Heart warming close look at a calf's entry into the world
Life on a farm like this one is a wondrous thing. The miracle of birth is a frequent one and a calf entering the world on a sunny day is something unforgettable.
Daisy is a lucky cow who lives on this beautiful farm in Ontario, Canada. It's acres of lush pasture on rolling hills, ponds full of clean water, and trees for shade. The "girls" here graze freely and lie in the sunshine when they are relaxing and chewing their cud. It's as perfect a life as a cow could want. There is even a bull here who does his duty in the natural way and watches over them protectively.
Daisy is a seasoned mother who has had a few calves and she knows her time is coming again. She picks a spot on the hill and lies down to let nature take its course. Her herd mates seem to know what's happening and they line up and take a spot in the grass beside her. Their calm presence seems to comfort Daisy as she begins her labour. The other cows look on, unconcerned, but seemingly there for a show of support. They have all given birth a few times themselves and they must understand that a calf is on the way.
Daisy begins giving birth and works quickly, with her calf emerging over the course of ten or twelve minutes. A healthy and chunky male, he slides out smoothly and waits patiently as his mother licks him clean. Slowly, he will gain the strength to stand and nurse. The licking and grooming is important for the bonding between the mother and the calf. It is also imperative that Daisy cleans up anything that could attract predators such as wolves or coyotes. Daisy's new baby will need to get to his feet as quickly as possible and stay close to the herd for protection. He will also need to get a dose of the first milk which contains colostrum, the antibodies that will build his immune system and nourish him in the first day. Calves are able to walk within a few minutes of birth and they are highly mobile in a day or two. Nature looks after the healthy and gives them the ability to care for themselves early in life.
This young calf gets to his feet and begins drinking with enthusiasm.
The birth of a calf is a wonderful part of nature and a true joy to watch.
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The beauty of Canada from one coast to the other
Canada is a vast country with some of the most beautiful scenery on earth. The landscape is very different as you move from one coast to the other. Everything in between is unique and beautiful too.
These images were captured as a team of Canadians drove from one side to the other in a Lamborghini to raise funds for a small child fighting cancer. Stopping briefly to rest and plan, they launched a drone at various points to record the beauty of this incredible country. From Cape Spear on the easternmost point of North America to Vancouver Island, this journey spanned the country from one ocean to the other and 7,500km (nearly 4,700 miles) in between. Historic lighthouses, salt flats, rock cuts, mountains, prairie, pronghorn bucks, waterfalls, deep river gorges, towering trees, horses, and much more. Just a tiny fraction of Canada's beauty is recorded here.
Enjoy the scenic wonder as seen by this team of adventurers on a trip that will never be forgotten.
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This steel safe killed one of America's most famous men
Jack Daniels is known throughout the world as one of the greatest whiskey producers to have ever lived. His life is the stuff of legends, and and it is also filled with mystery and intrigue. His legacy was passed down to two of his nephews when he died in October of 1911 and they continued the tradition of making Jack Daniel's whiskey according to the original recipe and in the traditional methods.
Most people in North America, and in most countries around the world have sampled this whiskey, or have at least seen it served. But few people know the incredible story behind Jack's final years, ad his death in 1911.
The Jack Daniels distillery is set on a beautiful piece of property in Lynchburg, Tennessee. Jack arrived for work before anyone else on a morning in 1909, or 1910. There are conflicting stories about the date and poorly kept written records in that era have made it difficult to be precise. But Jack needed documents from his steel combination safe in his office. He struggled with the combination and could not open the safe. Frustrated, he kicked the safe and broke his big toe. Infection set in and Jack was forced to have his toe amputated. But the infection had spread and gangrene began to form in his foot. The foot was removed, followed by a leg amputation and it was eventually clear that Jack was losing the battle with gangrene. Beyond the full leg amputation, there was nothing that could be done. Blood poisoning set in and Jack knew he was dying.
Legend has it that Jack led the life of a ladies man, with love and romance at every turn, but he had never married or had children. With no heirs, Jack passed on his distillery and his fortune to two nephews who continued the business as Jack would have wanted.
Tours of the property are conducted, showing guests the operation and the method for producing this beloved whiskey. There are few secrets here, and guests can see the entire process. Grain is ground and fermented. Maple is charred precisely to create the charcoal pellets that are used for the filtration process. Storage buildings are open, and samples are provided. A knowledgeable tour guide explains the entire operation and shows guests the different steps.
The tour is a fascinating one, full of interesting sights, smells, and facts. The legend behind this distillery, and behind the man who created it is well worth the time. Jack Daniels died because he didn't have the right combination for the safe, but he sure had the right combination of ingredients to create a whiskey that lives on, more than 100 years after he was gone.
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Sanctuary bull with intimidating horns asks guest for a head scratch
This bull is a Texas longhorn cow that lives in a sanctuary near Banos, Ecuador. He has incredibly long horns and the look of him is quite intimidating. He sees a guest at the fence of his pen and he comes over to get the alfalfa sprouts that are being offered. The horns poke out over the gate and swing menacingly close to the guests head, whose wife warms him to watch his eyes.
Many cows have an itchy spot behind their horns that is impossible to scratch. The cow seems to want his head petted and the guest obliges. But it becomes clear immediately that the bull wants his head scratched more than he wants the treats. He jams his horns against the gate to get his head in the best position for the guest to reach. The bull stands very still as he gets a good scratch. He looks at the guest with pleading eyes and when the hand is extended again, he sniffs and then slams his horns down to expose the top of his head once more. It is clear that these two have reached an understanding and the bull knows that his friend will scratch some more.
This sanctuary takes in animals that could no longer be cared for where they were. It is here that they find a new home and a new life with proper care and food. Guests are invited to tour the sanctuary which helps fund the purchase of food for the animals. They are happy here and they get the love and the attention that they deserve.
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African farmer and her son upload videos to pay for his education
Naomy is an exceptional woman who lives in Kenya, Africa. She works incredibly hard on her small farm plot to feed her family and to make ends meet. She does all of this in a world where weather, water shortage, harsh climate, and poverty create challenges that most of us would not even understand.
Naomy and Emmanuel have also been using videos to tell stories about their home and their life across the world. These videos have generated enough income to pay for Emmanuel's yearly school fees, his shoes, his school uniform, and even a few groceries. Naomy and Emmanuel have made videos about food, farming, water gathering, animals near their home, the local market, and almost anything that would be interesting to people in other areas of the world.
Naomy narrates and explains the challenges of water scarcity, the difficulties in the farming business, and the hope that comes with the sprouting of the crops. Emmanuel shows us his fire building skills as he cooks for the family and he sorts beans from the harvest.
But farming alone won't pay for all of the expenses in Kenya. Emmanuel's school fees are difficult to manage. Emmanuel and Naomy have been using the small income from uploading videos to pay for the fees. They have even managed to buy Emmanuel a new pair of shoes, a school uniform, and a backpack. Emmanuel proudly shows us the shoes that they bought with his earnings.
Naomy recorded a small girl fetching water at a roadside drainage ditch. When that footage was originally uploaded, Naomy took some of the money that she had earned and she found the child in the neighbouring village. Naomy bought a school uniform and shoes for this child as well. There was enough money left in the young girl's share to also buy the family a basket of groceries. It was important to Naomy to share some of her good fortune.
Naomy and Emmanuel will continue to upload videos, assisted by a Canadian friend, so that Emmanuel will be able to receive the education that he deserves.
If anyone has questions or would like to assist Naomy and Emmanuel in any way, they can do so through this channel or by email at mojo_videos@hotmail.com (David McNab)
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Young hawksbill sea turtle follows scuba diver over the coral reef
Scuba divers in the Cayman Islands explore the waters gazing at beautiful coral and enjoying a peacefulness that is beyond description. Occasionally, they see spectacular animal life as well, such as fish, eels, sharks, and sea turtles. A close look at these animals is always an unforgettable experience. This diver was drifting along looking below him at the sea fans and corals when he noticed a curious hawksbill sea turtle tagging along just behind him.
Hawksbill turtles are critically endangered and a rare sight, especially so close. But this prolonged encounter went on for more than ten minutes. The diver turned his camera around and continued to swim. The turtle seems to be keeping an eye out for sponges, one of their favourite foods, but he also seems to enjoy the companionship. Perhaps he was curious about the awkward human making his way over the reef, or maybe he was thinking it was safer to stay close to avoid predators. This is a young hawksbill and a large shark would make an easy meal of it.
Hawksbill sea turtles are one of the most beautiful turtles. It is their beauty that brought them top the brink of extinction as their shells were collected for ornate brushes and jewelry. Their numbers plummeted as they were over harvested for shells, meat and eggs. Eggs on the beaches were dug up for consumption for centuries while their numbers dipped almost to the point of terminal population decline. Due to conservation efforts, changing laws, education, and changing attitudes, the hawksbill sea turtles are starting to make a comeback.
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Mighty leopard stops to have a big drink at watering hole
Leopards are huge, muscular cats that inhabit many of the grasslands and forests in Africa. They are powerful animals that can prey on ungulates many times their size. Known to take down young giraffes, antelopes, and even fully grown elands, the leopard is highly adaptable to take advantage of available prey. When larger food is unavailable, they will feed on hares and dung beetles. Occasionally, primates and porcupines are consumed by the leopard. During studies, evidence of gorilla consumption was found in leopard scat, although this would be rare due to the ferocity of adult gorillas.
Leopards are known for caching food in trees, high off the ground. They are capable of hoisting a carcass that is several times their own body weight. This takes an impressive amount of strength to accomplish. Leopards are swift and formidable hunters, but during observation, it was learned that the majority of hunt attempts are unsuccessful. Leopards often go 1-2 weeks between successful kills.
Leopards are vulnerable due to habitat loss and competition with farmers, as well as persecution for their perceived and actual threats to livestock. As human populations increase and development progresses, competition between man and nature will increase the conflict.
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Determined fish works hard to catch crab hiding in rocks
This wrasse lives in the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands. It has caught a glimpse of a small crab hiding among the rocks. Quick to scurry under cover, the wary crab believes it has found safe refuge under the chunks of lava that scatter the ocean floor. But the fish is not deterred and it is not afraid of a little hard work to get a meal.
With surprising coordination, the fish grasps the stones in its mouth and tosses them aside quickly. When the stones are all moved and there is nowhere left to hide, it lunges forward and pins the crab, inhaling it along with a mouthful of crushed sand and stone. As it adjusts and spits out the stones, the crab makes a brief escape. But the crab has been injured and the fish easily catches it as it slowly sinks. The crab is grabbed again and swallowed as the fish swims off, victorious.
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Flamingo feeds in an unusual manner to extract shrimp from mud
Galapagos Flamingos are wading birds that can be seen feeding in the shallows and mud flats around alkaline or saline lakes. Flamingos are found in tropical and subtropical areas. They have long legs and a long, curved neck.
Galapagos Flamingos reside in the salt-water lagoons hidden in the lava fields behind the coast of the Galapagos Islands. These beautiful birds have a unique bill that allows them to filter the mud and extract the brine shrimp, their primary diet.
Their beaks are specially adapted to separate mud and silt from the food they consume. They use their bills in a uniquely used upside-down manner. They filter the mud using hairy structures called lamellae which line the mandibles and the tongue. Flamingos also feed on small crustaceans.
The Galapagos Flamingo reaches 140 centimetres (4.5 feet) in length. Males can weigh up to 2.8 kilograms and females are slightly smaller at 2.2 kilograms. Most of their plumage is pink. Their colour is more vivid than that of the European species. Flamingo calls resemble the honking of a goose.
These majestic birds are a beautiful sight to see, especially when they gather in large flocks.
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Lion brothers meet affectionately on the African Plain
These two lions are young males, born in the same litter. They are growing quickly and learning how to hunt and survive in this beautiful, but harsh environment. They greet each other with playful affection but there is also a subtle test of the other's resolve as they engage in dominant behaviour. They will soon have to compete with the alpha lion, and each other, or else leave the pride and begin their own pride.
Life here in Kenya, and elsewhere in Africa is complex, and it follows a pattern. As the lions grow old enough to challenge the leader of their pride, he will chase them out. But for now, playing in the sunshine and enjoying the companionship of the brotherhood is all that matters.
Few things are as majestic as powerful lions, the apex predators on these plains. These lions roam freely on a large swath of land that is protected from hunters and poachers, one of the few threats to a full grown lion. Hyenas will challenge a sick or solitary lion, but even they know that they must be great in number and ready for a ferocious battle to take down one of these big cats.
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Daisy the bunny munches noisily on a treat and it's too cute!
Daisy is happy bunny who has just arrived at her new home after being rescued. She had been dumped in an industrial area near a business. There are no homes in this area and it seems impossible that she had simply escaped or wandered off. She seemed to be in need of help and she was wandering around the business and looking for discarded food.
One of the workers there, a young man with a soft heart decided to feed her. She eagerly ate the vegetables that he left out for her and she came back daily looking for more. Although she was a little wary, she seemed comfortable enough with humans that it was obvious she had been a pet.
With a little food and some time, the young man gained Daisy's trust and he was able to catch her. He took her home and she quickly adapted to her new family.
Daisy can be seen here enjoying a carrot treat as she gets settled in. It looks like she is more than happy with the new arrangement. The close up footage of her eating is possibly one of the cutest things you will see today. There are a lot of carrots in Daisy's future!
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Ostrich gives epic performance but fails to get the girl
Ostriches are the tallest birds and heaviest of all living birds. They lay the largest eggs of any land animal. They can reach 2.8m in height (9 feet) and weigh up to 150kg (330lbs). They are formidable animals, capable of delivering a kick that will deter even the hungriest of predators. They can run at speeds of 70km/h (43mph), giving them the ability to avoid capture by almost any land animal.
The mating ritual of the ostrich is a complex and fascinating sight. They flap their wings rapidly, vibrating their outstretched feathers while swaying rhythmically and vocalizing for the attention of the female.
This male ostrich tries as hard as possible to get the attention of his love interest nearby. He wiggles and calls and hopes she will swoon and crouch down on the sand to receive his amorous advances, but she simply ignores him and walks away. Undeterred, he continues his impressive display for more than a minute before walking away defeated.
The other females in the areas will surely see that he is rejected and he is best to walk away and try to work on his routine.
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This stunning lighthouse is the easternmost point of North America
The easternmost point in North America is a rocky outcropping near St. John's harbour in Newfoundland, Canada. Cape Spear has a history that is as magnificent as the lighthouse that marks it.
During the second world war, a gun battery was installed here to guard the significant convoy route and entrance to St. John's harbour. Disappearing gun carriages, barracks, and underground passages were essential for the defence of this harbour. This point was a United States Army General Surveillance Ground Radar Early Warning Station during the second world war.
The lighthouse has lit up the entrance to the harbour since 1836. Prior to its completion, a dense fog enveloped the point and the harbour and threatened the safety of an approaching warship with an important passenger. The Governor sent out several pilot boats, one containing a young harbour pilot named James Cantwell. When he successfully guided the warship into the harbour, he was asked to name his reward. He requested the position of lighthouse keeper at the Cape. A keeper had already been hired, but he passed away after ten years of service. Cantwell was given the position at that time and he served proudly for 35 years. Cantwell's son took over next and the tradition of the Cantwell family being the keepers continued for over 50 years.
This is now the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland.
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Monstrous whale shark dwarfs scuba divers in the Galapagos Islands
Whale sharks are massive creatures that can grow to a whopping 18m (57 feet), topping the scales at an estimated 44,000kg (100,000lbs). To see them in real life creates a sense of awe and wonder. They are giants, but they are truly gentle beasts, virtually incapable of harming a human. Scientists believe that the whale sharks come to the waters near Darwin Island in the Galapagos to give birth. Almost all are pregnant females. But exactly where they do this is a mystery. Very few baby whale sharks have ever been seen.
Three ocean currents collide in these waters, bringing an upwelling of nutrients from the deep ocean. This brings the larger fish and the apex predators like sharks. Although the water here is full of plankton and krill, the whale sharks are not here to feed. They are rarely seen with their mouths open as they swim around the island.
This whale shark casually cruised through this group of awe-stricken scuba divers, making them look small and insignificant. These giant sharks are truly magnificent.
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Gigantic fishing spider is one of nature's best scuba divers
Dolomedes spiders, also known as fishing spiders, dock spiders, and "cottage monsters" are unique predators with amazing hunting abilities. They wait by the edge of a lake, pond, or river to ambush small fish that come to the surface. The spiders can detect ripples and then quickly run across the surface of the water. They use their forelimbs that are equipped with claws to hook their prey and inject their prey with venom with their hollow jaws.
Fishing spiders are also capable of climbing beneath the surface of the water. The hairs on their bodies trap air bubbles that encase the spiders as they hunt underwater. Because they breath through openings in their abdomens, they can use the trapped air to breathe and stay submerged longer.
The fishing spider hunts for mayflies and other insects on the surface of the water, using the water as a web. They can detect ripples and vibrations which indicate where their prey are located. The spider can estimate distance and direction, as well as discern the vibrations given off by predators such as trout. Powerful predators, they are capable of eating fish as large as a small goldfish. They will prey on tadpoles as well.
These spiders are similar in appearance to wolf spiders and are often confused with them. They differ in their markings, their eyes, and the fact that wolf spiders carry their young on their backs. Although frighteningly large, they rarely bite people and they help keep the insect population in check. Seeing them around the cottage is actually a good thing for people who don't want to be bitten by horseflies or mosquitos.
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Curious manta rays circle around delighted scuba divers
Manta rays are highly intelligent and curious animals. These mantas are magnificent, stretching more than 6m (18 feet) across. Their wingspan is impressive and awe inspiring, as is their gentle nature. Studies have shown that these animals are self aware, recognizing themselves in a reflection. They will even expose parts of their bodies in order to get a look at areas that they are unable to see.
These divers were thrilled to have the mantas circle and investigate them with no fear. To have an interaction with a gigantic wild animal on its own terms is an unforgettable experience. Scuba diving leads people into a world of beauty and mystery that we were never meant to see.
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Breathtaking beauty of British Columbia captured from above
British Columbia is home to one of the most beautiful mountain ranges in the world!
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Majestic horses run free in the meadow on a sunny day
Few things are as breath taking as a herd of horses running free and happy in the sunshine. These are no ordinary horses and it is no ordinary meadow. Many of these beautiful animals have found their way here after a life of hard work, and in a few cases, a life with care that was less than they deserved. But the wait was worth it as their new life is one of freedom and happiness.
The Mane Intent is a horse farm that helps the horses by providing them with a carefree life and the best treatment possible. But more importantly, there is also a beautiful purpose for the horses here. This farm provides equine therapy and a chance for people who have suffered trauma, abuse, or challenge to connect with powerful, yet gentle beasts that help with healing and learning. Many also come here to learn about leadership, establishing boundaries, building teams, and many other aspects of life in a complex world.
For the horses, their life is built around a natural existence with very little stress and a dramatic change from their earlier life. They graze contentedly, run when they choose, snooze in the sunshine and socialize with others in the herd. The horses develop bonds and friendships that run deep. Life here is all that these kind souls deserve.
This farm provides a unique experience for first responders as they navigate a world full of hurt and pain. Horses can provide an outlet ad a means to process the things that humans were not meant to deal with. For those who come here, the experience is very different and very beneficial. We don't fully understand the reasons that equine therapy is so effective, but few people will deny the healing power of horses.
Enjoy the happiness that we see in this beautiful herd as they greet the morning sunshine in their little paradise.
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Giant manta rays give scuba divers beautiful close up experience
Manta rays are beautiful and graceful creatures that create a sense of awe and wonder among those fortunate enough to get a close look at them!
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Giraffe brothers playfighting on the African plain shows the beauty of animals in the wild
Giraffes are among the most beautiful and majestic animals on earth. They tower over all other creatures, with the longest neck of any land animal. Their legs are impossibly long as well, yet they gallop with an impressive speed and perfect grace. Gentle, yet powerful, fully grown giraffes have few predators. Even a pack of determined lions will not take down a healthy, adult giraffe.
Life on the African plain is a delicate balance. In the battle for survival, all animals are at risk of falling prey at any time. An injury, or a careless moment can turn the balance against them, making them vulnerable. Animals like these giraffes may be playing and determining hierarchy within the herd, but they are also honing the skills and developing the understanding that they might one day need to defend themselves.
These two giraffes play fight on a sunny day, jostling for position or dominance, while testing their strength and their techniques. The scene is a beautiful one, reminding us that the natural behaviour of a wild animal in its own habitat is unrivaled and more breath taking than watching an animal confined. This vast protected area in Kenya, Africa, provides guests with a way to view wild animals as they should be. The revenue from these tours allows the land to stay undeveloped and it funds the protection and the conservation of this species and others.
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Fan-bellied leatherjacket is a bizarre looking animal
There are many species of filefish, with varied appearances. This fan-bellied leatherjacket is member of the filefish family. It was found in the waters of Indonesia, searching the seabed for worms, tunicates, and shrimp. Like other filefishes, it has the capability of changing its colour and texture to match its surroundings. A master of camouflage, it is often found stationary in sea grass or coral, depending on this ability to blend in as a means of escaping predators.
The filefish has a spiky fin on the top of its head which it uses to warn other fish when it feels threatened. Often referred to as a "unicorn filefish" it resembles a unicorn when the spine is erect. They can grow up to 40cm (16inches) in length. These fish are beautiful to see and a delight for scuba divers to encounter.
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Chasing your dream can lead you where you never imagined
Almost everyone has a dream, but not everyone has the courage to chase them. When you set out after your dreams, almost anything can happen. Sometimes the dream changes or leads you in a direction that you never dared to go, or a direction you had never expected. Sometimes the dream seems to be leading you to something you'd never have thought of. And sometimes they simply vanish or evaporate as if they don't want to be caught. But if you don't chase your dreams, you'll never catch up with them.
This story tells us of a man who had a childhood dream that was always, unclear, elusive, and mysterious. He knew where he wanted to go, but not how to get there. Life took him on a path that seemed to be leading in a completely different direction, yet it was a life of adventure and experiences like you would see on a television documentary. He followed blindly, accepting the direction, the challenge, and the rewards of the risks. He saw amazing things and had experiences that he felt compelled to document and share.
And then one day, he was shocked as he realized exactly where he was. He hadn't caught up with the dream that he was chasing. The dream had caught up with him. It felt like it had snuck up behind him and appeared without warning. Maybe he had always been on the path that led to the realization of a lifelong goal, but didn't realize it. He didn't know that there might be more than one way to meet the dream in the end.
David is a videographer who has been learning how to tell his story through visual means. He uses his GoPro, camcorder, and other cameras to capture the images as he explores remote and beautiful places. He takes us out over stunning landscapes and shores with his drones. He invites us along with him as he explores beneath the waves and meets the animals of the ocean in their own world, on their own terms. It's a life of adventure that has brought him joy for being able to share it, and he has found that uploading his videos makes him enough money to finance future trips. It's partly through these videos that the next adventures are possible.
And now, David has shared a very personal and surprising story. He shares with us the story of how he suddenly pieced it all together and understood that he was already doing what he had dreamed of doing since he was a child. The lesson for him, and for all of us is that chasing your dreams won't always turn out as you expected. It will most likely be different. And it might even be better.
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Gigantic whale shark comes for back scratch on small scuba boat
Whale sharks are one of the most awe inspiring animals in the ocean. Except for a few species of whale, they are the largest living creature on earth. They are the biggest fish in the ocean, and the biggest of the shark family. They measure up to 17m (55 feet) in length and can reach an estimated weight of more than 45,000 kg (100,000lbs).
For nature lovers and scuba divers, few sights are as awe-inspiring as one of these magnificent beasts cruising past. They are as immense as a school bus, yet completely gentle and harmless. There have been no recorded injuries inflicted on a human by a whale shark and they are incapable of biting anyone. Whale sharks are filter feeders, inhaling water full of plankton, shrimp, krill, fish eggs, and small fish. They filter the water in a fashion similar to baleen whales like the humpbacks. Giant combs catch the food which is then swallowed, while water is expelled through the huge gills.
These scuba divers were loading into the panga, a small boat that brings divers from the main boat to the dive sites. They had been exploring the waters around Darwin Island in the Galapagos. When they returned to the surface, they found a curious whale shark swimming around the panga. It's possible it was looking at the boat and divers with interest, but it's more likely that the giant creature was looking for a place to scratch its back. It repeatedly circled the boat and passed underneath, making contact with the boat and seemingly looking for contact with the divers in the water too.
Whale sharks and other large animals are troubled by remora fish that swim up to them and latch on for a ride. The remoras are able to travel with no effort and they detach to swim around their hosts as they eat feces and fish scraps. But, for the large hosts, the remoras can be annoying and can interfere with hydrodynamics, making swimming more of an effort. Large animals will often seek other animals or moving objects in the hope that the remoras will detach and switch to the new animal. Occasionally, sharks and large predator fish will take a remora as a meal. It's possible that this whale shark was looking to rid itself of a few hitchhikers.
Regardless of the reason, these scuba divers were ecstatic over the chance to see whale shark for such a close and prolonged encounter. The beautiful markings of the whale shark can also be seen very clearly in this video.
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World's laziest sea lion finds clever way to reach the water's edge
Sea lions dot the coastline on nearly every sandy beach and rocky shore in the Galapagos Islands. These beloved animals amuse and delight locals and tourists alike. Their antics and their personalities remind us so much of our furry companions, the dogs. Sea lions are wild creatures that live in harmony with humans here in the islands. People keep a respectful distance and the sea lions generally do the same. Unless approached too closely, sea lions will ignore humans in most cases. Bull sea lions are formidable animals with large heads and huge teeth. They are powerful and fearless. Surprisingly agile in the water, they are slow and clumsy on land. It is easy to move out of their way if they approach. Sea lions will not expend the energy required to chase human, so getting along with them on the beach is easy. As long as people don't get too close to the females, the males are just as likely to ignore people in the water too.
This large bull has barked a warning to a rival male and he has run up the sandy incline to make his threat known. Wisely, the younger male has run off into the sand dunes. He was lucky that he was at the top of the beach, where running is easier and he puts distance between himself and the dominant bull. Having sent his message to the challenger, the boss of the colony is satisfied and he wants to return to the water. But the long distance to the edge of the surf has left him feeling lazy and unmotivated. Instead of waddling his way back down, the bull simply lines himself up parallel to the water and begins a long, slow roll down the hill.
Ingenious and hilarious, this bull gives the tourists an amusing show as he coughs and sputters, resting in between attempts to make it to the waves. Caked in sand, he resembles a giant, sugar-coated donut twist by the time he gets close. And to top it all off, he stops to smooch with a female that is basking by the ocean's edge. Then he continues on into the shallows where he can move with ease. The rival bull will not return, at least for a while. Bull sea lions are capable of inflicting serious wounds in their battle for dominance of the colony and the beach. He will wisely wait for another day to challenge this boss.
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Sleepy Pacific green sea turtle enjoys a good belly scratch in the coral
This is a Pacific green sea turtle, one of the larger sea turtles in the oceans. It spends a good part of its day eating the aquatic vegetation that grows around the corals. But they also spend a good part of their day sleeping. They descend to the bottom in shallow areas, approximately 10-15 metres (30-45 feet) in depth where they seek a good place to rest. They can hold their breath and slow their oxygen consumption, allowing them to stay down more than 30 minutes before they rise to the surface for a few breaths of air.
Often, before settling down for a snooze, green turtles will scratch their shells and their belly on the coral. They can be found under ledges or on coral protrusions, rocking back and forth, scraping their hard shells or leathery armpits as if they are itchy. It's very tempting to go up to the sea turtles and give them a little scratch, like you would do for your itchy dog, but touching the marine animals is strictly forbidden. This turtle lives on the reef near Komodo Island in Indonesia. Scuba diving here requires that all people keep a respectful distance away from the animals. A responsible scuba diver will avoid startling or affecting any of the creatures in the ocean.
The largest recorded green turtle reached a weight of 395kg (871 lbs). The females of the species nest in the sand on beaches along many coasts in tropical and subtropical waters. They venture ashore during the night, dig a deep hole, deposit their eggs and then make their way to the sea, never seeing the hatchlings when they emerge. Baby turtles dig their way out of the nest after several months incubation. Only a few survive the treacherous trek to the water, and many more are eaten by predators before they reach shelter in the ocean. Sea turtles are among the most beloved of all the creatures in the ocean. Truly gentle creatures, they are a beautiful sight to see
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