Fruit bats in Roatan swam a feeding bowl to get sugar water
Fruit bats in Roatan, like many other places, are known to be attracted to sweet substances. If you place a bowl of sugar water outside at night, you may indeed observe these bats coming to drink. This behavior is quite common among fruit bats, which have a diet that primarily consists of fruits, nectar, and sometimes flowers. The sugar water simulates the sweet nectar they would find in flowers, making it an attractive source of nutrition for them.
This bowl was placed on a post to make it more accessible to the bats and help avoid other animals from reaching it. The bats appeared each night at dusk. This is when fruit bats are the most active. Dim lighting or no lighting around the bowl will make the bats feel safer and more likely to approach.
Fruit bats, also known as megabats or flying foxes, are part of the Pteropodidae family. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world and are notable for their large eyes and keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food. Unlike microbats, which use echolocation, fruit bats rely on their vision and olfactory senses to navigate and find sustenance.
Fruit bats vary in size from the small long-tongued fruit bats, with wingspans of about 10 inches, to the larger flying foxes, whose wingspans can reach up to 5.6 feet. Their diet mainly consists of fruit, nectar, and flowers. They play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal, contributing significantly to the health of their ecosystems.
They are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, as well as mangroves, swamps, and savannas. Roosting sites include trees, caves, and man-made structures.
Fruit bats face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and disease. Deforestation and urbanization are major contributors to their declining populations. Various conservation programs are in place to protect fruit bat habitats and raise awareness about their ecological importance. Some species are also protected under international law.
Understanding and preserving fruit bats is crucial not only for their survival but also for the health of the ecosystems they support.
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Deadly flooding in Kenya bursts dam, creating raging geyser
In recent news, Kenya has experienced intense flooding due to heavy rains, which caused a dam to burst, resulting in significant damage. The flooding has killed at least 17 people washed away crops and farmland, impacting the livelihoods of many farmers in the affected areas. The dam broke at 4am, taking many residents and farmers by surprise. Unable to escape the raging torrents of water, people were drowned, trapped, and swept away by unexpected flooding.
Naomy, a famer in this area struggles to grow the carrots and beans that she needs to pay the bills and feed her family. Her crop was completely washed away by the rising water, leaving her broke and unable to pay the farm bills such as rent. She will not have the harvest that she was counting on to put food on the table for the coming months. In an effort to explain her situation to a Canadian friend, she recorded this footage of the dam close to her home. The intense power of the water is unbelievable.
Efforts are being made to address the immediate needs of those affected and to plan for longer-term recovery and support for the farming communities impacted by this natural disaster. But there is no relief for the lost earnings that this disaster represents for Naomy, and for subsistence farmers like her.
If you wish to help Naomy by donating any amount, this gofundme link allows you to show your support.
https://gofund.me/63c7776e
Questions can also be directed through David McNab, the video uploader at mojo_videos@hotmail.com. Thank you.
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Two puffer fish glide beautifully over the reef in Roatan
Roatan, part of the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a renowned destination for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. These two pufferfish swimming over the reef are a captivating sight, blending the unique behaviors and appearances of these fascinating creatures with the vibrant underwater landscape.
Diving into the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Roatan, a scuba diver is immediately greeted by the vibrant colors and bustling life of the coral reef. Among the myriad of marine creatures, two pufferfish glide gracefully over the coral formations. Their round bodies and distinctively expressive eyes give them an almost comical appearance, but their slow, deliberate movements suggest a creature very much at home in this underwater paradise.
The reef itself is a tapestry of colors and textures, with corals ranging from the delicate branches of staghorn coral to the robust, mountainous shapes of boulder coral. Schools of smaller fish dart in and out of the coral, their silvery scales catching the sunlight that filters down through the water.
The two pufferfish continue their leisurely exploration, seemingly unfazed by the presence of the diver. Their slow, purposeful movements and the serene beauty of the reef create a scene of tranquil underwater harmony. It's a perfect encapsulation of the diverse and vibrant marine life that makes Roatan a world-renowned diving destination.
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Gigantic woodpecker swoops in with his hilarious laugh
Pileated woodpeckers are among the largest woodpeckers in North America, known for their striking black-and-white coloring and red crest. They have a distinctive call that sounds like a loud, ringing laugh, which can make their arrival at a feeder quite dramatic and memorable. These birds typically feed on insects like carpenter ants and beetle larvae, often found in dead or decaying trees, but they can also be attracted to suet feeders like this one.
The huge birds have a commanding presence and they often announce their approach with a loud cackling call that sounds like laughter. A brown thrasher takes heed and clears the runway as the wingbeats tell him that a great beast is about to take over the suet feeder.
With a striking red crest and dramatic black and white plumage, these magnificent birds are a sight to behold. This is a juvenile and he will grow even larger as he feasts on the nuts and suet that bring him in daily for his breakfast. There are two young woodpeckers and two adults that come here for their share. A woodpecker family in your back yard is a thrill for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
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Sanctuary guest has dream close up encounter with sloth
The Sloth Sanctuary of Roatan, located in Honduras, is a popular destination where visitors can get up close with sloths and other wildlife. This sanctuary is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation of sloths and other animals native to the region. Guests are typically allowed to interact with and even hold sloths briefly under the guidance of trained staff, ensuring a safe and educational experience.
Sloths are fascinating creatures found in the wild in Central and South America, primarily in the tropical rainforests of countries such as Brazil, Costa Rica, and Panama. Sloths are arboreal, meaning they live in trees. They come down to the ground rarely, primarily to defecate, which they do about once a week. Sloths are primarily found in the dense canopy of tropical rainforests, where they spend most of their lives hanging upside down from branches.
Their slow movement is an adaptation to conserve energy and avoid detection by predators. This slow pace is due to their low-calorie diet of leaves, which are hard to digest and provide little energy.
In the wild, sloths face threats from predators such as jaguars, harpy eagles, and ocelots.
Deforestation and habitat destruction pose significant threats to sloth populations. Road construction and urbanization also lead to habitat fragmentation, making it difficult for sloths to find food and mates.
Efforts to conserve sloths include protecting large areas of their natural habitat in national parks and reserves.
Ongoing research helps in understanding sloth behavior, health, and habitat needs, which informs conservation strategies.
Organizations and sanctuaries work to rescue injured or orphaned sloths and, when possible, reintroduce them into the wild.
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Squirrel performs his best imitation of a vampire bat
Perched with an uncanny grace, this squirrel clings to the feeder, hanging downwards. With sharp, keen eyes fixed on its prize, it jumps nimbly to grasp the suet cage. It hangs upside down like it is imitating a vampire bat and feasts, keeping a careful eye on the sky around. Hawks are always watching these feeders and looking for an easy meal. A squirrel that is oblivious to the world around it will not last long. But the tasty treat in the suet cage is too good to resist. The squirrel is a very hungry acrobat, turning this bird feeder into a stage for its daring display.
Squirrels are entertaining and a delight to have at the feeders, for the most part. But they compete with the song birds and eat more than their the of the seeds. People go to great lengths to deter them and it is always a struggle to win the battle against these crafty critters.
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The Absolute Beauty of Indonesian Rice Fields From the Air
The sight of rice fields in Indonesia, especially when captured from the air by a drone, is truly breathtaking. These fields, known as "sawah," create a stunning patchwork of green and gold landscapes that are a testament to the intricate and labor-intensive agricultural practices of the region. In places like Bali and Java, rice is often grown on terraced fields carved into hillsides. These terraces create a dramatic, stepped landscape that looks especially striking from above. The symmetry and geometry of the terraces are both functional and visually appealing. Depending on the stage of the rice growth cycle, fields can display a range of colors from vibrant greens to golden yellows. This creates a dynamic and ever-changing mosaic when viewed from the air. In the early stages of rice planting, fields are flooded with water. When viewed from above, these water-filled fields can reflect the sky, clouds, and surrounding landscapes, adding a mirror-like quality to the scenery. Viewing rice fields from above through drone footage provides a unique perspective that highlights the beauty and complexity of Indonesian agriculture. Whether for artistic, educational, or recreational purposes, these aerial views are a stunning way to appreciate one of Indonesia’s most vital and beautiful landscapes.
The world depends on rice as one of the most consumed foods that we grow. The low cost provides many people with sustenance at an affordable price. The labour costs of rice picking are low, due to many factors. Many ride farms pay their workers with a share of the grain, as opposed to a monetary wage. This is the reason that a bag of rice that is purchased in North America is priced at pennies per pound, even though it is shipped from the other side of the world.
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Vivid colors of Autumn as they were meant to be seen
Spectacular colour like this should be seen from a bird's eye perspective.
Aerial footage from drones has captured these stunning views of Ontario's autumn foliage, showcasing the vivid colors of the season. Some of the top spots for experiencing these breathtaking views include Algonquin Provincial Park, where expansive forests and lakes create a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. The Muskoka region, famous for its picturesque lakes and sugar maples, and the Agawa Canyon, known for its scenic train rides through a landsc0ape painted with fall colors, are also highlights​.
These sugar maples near Peterborough, Ontario, are in full display of the fall colours in October each year. Skimming over the tops, this drone takes us on a voyage of colour and visual wonder.
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Would You Venture 2,000 Feet Below the Waves in This Homemade Submarine?
Building a homemade submarine is a complex and potentially dangerous endeavor that requires a deep understanding of engineering, materials, and safety protocols. However, enthusiasts have been inspired by the story of Karl Stanley, who built a homemade submarine named Idabel in Roatan, Honduras.
Built with a steel hull and capable of reaching depths of over 2000 feet, Idabel is used for deep-sea exploration tours in Roatan. Stanley’s success was due to meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and a passion for marine exploration.
While the idea of building a homemade submarine is exciting, it is essential to prioritize safety, thorough planning, and compliance with legal requirements. This project should not be undertaken lightly and ideally involves collaboration with experienced professionals.
These tourists from Canada were curious about the prospect of exploring the depths and seeing the underwater world from the safety of a submersible. But the thought of doing so in a submarine built without the safety standards that we are accustomed to in North America made these guests decide that scuba diving might be a better option.
Would you consider going more than 2,000 feet beneath the waves in a sub that looks like a minion from the famous animated movies?
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Huge moray eel is a formidable night predator
The thought of a huge moray eel slithering through the dark waters around Roatan's reefs is definitely thrilling! Moray eels are fascinating creatures, known for their snake-like appearance and predatory nature. Roatan, with its vibrant marine life and diverse underwater ecosystems, provides an ideal habitat for these mysterious creatures.
At night, when many reef inhabitants are tucked away in crevices or resting, the moray eel becomes more active, taking advantage of the cover of darkness to hunt for prey. Their keen sense of smell and excellent vision in low light conditions make them formidable nocturnal predators.
As the eel patrols the reef, it utilizes its strong jaws and sharp teeth to capture fish, crustaceans, and other small marine creatures. Its sinuous movement through the maze of coral formations creates an eerie yet captivating scene, reminding us of the wild beauty and untamed nature of the underwater world.
Encountering such a creature while diving or snorkeling in Roatan's waters would be an unforgettable experience, providing a glimpse into the fascinating lives of these apex predators of the reef.
This huge moray makes repeated attempts to locate the fish that it can smell hiding in the crevices. It is only a matter of time before the eel snatches a fish. It is difficult to hide from these incredible beasts.
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Sharks become agitated when the feeding begins
Feeding sharks during scuba diving encounters is a highly debated topic among marine conservationists and enthusiasts. While it might seem exciting to interact with these majestic creatures up close, it is argued that it can have negative consequences for both the sharks and humans involved.
Those opposed argue that feeding sharks can create a dependence on humans for food, altering their natural behavior and potentially leading to more frequent and aggressive interactions with humans in the future. It can also disrupt the natural balance of marine ecosystems by changing the feeding habits and territories of sharks.
Additionally, when sharks are fed by humans, they may become more aggressive in their pursuit of food, posing a safety risk to divers and snorkelers. Sharks are wild animals, and even though they might seem docile during feeding, their behavior can be unpredictable.
For these reasons, many responsible dive operators and marine conservation organizations discourage or even prohibit the feeding of sharks during dive encounters. Instead, they promote non-intrusive observation and education about these fascinating creatures to promote coexistence and respect for their natural behaviors.
These scuba divers are among a group of biologists who are trying to record the behaviour of sharks when they are provided with lion fish. Lion fish are an introduced and invasive species in the Atlantic Ocean. Here in Belize, the fish are decimating the reefs and threatening the ecosystems. With no natural predators, the lion fish breed rapidly. They are voracious feeders, devouring up to 30 local fish each day. If they are not kept in check, the results will be devastating. It is hoped that teaching sharks and moray eels to see the lion fish as a food source will change the situation and make lion fish less of a threat. While still debated, this type of shark feeding aims to create a healthier reef and a chance for the fish populations to survive.
What is obvious from the video is that the sharks behave very differently when food is offered. Scuba divers are wise to remember that the sharks are apex predators and highly competitive with each other. All of those razor sharp teeth in the vicinity of humans should not be taken lightly.
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Mighty lion and his girlfriend greet like a love scene from a Disney movie
The image of a mighty lion taking a drink at the river, with its reflection shimmering in the water, followed by the graceful awakening of the female lion and their silent stroll behind the tall grass, evokes a sense of tranquility and the beauty of nature's rhythms.
Lions are the top predators here on the African plain. Few animals are a threat to these great beasts. The lion drinks so casually at the edge of the water simply because he can. The female in the pride sleeps peacefully at the water's edge as well, afraid of nothing in this wilderness.
As the large male finishes his drink of water, he tenderly sniffs at his friend, awakening her as he does so. She seems to think about the matter and then she gets up on her feet, affectionately greeting him with a slow rub of her cheek against his. She walks off into the taller grass, checking over her shoulder as she goes, hoping he will follow her. As if he understands that they might be looking for a more private spot, he happily follows. We can only imagine the scene as the two reach their secluded spot in the grass, but what we see has played out like a love scene from a Disney movie.
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Majestic elephant roams free in Kenya, Africa
In Kenya, elephants are iconic figures of the wild. They often roam freely in various national parks and reserves such as Amboseli, Tsavo, and Maasai Mara. These majestic creatures play a vital role in the ecosystem and are highly revered in Kenyan culture. It's a breathtaking sight to witness these gentle giants casually traversing the savannah, forging connections within their herds, and going about their daily routines. Their presence adds to the allure and beauty of Kenya's natural landscapes, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike.
A guide has just led these tourists to a majestic bull who is roaming casually in his wilderness. Massive and powerful, he fears nothing in this wild habitat. Bull elephants in Kenya are awe-inspiring creatures, known for their immense size, strength, and confidence. In their natural habitat, they exude a sense of authority and fearlessness, largely due to their dominance within their social structure and their lack of natural predators as adults. With their tusks and sheer bulk, they command respect from other wildlife and often fearlessly assert their dominance in encounters with other animals.
However, it's essential to remember that while they may appear fearless, they are still vulnerable to human activities such as poaching and habitat loss. Despite their imposing presence, they rely on the protection of conservation efforts to ensure their continued survival in the wild. Their role as keystone species in the ecosystem underscores the importance of preserving their habitats and maintaining a harmonious balance between wildlife and human activities in Kenya and beyond.
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Herd of zebras rolls happily in the clay near African village
Zebras are known to roll in the clay as a form of grooming and protection from parasites. This herd of zebras has encountered a clay road near a remote village in Kenya, Africa. They roll happily as the make their way across the road. This behavior, called "dust bathing" or "wallowing," serves multiple purposes for zebras. It helps them get rid of parasites like ticks and other insects that might bother them, and it also assists in regulating their body temperature by providing a cooling effect. Plus, it's believed that the clay or dust may help to condition their skin and fur. Seeing zebras enjoying themselves in such a way is definitely a delightful sight.
Zebras are iconic animals in Kenya, Africa. They are commonly found in various national parks and reserves across the country, including the famous Maasai Mara, Amboseli National Park, Tsavo National Park, and others. The striking black and white stripes of zebras make them easily recognizable and a favorite among visitors on safari. In Kenya, zebras can be seen grazing in open grasslands, traversing savannahs, or even gathering around watering holes. Their presence adds to the incredible diversity of wildlife that Kenya is known for, making safaris in the region truly memorable experiences.
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The raw power and beauty of Clydesdales running free in a meadow
The sight of Clydesdale horses running free in a sun-kissed meadow during summer is a spectacle that speaks to the raw power and innate beauty of these magnificent creatures. Their muscular bodies, adorned with flowing manes and tails, effortlessly galloping through tall grasses that sway in the gentle breeze is a sight to behold. With each stride, the ground trembles slightly, emphasizing their strength and grace.
Their coats, shimmering in the sunlight, showcase a range of colors from chestnut to bay, with white markings adding to their allure. As they move, their hooves kick up earthy fragrances, mingling with the sweet scent of wildflowers that dot the landscape.
Their movements are synchronized yet individual, a testament to their unity as a herd while celebrating their individuality. Their expressions are serene yet spirited, reflecting a deep connection to their natural environment.
In this idyllic scene, there's a sense of freedom that transcends boundaries. These majestic creatures embody the untamed spirit of the wilderness, reminding us of the beauty and power that exist when nature is allowed to flourish undisturbed. These horses are experiencing freedom and joy as they run through this meadow in Ontario. They are living a beautiful life at this wonderful farm.
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Majestic swan shows off his gorgeous plumage
Mute swans are truly magnificent birds, known for their striking beauty and elegance. Their plumage, especially in adults, is indeed breathtaking. With their pure white feathers and gracefully arched necks, they exude a sense of regal charm. During the breeding season, their plumage can become even more vibrant, with a slight yellowish tint appearing on their bills. Watching a trumpeter swan display its plumage is a captivating sight, a reminder of the awe-inspiring diversity and beauty of the natural world.
This majestic male lives near Presquile Park in Ontario Canada during the spring. He and his mate have a few young and they watch over them carefully. Accustomed to humans, he allowed a close look and even put on a display for the camera.
The recovery of swan populations is indeed a heartening conservation success story. Once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss, concerted conservation efforts have helped these species rebound significantly. Through measures such as habitat restoration, protection of nesting sites, and careful management of hunting, the trumpeter swan population has been able to recover.
Conservation organizations, government agencies, and dedicated individuals have played crucial roles in this recovery effort. By raising awareness about the importance of preserving wetlands and other essential habitats for these majestic birds, as well as implementing measures to reduce human disturbances, we've been able to give swan populations a chance to thrive once again.
While challenges remain, such as habitat degradation and potential conflicts with human activities, the recovery of the swan serves as a testament to the power of conservation action and collective commitment to safeguarding our natural heritage.
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Drone captures stunning sunrise over mist enshrouded farm country
Drones allow us to take a look at our world from a different perspective. Flying over mist enshrouded farm country at sunrise captures colour and a stunning view that cannot be truly appreciated from ground level.
The drone gracefully soars above the picturesque landscape of Ontario, Canada, capturing the ethereal beauty of this sunrise on a misty morning. As the first light of dawn gently kisses the rolling hills and vast stretches of farmland, a mesmerizing play of colors unfolds in the sky, painting it in hues of soft pinks, oranges, and purples. The mist hangs low, adding an enchanting aura to the scene, as if nature itself is wrapped in a delicate veil. The drone's camera captures the tranquil beauty of the countryside awakening to a new day, with the promise of warmth and possibility lingering in the air.
In the distance, Rice Lake is visible. It is a large body of water that provides fishermen and nature lovers alike to interact with the great outdoors.
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10,000 pound kugel sphere is a fascinating wonder of engineering
Kugel fountains are often called floating sphere fountains but the sphere is not actually floating. It is held in place by pressurized water that forms a thin film on which the sphere aquaplanes. These are water features or sculptures where the sphere sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal. Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket, creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless. These spheres can weigh thousands of kilograms, but the efficient bearing allows them to be spun by the force of a hand. The sphere does not float, being denser than water. They are often made from granite. The hydraulics of the fountain can be controlled so that the axis of rotation of the sphere changes continually.
This kugel fountain sits outside the Guinness Book of World Records Museum in Niagara Falls, Canada. The sphere is massive, weighing more than 4,500kg (10,000lbs) and measuring almost 2m (6 feet) in diameter but a person can apply a small amount of pressure to stop the ball from rotating. The direction of the sphere can be changed easily. It is a true feat of engineering to manufacture such a precise structure that the water can hold it off the pedestal.
These guests to Niagara Falls found this structure very fascinating as they figured out the principle behind it. They posed for pictures with it as they began to understand what they were seeing.
Kugel fountains can be found all over the world. Many are at popular tourist destinations, such as science museums, shopping centers, lobbies, and gardens. With a little imagination, there is no end to what the human mind can invent.
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In the middle of a shark feeding frenzy in Roatan
Shark feeds are controversial in the minds of many people, however, the role they play in shark conservation and education is undeniable. The positive aspects are often underestimated.
Once sought for food and sold in illegal fin trafficking, sharks were harvested in greater numbers. People in many countries simply cannot resist the income that is provided and their survival makes the ethical dilemma impossible to consider. Eco tourism provides an alternative to harvesting the sharks. While it can be argued that the sharks should not be taught to associate humans with food, these shark dives do provide an incentive to conserve sharks. They are worth more alive than dead. It's a debate with many perspectives.
These divers witnessed what happens when a few scraps are held in a bucket and later released. It's a small and controlled feeding that provides an injection of dollars into a struggling economy. It is also an experience that leaves many divers with a new appreciation for the beauty of sharks. We see here that the sharks pose no threat to the divers, dispelling the myth that they are cold blooded killers, ready to eat anything or anyone they encounter.
Sharks play a crucial role in the health of the reef, the ocean, and the planet. If we lose sharks, we will not survive. Understanding and appreciation is the first step in developing the needed respect for sharks. The balance of nature is fragile and we have a great responsibility to avoid upsetting it.
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Drone captures newly filmed Reacher season 3 episode, street fight
Reacher, an American crime television series with season 3 coming soon, is the saga of a military veteran, Jack Reacher who does battle with criminals in an action-packed drama. This is the filming of one of the fight scenes that is set to take place on July 4th in a small American town. It is actually being filmed in Millbrook, Ontario, Canada in April 2024. Despite cool temperatures and bare trees, the town was transformed into an American town summer scene in a matter of days leading up to the filming.
This never-before-seen footage was captured by a drone with high zoom capabilities. Although the drone was set far back to avoid the propeller sound being picked up by the microphones on the set, the view that it provides is clear due to the high-powered zoom.
We see many takes of "Jack" confronting criminals who mean to do him harm. He works through the three thugs with little effort. He avoids the punches and dishes out some of his own. Two thugs have their skulls bashed together as the third runs for a baseball bat. Even a bat doesn't scare Jack. He pulls it out of the thug's hands and discards it as he prepares to give that thug an extreme closeup of the truck. Jack is huge and ripped and the fight is believable as he deals with each threat.
The look at the filming process is fascinating. Multiple takes and many hours are required for what becomes a few seconds on the screen. Attention to detail is obvious as we see the planning of camera angles and the setup of the items on the set. Continuity is important and objects cannot move between the scenes. The cast and crew work harder than we would ever imagine as they bring us the excitement and the action in such a precise manner. Actors repeat the scene over and over until they get it perfect. They watch the clip on a monitor after a successful take and possibly, they decide to refine it even more.
Aside from the excitement of a big production in a small town, Jack and the crew won the hearts of the locals with their fun-loving and generous nature. Alan Ritchson and the actors spoke to children and parents, posing for selfies and showing that they loved their fans almost as much as the fans loved them. It was a beautiful experience for this sleepy little town.
Enjoy this little peek at the way the show is made. Released within hours of filming, it's a sneak peak like none other.
Based on the book by Lee Childs.
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Majestic spotted eagle ray cruises through waters of Roatan
Spotted eagle rays are majestic and beautiful.
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Decorator crabs are more complex than we realized
Decorator crabs are known for their ability to attach algae and small animals to their shells to conceal themselves from predators, but the process is more complex than it appears, and it suggests higher intelligence than we once understood these crabs to have. If the shells of these crabs are cleaned, they will immediately set about replacing their camouflage with the same care and precision as they showed in their first concealment.
There are several species of crabs that use plants, animals, and debris from their environment to adorn their shells. Some chew the algae and then carefully hook the pieces onto velcro-like hooks on their shell. They occasionally use anemones or other sedentary animals. They attach the matter to their shells with great precision and care, suggesting that they are purposefully imitating the surfaces around them. When moved from one environment to another, these crabs will quickly replace their adornments with items from the new location, seemingly understanding the need to blend in with specific surroundings. Their disguise is not random or haphazard.
Decorator crabs will make use of toxic plants or animals as further deterrence for potential predators. Described by scientists as "perhaps unrivalled" mastery of concealment, these are highly specialized behaviours. Understanding the purpose of their covering, these crabs remain still during the day and they freeze in place when threatened. Some species use only sponges, others use only noxious alga. One species selects stinging anemone for it's protective covering. The anemone benefits from an increased supply of food that is available as it moves around with the crab. Octopus have shown a tendency to avoid these crabs when they are adorned with anemone.
The intelligence and purpose of the smallest and seemingly less significant animals is becoming more understood. Perhaps, as we gain greater insight we will also gain greater appreciation and desire to protect them. The balance of nature is a delicate one and humans frequently disrupt this balance in their ignorance of what goes on around them.
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Ingenious floating pina colada bar in Roatan
Copinaco's Floating Bar is a unique and ingenious business that brings the pina coladas right to you as you wander the beach. Roatan is home to some of the most beautiful shorelines in the world. Tourists come here for the beauty and for the island warmth. The sun and the sand make this beach a pleasure to stroll and a sight to behold. What makes it even better is the fact that this gentleman, Sammy delivers one of the world's best pina coladas as you dip your toes in the ocean. He paddles his kayak up and down the shore, starting his day at 10:00 and ending it when the last pineapples or coconuts are sold.
Loading the kayak with hundreds of pounds of fruit, rum, pina colada mix and straws, he sets out along the shallows, searching for thirsty tourists who need some refreshment.
Dave, a visitor from Canada heard the call for drinks as he strolled. Eager to support a hardworking businessman, he rushed down to greet this mobile bartender. In his hurry, Dave almost took a few beanbags in the head as he barged through a game in progress. Sammy threw out his anchor, a small concrete block and he set to work preparing a very fresh drink for Dave.
At $10, this monstrous drink was a bargain and the experience added to the value. Sammy earned his money and a tip.
In a world where it is hard to make ends meet, this brilliant entrepreneur has created a solid business model and developed a niche market that makes him very comfortable. Sammy is a huge hit among the locals and the tourists in this little paradise, and it's easy to see why.
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Witness the mystical underwater world in the Maldives
The Maldives are one of the most magnificent destinations of the planet. The beauty above the waves is striking, and the scenery is magnificent. But what most people don't get to see is the phenomenal world under the waves. These divers from Canada take you on a journey into a magical and mystical world beneath the waves.
Scuba divers are among the most fortunate people on the planet. They strap on air tanks, allowing them to venture into a world where humans were never meant to go. They see things that humans were never meant to see. The animals are bizarre. Gorgeous. Ferocious. They are beautiful and spectacular and they live in a world where the balance between being predator and prey is delicate and can change in an instant.
From tiny fish to gigantic manta rays, this video shows you magnificence and colour that is beyond what we can see on land.
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Midnight snorkelers capture incredible salamander migration
Every spring, yellow-spotted salamanders migrate to vernal ponds to breed. The result is a frenzy of activity that lasts only 2-3 nights each year. It is a spectacle to behold. The salamanders make their long journey from the surrounding forest under the cover of darkness, usually after a rainfall. The males arrive at the pond first, depositing spermatophores on the leaves and branches in shallow water. The females come soon after, gathering up the spermatophores to fertilize the eggs that they are waiting to deposit.
Soon after the eggs are fertilized, the female will attach herself to a submerged plant stem or twig and she will release the eggs. The eggs are protected by a sticky, gelatinous mass that deters predators as the eggs develop for approximately 30 days. The eggs hatch into tadpoles, similar to frogs and toads. They spend their first few months in the water, breathing through gills.
Salamanders are amphibians. Once they leave the water, they spend most of their lives underground, occasionally coming out of their burrows to feed and also for breeding season in March to May each year. They are rarely seen, although they are plentiful in the forests that they inhabit.
Salamanders excrete a toxic, milky fluid when they are threatened. Salamanders are a major food source for birds, raccoons, foxes and other animals.
Salamanders feed on earthworms, spiders, slugs, snails, and other insects. They have the amazing ability to grow a new tail and new limbs if one is severed.
A salamander has the unique ability to lay two different types of egg masses. One type has a water-soluble, protein-based gel. The other type has a hydrophobic protein-based gel. This is believed to prevent predation by wood frogs. These eggs are combined with an algae that produces oxygen and removes carbon dioxide and nitrogen waste from developing embryos.
The complex relationships between organisms are only beginning to be understood. The health of our forests and our ecosystems depends on the survival of all species, no matter how small.
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