling Pets During and After Rescue

When firefighters find a dog or cat in a smoky home, they keep it restrained. They can treat smoke inhalation and injuries until owners, veterinarians, or animal control officers take over care. Some departments carry animal first‑aid kits with basic bandages and soft muzzles, but this varies greatly region-to-region. “We have oxygen masks for dogs and cats,” Johnson says, “The best we can do is give oxygen therapy and urge the owner to get the animal attention from an emergency vet.” Even if a pet looks normal after a fire, owners should seek veterinary care quickly. Some smoke injuries appear hours after the event.

Large Animal Rescue Training

Rescuing horses, cattle, or other livestock requires very different skills and tools. Johnson explains: “To rescue livestock from fires, it’s a matter of getting there in time to open doors and gates so the animals can self-rescue. But if we’re talking about horses that have fallen into pools, mud holes, etc., there are large animal rescue classes some firefighters attend to learn specific skills to safely lift large livestock.”

In these types of courses, firefighters learn about kick zones, crush dangers, and the strength of panicked animals. They practice using wide webbing straps, slings, and rescue glides to move heavy animals without damaging the spine or internal organs. They also coordinate with veterinarians, farriers, and livestock handlers who help decide when rescue is safe or too risky.

Working Together to Protect Animals

Animal safety during fires depends on teamwork. Families should prepare ahead of time through informational stickers, fire drills, and clear priorities about evacuating and not going back for pets. Firefighters will follow their training in the correct priorities to save human life first but will do their best to rescue and treat pets in the process. Emergency vets are the go-to for any treatment beyond oxygen therapy and temporary first aid. Clear plans, calm handling, and respect for the speed and deadliness of fire can improve the odds of survival, for both people and their pets.

The post How Firefighters Are Trained to Handle Pets During Fires appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Between 1996-2013, retrieving your golf ball from the lake at the Carbrook Golf Club, southeast of Brisbane, was more hazardous than you might think. Lurking in the 1,250-foot water were a group of juvenile bull sharks! We investigate how the sharks got there, how they survived away from the sea, and why they disappeared.

Bull Sharks in a Golf Club Pond

The bull sharks (Carcharhinus leucas) were first noticed in the pond in 1996. They were frequently visible and even became the golf club’s mascots. In the five years leading up to 1996, three serious floods had occurred in the area. The club is directly adjacent to the Logan and Albert Rivers, which overflowed and inundated the surrounding floodplain. 

Bull sharks prefer salt water, though they’re also known to thrive in brackish water. However, as their time in the golf course lake shows, they tolerate fresh water very well. They can be spotted in rivers all over the world, but usually, their adventures into freshwater are temporary. The bull sharks at Carbrook were likely washed into the lake due to river flooding and got stuck there as the waters receded.

Adapting to Life on the Golf Course

This story shows that bull sharks can adapt to life in freshwater if they have to. But what about food? Scientists think that they likely ate fish that had also been washed into the small lake during flooding events, such as flathead grey mullet (Mugil cephalus), Indo-Pacific tarpon (Megalops cyprinoides), mangrove red snapper (Lutjanus argentimaculatus), and yellowfin bream (Acanthopagrus australis).

While freshwater is not their ideal habitat, one factor actually helped the juvenile bull sharks thrive in this golf course lake: their natural predators, tiger sharks and sandbar sharks, were absent.

Shark Disappearance

The bull sharks have not been seen in the lake since 2013. We know that at least one perished as its carcass was recovered by golf course staff. However, scientists suspect that at least some of the others may have escaped during another flood in 2013.

Nevertheless, they still hold the prize for the longest known example of bull sharks continuously inhabiting a low-salinity environment. 

The post The Australian Golf Course Lake That Was Home to Bull Sharks for Years appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Birds are true wonders of nature, often flaunting bright colors or striking wings. But these animals are fascinating to observe for more than just their gorgeous features; they can also be unintentionally hilarious. The sandhill crane engages in a courtship dance, which involves hopping around and bobbing up and down. An Instagram post by @kojobirder shows the comedic mating ritual. Read on to learn more about this bird’s dance.

Sandhill Crane Courtship Dance

The video above is a great look at the sandhill cranes‘ courtship dance. While it may seem simple, the routine involves a number of different moves. A typical dance starts with the cranes leaping several feet into the air and flapping their wings. They then bow their heads toward each other, bobbing and turning as they do so. They may also sprint short distances and call loudly. One especially groovy move involves throwing sticks or grass into the air. These combined movements create an intricate dance which they use to prove their worth to a potential mate. While these dances are most common during the spring mating season, sandhill cranes can be seen dancing year-round for socialization and to reinforce pair bonds. It’s a fascinating display that young cranes learn to imitate as they grow older.

Why Dance?

The dance is the first step of courtship for sandhill cranes. Birds use dances to attract mates by showing off their strength, coordination, and energy. Since their overall fitness is on display to the birds around them, it’s important to get the dance right. After finding a partner, sandhill cranes often mate for life, but this doesn’t mean they are done performing. They may still dance, as the act helps reinforce their bond over time, and cranes understand the importance of keeping their connection strong. While this courtship dance is primarily reserved for mating season, it can be seen year-round. Like any aspiring dancers, young cranes need to practice their moves to ensure they are fit for mating when the time comes. Dancing year-round also helps with socialization and group bonding. This truly impressive dance is an essential part of the life of the sandhill crane.

The post The Sandhill Crane’s Comic Courtship Dance appeared first on A-Z Animals.

In the animal kingdom, relationships are often driven by survival and the chance to pass on their DNA. However, some species stand out for forming strong, lasting bonds with a single partner. While true lifelong monogamy is rare, many animals develop long-term relationships that can span multiple breeding seasons or even most of their lives. These special partnerships help certain animals raise offspring, defend territory, and improve their chances of survival in challenging environments.

These animals remind us that cooperation and consistency can be powerful evolutionary strategies. From birds that reunite year after year to mammals that form bond for decades, a tendency to return to the same partner reveals a fascinating level of social connection in the wild. Let’s take a closer look at the species known for forming these enduring relationships.

Social vs Sexual Monogamy

There are two types of monogamy:

• Social monogamy describes the living arrangement of an animal. It can include living in the same territory, raising young together, and joining forces to obtain resources.
• Sexual/genetic monogamy describes two species individuals that only reproduce with each other.

While humans think of monogamy as both a relationship with one other individual and a long-term commitment, the animal world doesn’t place time limits on monogamous ties. Some animal monogamous relationships last for a lifetime, while others only last for a mating season.

1. Gray Wolves

Leading the pack of monogamous animals is the gray wolf. This interesting mammal species bestows breeding rights on the alpha pair during mating season. Studies show these wolves bond for life, but after the death of one mate, the surviving partner will find a new mate quickly. In the wild, it’s exceedingly rare to find an unpaired gray wolf female.

2. Lovebirds

These birds come by their name honestly. Experts and scientists found that lovebirds not only feed each other and snuggle into their partner at night as a form of connection, but they also exhibit “erratic” behavior after separation. During periods apart, or if their mate dies, the remaining lovebird shows signs of stress or behavioral changes.

3. Eurasian Beavers

Similar to gray wolves, only one adult pair of Eurasian beavers breeds in a colony in a single season. The Eurasian beaver practices both social and genetic monogamy for several mating seasons, if not their entire lives. Conversely, the North American beaver is only socially monogamous.

4. Gibbons

The anthropoid ape, the gibbon, tends to mate for life. Like the dik-dik (mentioned below), the gibbon male may pursue a secondary sexual partner. However, they bond to the primary partner, practicing social monogamy, and partake in a complex song-courting ritual. They even reinforce their bond by grooming each other.

5. Atlantic Puffins

Experts and scientists widely believe that puffins mate for life. Puffins are generally socially monogamous and often return to the same mate each breeding season, though extra-pair mating can occur. Puffins migrate during the year, leaving the nest for winter and spending that season alone. During the spring, however, puffin couples reunite with each other and nest.

6. Shingleback Lizards

Monogamy in reptiles is rarely seen and seldom researched. However, the shingleback lizard has provided enough evidence for scientists to believe they form short-term social and genetic monogamous relationships. Native to Australia, shingleback lizards, otherwise known as sleepy lizards, will choose partners during the September to November mating season and live as a pair. They tend to re-form these pairings year after year, spending the mating season together before venturing out for the rest of the year on their own.

7. Sandhill Cranes

Ornithologists have a variety of species to study for monogamous relationships, one of which is the sandhill crane. Researchers describe these long-legged birds as “perennially monogamous,” which means the birds re-couple every year but do not spend their lives together. If one mate dies, cannot be found, or has chosen to leave, the remaining crane will find another mate after a “separation” period.

8. Seahorses

Based on research, seahorses practice genetic monogamy but social polyamory. The closely related pipefish take multiple mates, but some seahorse species exhibit temporary or seasonal monogamy, often pairing with the same partner during a breeding cycle.

9. Barn Owl

Another avian love story is the barn owl. Flashy and performative in their courting, barn owls will demonstrate calls, chase females, and “pretend fight” to prove their worth. Once coupled, barn owls remain genetically monogamous for the rest of their lives. Should one partner pass away, the other will likely find a new mate.

10. Black Vultures

The ominous-looking black vulture may be a harbinger of death, but this bird still finds plenty of love. Scientists believe vultures mate for life, practicing genetic monogamy with their partner, and choose to spend more of their time with their families than other solitary individuals of the species. Vultures create a “happy family” of sorts, with juveniles maintaining contact with their parents even after they leave the nest, through foraging in social groups and attempting to return to the nest.

11. Dik-diks

Though only a bit of research exists on dik-dik relationships, the strange-looking mammal appears to be socially monogamous, with the females of the species being genetically monogamous as well. Experts found that males, on the other hand, pursued options for extra-pair copulation (OPC) partners when the opportunity presented itself. However, in OPC relationships, the “father” figure does not offer his paternal help. His priority is his mate, and the secondary partner simply continues his genetic line.

12. Albatrosses

Albatrosses are well known for forming long-term pair bonds, often returning to the same mate year after year. These birds are socially monogamous and engage in elaborate courtship displays that help reinforce their connection over time. However, genetic studies have shown that extra-pair mating does occur, meaning they are not strictly genetically monogamous.

13. Scarlet Macaw

Scarlet macaws typically form long-term pair bonds, though they are not strictly genetically monogamous. They flock together in a larger group and sleep together for safety, so they’re not strictly socially monogamous.

14. Geese

Geese (and closely related swans) are monogamous birds. Specifically, the barnacle goose, the Canada goose, and the snow goose all choose one mate for life and remain steadfastly loyal. Research even shows that geese will stay with their partner in dangerous situations if one becomes injured or sick.

15. Pigeons

Pigeons practice both social and genetic monogamy. Unlike some of the other species on the list, the pigeon is slow to accept a new mate if their original one dies. Pigeons take an active role in dividing the parental responsibilities in their relationship; males gather resources and protect the nest, while females tend to the clutch.

16. Bald Eagle

The cartwheel display of the regal bald eagle remains one of the most interesting coupling behaviors in nature. This iconic bird species mates for life, practicing social and genetic monogamy. However, if their mate dies, they will find another. These solitary birds migrate alone most of the year but return to the same nest during the breeding season.

17. California Condors

Once these birds reach sexual maturity around six years old, they choose a mate to stay with for multiple years or life, depending on their region and needs. The pairs hunt for nest options together during their courtship, with the female ultimately selecting the nesting site.

The post 17 Animals That Form Long-Term Monogamous Bonds in the Wild appeared first on A-Z Animals.

With its curly coat and sturdy build, the Mangalitsa pig looks like a cross between a sheep and a wild boar. This striking appearance has fueled fascination among chefs and farmers, but it has also led to several widespread myths.

Depending on where you look, the Mangalitsa (also spelled Mangalica) is described as a wild boar hybrid, a disease-proof “super pig,” or a nearly extinct miracle breed whose fat is somehow cholesterol-free. According to Barbara Meyer zu Altenschildesche of Royal Mangalitsa — expert breeder, importer, and the driving force behind the Mangalitsa Breed Organization and Registry (MBOAR) — nearly all of these claims are wrong.

“People tell convincing stories, and sure, you hear these, and it’s a great story,” Barbara says. “I tell you a story, you tell somebody the story, and they tell somebody the story. After it’s told so many times, it’s a whole different story.”

Barbara has dedicated years to correcting those narratives. Working alongside her husband, Wilhelm Kohl, she travels across the globe educating others on the breed. Her focus is rigorous: baseline DNA testing, lineage verification, and a comprehensive genetic herd book system to protect the breed’s long-term genetic health in the United States.

For Barbara, preservation begins with accuracy, and that means separating romantic myth from historical and scientific fact.

Not a Wild Boar Cross

One of the most persistent myths is that the Mangalitsa is a direct wild boar hybrid; it is not.

The breed was intentionally developed in the early 1800s within the Austro-Hungarian Empire by crossing established domestic pigs (including the Bakony and Szalonta) with the Serbian Šumadija. While very distant ancestors may trace back centuries (even as far back as 900 AD), that does not make the modern Mangalitsa a wild cross.

“That would be like saying a modern dog is a wolf hybrid because wolves are somewhere in its ancestry,” Barbara explains. “It’s historically meaningless at this point.”

Another misconception centers on striped piglets. In the United States, people often point to stripes as proof of “wild blood.” In reality, striping appears occasionally in several domestic pig breeds and is not required in official Austrian or Hungarian Mangalitsa breed standards. A purebred litter may include piglets with boldly striped coats, faintly marked coats, or no stripes at all.

Three Colors, One Complex Breed

Mangalitsas are categorized into three color varieties: Blonde, Red, and Swallow-belly. In Hungary, these populations were historically managed almost like separate breeds, each maintained with genetic depth.

“You have the original animals back in Hungary in the Hungarian Breed Book,” Barbara explains. “You have the Swallow-Belly, the Red, and the Blonde, and they are all unrelated when they are Pure Color.”

In Europe, these three color lines are preserved independently. In the United States, however, things are different. The American population began with only a handful of imported pigs. When breeders attempted to keep colors strictly separate, the gene pool became dangerously small. This resulted in reduced litter sizes and structural weaknesses.

Because of this, old European stereotypes — such as “Reds are meatier” or “Blondes carry more fat” — no longer reliably apply to Mangalitsas in the U.S. Today, quality depends on individual genetics, not coat color.

As a result, American Mangalitsas are less visually uniform than their European counterparts. Some pigs are curlier than others, and some shed more seasonally. Others do not lose their coats at all and remain fluffy year-round. Appearance alone cannot verify purity. “You can’t say, ‘Oh, it looks like a Mangalitsa, so it is a Mangalitsa,'” Barbara emphasizes. “It doesn’t work like that.”

Only documented lineage and genetic testing can do that, which is precisely why herd books matter.

Built for Fat, Not Fashion

To understand the Mangalitsa, you must understand its origins in 19th-century Central Europe. Before refrigeration, olive oil was scarce and butter was expensive. Fat wasn’t indulgent; it was essential. It was a vital resource — not just for cooking and baking, but for making soap, lubricating machinery, preserving meat, and powering laborers with the high-calorie energy they needed to work and survive. During this time, pigs were an indispensable source of the fat required to power and sustain a home.

The most valuable pig, then, was the one that produced the most lard. The Mangalitsa was specifically bred to meet that need.

In 1833, Archduke Joseph Anton helped establish the Mangalitsa breed by crossbreeding Serbian pigs with local Hungarian pigs, including the Bakonyi and Szalontai. Historical records and auction photos from the 1800s show pigs shaped like giant barrels, with tiny legs, small faces, and enormous fat reserves. In that world, meat was secondary; fat was king.

“The main reason why this breed became so popular,” Barbara says, “was that the pigs could put on fat faster and better than the others.”

But the 20th century changed everything.

The invention of refrigeration reduced the need for lard to preserve meat. Margarine marketing reframed animal fats as unhealthy and old-fashioned. Industrial agriculture prioritized “modern” pig breeds — lean, fast-growing pigs that produce large litters and can live in confined spaces.

Essentially, the Mangalitsa was the exact opposite of what the new agricultural industry wanted. Slow-growing, intelligent, fat-heavy, and unsuited to confinement, the Mangalitsa became economically obsolete. By the late 20th century, the breed had nearly disappeared, surviving mostly on small rural farms in Eastern Europe.

Saved by the Ham

As adorable as these curly-coated pigs are, the Mangalitsa wasn’t saved by sentimentality; it was revived because of its ham.

“It was not because the pig was so cute; it was because they wanted the ham,” Barbara explains. “It has to have a market. Without a market, there is no reproduction.”

In the early 1990s, Spanish producers searching for alternatives to Iberico ham discovered Hungarian pork legs remarkably similar in fat quality and structure. After a lengthy search and testing multiple breeds, they identified the Mangalitsa as the mystery pig behind the tasty meat.

A small number of pigs were purchased from a Hungarian facility for export to Spain, a transaction that likely contributed to the myth that only 200 Mangalitsas remained. In reality, several still survived on small, rural farms, though many were undocumented by official records.

The renewed demand for high-end cured ham reignited Mangalitsa breeding programs across Hungary, Austria, and Serbia. The breed survived not because it was cute, but because its fat produced extraordinary ham.

The American Challenge

Bringing Mangalitsas to the United States was far more complicated than importing typical livestock. Because pigs carry a high risk of disease, they must undergo lengthy quarantines and are very expensive to transport.

The first imports arrived in the U.S. in 2007, when Heath Putnam brought the Swallow-Bellied variety over from Austria. This was followed in 2010 by Wilhelm Kohl’s import of Blondes from Austria. In 2011, Auburn University arranged a small import from Austria, for scientific research on obesity.

The Red variety made its debut in the States in 2014, an effort spearheaded by Barbara, who also oversaw a simultaneous import of Blondes. Both colors in the 2014 import were of Hungarian genetics. In 2016, Wilhelm oversaw the final arrival of Red and Swallow-Bellies, while Barbara coordinated the export of these combined (Hungarian/ Austrian/ Serbian) genetics sourced from the Netherlands.

Because so few pigs formed the original U.S. population, today’s American Mangalitsas descend from a narrow founder group. That limited base still shapes the breed’s variability and fuels exaggerated claims about size, temperament, and growth.

Barbara frequently sees videos portraying massive, aggressive boars that “never stop growing”, a drama she says couldn’t be further from the truth. “People tell convincing stories,” she says. “That doesn’t make them true.”

In reality, the Mangalitsa is neither a monster hog nor a miracle pig. It is a traditional lard pig whose value depends on careful breeding, management, and honesty.

What Makes the Mangalitsa So Special

When purebred and properly raised, Mangalitsas produce fat with an unusually low melting point. “It is soft like butter on your counter,” Barbara explains. “When you put it on your hands, it melts like oil.”

This low melting point makes the fat incredible for cooking; it performs beautifully at high frying temperatures and is naturally resistant to burning. “When they are pure of breed — not when they are a cross — they have a very high frying point, so you can fry potatoes, you can fry popcorn. It doesn’t burn, it doesn’t get black.”

However, Barbara warns that this seemingly “magic’ quality is not exclusive to Mangalitsas. Similar high-quality fat is found in other heritage breeds with European roots, such as the Iberico and Ossabaw, provided they are raised in similar conditions. While genetics provide the potential, the pig’s environment, diet, age, and activity level determine the final quality.

Beyond the Frying Pan

If you think pig fat is just good for frying eggs, think again.

Across Central and Eastern Europe, seasoned Mangalitsa lard is spread thinly on bread and eaten like fine charcuterie. But the real magic is the texture: it’s softer and cleaner than butter, melting the moment it hits your mouth without leaving a greasy residue.

For Barbara, the fat’s versatility is what makes the breed truly extraordinary. “The meat is great,” she says. “But the fat is the most beautiful thing. You can make everything with it.”

In her own kitchen, that means far more than roasted potatoes. She uses it as a base for chocolate mousse and even a homemade Nutella-style spread. Because the fat is clean, neutral, and smooth, it adapts easily to sweet applications, something modern consumers rarely associate with pig lard.

Its benefits and usefulness extend beyond food. Properly rendered Mangalitsa fat can be turned into gentle, hypoallergenic soap perfect for sensitive skin or even a baby’s bathwater.

The Myth of the “Miracle Pig”

The high-quality fat of the Mangalitsa also contributes to the marbling that many compare to Wagyu Beef. However, while Mangalitsa meat is indeed tastier — and healthier — than that of many modern breeds, this isn’t due to some magical genetic trait; again, it’s about the environment and how the pigs are raised.

Contrary to popular marketing claims, Mangalitsas are not cholesterol-free “miracle pigs.” As Barbara puts it, “An animal that has fat always has cholesterol.” It is also a myth that the breed contains three times more Omega-3s and 6s than other pigs, despite what some sellers suggest.

As Barbara explains, these animals spend their lives outdoors in the sun and are harvested at a much older age. Meat quality is a direct reflection of lifestyle: any animal that lives a longer, more active life outdoors will produce healthier meat than one raised in a confined, industrial setting.

Another common myth is that Mangalitsas are so resilient that they are immune to illness, a claim Barbara dismisses as “nonsense.” She compares the pig’s durability to the difference between a tractor and a Lamborghini: a tractor is built for tough conditions, but it isn’t indestructible. “The Mangalitsa is a hardy breed,” she notes. “But in a major outbreak, they get sick just like any other pig.”

This means that proper shelter and balanced nutrition are not optional. As Barbara puts it, “They aren’t the ‘Superman’ of pigs; they are normal pigs, and you still have to take care of them.”

The Challenging Humidity of the United States

Appropriate husbandry is especially important for Mangalitsas raised in the United States. Provided their wooly coats remain dry and healthy, these fluffy pigs can withstand temperatures as low as 15 degrees Celsius (5 degrees Fahrenheit).

However, Mangalitsas struggle significantly with the heat and humidity of North American summers. While they can tolerate dry heat up to 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), high humidity can be lethal; it prevents the pigs from effectively regulating their core temperature, putting them at serious risk.

The Reality of Raising Mangalitsa Pigs

Despite the romantic appeal of raising Mangalitsa pigs, most American breeders quit the practice after only a few years due to economics.

Mangalitsas take 18 to 24 months to mature. They require secure fencing, quality feed, and often long-distance transport to slaughter facilities. The novelty of the breed often wears off once customers see the pigs’ small loins and fat-heavy chops come with a premium price tag. “It’s a niche market with a lot of challenges,” Barbara says. “The economics just don’t balance for most people.”

She envisions a more sustainable future for the breed in America. Rather than every small farmer struggling to manage their own breeding stock — which demands year-round feed, separate fencing, and social management — Barbara advocates for a collaborative model: dedicated breeders focus on genetics and herd books, while homesteaders purchase feeder pigs annually rather than maintaining breeding stock themselves.

Preservation of the Mangalitsa in America, she argues, requires collaboration, not competition.

A Mission Rooted in Accuracy

Barbara’s journey began not as a business venture, but out of frustration. A graphic designer by trade, she hit a wall while researching the breed. “I tried to read as much as I could,” she recalls, “but I was so frustrated that there really was nothing to find.” To fix this, she built the resources herself, interviewing breeders and translating the information in German, English, and Dutch. By building international networks, she ensured that everyone, from scientists and butchers to everyday enthusiasts, could find reliable, research-based information.

She also played a pivotal role in establishing official herd books to protect genetic integrity. “Maintaining a herd book is absolutely vital,” she explains. “It allows us to make the best breeding combinations.”

Her work, driven by passion rather than profit, is ultimately about safeguarding the breed’s identity.

Knowledge as Preservation

For Barbara, success isn’t about personal fame; it is about ensuring the Mangalitsa remains a healthy, authentic breed for future generations. This requires a radical commitment to shared knowledge. “It does the breed no good for a few people to have knowledge and keep it for themselves,” she says. “If that knowledge dies with me, it’s a tragedy.”

Ultimately, Barbara believes preservation is rooted in education. “I can teach you how to identify a purebred animal,” she says. “As soon as you know that you can teach somebody else, too. That is what I want.” By stripping away the romanticized “miracle pig” myths, Barbara reveals a more grounded truth: not a novelty, but a living piece of history.

In an era of exaggerated marketing, looking past the hype and understanding the breed’s past and present realities is what will ensure its survival for generations to come.

The post The Mangalitsa Comeback Story, From Near-Extinction to Trendy Menus appeared first on A-Z Animals.

The state of your teeth can reveal a lot about your overall health. A mouth full of infected gums and rotting teeth is often indicative of larger, systemic health issues that can lead to an early grave without adequate intervention. And when it comes to oral health, dogs are no different. While many pet owners focus on dramatic health trends like expensive supplements or customized diet plans, veterinarians often point to a much simpler, yet far too often overlooked, pet habit: consistent, high-quality dental care. Perfect keto diets and ergonomic doggy beds may offer some benefits, but adequate dental care remains a critical indicator of overall health.

The mouth of any animal is like a highway system that leads to the rest of its body. Neglected teeth and gums routinely lead to health problems. In fact, the accumulation of plaque and tartar leads to periodontal disease, which is the most common health problem in dogs. An estimated 80% of dogs suffer from this disease by age three. And while these issues often lead to bad doggy breath, they also point to larger issues like chronic inflammation, kidney damage, and even heart disease. Let’s learn more about why good dental care is the one habit vets say can help dogs live longer lives.

Full Body Roadmap

The highly vascularized environment of a dog’s mouth is like a roadmap to the rest of its body. The mouth is one of the thinnest barriers in a dog’s body between the external world and the bloodstream. When plaque and tartar sit on teeth for too long, they grow considerable amounts of bacteria. If left undisturbed for extended periods, these bacterial colonies cause periodontal disease, which creates microscopic ulcers in gum tissue.

This creates a sort of miniature but potent open wound. If periodontal disease is present, the simple acts of chewing on a toy or crunching on dry food can force bacteria into the bloodstream. These pathogens travel throughout the dog’s body, lodging in delicate but vital areas like heart valves, the kidneys, and the liver. Studies have shown that dogs suffering from advanced periodontal disease are at increased risk for systemic health issues, including changes in organs such as the heart, kidneys, and liver. For these reasons, brushing your dog’s teeth every day is important.

Dogs and Inflammation

Science has gained a better understanding of just how damaging low-grade but persistent inflammation can be to health. Dogs, in particular, are susceptible to the consequences of inflammation more than other creatures. A canine immune system is made to fight off temporary threats, but it is no match for low-grade, long-term infections like periodontal disease. This dental disease keeps a dog’s body in chronic systemic inflammation, a process that accelerates widespread cell and tissue aging. In turn, a dog’s immune system must divert resources away from other important tasks like repairing DNA damage or destroying potential cancer cells.

Organizations concerned with dog wellbeing, like the Morris Animal Foundation, suggest that reducing a dog’s inflammatory load is one of the surefire ways to extend their healthspan (the period of life spent in good health). A dog’s immune system is always busy putting out fires and vanquishing potential threats. Daily dental care helps lower the overall burden on the immune system, promoting healthier living and longer lifespans.

Regularizing Routine

Understanding the importance of daily doggy dental care is simple but actually getting a toothbrush in your dog’s mouth and brushing their teeth every day is a more complicated matter. Regular dog dental care can often amount to a battle of wills; the friction this daily practice causes may seem to overshadow its long-term health benefits. It’s important to remember that, while the first few sessions may be a headache, your dog will get used to daily brushings overtime.

To help you remember this new daily practice, vets recommend integrating your dog’s dental care routine into your own. Place your dog’s toothbrush and toothpaste right next to your own and take care of their teeth the moment you finish yours. This practice is called habit stacking; since brushing your own teeth is likely already a well-ingrained habit, you can more easily add this extra brushing session right into your regular schedule.

There are several other tips and tricks for daily dog dental care integration. For one, try to find a meat or poultry-flavored enzymatic toothpaste and give it to them as a treat first. This shifts their perception of its eventual use as a toothpaste; they will then see tooth brushing as more of a reward than a chore. It is also recommended to start with a silicone finger brush, which provides a better tactile feel and more comfort for dogs.

Even if the toothpaste is flavored, always follow a cleaning session with a specific reward to cement positive reinforcement. Though it can seem time consuming to brush your dog’s teeth daily, remember that just 30 to 45 seconds of upper cheek teeth brushing is enough to disrupt biofilm and prevent systemic disease. Additionally, brushing twice a week is better than brushing zero times a week, so focus on consistency over perfection.

Brushing your dog’s teeth may seem like a hassle, but it can easily become a habit after just a few weeks. When you consider that such dental care can significantly extend your pet’s lifespan, the unglamorous activity seems much more doable.

The post The One Habit Vets Say Can Help Dogs Live Longer appeared first on A-Z Animals.

New Zealand was once a quiet world ruled almost entirely by birds. For millions of years, the islands had no native land mammals besides bats. Without foxes, weasels, or wild cats, birds faced little danger on the ground. Nesting in trees offered few extra benefits in that environment. Over time, many species safely built nests on the forest floor or in burrows, which explains today’s unusual number of ground‑nesting birds.

An Island World Without Land Predators

New Zealand split from the ancient supercontinent Gondwana about 80 to 85 million years ago and drifted away as part of Zealandia. Because it separated so early, large land mammals never reached the islands, leaving birds to fill roles usually held by mammals. With no ground predators, many birds evolved weaker wings, heavier bodies, and ground-nesting habits.

Evolution’s Push Toward Ground Nesting

Natural selection rewards traits that help animals survive and reproduce. In New Zealand, heavier birds rarely flew, putting more energy into strong legs, digging, and large eggs. Ground nests also stayed stable and hidden under roots, rocks, or tussocks. Parents reached chicks easily without risky flights through forest canopies. Over many generations, birds with ground‑nesting habits passed on their genes. Their descendants still show those traits today, even in the presence of new dangers. Here are some of New Zealand’s iconic ground-nesters.

Kiwi

Kiwi are small, round, flightless birds that roam forests at night, using long bills to probe for worms and insects. They nest in burrows or hollow logs on the ground and lay unusually large eggs, producing chicks that hatch well developed and quickly begin walking and feeding.

Kākāpō

The kākāpō is a giant, nocturnal, flightless parrot that nests in burrows, rock crevices, or cavities among tree roots. With one of the most unusual mating systems among birds, kākāpō males gather at display grounds called leks and produce deep booming calls to attract females. The remaining 235-250 members of the species have been moved to offshore islands where no predators exist.

Takahē

Takahē are large, colorful, flightless rails that build nests in dense alpine grasslands. They feed mainly on tough grasses, using strong beaks to strip and chew plant material in a way few other birds can.

Weka

Weka are bold, curious birds known for their opportunistic feeding habits. They eat insects, fruit, small animals, and even scavenge human items, giving them a reputation for being clever and sometimes mischievous.

When Humans and Mammals Arrived

Human arrival changed everything for these trusting birds. Polynesian settlers brought the kiore, or Polynesian rat, which ate eggs. Later European settlers released ship rats, stoats, ferrets, and cats. These new hunters searched by scent and moved easily at night. Ground nests sat exactly where such mammals hunted most often. Many birds did not recognize the newcomers as serious threats and reacted by freezing in place, rather than running away. Populations dropped quickly as chicks, eggs, and adult birds fell prey to the newcomers.

Predator‑Free Islands and a Future for Ground‑Nesting Birds

To protect these birds, New Zealand now builds predator‑free sanctuaries. On many offshore islands, conservation teams remove rats, stoats, and cats. They then move kiwi, kākāpō, takahē, and other vulnerable species there. Within these refuges, ground nests again stay mostly safe on the forest floor. Visiting these locations feels like stepping back in time to an era before the country was inhabited by mammalian predators. Bird watchers can hear kiwi calls, see takahē graze, and observe seabirds emerge. With enough support, these sanctuary islands offer ground‑nesting birds a real future.

The post 80 Million Years On The Ground Made These Birds Stop Flying appeared first on A-Z Animals.

On April 6, 2026, passengers at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport were delayed by a swarm of honeybees in a very inconvenient place: an American Airlines jet turbine. Beekeepers and ground crews carefully boxed up and relocated the insects before the plane left the gate. Why did this occur? And what would have happened if no one had noticed the insects?

Not Really a Hive, But a Swarm

The cluster on the airplane looked like a hive, but it was actually a honeybee swarm. When a large colony splits, the old queen leaves with thousands of workers to form a new home. The bees gather on a solid surface, forming a tight cluster around the queen while scouts search for a permanent site. Though it looks like a hive, a swarm lacks a comb and stored food and is only temporary, usually existing a few hours to a couple of days before moving on.

Why Bees Picked an Airplane

Big airports give bees lots of open space to cross while searching for new homes. When a swarm needs a quick rest, they may land on the first solid object, like a pole, cart, or airplane wing. In Houston in May 2023, bees once covered a Delta jet’s winglet, delaying departure for about three hours. Similar cases have seen bees on cockpit glass, cargo doors, and engines. Experts say this is normal swarming, not aggression, since bees focus on protecting their queen and are usually calm after filling up on honey.

How Common Are Bee–Airplane Encounters?

Bee swarms on planes grab headlines but are rare at major airports, which handle thousands of flights daily. Incidents mostly occur in spring and summer, when colonies split and send out swarms. Some airports use managed hives and swarm traps to attract bees before they land on aircraft. Airport staff treat them as occasional but manageable disruptions.

Can Bees Cause a Plane Crash?

Bees are very unlikely to cause a plane crash. Modern aircraft engines can handle small debris, so a swarm would be blown away or destroyed once engines started. Despite this, airlines treat large bee swarms as safety concerns. The main risks are on the ground, where bees can distract or sting workers or briefly cover surfaces, leading to delays. That is why crews remove swarms before takeoff, but once a plane is airborne, bees pose virtually no threat.

What If the Bees Had Not Been Removed?

If crews started the engines, strong suction and hot exhaust would quickly blow them away or kill them. Since modern engines can handle insects without major issues, the bigger concern is ground crews being stung or distracted. Removing the swarm protects workers and spares many bees from harm.

Could Bees Get Inside the Plane?

Passengers often worry swarms could get into the cabin, but that is unlikely. During boarding, only the doors and jet bridge connect to the interior, and engines sit far from those areas. Once doors close, the plane is sealed and pressurized, making it hard for insects to enter. Any bees that do slip in are usually spotted and removed. Overall, swarms pose zero issues for passengers.

Sharing The Skies with Bees

The sight of a buzzing mass of bees on a jet engine makes modern air travel feel strangely wild. Yet the Charlotte swarm shows how honeybee behavior and airport planning can come together to protect both people and pollinators. As airports add pollinator‑friendly habitats and enforce clear routines for handling swarms, they keep planes operating consistently while offering bees safer options.

The post Why These Bees Made a Hive in an Airplane appeared first on A-Z Animals.

If you’re obsessed with ocean animals, you might just be a future marine biologist or aquarist. Both careers revolve around aquatic life, but they play very different roles in understanding and caring for the underwater world. Knowing how they compare can help you choose a path that best fits your strengths, lifestyle, and idea of a marine focused “dream job”.

Marine Biologists: Ocean Scientists

Marine biologists are scientists who study aquatic animals, plants, and microscopic life. They work everywhere from tide pools to the deep sea. Some also study estuarine or freshwater organisms. They ask big questions about how species interact, how pollution or climate change affects them, and what we can do to protect entire ecosystems, not just individual animals. A marine biologist might spend part of the year on research ships collecting samples. They often spend the rest in the lab or office analyzing data and writing up results. Many specialize in topics like coral reef health, whale behavior, fish populations, or harmful algal blooms that can threaten coasts and fisheries.

Marine biologists need at least a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, biology, or a related field. Some entry-level technician roles accept an undergraduate degree without graduate study. However, many graduates pursue master’s degrees or PhDs so they can lead research projects or teach at universities. Their college work is heavy on chemistry, physics, statistics, and advanced biology. They often complete research internships or field courses on coasts and research vessels.

Aquarists: Hands‑On Animal Care Specialists

Aquarists care for the fish, sharks, corals, and other animals living in public aquariums, zoos, and marine centers. Their days revolve around feeding animals, checking water quality, cleaning exhibits, maintaining pumps and filters, and watching for any signs of stress or illness. Aquarists also help create realistic habitats with rocks, sand, and plants. They often dive into large tanks to scrub windows or rearrange structures. Aquarists may give talks, answer questions, or assist during public feeding demonstrations.

Aquarists also usually have a bachelor’s degree in marine biology, zoology, or a similar subject. However, you can get some positions with an associate degree and strong experience, as employers put huge weight on hands‑on experience. Volunteer or internship hours at aquariums, scuba certifications, and comfort working in and around water can be just as important as grades for landing that first aquarist position.

In His Own Words: A Marine Biologist

Scott Mayback is the Resident Marine Biologist at Gaya Island Resort in Sabah, Malaysia. He oversees the Gaya Island Resort Marine Centre. This is Malaysia’s first turtle rehabilitation center. Scott leads initiatives in sea turtle rescue, coral propagation, and marine habitat restoration. His work balances active conservation and community education, teaching sustainable interactions with fragile reef ecosystems.

Scott says, “My passion for this career began while working in aquariums, where preserving sea life transitioned from an interest into a vocation. The specific opportunity to move to Borneo—a globally recognized biodiversity hotspot—was a life-changing decision I made 16 years ago, driven by the chance to work hands-on with conservation rather than just observing from afar. My education and early experience in aquarium management provided the scientific foundation, but the real learning has come from over a decade of direct field work, from rescuing endangered sea turtles to propagating coral reefs.”

A Typical Day

Here’s how Scott describes a typical day on his job: “My role is a dynamic mix of veterinary care, ecological restoration, and public education. A typical day could start with a health check on sea turtles in our rehabilitation centre, followed by leading a coral planting session where guests help propagate and replant species onto our house reef. We also constantly monitor the marine park for bleaching events or injured wildlife and dedicate significant time to educating guests on how to enjoy the reef without damaging it—ensuring they understand the ‘why’ behind our conservation actions.”

How does that compare to the role of an aquarist? An aquarist’s routine rotates around the daily needs of captive animals, not free-ocean work. It might include early‑morning water tests, preparing different diets in a fish kitchen, diving into tanks to clean and inspect, and administering treatments or enrichment. Because animals still need care on weekends, holidays, and during storms, aquarists often work rotating schedules. They may have to respond quickly to equipment failures or medical emergencies.

“Covid” the Turtle: A Memorable Success

Scott shared this deeply moving high point in his career: “The most fulfilling moment by far was releasing a Green Sea Turtle named Covid in 2024. Covid was found in May 2020 at the start of the worldwide pandemic, floating helplessly with a cracked shell from a boat strike, a neck tumour, and two paralysed rear flippers. We used acupuncture – something rarely tried on sea turtles – alongside weight therapy to retrain its buoyancy. After nearly four years of rehabilitation, Covid swam free with a GPS tracker attached to its shell. Watching that turtle disappear beneath the waves was not just a release; it was proof that patience and unconventional care can beat the odds.”

A Heavy Drawback

“Aspiring marine biologists must be prepared to witness the devastating impact of climate change firsthand,” cautions Scott. “We recently experienced the worst coral bleaching event in the Marine Park’s history, which is a sad reality most reefs face today. The work is physically demanding, often takes place in remote locations far from home, and the constant fight against pollution and rising sea temperatures can be emotionally taxing. You have to be resilient and accept that despite your best efforts, you are often fighting against global issues much larger than one person or team.”

How Does an Aquarist Compare?

Although an aquarist typically will not spend as much or any time out on the ocean with wild creatures, they still work at times with rescued animals like “Covid” the turtle. Some of these animals are unable to be released into the wild because of the nature of their injuries. Nevertheless, they can still live a full, healthy life in captivity with professional care.

Aquarists interact with the public more directly than marine biologists. This can include answering visitor questions, assisting educators, and helping design exhibits that inspire people to care about the ocean. Some find that seeing a child’s face light up during a close encounter with a shark or a visitor learn how climate change affects sea life are rewarding parts of the job.

What about drawbacks? Aquarists work in controlled indoor environments but still face significant physical demands. This can include hauling buckets and climbing ladders, carrying scuba tanks, and scrubbing large viewing windows while underwater. Many aquarists emphasize the need for good overall fitness and a strong comfort level in the water. Animal care and life‑support maintenance don’t stop for human fatigue.

Career Outlook and Pay

In the United States, marine biologists are usually counted within the broader category of zoologists and wildlife biologists. This group had a median annual wage of about $72,860 in 2024. Employment of zoologists and wildlife biologists is projected to grow 2 percent from 2024 to 2034, which is slower than the average for all occupations.

Aquarists are often classified under animal caretakers or zoo workers, not always zoologists. Entry‑level roles often start at modest salaries. These jobs can offer chances to advance into senior aquarist, curator, or exhibit‑manager positions. For both careers, gaining experience through internships and networking with professionals can make a big difference when applying for full‑time jobs.

Charting Your Own Course

Ultimately, there is no single “right” way to work with the ocean and its marine residents, and many people move between roles in research, aquariums, education, and conservation over the course of their careers. Whether you picture yourself tagging sharks hundreds of miles offshore or gently feeding rays in a public touch tank, both marine biologists and aquarists play vital roles in protecting the seas and the creatures that live there. By understanding how the two paths differ and listening to the experiences of people who have chosen each one, you can start mapping out a future that makes sense for your talents, values, and love of marine life.

The post What’s the Difference Between a Marine Biologist and an Aquarist? appeared first on A-Z Animals.

The idea of a “kid-friendly” dog is appealing, especially for families seeking a calm companion for their children. But what makes a pup “kid friendly” is quite complex. A dog’s ability to live safely and comfortably with kids depends on temperament, training, supervision, and the behavior of the children themselves. Health organizations consistently warn that any dog can bite under the wrong circumstances, particularly when stressed or startled. Understanding what truly makes an animal safe around children helps families avoid assumptions and create a healthier environment for both pets and people.

The Myth of the “Kid-Friendly” Dog

Many people believe certain dogs are naturally safe for children, but this isn’t consistently true. An animal that behaves well with one child may react differently to another, especially if that child is younger, louder, or less predictable. Instead of labeling dogs as safe or unsafe, it is more accurate to think in terms of conditions. Canines respond to stress, noise, and handling. When conditions exceed their comfort level, even a gentle animal may react defensively. This means safety depends on a combination of the animal’s temperament, the child’s behavior, and the level of adult supervision.

Breed Temperament

When choosing a pet for a family with kids, temperament matters a great deal. Kid-friendly dogs are typically patient, gentle, and tolerant of noise and sudden movements. They tend to be affectionate and social rather than reactive, making them more forgiving around children. While breed can influence temperament, the more important factors affecting how dogs behave around kids are training, early socialization, and individual personality. Even typically easygoing canines need guidance and positive experiences to become reliable companions for children.

Children’s Age

Children interact with animals differently depending on their age. Babies and toddlers are unpredictable. They grab, crawl, and make sudden movements that can confuse or frighten a pet. Older children are more capable of following rules, such as approaching calmly and respecting the creature’s space. Each developmental stage introduces new challenges, so families must continuously reassess how the dog and child interact. What works for a school-age child may not be safe for a toddler.

Lifestyle Compatibility

A dog’s energy level should match the household’s lifestyle. High-energy breeds require significant exercise and mental stimulation. Without it, they may become restless, jump on children, or engage in rough play that can lead to accidental injury. Low-energy breeds may be better suited for quieter homes but might not tolerate constant activity. The goal is to find a balance where the animal’s needs align with the family’s routine.

Size and Physical Strength

Size alone does not determine whether a dog is safe for children. Large dogs can unintentionally knock over small children, while small dogs may feel threatened and react defensively when handled roughly. Strength is a factor, especially when it comes to managing the animal during walks or unexpected situations. Families should consider whether they can physically control the dog if needed and whether the dog can tolerate accidental bumps or clumsy handling.

Herding Behavior and Children

Some dogs, especially herding breeds like border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs, are naturally sensitive to movement and may try to “organize” active children by circling, nudging, or lightly nipping at heels. These behaviors are instinctive rather than aggressive, but they can be confusing for kids. With proper training, structure, and exercise, most families can learn to manage these instincts at home.

A Tolerant Dog? Experts Differ

Elisha Stynchula is a certified professional dog trainer and family dog mediator and owner of “I Said Sit!:” School for Dogs, Inc. in Los Angeles. Here’s her advice about what to look for in a family dog:

“When choosing a dog for a house with kids I think it is important to select a dog who is tolerant of mistakes. A dog that is not sensitive physically or mentally will be more stable and that will help things be more smooth. We also want a dog that is not too big or too small. The final consideration is energy level. Low to medium energy is going to fit best into the average family with kids.”

Ali Smith, Dog Trainer & Behavior Consultant at Rebarkable, takes a different view of tolerance as a criterion of a good family dog. In her words:

“Lots of people will say ‘tolerance’ here, but i dont think it should be tolerance. I think we should focus on a dog who is easy to read, communicates clearly and is easy to train. This distinction is really interesting because ‘tolerant’ can mean you’ll often allow the child to go too far with the dog. You might treat it as acceptable for a child to pull its tail, grab its ears and expect the dog to take it, when that’s not okay and no dog should be expected to take that. So to me, tolerance is a dangerous word in a quality people look for in family dogs.”

Consensus Best Breed for a Family Dog

Stynchula and Smith both recommend the cavalier King Charles spaniel as an excellent breed choice for families with small children:

Elisha says, “Currently, I am really loving a well-bred cavalier King Charles spaniel. They were bred to be companions, lapdogs if you will, and they would happily spend the afternoon getting petted. Another option, a little bigger, is the beagle. They tend to be very tolerant and as a pack dog they enjoy being in a family. They are trainable and can handle the busy activities of a family.”

Smith also chooses the King Charles for a family wanting a small dog: “Bred as a companion dog, these fluffy fidos are really pretty cute! As a family dog, they’re docile and passive. The big thing with these (as with little dogs generally) is to remind our kids that these aren’t toys. They can’t be cuddled without them being a willing participant, and resisting the urge to lift and carry them all the time is very important.”

Breeding Matters

Both of our experts stressed that whatever dog is chosen must be well bred. Taking golden retrievers as an example, Stynchula says, “I have to caution, make sure you get a good breeder, because there are a lot of poorly bred/backyard bred goldens out there and those dogs can have terrible genetics and behavior.”

Smith adds, “All these family dogs must be well bred (aka ethically or responsibly bred). A poor example of the breed is not one to set the standard.” She also cautions not to think a breed like a golden doodle will always be a good choice because it combines two favored family dog breeds: “the volume of low quality breeders in this space is really inhibitory to finding a ‘good dog.’ They do exist, they’re just harder to find.”

What About Shelter Dogs?

Smith shares that, “as a mother of a toddler, when I bring a new dog into our family, it will be purchased from an ethical breeder.” Why not get a shelter dog? To her, “unless the dog in the shelter is a well-documented surrender who has zero temperament issues etc., it’s important to remember that the majority of shelter dogs are not a ‘I can cure you with love’ situation, and could represent serious behavioral adjustments and training or medical costs, which are almost always exacerbated by children.”

Stynchula suggests a third option: “I think rescuing a dog from the shelter is great, but you are never guaranteed anything when you do that. Here in LA there are great rescues that have many of their dogs living in foster homes and that is the best way to adopt when you really can’t risk getting a dog that is the wrong fit. A foster parent will know the dog and be able to speak more about their personality and what they like and don’t like. That will really help ensure a dog that will tolerate living in a home with kids.”

If you do decide to go this route, make sure you carefully read the behavior assessments provided by the shelter, based on the animal’s known history and observations while it has been housed at the shelter. Multiple visits and supervised interactions with children can also provide a clearer picture of compatibility.

A Balanced Approach to Family Life with Dogs

Creating a safe and positive relationship between dogs and children requires thoughtful planning, consistent training, and active supervision. No dog is automatically “good with kids,” but many can thrive in family environments when their needs are understood and respected. By focusing on temperament, education, and ongoing care, families can build strong, lasting bonds that benefit both children and their canine companions.

The post What Makes a Dog “Good with Kids”? appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Many people believe that a certified emotional support animal is the same as a service dog. The confusion around these two distinct classes of trained animals abounds, and assuming the wrong information has real consequences for people with disabilities who depend on trained service animals to move through daily life. 

What makes a service dog, and what makes a support dog? To help clear up what the law has to say about both of these types of trained animals, we spoke with Teagan Coleman, founder, owner, and lead trainer at NLR Dog Training. Coleman has multiple degrees and certifications in service dog training, as well as ten years of animal behavior experience.

The ADA’s Definition of Service Animals

According to ADA.gov, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The work or task a dog has been trained to provide must be directly related to the person’s disability. 

However, the distinction between “performing a task” and “providing comfort” can easily cause confusion to those with emotional support animals. A dog that helps its owner navigate a crowded space, detect an oncoming seizure, retrieve dropped items, or interrupt a panic attack with a trained physical intervention counts as an animal performing a task. A dog whose presence simply makes someone feel calmer is not, regardless of how real or significant that comfort may be to a dog’s owner.

Coleman describes this task requirement in more detail. “The task has to be something the dog is actively doing in response to the disability, not simply being a source of human reassurance. A dog that has been trained to perform deep pressure therapy during a dissociative episode and a dog that happens to be calming to be around is very, very different.”

Additional Support Animal Categories People Confuse

There are additional categories of service or support animals that people often mistake for actual service animals. These include:

• Emotional Support Animals (ESAs): these dogs provide companionship and comfort to their owners, often as part of a mental health treatment plan. These animals are not considered service animals under the ADA because they have not been trained to perform a specific job or task. However, ESAs do have legal protections under the Fair Housing Act, which requires housing providers to make reasonable accommodations, but they do not carry any other rights or exceptions.
• Therapy dogs: these animals do not have public access rights under the ADA and are only allowed in facilities by invitation or agreement. They also serve people other than their owners, and their role is to complement traditional care facility or school treatments through supportive and calming interactions.

“I talk to and work with a lot of people who think all of these categories are the same thing, just with different paperwork and costs involved. But they’re genuinely different categories, with completely different laws and purposes.” Coleman notes.

The Two Questions Businesses Are Allowed to Ask About Service Dogs

Many business owners either allow any dog into their business without question, or they demand documentation they have no legal right to require. What can businesses actually ask the owner of a service animal, and what proof is legally required in these situations?

When it is not obvious what service an animal provides, staff may ask only two questions: (1) is the dog a service animal required because of a disability, and (2) what work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

Coleman adds to this point, given she has her own certified service animals. “No staff member can ask about a person’s disability, require medical documentation, require a special identification card or training documentation for the dog, or ask that the dog demonstrate its ability to perform the work or task. If you get too invasive as a business owner, it isn’t legal.”

What Other Myths Surround Service Dogs?

Despite this clear definition and examples, there are still plenty of misconceptions regarding service dogs and what rights their owners have when properly certified. Let’s dive into some of those now.

Does a service dog vest or ID card mean the dog is legally protected?

The ADA National Network confirms that organizations selling service animal certification or registration documents online do not convey any rights under the ADA, and the Department of Justice does not recognize them as proof that a dog is a service animal. Equally, a dog without a vest may be a fully legitimate service animal. The law requires neither.

Do service dogs have to be professionally trained?

In reality, service dogs do not have to have proof of professional training. People with disabilities have the right to train the dog themselves and are not required to use a professional service dog training program.

Does a doctor’s note make an animal a service animal?

No, a doctor’s letter does not turn an animal into a service animal automatically. A letter may be relevant for establishing ESA housing rights under the Fair Housing Act, but it carries no weight under the ADA’s specific service animal provisions.

Can businesses with “no pets” policies turn away service dogs?

This is often the number one issue that pops up: businesses and organizations that serve the public must allow people with disabilities to bring their service animals into all areas of the facility where customers are normally allowed to go, even if they have a “no pets” policy. They may ask the owner the above questions but cannot ask anything else.

Are allergies to dogs a valid reason to deny a service animal?

Owners or patrons with allergies to dogs, or individuals simply being afraid of them, are not valid reasons for denying access or refusing service to people using service animals.

Is a psychiatric service dog the same as an emotional support animal?

The ADA actually makes a distinction between psychiatric service animals and emotional support animals, something we discussed above. If a dog is trained to do a task to assist with a mental or emotional health issue, that makes it a service dog; otherwise, it is an emotional support dog. 

Can a service dog be asked to leave?

There are extremely rare cases in which a service dog is allowed to leave a business. A person with a disability cannot be asked to remove their service animal from the premises unless the dog is out of control and the handler does not take effective action to control it, or the dog is not housebroken. Plus, when there is a legitimate reason to ask that a service animal be removed, staff must offer the person with the disability the opportunity to obtain goods or services without the animal’s presence.

Service Dogs and Support Animals Are Not the Same

Understanding the actual rules between ESAs, therapy dogs, and service animals helps both businesses and the average person navigate these situations more fairly. It’s important to know the laws and distinctions, especially if you’re a business owner.

“The people who need service dogs are often already navigating a disability that makes daily life harder,” Coleman said. “The least we can do is make sure the rules that protect them are understood and followed.”

The post What Counts as a Service Dog? The ADA Rules Many Americans Still Get Wrong appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Of all the raptors on earth, eagles are one of the most impressive. With wingspans up to eight feet long and lithe, powerful bodies, they are kings of the sky. Any wild eagle commands respect, and it’s hard not to be in awe of their prowess when observing one. While their appearance and speed make them one of the world’s most interesting birds, their lore is even more mind-blowing.

They Engage in a Death Spiral to Mate

The death-defying mating ritual between male and female sets eagles apart from other raptors. To prove longevity and strength to their partner, eagles soar as high as their wings will take them. Then, they lock claws and fall into the infamous “death spiral.” The act is a test for each eagle to determine if they’re worthy of a lifelong partnership.

As they fall, sometimes for thousands of feet, they remain locked. Failure to disengage before hitting the ground is sometimes fatal for one or both eagles. However, if they survive, they have proved their devotion and endurance to their now-mate. This typically happens during mating season, but longtime mates also repeat this action throughout their lives.

Females Dominate Males In Size

Eagles have reverse sexual dimorphism, meaning females are larger than males. A female is roughly 25% larger, giving her significant leverage. This helps her defend the nest from predators and protect her territory. Since she spends more time in the nest than males, her buff appearance is an effective intimidation tactic.

The size of female eagles also helps during mating rituals. The larger and stronger the raptor, the more likely they’ll be chosen as a mate. The females’ extra mass is also better for egg incubation and egg-laying. Smaller males take on the role of hunting, which they excel at due to their agile bodies.

They’re Faster Than a Sports Car

Most sports cars are impressive at 180 miles per hour. But the golden eagle has that beat with a whopping 200 miles per hour dive speed. Their natural cruising speed is 28-32 miles per hour, which is still speedy for a bird.

In comparison, bald eagles have a cruising speed of 30-45 miles per hour. This is slightly slower than a car cruising down the highway. At their top speed, they can dive up to 100 miles per hour. The only thing that can slow this raptor down is recently-caught prey, and even then, they still clock approximately 30 miles per hour in the air.

Their Nests Are the Size of a Bus

A bald eagle nest is easy to spot due to its sheer size. These eagles have the largest nests of any other bird in North America, with most measuring 4 to 7 feet in length. They’re typically 3 to 6 feet high.

Unlike many other bird species, eagles reuse the same nest year after year. Its weight grows every time new material is added. Some bald eagle nests have been recorded weighing over 4,000 pounds and can be decades old.

The Oldest Eagle in History Lived Over 30 Years

Most bald eagles live 20 to 30 years in the wild. This is a long life for a raptor, but the oldest recorded bald eagle was close to 40 years old at the time of his death. Born in 1977, he was known by his identification code of 629-03142.

The eagle, who was 38 years old, tragically passed away in 2015 after being hit by a car in Henrietta, New York. This incredible bird may have lived even longer were it not for the accident. In captivity, some bald eagles can live 47 years, but it’s extremely rare.

A Common Pesticide Almost Wiped Them Out

Bald eagles have few natural enemies except for humans. From the 1940s through the 1970s, the species population declined drastically. Scientists discovered that a common pesticide, DDT, was responsible for the fatalities.

The chemical metabolite of DDT led to thinning of eggshells. Bald eagle hatchlings died before they had a chance to grow within the eggs. With no new hatchlings, bald eagles suffered a significant loss of their future generations.

Stealing Prey Is a Common Eagle Move

Eagles are opportunistic hunters, despite their fierce talons and wicked speed. They won’t hesitate to pick apart carrion or swoop in on vulnerable prey. While they do actively hunt, most prefer a meal that’s readily available to one that requires energy.

That means no method of finding food is off the table, including stealing from other animals. An eagle isn’t afraid to swoop in and steal a kill, which it usually successfully flies off with, thanks to those 100-mile-per-hour speeds.

The post What Makes Eagles Among Nature’s Greatest Birds appeared first on A-Z Animals.

No one wants to think about their healthy, vibrant pup growing old. However, your pet will hopefully one day reach a more advanced stage of life and knowing the proper way to care for your aging buddy can only help. The right senior dog care will provide comfort and improve your pet’s quality of life. From mobility support and gentle exercise to diet and mental enrichment, there are countless ways to ensure your pup feels their best as they age.

Here are six vet-approved ways to help an older dog feel young again:

1. Offer a Healthy, Balanced Diet

As with humans, a healthy diet is crucial when it comes to our pets. Senior dogs require a specialized meal plan that meets all their health needs and supports their longevity. 

“As dogs enter their senior years, their metabolic rate decreases, and their susceptibility to chronic conditions increases,” says Dr Bethany Hsia, DVM, and co-founder of CodaPet. “As a dog’s metabolism slows, calories must be monitored to prevent obesity.”

As Hsia points out, weight gain adds stress on the joints. To help your senior dog maintain a healthy weight, be sure to follow senior-specific diets with high-quality proteins.

“In addition, ensuring adequate water intake is equally vital, as older dogs may have a diminished thirst,” says Hsia. “They require constant access to fresh water.”

Dr. Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CCRT, CVA, CVC, founder of Optimum Pet Vitality, also warns against certain ingredients that can contribute to a host of health issues in dogs.

“Advanced Glycation End products (AGEs) are harmful compounds formed in food during high-heat, dry cooking (grilling, frying, roasting) of fat and protein-rich foods,” she says. “These ‘aging compounds’ contribute to inflammation, chronic disease, and skin and tendon aging. Feeding your dog nutritionally complete raw or gently cooked foods decreases inflammation, slows aging, and frequently helps your pet feel much younger and become more active.”

2. Add Stretching and Movement to Their Daily Routine

There’s nothing better than a good stretch, especially when it comes to senior dogs. McCauley recommends attempting “cookie stretches,” which involve using a treat to guide your dog’s movements. For example, you can lure your pup’s nose to their shoulder or hip, so they bend and stretch their muscles.

She also recommends endurance exercises like walks and runs, as well as muscle-strengthening movements. These exercises help “stabilize the joints, decrease the chance of injury, reduce arthritis-associated pain, decrease inflammation, and improve mobility.”

“Five minutes, one to two times a day, makes a world of difference to your pet,” she says. “Add it to your feeding routine to improve your human animal bond as an added bonus.”

The key is to incorporate regular, low-intensity exercises rather than high-intensity ones.

“While high-intensity activity may no longer be appropriate, physical activity remains essential for cardiovascular health,” Hsia says. “Pet owners should take their dogs on short, frequent walks versus one long, strenuous outing. Monitoring for signs of fatigue or pain, such as lagging behind, difficulty rising, or heavy panting, is important in order to adjust the length of physical exercise.”

4. Use Acoustic Therapy

A unique way to support your aging pup is through acoustic therapy, which uses sound waves to treat pain and other issues.

“Using sound and vibration can decrease stress, improve fascia extensibility (the fascia’s ability to stretch, improving joint range of motion), and decrease scar restrictions,” McCauley adds. “Using a high-quality tuning fork for both sound (relaxation) and contact for tissue effects improves mobility, decreases discomfort, and enhances quality of life.”

5. Provide Accommodations

Just as you would for an aging parent or relative, provide some in-home accommodations to support your pup through its senior years.

“Mobility is often the first indicator of declining quality of life in senior dogs,” Hsia says. “First of all, pet owners can provide orthopedic bedding to alleviate pressure points on arthritic joints and improve sleep quality.”

Additionally, consider adding ramps or steps to help your dog access furniture or other necessary areas around the home. Since vision and hearing loss might also occur, avoid making any major home arrangements. That way, your pup can anticipate the same environment using spatial memory.

“Lastly, pet owners can place non-slip rugs on hardwood or tile floors to offer the necessary traction for their senior dogs and reduce the risk of accidental falls,” Hsia adds. 

6. Offer Mental Enrichment

Many dog owners will provide their senior pups with mental enrichment tools to support a sharp and engaged mind.

“Mental enrichment, such as puzzle feeders, scent work, and gentle training sessions, helps maintain your dog’s brain function,” says Hsia.

The post 6 Vet-Approved Ways to Help an Older Dog Feel Young Again appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Scorpions are some of the most recognizable (and creepy looking) creatures on Earth. With their large pincers, armored bodies, and venomous stingers, they’ve fascinated and frightened people for centuries. They belong to the class Arachnida, meaning they are related to spiders, ticks, and mites rather than insects. There are more than 2,000 known scorpion species, and they are found on every continent except Antarctica.

Although many people associate scorpions with deserts, they actually live in a wide range of habitats, including rainforests, rocky cliffs, savannas, and scrublands. In fact, some of the largest species in the world are not desert dwellers at all.

Here are 10 of the biggest scorpions in the world, ranked by their commonly reported maximum length. Because measurements can vary between sources and individuals, note that the exact order can differ slightly.

10. Deathstalker (Leiurus quinquestriatus)

Maximum length: around 4 in

The Deathstalker is one of the best-known scorpions in the world, not because of its size, but because of its venom. This pale-yellow species is found across North Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, especially in dry and desert-like environments.

While it is not among the absolute giants of the scorpion world, it is still a fairly large species and often appears on “largest scorpions” lists due to its reputation.

As its name suggests, the Deathstalker is famous for carrying medically significant venom, which contains powerful neurotoxins. Their stings can be dangerous, especially for children, older adults, and people with health complications.

9. Florida Bark Scorpion (Centruroides gracilis)

Maximum length: around 4–4.7 in

The Florida Bark Scorpion, also known as the Slender Brown Scorpion, is a long-bodied species found in parts of Central America, the Caribbean, and southern North America, with some populations introduced outside their native range.

This aptly named scorpion often shelters in tree bark, crevices, logs, and under stones, emerging at night to hunt insects and other small prey.

Its slim shape makes it look especially long compared to some stockier scorpion species, even if it is not one of the heaviest.

8. Vietnam Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus laoticus)

Maximum length: around 4.7 in

The Vietnam Forest Scorpion is a large, glossy black species from Vietnam, Laos, and nearby parts of Southeast Asia. It lives in humid forests, where it hides beneath logs, leaf litter, and rocks.

Like many forest scorpions, it is a powerful ambush predator that feeds on insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, and it may also prey on smaller scorpions.

It is known for being defensive and strong, but its sting is generally not considered as dangerous to humans as that of highly venomous desert species.

7. Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion (Pandinus cavimanus)

Maximum length: around 5 in

The Tanzanian Red-Clawed Scorpion is a large African species recognized by its dark body and reddish-tinted pincers. It is often compared to the Emperor Scorpion because of its size and overall appearance.

This species usually inhabits humid tropical environments, where it shelters under logs, rocks, and debris. It is a powerful predator of insects and other small animals.

Although it can be defensive if disturbed, its venom is considered relatively mild compared to more dangerous scorpion species.

6. Transvaal Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Parabuthus transvaalicus)

Maximum length: around 5.5 in

The Transvaal Fat-Tailed Scorpion is one of the most impressive and most dangerous scorpions in southern Africa. It is instantly recognizable thanks to its thick, heavy tail, which stores large venom glands.

This species is found in South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and nearby regions, often in arid or semi-arid habitats where it hides out beneath rocks and debris.

Unlike many of the giant forest scorpions, this species relies heavily on its venomous sting rather than brute strength. Interestingly, this species is known to make a warning sound through stridulation, a scraping behavior used in defense.

5. Malaysian Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus spinifer)

Maximum length: around 6–6.3 in

The Malaysian Forest Scorpion is one of Southeast Asia’s largest and most striking scorpions. Its body is usually jet black; it has large, powerful pincers and a thick tail.

It lives in tropical forests, often sheltering in burrows, under logs, or among roots and leaf litter. Like many large forest scorpions, it relies heavily on its strong pincers to subdue prey rather than depending entirely on venom.

This species is often confused with other large Asian forest scorpions, especially in the pet trade, where common names are frequently used inconsistently.

4. Giant Hairy Scorpion (Hadrurus arizonensis)

Maximum length: around 6.3–6.7 in

The Giant Desert Hairy Scorpion is the largest scorpion in North America. It is found in the deserts of the southwestern United States and northern Mexico, especially in Arizona, California, Nevada, and Utah.

This species gets its name from the tiny hairs covering parts of its body and tail. It is usually yellowish with a darker back, giving it a distinctive desert camouflage.

A strong burrower and active nocturnal hunter, it mainly feeds on insects, spiders, centipedes, and other arthropods, though it may occasionally take small vertebrate.

3. Emperor Scorpion (Pandinus imperator)

Maximum length: around 7–7.9 in

The Emperor Scorpion is probably the most famous giant scorpion in the world. Native to West Africa, it lives in humid forests and savanna edges, where it hides in burrows and under debris.

Its glossy black body and massive pincers make it one of the most visually fascinating scorpions alive today.

Despite its intimidating appearance, the Emperor Scorpion is generally considered less dangerous than many smaller species, since it relies more on its pincers than its sting. Its venom is usually mild to moderate.

2. Flat Rock Scorpion (Hadogenes troglodytes)

Maximum length: around 8–8.25 in

The Flat Rock Scorpion is one of the longest scorpions in the world. Native to southern Africa, it is specially adapted for life among rocky cliffs and narrow crevices.

Its flattened body allows it to squeeze into cracks where bulkier scorpions cannot go, and its unusually long, slender tail helps distinguish it from many other giant species.

Although it is impressive in size, this species is generally considered less medically dangerous than some smaller but more venomous scorpions.

1. Giant Forest Scorpion / Indian Giant Forest Scorpion (Heterometrus swammerdami)

Maximum length: up to 11.5 in

The largest scorpion consistently recorded in the world is the Indian Giant Forest Scorpion, or Heterometrus swammerdami.

This massive species is found in parts of India and Sri Lanka, where it lives in forest and scrub habitats, often hiding in burrows, under logs, or beneath stones.

It has a heavy, dark body with huge pincers and can appear extremely intimidating. Because it is not among the most venomous, the Indian Giant Forest Scorpion relies heavily on strength and physical restraint to overpower prey.

Its enormous size has earned it recognition as the largest living scorpion ever officially measured.

Bonus: The Largest Scorpion to Ever Roam the Earth!

Maximum length: possibly 8 feet!

If we go beyond true scorpions, the largest scorpion-like arthropods ever known were the eurypterids, often nicknamed “sea scorpions.”

These ancient aquatic predators lived hundreds of millions of years ago and were not true scorpions, even though they looked somewhat similar.

Some species are believed to have reached more than 2.5 meters (8 feet) in length, making them among the largest arthropods to ever live.

So, while the Indian Giant Forest Scorpion is the largest living scorpion, it is absolutely tiny compared to the giant “sea scorpions” of prehistory.

The post The World’s Largest Scorpions Are Massive appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Good news for butterfly lovers: Recent news out of Mexico offers an encouraging sign for future generations of monarchs. On March 17, 2026, the monarch winter 2025-2026 population numbers were released by the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas in Mexico (CONANP) and World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

What the Numbers Say About Monarch Butterfly Populations

Data shows that as of December 2025, monarchs occupied 2.93 hectares (7.24 acres) of land. That’s up from the same time the previous year, when monarch populations occupied 1.79 hectares (4.42 acres). The numbers represent a 64 percent increase over last year’s area. It’s also slightly higher than the average of the past decade, 2.81 hectares (6.94 acres).

Monarch butterflies migrate to Mexico to escape freezing temperatures further north. They gather in high elevation oyamel fir forests that have a unique micro-climate. These “cloud forests” offer the perfect temperature for the monarchs to go dormant but not freeze. Adequate moisture from fog and dew keeps the butterflies from dehydrating during their months-long dormancy.

The monarch population measurements are taken by studying trees within these forests that house clusters of monarchs. The sites have been monitored by WWF and CONANP since 2004. Before that, the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve (MBBR) collected data between 1993 to 2003. The reports also show a decrease in forest lost across the oyamel fir forests.

Karen Oberhauser, a monarch researcher and retired director of the University of Wisconsin-Arboretum, stated in a recent news article that the number of monarchs within a hectare varies from year to year but is estimated to be around 21 million.

The Monarch Butterfly Migration Story

Monarch butterfly migration is a multi-generational affair that sees the butterflies traveling up to 2,800 miles one way. In the spring, adult monarchs leave their overwintering homes in Mexico to head north and spread out across the southeastern United States. Along the way, they mate and lay eggs.

Once the eggs hatch, the offspring spread further north, across the northeastern quarter of the United States and southern Canada. As those butterflies mature, they continue the breeding cycle from May through August. The last of the eggs hatched during that time start their journey back to Mexico between mid-August and October.

Those that survive the journey, spend the winter months in the warmer Mexican region. Once spring arrives the following year, the adult monarchs begin their journey north again to repeat the cycle.

What’s Helping Boost Monarch Butterfly Populations?

The number of monarchs that make it to Mexico each year is impacted by two factors: how the overall population fared in the previous three generations (within a single season) and how many survived the migration journey. Both factors are directly impacted by weather conditions, the availability of good habitats along the way, and the presence of environmental toxins like insecticides. Natural predators, diseases, and parasites also play a role.

As global temperatures heat up, monarch populations decline. Dry conditions and drought, especially in areas where second and third generations are born within a single season, have the most direct impact. The year 2024 proved to be hotter and drier in the upper-Midwest of the U.S., a key breeding area for later generations within the season. According to data from the Monarch Larva Monitoring Project, this resulted in lower-than-expected numbers for second and third generations of monarchs born that year.

The same group found that 2025 proved to be a more successful year for second and third generation populations. Weather conditions better supported survival numbers.

According to Oberhauser in her press release, other factors also helped boost monarch populations. People along the breeding and migration routes are restoring the butterflies’ natural habitats. Butterfly-friendly areas are springing up in yards, schools, churches, and workplaces.

How You Can Help Monarch Butterflies

No matter where you are in along the monarch butterfly migration path, you can help them. It starts by creating more healthy habitats for these beautiful insects. Monarchs like to hang out in backyard gardens, meadows, and other open, sunny areas, especially when milkweed is available. Taking steps to keep these areas insecticide-free is essential for their health.

Reducing your climate change footprint will also help. Drier, hotter climates are bad for monarchs, just as they are unhealthy for humans and most other species. Extended droughts caused by increasing temperatures can have devastating effects on monarch populations.

Anyone interested in learning more about how these factors impact monarch populations can view Climate, Weather, and Monarchs, which is part of the Monarch Butterfly Conservation Webinar Series put on by the Monarch Joint Venture habitat program.

Where to See Monarchs on Their Migration

Seeing thousands of monarch butterflies on their annual migration is surely a sight. Luckily for us, there are places that these butterflies visit time and time again. Typically, the best time of year to see the eastern populations of these majestic insects is between early September and late October. According to the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, the following places are “super stops” on the Monarch Migration Trail:

• St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge in Florida
• Virginia’s Eastern Shore of Virginia National Wildlife Refuge
• Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge in the Texas Hill Country
• Kansas’ Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
• Neal Smith National Wildlife Refuge in Iowa (Monarchs are here year-round.)

To see the western monarch butterfly populations, check out the Pacific Grove Monarch Sanctuary in California. Known as “Butterfly Town, USA,” Pacific Grove is one of the largest publicly available overwintering sites in the state. Other notable sites in California include the Pismo State Beach Monarch Butterfly Grove and the Goleta Butterfly Grove near Santa Barbara.

The post Spring Monarch Migration Is Underway as Populations Rebound appeared first on A-Z Animals.

At a glance, cranes and storks can look remarkably similar. In fact, you may mistakenly use these two names interchangeably, thinking they are the same animal. Both are tall, long-legged birds with extended necks, broad wings, and a graceful presence that often draws the eye. It’s no surprise that they’re frequently confused for one another, especially when seen from a distance.

However, despite their similarities, storks and cranes differ in a number of ways, from their anatomy to their social structure and even the way they move through the air. Understanding these differences not only helps with identification but also offers a deeper appreciation for how each bird has adapted to its environment.

Differences in Appearance 

The first metric is appearance. Yes, at first glance, they look alike, but the closer you get, the more differences you’re likely to notice. Though both birds have long legs and necks, cranes have more elegant, slenderer bodies. Their necks are typically held straight out both when standing and in flight. You may also notice unique markings, such as red crowns or patches of bare skin on their heads.

Storks often appear slightly bulkier. Their bills are usually longer and heavier than those of cranes, and their heads are typically fully feathered. One of the most noticeable differences relates to posture; storks often hold their necks slightly curved or retracted when at rest, though they extend them during flight.

Difference in Wingspan and Size

Cranes and storks are often mistaken for each other because they’re both large birds. However, cranes typically have a slight size advantage depending on the species. 

• Cranes can have wingspans ranging from about 5.5 to over 8 feet. Some species, like the Sarus crane, are among the tallest flying birds in the world.

• Storks typically have wingspans between 5 and 7.5 feet, though large species like the marabou stork can rival cranes in size.

In general, cranes are known for their height and upright posture, while storks may appear more robust or heavy-bodied.

Differences in Behavior

You may be able to spot key differences between a crane and a stork when you focus on behavior. Of the two birds, storks are far more subdued. They don’t sing or produce complex vocalizations. Instead, many storks communicate through bill-clattering, rapidly snapping their beaks together to create a rattling sound. This bird is more practical and less expressive in their movements, focusing on feeding and nesting rather than elaborate displays. Storks are more likely to be seen foraging alone or in small groups, as they focus on feeding over social bonding.

On the other hand, cranes are much more social. They’re known for their elaborate courtship dances that can include bowing, jumping, wing-flapping, and even tossing sticks or grass into the air. In the end, they form strong pair bonds that can last a lifetime. They’re also highly vocal. You may hear them engaging in synchronized duets with their mates. These calls can carry over long distances and are an important part of their communication.

Differences in Diet and Hunting Style

Though both storks and cranes are mostly omnivorous, they often prioritize different types of food. For example, storks are more carnivorous and opportunistic. Their diet typically includes:

• Fish
• Amphibians
• Reptiles
• Small mammals
• Insects

Storks are often seen wading in shallow water, using their long bills to snap up prey quickly. Some species, such as the marabou stork, are also scavengers and feed on carrion. Meanwhile, cranes tend to have a more varied diet that includes:

• Seeds and grains
• Roots and tubers
• Insects
• Small vertebrates like frogs or rodents

They often forage in fields, wetlands, or grasslands while probing the ground with their bills or picking food from the surface.

Prey and Predators

These two birds share multiple common predators. Both birds are quite large as adults, so it is their eggs and fledglings that can become common targets. Predators of both birds include:

• Foxes
• Raccoons
• Large birds of prey
• Snakes

The difference between the birds lies in their reaction to these predators. Cranes tend to be more defensive and may aggressively protect their nests, using loud calls and physical displays to deter threats. Storks, while still protective, are generally less confrontational and may rely more on nesting in inaccessible locations, such as tall trees or rooftops, to keep their young safe.

Flight Pattern – A Key Identifier

Often, the easiest way to determine if you’re looking at a crane or a stork is to observe them while in flight. 

Cranes fly with their necks fully extended, and they often travel in V-shaped formations, using steady, powerful wingbeats. You may hear a crane before you see it because they frequently call while flying. Storks also fly in a V-shaped formation, though they are more likely to glide and rely heavily on thermals (rising warm air), so they appear more effortless and buoyant. Storks are also typically silent in flight.

Difference in Migration Patterns

Migration is another area where these birds show both similarities and differences.

Cranes are well-known for their long-distance migrations. Many species travel thousands of miles between breeding and wintering grounds. These migrations are often highly organized, with flocks following traditional routes year after year. During migration and wintering periods, they gather in large flocks, sometimes numbering in the thousands.

Storks also migrate, but their patterns can vary more widely by species. Some storks travel long distances between continents, while others are more sedentary. 

Nesting and Reproduction

Finally, you can often tell a stork from a crane based on how they nest and care for their young.

Cranes:

• Build nests on the ground, often in wetlands or grassy areas
• Lay 1–2 eggs per breeding season
• Both parents are heavily involved in raising their young.

Storks:

• Build large, sturdy nests in elevated locations such as trees, cliffs, or man-made structures
• May reuse and expand the same nest year after year
• Often lay 2–5 eggs

Stork nests can become massive over time, sometimes weighing hundreds of pounds due to repeated use.

Final Thoughts: Similar Shape, Different Lives

While both birds may look alike, storks and cranes live very different lives. Cranes are expressive, social, and vocal birds known for their dances, strong pair bonds, and structured migrations. Storks, by contrast, are quieter, more solitary, and highly efficient hunters that rely on soaring flight, opportunistic feeding, and high nesting sites.

If you’re trying to tell these birds apart, remember these quick tips:

• Listen: Cranes are loud and vocal; storks are mostly silent.
• Watch: Cranes dance and interact; storks are more reserved.
• Feeding: Cranes forage broadly; storks hunt and scavenge.
• Nesting: Ground nests suggest cranes; elevated nests point to storks.

The more you observe, the easier it becomes to spot these differences and the more fascinating each bird becomes in its own right. Eventually, you’ll become an expert on the differences between these fantastic, winged creatures.

The post What’s the Difference Between a Crane vs. a Stork? appeared first on A-Z Animals.

The animal kingdom is no stranger to astonishing abilities, including the remarkable power to regenerate lost or damaged body parts. Among these traits, the ability to regrow teeth stands out as both rare and fascinating. While humans only get two sets of teeth in a lifetime, certain animals have evolved far more resilient strategies, allowing them to replace teeth repeatedly or even continuously throughout their lives. This adaptation is not just impressive; it is essential for survival in environments where feeding depends on sharp, functional teeth.

The animals on this list have the necessary ability to regenerate one of the most vital tools for eating and defense. They range from powerful ocean predators to unassuming reptiles. Sharks, for instance, can grow thousands of teeth over a lifetime, while other species like crocodiles and some fish constantly replace worn or broken teeth. Studying these creatures deepens our understanding of biology. It also inspires scientific research into regenerative medicine, offering potential insights into how humans might one day regrow more than one set of adult teeth.

1. Crocodilians (Crocodylia)

All extant members of reptiles in the crocodilian order (Crocodylia) have regenerative teeth. This includes all species of crocodiles, alligators, caimans, the gharial, and the tomistoma (aka false gharial). For crocodilians, each tooth can be replaced up to 50 times throughout their lives. A crocodile (Crocodylidae) can go through 3,000 teeth in its lifetime!

Crocodilian teeth continuously replace themselves by growing inside the primary tooth. Since their teeth are mostly hollow, the old tooth is shed when the new tooth is fully formed. This also means if a tooth is ripped out during predation, a new tooth will either develop directly in its place or will already be in the process of forming.

2. Snakes (Sepentes)

All snakes of the infraorder Serpentes shed their teeth throughout their lives. Many snakes shed and regrow their teeth every six to eight weeks, especially venomous species like rattlesnakes (Crotalus spp.).

Recent research has helped clarify the detailed mechanism of tooth replacement in snakes. While other reptiles, such as the abovementioned crocodilians, have replacement pits from which the new teeth erupt, snakes don’t have this adaptation. In 2022, a paleontologist focusing on teeth discovered the mechanism for snake teeth replacement.

When an old tooth is ready for replacement, odontoclasts enter the inner portion of the tooth and begin eating away at the dental pulp. This process reabsorbs the tooth from the inside out until it loses its connection to the jaw, allowing space for a new tooth to form.

3. Iguanas (Iguanidae)

Like crocodilians, lizards, such as iguanas (Iguanidae), have replacement pits from which new teeth erupt. Lizards can have pleurodont teeth, acrodont teeth, or a combination of both. Pleurodont teeth have no roots, are laterally fused to the inner surface of the jawbone and are consistently replaced. Acrodont teeth have no roots, do not sit in a socket, are connected at the base of the jawbones, and are primarily only replaced during the juvenile stage of life.

Iguanas have pleurodont teethwith a rapid rate of replacement. On average, they can shed and replace about 500 teeth a year. Iguanas are born with their teeth, which increase in width as the individual grows. It typically takes several weeks or months for a new tooth to grow. About half the teeth in an iguana’s mouth are being replaced throughout their life.

4. Salamanders (Salamandroidea)

Like all amphibians with teeth, salamanders (Salamandroidea) are polyphyodonts. These adorable little critters are born toothless but quickly develop them in their upper and lower jaw, with many larval forms featuring teeth. The teeth of larval salamanders are sharply pointed and cone-shaped, while the adult teeth are formed for grasping prey. Interestingly, patches of teeth grow along the palate of most salamander species.

Salamanders primarily use their jaw teeth to catch and grasp their prey. For some species, such as Triturus carnifex, the palate teeth may be used with the tongue as a simple form of chewing. All of these teeth types continuously replace themselves throughout the salamander’s life.

5. Sharks (Selachimorpha)

All species of modern sharks of the superorder Selachimorpha continuously replace their teeth throughout their lives. Most species of sharks possess between 5 and 15 rows of teeth.

For example, the great white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) has seven rows of highly serrated teeth. They can replace about 30,000 of these razor-sharp teeth in their lifetime.

5. Sharks (Selachimorpha) (Cont.)

Their teeth non-permanently attach to the jaw cartilage with a soft, connective membrane called a tooth bed. This tooth bed acts like a conveyor belt that quickly moves teeth forward to replace lost ones. Sometimes, a missing tooth is replaced in as little as an hour.

6. Animals With Regenerating Teeth: Manatees (Trichechus manatus)

While most polyphonts are not mammals, there are some exceptions. Both subspecies of manatees (Trichechus manatus) can replace lost teeth. All manatee teeth are molars designed to grind vegetation. Scientists call these molars, particularly, “marching molars,” which describes hind molar progression in which their teeth constantly shift forward. Adult manatees have 24-36 of these marching molars.

This horizontal movement along the jaw from back to front results in new teeth moving forward about acentimeter per month. When teeth are significantly worn down, the root is reabsorbed, causing the tooth to fall out. This strategy of root resorption and teeth replacement helps manatees adapt to having teeth that wear down through continuously grinding vegetation.

7. Kangaroos (Macropus spp.)

While kangaroos grow one set of permanent, clipping incisors, they do have marching molars. Most grazers have open roots that allow for continuous growth of teeth throughout the animal’s life. This constant growth is how most grazers compensate for the wearing down of grinding teeth.

Kangaroos, however, have closed roots that do not allow for continuous teeth growth. Instead, they only chew with the forwardmost two pairs of molars on either side of their jaws. When those pairs of molars are worn down, the roots reabsorb, the tooth falls out, and the hind molars move forward to replace them.

Unlike manatees, which can continuously provide replacement molars,kangaroosonly have four pairs of molars on each side of the jaw. When the last pair moves forward when the animal is about 15-20 years old, they have no replacements left. Twenty years is typically the maximum they can live, especially in the wild, with an average lifespan of 6-8 years.

8. Animals With Regenerating Teeth: Elephants (Elephantidae)

Throughout their life, the chewing teeth of elephants (Elephantidae) are replaced about six times. Their tusks, however, which are modified incisors, can not be replaced if damaged. The cycle of teeth replacement in elephants is linked to their enormous size. While most mammals have one set of baby (deciduous) teeth and one set of adult (permanent) teeth, elephants must undergo six sets to compensate for their jaw growth.

The new teeth erupt from the back of the mouth and move forward, pushing the old teeth out. Sometimes, two sets of teeth are present at once, allowing the elephant to chew more efficiently and process more food.

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The world’s migratory animals are in trouble, and the latest warning is hard to ignore. Nearly half of the species protected under the U.N. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) now have declining populations, and almost one in four is threatened with extinction. Migratory animals may breed in one nation and feed in another. Many also pass through several more countries while traveling. Without a shared conservation framework, each country might protect only its own piece of the journey, and the species could still fail overall.

In response, countries at a recent CMS conference agreed to add 40 more species, from the snowy owl to the great hammerhead shark, to the treaty’s protection lists. Their decision is about more than symbolism: it requires governments to protect habitat, remove barriers along migration routes, and work together across borders so these animals can keep making their incredible journeys through a rapidly changing global conservation landscape.

A Wake-Up Call for Migratory Wildlife Conservation

Migratory species depend on connected habitats that can span continents, oceans, and entire flyways. This means effective conservation has to match that scale. When one link in that chain breaks—through habitat loss, overfishing, or climate change—the whole journey can fail and years of careful conservation work can unravel.

A recent U.N. assessment found that 49% of migratory species populations covered by the CMS treaty are declining, and 24% of listed species are now globally threatened with extinction. Those numbers have worsened even in just the past two years. This shows that conservation efforts have not yet caught up with the threats these animals face.

An Agreement in Brazil

At a convention in Campo Grande, Brazil, from March 23-29, 2026, representatives from more than 130 countries agreed to add or upgrade species on the treaty’s two appendices. Qualification was based on scientific evidence that the particular species is at risk and that international conservation cooperation could help. Leaders of the convention have described the move as proof that governments can act when the science is clear. However, they also stress that listing species is only the first step. Without follow‑through, the conservation promise will not translate into safer skies, seas, and river corridors for migrating animals.

The Convention on Migratory Species Conservation

The Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) is a U.N. treaty that began in 1979. It protects animals that cross national borders and anchors long‑term conservation for species that travel far. Countries that join the treaty cooperate to conserve these species throughout their ranges. The treaty organizes protections and guides conservation priorities using two main lists: Appendix I and Appendix II.

Appendix I covers migratory species that face a danger of extinction. Countries home to those animals must strictly protect them and conserve and restore key habitats. Appendix II includes species that are not yet as close to extinction. These animals still need international agreements to maintain or restore healthy populations. Countries use focused conservation measures to do this. Many of the 40 newly listed species now appear on both appendices. This change reflects their high risk and the need for organized conservation action along their migration routes.

Here are some of the animals that now have improved recognition:

Snowy Owl (Bubo scandiacus)

The snowy owl is one of the largest owls in the world. With thick white plumage and piercing yellow eyes, this beautiful bird is a symbol of the Arctic and often appears in conservation campaigns. It breeds on treeless tundra in the far north. Some individuals migrate south in winter to open coastal areas, fields, and marshes in Canada, the northern United States, and Eurasia. Because this owl depends heavily on lemmings and other small mammals for food, its breeding success rises and falls with prey cycles. Climate change is already altering these patterns. For conservation scientists, the snowy owl has become a visible indicator of how quickly Arctic ecosystems are changing.

Recent assessments show that the snowy owl’s global population is declining. It is now vulnerable to extinction, making it a priority for Arctic conservation. By listing the snowy owl, CMS Parties commit to protecting key breeding and wintering areas, reducing threats such as disturbance at nesting sites, and sharing monitoring data across the species’ wide range. This will help create a coordinated snow‑and‑tundra conservation strategy.

Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus)

The cheetah is the fastest land mammal, capable of sprinting around 60 to 70 miles per hour over short distances. It has long been a flagship for African conservation. This stunning wild cat once ranged widely across Africa, the Middle East, and parts of Asia, but today it survives in scattered populations, many of them small and isolated. Cheetahs need large, open territories to hunt antelope and other prey. They often cross property lines, national borders, and protected‑area boundaries. As human settlements and farmland expand, cheetahs increasingly run into roads, fences, and conflicts with livestock owners. This makes community‑based conservation partnerships essential.

The CMS decision focuses especially on the cheetah population in Zimbabwe. It is now listed on Appendix I and II to reflect its endangered status and the need for coordinated management and conservation funding. Countries that host cheetahs are expected to maintain connected savanna and semi‑desert habitats, reduce direct killing, and work with communities to limit livestock losses as part of broader carnivore conservation programs. Agreements between neighboring African countries can guide wildlife‑friendly fencing, road planning, and anti‑poaching patrols across shared landscapes in ways that support both conservation and local livelihoods.

Striped Hyena (Hyaena hyaena)

The striped hyena is a medium‑sized scavenger found from North and East Africa through the Middle East and into India and Central Asia. Even though its range is wide, it rarely appears in mainstream conservation stories. Unlike the better‑known spotted hyena, the striped hyena is more solitary and often moves at night. The species cleans up carcasses and plays an important role in ecosystems. Scientists estimate that there are fewer than 10,000 mature individuals worldwide, and the species is listed as near threatened. Its main troubles come from habitat loss, deliberate poisoning or persecution, and declines in wild prey. These factors push it into closer contact with people and livestock and complicate hyena conservation.

The species ranges across many countries, some with limited resources for wildlife monitoring. Under the treaty, range states are encouraged to protect denning and foraging areas, reduce poisoning and snaring, and coordinate research. These actions will help scientists better track populations and target conservation hotspots. Outreach campaigns can also help shift public attitudes, which can reduce retaliatory killings by showing how striped hyenas help clean up carcasses and limit disease spread.

Giant Otter (Pteronura brasiliensis)

The giant otter is the largest otter species, with adults reaching almost 6 feet long and weighing up to around 70 pounds. It lives in family groups along rivers, lakes, and wetlands in the Amazon, Orinoco, and other South American basins. Giant otters hunt fish and help keep freshwater ecosystems in balance. Conservation groups often use them as a flagship species to draw attention to broader threats facing tropical rivers.

These otters are listed as endangered. In some countries they have already disappeared from parts of their former range, underscoring failures in past conservation. Deforestation, mining, pollution, and the construction of large dams have destroyed or fragmented many of their river habitats. CMS’ conservation plans for Amazonian species push governments to limit destructive mining practices, maintain forested riverbanks, and design hydropower projects that preserve enough natural flow and connectivity for otters and their prey.

Great Hammerhead Shark (Sphyrna mokarran)

The great hammerhead shark is one of the largest hammerhead species. Adults commonly reach 10 to 14 feet in length, and some individuals grow even longer. The distinctive species is often featured in marine conservation campaigns. Its distinctive T‑shaped head gives it a wide field of view and helps it detect prey such as stingrays and other fish along the sea floor. Great hammerheads migrate through warm and tropical waters in the Atlantic, Pacific, and Indian Oceans. They often travel along continental shelves and around islands. This wide‑ranging lifestyle makes them vulnerable to fishing fleets operating far from shore. For this reason, conservation rules must extend beyond coastal waters.

The great hammerhead is already considered critically endangered, and scientists warn that its slow reproduction makes it hard to recover once numbers fall. Under the CMS treaty, listing this shark encourages countries to reduce shark bycatch, limit retention of hammerheads, and protect key habitats like nursery areas and coastal feeding grounds as part of broader shark conservation strategies. Because many of the countries involved also belong to regional fisheries organizations, CMS guidance can feed into stricter fishing rules across entire ocean basins.

Why Add 40 Species to Conservation Lists Now?

The decision to list 40 new species and distinct populations followed detailed proposals and scientific reviews presented at the CMS conference, a major conservation gathering. By looking at trends in population size, habitat condition, and known threats, experts recommended listings that could significantly benefit from international cooperation. In many cases, some populations of a species were already listed, with the new decision extending or strengthening protections across more of its range, tightening the overall conservation net.

This expansion comes alongside new data showing that pressures on migratory species are increasing, not easing, despite decades of conservation talk. Overexploitation—through hunting, fishing, or trade—and the loss and fragmentation of habitat remain the two biggest threats worldwide. Climate change adds another layer by shifting migration timing, altering food webs, and increasing extreme events such as droughts and heat waves, all of which complicate conservation planning. In that context, adding 40 species is part of a broader push to update protections so they match the scale and speed of the crisis and keep conservation policies from falling further behind reality.

How Countries Turn Listings into Conservation Protection

Once a species is listed, each Party to the convention has to translate treaty language into national laws and policies that deliver real conservation gains. That process can include revising wildlife protection acts, changing fishing regulations, or upgrading environmental impact rules for new development projects. For example, a country might create a new marine protected area along a known shark migration route or adjust the timing of a fishing season, so it does not overlap with peak shark movements. In river basins shared by several countries, governments may coordinate dam operations and water quality standards so species like giant otters can still move and find food, turning regional planning into genuine conservation action.

Monitoring is another key piece of effective conservation for migratory species. CMS encourages nations to collect and share data on population trends, migration routes, and threats, often partnering with universities, conservation groups, and local communities. Satellite tracking of sharks or GPS tagging of owls, for instance, can reveal critical stopover sites that need protection. Because many countries face limited resources, joint research programs and funding mechanisms can help spread costs and expertise across borders, making conservation work more efficient and less duplicative.

Why These Conservation Listings Matter for the Future

The new CMS listings will not save snowy owls, cheetahs, striped hyenas, giant otters, or great hammerhead sharks overnight, but they provide a legal and political foundation for serious conservation across borders. By committing to protect habitat, reduce barriers to migration, and coordinate conservation, governments are acknowledging that the survival of migratory species is a shared responsibility. Smart conservation choices mean cleaner rivers, healthier oceans, and more resilient ecosystems that continue to support fisheries, tourism, and cultural traditions. The real test will be whether countries turn these promises into on‑the‑ground conservation changes fast enough to bend the curve of decline and keep these remarkable migrators in our skies and waters for generations to come.

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Sometimes it feels like we’ve discovered all there is to know about the world. But that belief is patently false. Scientists make new discoveries every day, from uncovering details about Saturn’s atmosphere to identifying previously unknown species. In fact, a 2025 study published in Science Advances found that scientists usually discover around 16,000 new species every year. Admittedly, this includes plants and fungi, which account for a significant portion. But animal species, especially insects, are major contributors to this new species list.

South America is known for its biodiversity, making it a hot spot for this type of discovery. According to the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN), South America holds 40% of our planet’s biodiversity and 25% of its forests. It was within one of those forests that a research team made a fascinating find: a termite with a whale-like head. Fittingly, they named it after the whale in Herman Melville’s classic novel Moby Dick. At the end of 2025, the researchers shared their insights into Cryptotermes mobydicki, granting us a peek at the secrets of the natural world we still have yet to fully understand.

What are Termites?

Termites are small eusocial insects. As Britannica explains, “Eusocial species [are] any colonial animal species that lives in multigenerational family groups in which the vast majority of individuals cooperate to aid relatively few (or even a single) reproductive group members. Eusocial species often exhibit extreme task specialization.” Termites’ tasks may include reproduction, work, or defense. When it comes to reproduction, termites are prolific. A queen can lay thousands of eggs daily in some cases.

An estimated 3,000 termite species exist. But termites are usually broken down into several main categories: subterranean, Formosan, dampwood, drywood, and cone-headed. Subterranean and Formosan termites are the types most people come into contact with. They’re destructive, aggressive, and can be hard to treat when infestation occurs. Dampwood and drywood termites, on the other hand, infest damp or dry wood respectively. While dampwood termites are not typically a threat to homes, drywood termites can sometimes pose a risk.

Discovering Cryptotermes mobydicki

Researchers were conducting fieldwork in French Guiana, a territory located on the northern coast of the richly biodiverse South America. During their work, they found a termite colony living in a dry wood tree, the perfect habitat for drywood termites, about 26 feet off the ground. Thirteen Cryptotermes termite species are endemic to the area (with two established elsewhere). So, they likely believed they were observing a known species.

But researchers were stunned to discover the soldier termites displayed an extremely unusual head shape reminiscent of a sperm whale, a feature that led to their unique literary name. As described in ZooKeys, C. mobydicki soldiers differ from other Cryptotermes soldiers because they have:

• A longer, more narrow head capsule (giving it the whale-like appearance)
• Absent frontal horns and an absent frontal flange
• Hidden mandibles that are hard to see because of the extended head

Because their appearance was so unique, the researchers even questioned whether they had found a new genus. However, after studying their samples, they recognized that C. mobydicki represents the fourteenth endemic Cryptotermes species and sixteenth Cryptotermes species overall.

Why This Head Shape?

Why did these termites evolve to develop this head shape? Currently, researchers are unsure why the species evolved such an odd feature. However, there are a few potential hypotheses.

Certain termite soldiers develop what’s called phragmosis, or a phragmotic head. This means their specific head shapes are perfectly suited to plug up or block entrances to the nest, preventing intruders or predators from entering. However, Cryptotermes mobydicki lacks the frontal flange that typically defines a phragmotic head. Although their head shape could still be used to partially plug tunnels or delay entry, it’s not likely their head is used in the same way as other soldiers.

It’s also possible that C. mobydicki uses its head for an entirely different form of protection or defense. For example, its large head size may be a scary deterrent to intimidate rival termites, or it might help C. mobydicki navigate oddly shaped tunnels.

More in-depth study is needed to gain a clearer understanding of how these creatures operate and how their bizarre adaptation benefits them.

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The genus Boa includes species such as the boa constrictor, found throughout much of South America, and the boa imperator, primarily native to Central America and the northernmost regions of South America. While no exact number has been documented, experts estimate that thousands of snakes thrive in the region’s lush climates. Despite their abundance, many visitors often wonder why boa sightings are so rare.

Their elusive nature is by design, particularly when it comes to hunting. As ambush predators, they don’t reveal their location until it’s time to go in for a kill. However, boas have a few other adaptations that help keep them well-hidden from prying eyes.

The Elusive Nature of the South American Boa

For centuries, evidence of boas in an area was typically limited to occasional sightings or the remains of their prey. While extremely rare and almost exclusively involving captive or pet boas, there have been occasional reports of large boas attacking humans. They’re sneaky by nature and are practically imperceptible once they’ve found a hiding spot. Boas hunt by ambushing, meaning they remain concealed and wait for prey to come within striking distance. Once this happens, the animal has a slim chance of escaping, let alone evading the attack.

Boas use their forked tongue and Jacobson’s organ to detect chemical cues from prey. Some species also have heat-sensing pits to help locate warm-blooded animals. Their strike is extremely fast, typically occurring in less than a second, allowing them to hit an unsuspecting animal with lightning speed. Once prey is locked within their powerful jaws, boas begin to coil and constrict. Scientists theorize that the snakes can sense their prey’s heartbeat and adjust the pressure enough to lower the prey’s blood pressure, ultimately causing organ failure. In short, these are not the type of snakes most visitors would want to run into. However, their hunting style is part of what keeps them so well hidden. Without the element of surprise, they would fail to lock onto their prey.

Careful Camouflage Keeps Boas Hidden

South American boas are found in Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia, Guyana, French Guiana, Suriname, Peru, Paraguay, Trinidad and Tobago, and northern Argentina. Many of these countries contain dense tropical rainforests, though boas can also be found in dry forests, savannas, and other habitats, depending on the region. This environment is ideal for a snake that relies on blending in to ambush its prey. A boa’s coloring depends on its species and location; while most are a blend of dark brown, tan, and cream, some are neon green or yellow.

For example, the red-tailed boa is native to the dry woodlands and forests of Central and South America. Its coloring helps it blend into arid landscapes, typically among dirt, tree bark, and dry underbrush. They are typically ground hunters and wait outside burrows and at the edges of trails to ambush their prey.

In contrast, the emerald tree boa, native to rainforests throughout South America, spends most of its time in trees. It hunts from the canopy, ambushing prey by snatching it out of the air once it gets close. These arboreal snakes are bright green, helping them blend in with the surrounding foliage. It’s unlikely you would spot either of these species before it was too late, thanks to their exceptional camouflage.

The post Where South American Boa Constrictors Live and Why They’re So Hard to Spot appeared first on A-Z Animals.

Mountain lions may be some of the wild’s top predators, but when they are young, even they need protection. That’s why the Oakland Zoo recently stepped in to save a 3-week-old mountain lion cub, who was too young to survive on his own.

The cub, orphaned in Southern California, was originally brought to the Los Angeles Zoo by the National Park Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) on March 25, according to a press release. They intervened to save the cub only after making multiple den visits, observing the kitten, and confirming that his mother was not returning.

The L.A. Zoo conducted a full examination of the cub and named him Crimson. They determined he was in good health (except for missing the toes on one foot) and flew him to Oakland with Flying Tails Animal Rescue. Oakland Zoo staff took Crimson to their animal hospital, where they have been caring for him, monitoring his foot, and bottle-feeding him every three hours around the clock.

“I’ve had the privilege of witnessing countless rescues,” Nik Dehejia, CEO of Oakland Zoo, said in the press release. “There is something so deeply moving about watching our team pour themselves so completely into a single life. Their skill, their sleepless nights, and their quiet determination motivate me. I can only hope that Crimson’s story and the work at Oakland Zoo impact all of you as it does me.”

How Long Do Mountain Lions Typically Stay with Their Mothers?

If Crimson had not been orphaned, he would have stayed with his mother for about 12 to 18 months, according to the press release. Without his mother, the zoo staff is doing their best to give Crimson opportunities to develop wild behaviors and socialize with other animals.

Unfortunately, even after he learns these skills and becomes independent, it will not be safe to release him back into the wild because he was rescued at such a young age. Instead, the Oakland Zoo will introduce him to Clover, a female cub rescued earlier in March, to provide companionship and create a better environment for both.

“While Oakland Zoo and CDFW prefer these kittens to remain in the wild, the pairing of Clover with Crimson will help improve their overall wellbeing and secure a brighter future for both cubs,” stated the press release.

Help Protect Mountain Lions

Mountain lions (Puma concolor) are native to North America, Central America, and South America. Also called cougars, pumas, catamounts, and panthers, mountain lions can grow to weigh as much as 198 pounds, although most adults are smaller. Baby mountain lions, on the other hand, are tiny, weighing only seven to 16 ounces when they’re born. They are completely dependent on their mother at first, only venturing out on their own at about 12 to 18 months old.

Dangers for mountain lions come from habitat destruction, overhunting, and conflicts with livestock. With help from the Bay Area Cougar Action Team (BACAT), the Oakland Zoo has rescued and rehabilitated over 30 mountain lions. You can support those efforts by donating to the zoo and leaving mountain lion cubs alone if you ever stumble across them.

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