WildCreatures

Loons casually swimming past swimmers at a cottage make for a serene and beautiful scene. Loons are known for their distinctive calls and striking black-and-white plumage. These swimmers were enjoying a dip in a picturesque lake outside a cozy cottage, when a pair of loons gracefully swam past as they were enjoying the water. The loons' sleek, black-and-white bodies create a striking contrast against the shimmering blue lake. Loons are iconic figures, well associated with summer cottages and peaceful lakes. Loons are heavy set birds with webbed feet, well adapted for propelling through the water as they dive and hunt for fish. Surprisingly agile beneath the surface, they are able to catch fish which they swallow whole. They are able to fly, but takeoffs are ungraceful as their feet are situated far back on their bodies, making takeoff from land particularly difficult. Once aloft, loons are capable of extended flights. Loons eat small pebbles which they store in their gizzard to help in breaking down their food. They feed on fish, crayfish, frogs, and leeches. Loons lay two eggs in a clutch and are often seen carrying their chicks on their backs. The babies are able to dive and feed immediately after hatching, but they ride on their parents' backs for up to two weeks to conserve heat and to help them avoid predators.

Blanding's turtles are known to face challenges due to habitat fragmentation caused by dams, which can impede their movement and access to necessary habitats. In some cases, conservation efforts may include measures to help these turtles navigate around or through dams to reach their nesting sites or other important areas. This can involve constructing turtle-friendly passages or even physically assisting them to move past obstacles. These efforts are part of broader conservation strategies aimed at protecting and preserving the species. This turtle was blocked by the cement wall that had been erected in this wetland more than 100 years earlier. The wall allows the lake level to remain high, creating habitat for wildlife and waterfowl, as well as fish. It also provides cottage access to areas where there are no roads in to the lake properties. This large female had been stuck behind the wall in what seemed like an attempt to access the wetland beyond. She was moved a short distance and placed where she could choose to enter the water or turn and go toward dry land and forest. She seems to smile as she heads right into the marsh. This turtle was believed to be the same one that had been sighted in previous years, right where she was released. Blanding's turtles are famous for their yellow throat and lower jaw and the appearance of a happy smile.

This enormous crab is scouring the beach for algae and decaying matter that he feasts on. This enormous crab is scouring the beach for algae and decaying matter that he feasts on. The Sally Lightfoot crab, also known as the red rock crab, is a vibrant and agile creature commonly found along the shores of the Galapagos Islands. This crab is known for its striking red and orange coloration, which makes it a picturesque subject against the dark volcanic rocks and blue ocean. Sally Lightfoot crabs are often seen scuttling across the beaches and rocks, feeding on algae and detritus. They play a vital role in the ecosystem by keeping the beaches clean and helping to control the populations of other small organisms. Early explorers remarked at the agility of these crabs, describing them as impossible to catch. They seem capable of running quickly in any direction with a reaction time so quick that it has been said they can read the mind of those trying to capture them. They are not commonly used as a food source, but they are used as bait by fishermen. With their beautiful coloration, these crabs are a delight to see and photograph.

This friendly little goat lives on a beautiful farm with a very ideal life. With plenty of hay and a few treats each day, his belly is as happy as he is. Guests visiting this farm often give him a little scratch on the head, right behind his horns where he can never reach. We can see by his reaction that he can't get enough of this.

As the wise old elephant wandered through the savanna of Kenya, its wrinkled trunk lifted and swayed with a grace earned through decades of life experience. The sun hovered high in the sky, casting shadows across the golden grasslands. The elephant paused beside a lone tree, its canopy providing welcome shade from the African heat. With deliberate movements, the elephant extended its trunk towards the ground, sniffing the air for any hint of fallen fruit. This tree was known for its succulent pods, a favorite treat of many animals in the savanna. The elephant's keen senses detected a faint aroma, and it gently nudged a fallen pod with its trunk. It curiously looked up at three for the promise of food to come. The pod rolled slightly, revealing its rich, nutritious contents. The elephant knew the importance of such finds in the dry season when food could be scarce. With a careful grip of its trunk, it lifted the pod to its mouth and began to feast, savoring each bite with a deep satisfaction that comes from living in harmony with the rhythms of nature. Around the wise old elephant, the sounds of the savanna continued their timeless symphony—birds chirping, insects buzzing, and the occasional rustle of grass as other creatures went about their day. The elephant's presence is a symbol of resilience and wisdom, embodying the spirit of the African wilderness where every moment held a lesson and every encounter with nature brought new insights. Elephants are among the most majestic creatures on the planet. If only we knew how to communicate with them and ask them to share their wisdom with us.

A herd of healthy young zebras grazing in Kenya, Africa paints a picturesque scene of the African savannah. Zebras are striking animals with their black and white stripes, perfectly adapted to the grassy plains where they feed. In Kenya, these animals roam freely, often in groups for protection against predators like lions and hyenas. The sight of them grazing peacefully under the African sun is a reminder of the beauty and diversity of wildlife on the continent. Conservation efforts for zebras in Kenya, Africa are crucial due to various factors threatening their populations. Protecting the natural habitats where zebras live, such as grasslands and savannahs, is essential. This involves establishing and maintaining national parks, reserves, and wildlife corridors to ensure sufficient space and resources for zebras to thrive. Zebras, like many African animals, are vulnerable to poaching for their meat, skins, and body parts. Anti-poaching patrols, community involvement in wildlife protection, and strict law enforcement are critical to combat illegal hunting. As human populations expand, conflicts arise between people and wildlife, including zebras. Implementing strategies like building fences, using deterrents, and promoting coexistence practices helps reduce conflicts over resources. Continuous research on zebra populations, behavior, and health is essential for effective conservation management. Monitoring populations through methods like aerial surveys and GPS tracking provides valuable data for conservation decisions. Engaging local communities in conservation efforts is vital. Education programs about the importance of zebras and other wildlife, as well as their ecological roles, foster conservation awareness and support. Zebras migrate across borders, so international cooperation is crucial. Collaboration on conservation policies, sharing of best practices, and addressing transboundary issues ensure comprehensive protection for zebra populations. Efforts by organizations such as the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), NGOs, and international partners play a significant role in safeguarding zebras and their habitats in Kenya. Through these combined efforts, there is hope for the continued presence of healthy zebra populations in the wild.

Aurora is one of the happiest dogs on the planet. She has two work-from-home owners who spend all day with her. They take her to parks and out on forest walks every day. She has them well trained and they love to play with her, throwing her favourite toy, a squeaky foam pop can that she catches and chases. She even takes this toy to bed with her at night. Golden retrievers are loyal, smart, eager to please, and completely adorable. They seem to wear a smile on their face and they greet new people like old friends. It's no wonder that people who own one fall in love with the breed.

DJI Avata is an amazing drone that allows the operator to put on goggles and enjoy an immersive experience that feels very close to flying. This allows for the user to capture stunning video and to have a lot of fun while doing so. But it also tempts many users to fly more adventurously than ever, risking their drones as they skim over surfaces and through tight gaps. If you own an Avata, it's likely you have or will crash it if you are using it to its full potential. For many, skimming along at high speed, close to the surface of a lake or river is a tempting thing. And it's likely that you will some day sink your drone in the water while testing your limits. This drone operator was flying at full speed over the Otonabee River, trying to capture epic footage of a train bridge. His drone touched the surface and spun out, then sank in the murky depths. He explains what went wrong and shows you how he found the drone. Knowing how to pinpoint the right spot where a drone is lost will greatly increase the odds of finding it. Even though the drone is likely inoperable after only a few minutes in the water, the replacement cost through DJI Care Refresh coverage is much less if the drone is retrieved. Plus, the drone might have lens filters, battery secure clips, and upgraded props. As much as anything, abandoning your beloved drone and walking away without recovering it just stings. Follow these tips to give your self a better chance at finding it, whether it's in a river, field or in the woods.

India is a mix of the most contrasting conditions. Extreme wealth and crushing poverty are separated by a street or a fence. Colours are everywhere and cities are crowded. The countryside is lush and the wildlife is diverse. Visitors here will find a world that is vastly different from life anywhere else.

Raven is a Great Dane puppy who loves the snow. A gigantic Great Dane running happily through the snow is a breathtaking and joyful sight. These majestic dogs, known for their impressive size and gentle demeanor, can create quite a spectacle as they bound through a snowy landscape. Their long strides and powerful movements, combined with the pure joy of playing in the snow, make for an unforgettable and heartwarming scene.

John A. Roebling suspension bridge in Cincinati is a beautiful sight, but even more beautiful when seen from above. This drone takes you on a tour of the shore of the Ohio River where the bridge crosses the gap, joining two sides of this incredible city. The John A. Roebling Suspension Bridge, often simply referred to as the Roebling Suspension Bridge, is a historic and iconic structure that spans the Ohio River, connecting Cincinnati, Ohio, and Covington, Kentucky. The bridge was designed by John A. Roebling, a pioneering civil engineer known for his work on suspension bridges. Construction began in 1856 and was completed in 1866, making it the longest suspension bridge in the world at that time, with a main span of 1,057 feet (322 meters). The bridge features Roebling's patented design, which includes the use of wrought iron for the cables and stone towers for support. Its design served as a prototype for Roebling's later and more famous project, the Brooklyn Bridge in New York City. The bridge remains in use today, accommodating both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. It is a popular tourist attraction, offering stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline and the Ohio River. The bridge is an iconic symbol of Cincinnati and is often featured in local imagery and promotional materials. It has been a backdrop for various cultural and community events over the years. The Roebling Suspension Bridge stands as a testament to 19th-century engineering prowess and continues to be a vital link and landmark in the Cincinnati area.

Mountain biking can be an exhilarating way to experience the outdoors, combining the thrill of speed with the challenge of navigating rough terrain. Devil's Drop offers one of the most thrilling rides in Canada with steep descents, frequent jumps, and technical sections. Narrow paths wind through the woods, offering tight turns and obstacles. Trees whiz by, the handlebars barely clearing the branches on either side. This chest mounted camera provides you with a front row seat as the rider navigates a fast run, attacking the turns and leaning into them in order to keep the speed up and the adrenaline flowing. Rock tables provide a challenge and a quick drop as the bike briefly sails through the air after each one. Mountain biking requires quick reflexes and the ability to make decisions with lightning speed. One wrong move can send the rider over the handlebars in an instant.

Ecuador is home to some of the most beautiful and diverse life on the planet. These two barn owls were found perched under an awning in an abandoned barn. Barn owls are indeed fascinating creatures! While they're found in many parts of the world, including Ecuador, seeing two of them together in their natural habitat is quite a rare sight. Their heart-shaped faces, white underparts, and golden-brown plumage make them easily recognizable and stunning to observe, especially in flight or perched on a tree branch. Ecuador's diverse ecosystems provide them with plenty of hunting grounds, from open grasslands to forested areas. It's always a privilege to witness such graceful creatures in the wild. These two strike an interesting pose that makes their two faces appear as one bird.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.