WildCreatures

The Chi-Cheemaun in Ontario, Canada is a very unique ferry. The bow is designed to lift up, allowing the vehicles to drive inside to be ferried between Tobermory and Manitoulin Island. The 40km (24 mile) trip takes one hour, forty seven minutes. Powered by twin 3500 hp engines, the ship reaches an impressive speed of 23km/h (14mph). At 111m long (364 feet) and 19m wide (62 feet), the Chi-Cheemaun has enough space for almost 600 passengers and 150 vehicles. The name was carefully chosen as a tribute to the Ojibwe people, the largest community of Indigenous people in North America. The name means "Big Canoe". A trip on the Chi-Cheemaun is a memorable experience and a fitting way to see a truly beautiful area of North America. The crystal clear waters of Tobermory are home to dozens of wooden shipwrecks that lay on the bottom as a haunting memory of more difficult times. Lake Huron was a hub of merchant trade and cargo shipping between Canada and the United States. But, without steel construction and the benefit of weather tracking technology, many of the wooden freighters ran aground during treacherous storms. Their beams are strewn about the rocky shoals. Scuba divers come here from all over the world to explore the mysterious and beautiful underwater ship graveyard. The stories and the physical evidence of the wrecks are as real now as they were more than 100 years ago when the ships sank to the bottom. The Chi-Cheemaun has been serving the needs of travelers since 1974. Ironically, the ship suffered a catastrophic equipment fire on March 16th, 2020, as this video was under production. The fate of the ship has yet to be determined.

Millie is a devoted mother who has given birth to a few calves in the past 6 or 7 years. A seasoned mother, she knows the routine now and she also knows how to care for her babies well. Millie has been grazing all day and her udders are producing more than enough milk for Jessie, her calf. She is growing uncomfortable with the heavy load and she encourages Jessie with a loving shower of licks and gentle nudges. This tells Jessie that rest time is over and that it's time for her to get to her feet and get some milk. Jessie obeys her mother after trying to sleep some more. She reluctantly gets up and nurses happily. This will go on every few hours until Jessie is about 4 months old. She will then start to rely more on grazing and finding her own food in the pasture. This is an ethical beef farm in Millbrook, Ontario. The cows here live a wonderful life, roaming many acres of lush, green meadow and exploring forested areas where they have ample shade. They even have ponds full of fresh water to drink from. It's life as close to what nature intended for these gentle beasts. Jessie is a spring calf who is just a few days old. She has been exposed to nothing but kindness from the farmers who run this small operation. As with the other cows, this has created trust and she seeks affection from anyone who visits. Millie is an especially friendly cow and her baby will learn that the people here will not harm them. Millie grazes contentedly as Jessie nurses away. Millie has enjoyed a good life here and she will stay here much longer, well into her golden years.

When a group of Canadian tourists ventured to Ecuador to spend a week in the Amazon rainforest, they were prepared to meet some of the world's most feared creatures, including caimans, snakes, and giant spiders like this tarantula. But what they didn't expect was to find one of them casually hitching a ride on their head. Tammy, Kristy, and a few other women in the group went into a bathroom at the location where they were meeting the tour bus. They had just gotten off the motor canoe and it was time to move on to the next leg of their journey. As Tammy finished up in the bathroom and went to the sink to wash her hands, Kristy told her that there was a gigantic spider on her hat, right above her face. Tammy looked in the mirror and saw the beast looking back at her. Although spiders like this one don't attack people, the shock of finding one so close to her face sent Tammy into shrieks of terror. Seeing the big spider, the rest of the bathroom erupted as Tammy flung the hat off and jumped back to escape. The poor spider was probably ready to scream as well because it was probably more scared than all of them. The guides quickly entered the bathroom, picked up the hat and the spider and brought it out to the foliage in the garden area. This is a bird eating tarantula, one of the largest spiders in the Amazon, and they can deliver a nasty bite if handled improperly. These guides have handled the situation very well, reminding everyone that these fearsome beasts deserve to be left in peace. Although it was best to remove the spider from the bathroom, it serves an important function in nature and it was sensible for many reasons to carefully and gently set it free. For Tammy, the experience is one that will never be forgotten.

Hummingbirds are beautiful, but tiny creatures. They are among the smallest of the bird species. Their miniature bodies are fragile. And yet, these gorgeous little birds trustingly perch on the hand of this gigantic human to sip nectar from a tiny cup in his outstretched palm. Such a wonderful interaction with these birds is heart warming. Hummingbirds are not only beautiful, they are also very fascinating. They have the highest metabolic rate of any warm blooded animal. They are able to enter a hibernation-like state during food scarcity or periods of rest to compensate for their lower caloric intake. During these times, their metabolism may be reduced to 1/15th its normal rate. There are 360 species of hummingbird found throughout the Americas, from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego. All species eat insects, although their primary source of food is nectar which they sip from flowers with their specialized beaks and tongues. Aptly named, hummingbirds make an audible humming sound as they hover, due to their rapid wingbeats. Some species flap their wings as many as 90 times per second. Swift flyers, they are also capable of reaching speeds up to 80km/h (50mph) during steep dives. Interacting with nature and observing animals on their own terms is an unforgettable experience. Having such a tiny animal perch contentedly on your hand is something that warms the heart.

These baby sea lions have a great time playing in the surf while their mothers are out hunting in the ocean. As newborns, they are among the cutest animals on the planet. Small and clumsy, they spend their days on the sand, playing and exploring tide pools. They patiently wait as their mothers go out into the ocean to hunt for octopus, eels, and fish. Sea lions this size don't dare venture out into the deep water because they would be easy prey for sharks and orcas. Even the larger sea lions must be wary of large predators. Occasionally, the mothers don't return from hunting and the orphaned sea lions almost always perish due to starvation and dehydration. The sea lion colonies are protected by a dominant male, known as a bull. Few animals will try to take a baby sea lion off the beach when the mother or the bull are present. These two happy pups are enjoying the warm sun and some playtime. They eagerly wait for the call of their mother as she comes out of the water. She will return with a full belly and a need for some rest. She will find a spot high on the dry sand where she will roll onto her side and sleep while her baby nurses happily. This will continue for 1-2 years before the sea lion babies become old enough to go hunting themselves. These youngsters have also taken an interest in the GoPro that has been left in the sand. They check it out curiously as they frolic in the sun. In the Galapagos Islands, sea lions inhabit almost every beach and rocky shore. As tempting as it would be to pet one, there are strict laws about coming close to wildlife. Beaches are patrolled by wildlife officials who keep a watchful eye on those who seem unable to resist the adorable babies. They are given a clear reprimand for approaching the pups. Even brief contact will almost certainly result in the mother abandoning her pup if she smells a human. Watching these little tykes from a respectful distance is a heart warming and memorable experience.

Scuba diving in the waters surrounding the Galapagos Islands is an incredible experience. Adventurers who slip into the water are likely to meet some of the world's most unique and fascinating marine animals. This scuba diver has captured video of a rare and fascinating sight. An adult peacock flounder can be seen swimming in the open. Flounder are bizarre fish that begin life looking and swimming like typical fish. As they mature, the right eye migrates around the head and situates itself on the left side of the flounder. Both eyes become elevated like tiny periscopes. The flounder swims on its side, flat on the bottom, rarely leaving the cover of the sand and rubble on which it hides. Flounder can change their pigmentation to mimic the surface they are on, requiring as little as 8 seconds to complete a dramatic change. They are masters of camouflage. In studies with flounders, they have even been able to mimic a checkerboard pattern. Flounders are mainly nocturnal, hunting for small fish and crabs that make their home along the bottom of the ocean. To see one like this in broad daylight, especially so far from cover is an incredible sight.

River is a beautiful dog with an incredible story. Due to medical complications, she needs custom made clothes for extra extra warmth so that she can enjoy what she loves most; a walk in the forest with her forever family. River is living a great life now, but she was literally seconds away from death when she captured the heart of Serena, a veterinary assistant who fell in love with her and rescued her from euthanasia. River has a condition that causes blood to flow between the chambers of her heart in reverse when her heart rate becomes elevated. Her first family loved her dearly and they tried their best to deal with River's medical trouble. She would become temporarily paralyzed due to lack of oxygen to her hind legs, caused by the improper blood flow. When River collapsed on Christmas eve and did not recover, they returned to the veterinarian for help. River was suffering from a few complications and her treatment was going to be complicated and extremely expensive. Even if they could afford the solution, managing River's medication and treatment simply wasn't a realistic possibility. River was one year old and she had been a wonderful family dog and companion for the children in the home. But River's people faced an impossible dilemma and they made the difficult decision to end her suffering. As River's IV line was placed and she was about to take her last breath, Serena came up with a plan. River had looked into Serena's eyes and connection formed in that moment. Serena and her mother, a veterinarian, could manage to keep River's heart issue under control with medication, a special diet, and carefully planned exercise. River is actually taking a liquid form of Viagra to regulate her heart and prevent long term damage. At 4 years of age, River has had an extra 3 years, with no sign of slowing down yet. Her life expectancy might not be as long as an ordinary dog, but River is enjoying a quality life for as long as she can. River dearly loves her daily walks in the nearby forest. At the right pace, an hour long hike daily helps River maintain her weight and fitness. But the cold temperatures in this Canadian winter decrease River's circulation. If River collapses and lies in the snow to recover, the cold will make things difficult. Ordinary dog coats don't provide the much needed insulation on River's legs and back end. Serena and her mother found a talented lady in Scotland who makes specially fitted dog pyjamas and coats. Her process involves a virtual fitting session with dozens of precise measurements being taken for each dog. The result is a fitted outfit that gives River the maximum warmth with complete comfort. It is even designed to allow River to complete her bathroom duties without a problem. River wasn't so sure about the new outfit at first, but she has learned to associate her winter coats with going to this beautiful forest. It wasn't difficult to get her to try this one on and she seemed to catch on quickly that she was now warmer than she had been. River's owners can't help but chuckle at how cute River looks in her outfit. It almost looks like she is wearing pants and a sweater. River has found a second family who love her dearly and they will spoil her and give her the best of everything for as long as she is able to take it.

Fresh snow hanging from the trees creates a winter wonderland that is as pleasing to the soul as it is to the eye. This Canadian forest is located in a remote area of Ontario. A few skiers, hikers, and snowmobilers know the beauty of this woodland paradise. And Raven, the Great Dane also knows that this is one of the most magical places around. She romps completely free on these quiet trails all through the year, and few other things make her so happy. Kristy has put on her cross country skis so she can take to the trails and keep up with Raven. This huge dog is like a child at Christmas when she is let loose in the snow. She spends half of the time sniffing the tracks of deer and other creatures. The other half is spent running at full gallop back and forth, showing off her incredible speed. He long strides take her down these packed trails as fast as a horse and she loves every minute. The loops in this forest twist and turn for miles before bringing Raven and her people back to the start. She doesn't miss many days and she logs 6-7km (4 - 4.5 miles) on the average outing. Great Danes love to run and then they love to sleep. Raven often collapses on the couch for hours after her forest exercise. This footage was captured by drone after an unusually heavy snow fell during a storm. The snow clung to the branches, creating a gorgeous effect as the sun shone through the gaps and bounced off the ice crystals. Boughs bent low under the weight and icicles formed as the snow melted and then froze. Winter is often a time when people hide from the elements to keep warm. But getting out in the forest can be truly therapeutic for the soul. Breathing in the fresh air and witnessing beauty like this has a lasting and positive effect. Even in the harshest conditions, there is magic all around us. Enjoy the beauty of nature and the joy of a Great Dane puppy who knows how to truly live in the moment.

The many banded aracari, also referred to as bumblebee toucans are striking birds. They have vivid yellow bands on black plumage, making them resemble large bumblebees. Their bills are black with bright yellow and their eyes are surrounded by a band of blue feathers that gives the appearance of wearing a mask over their eyes. This aracari is a primarily a fruit eater, although these birds will also eat insects, small birds, eggs, and even small rodents or lizards. He lives in the Amazon rainforest in Ecuador and he has perched near a large kapok tree in some branches that are visible to a bunch of bird enthusiasts. These nature lovers are from Canada and they are thrilled with the sight of this gorgeous bird. They have climbed high on a structure built onto the giant kapok so that they are able to view the top of the forest canopy, along with the birds that thrive there. As the bumblebee toucan sits in his perch, he coughs up a pit from a piece of fruit that he has swallowed whole. As the fruit digests, he is left with the inedible stone which he must regurgitate and discard. These are fascinating birds and the guide who is leading these tourists through the jungle explains that the birds are known locally as bumblebee toucans. He also explained that these toucans build their nests inside hollowed out trees with openings created by woodpeckers. Some toucans will seal the opening in the nest with mud, fruit, and saliva mixed into a compound that hardens and protects their young. The young will then break out of the nest after several weeks when they are ready to fledge. Toucans feed and protect their young for several weeks after they leave the nest. The males and females both share in the duties of nest protection and caring for their young. Toucans are among the most beautiful and the most recognizable of all the birds. This close up view of such a remarkable bird is something that these tourists will never forget,

Canada is the second largest country in the world and a trip from one coast to the other is a bucket list item for many. Seeing the splendor and the beauty of one of the most magnificent and varied nations in the world is like a dream come true. But it is even more like a dream to see this wonder from the front seat of a Lamborghini Hurracan. Dave has always wanted to see Canada from the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific Ocean and he secretly hoped that some day he might cross it in some way that raised funds for a good cause. As part of bicycle team that works hard to raise money for cancer research, the group had been planning and dreaming about such a trip for several years. Then, in an unexpected turn of events, Dave was presented with an opportunity to make the crossing in the world's first coast to coast tour in a Lamborghini. Dave knows a family in Ecuador who have been working incredibly hard to pay medical bills as their daughter battles brain cancer. Dave and his friend Kris have been supporting and helping this family with some of their struggles. Kris is a philanthropist who has been using his exotic cars to help deserving people and make dreams come true for several years. Together, they came up with a plan to drive the Hurracan from Cape Spear, Newfoundland, to Vancouver Island, British Columbia, more than 7,000km (4,350 miles) in 7 days. Sponsors made donations and a GoFundme was created to help raise money for the child's medical costs. At 5 years of age, Johanita has undergone several surgeries and there will be more to come, but her prognosis is good. Dave recorded the sights along the way as they took this beautiful machine through a varied and breath taking landscape from one ocean to the other. Johanita's medical costs are looked after for the near future and her family can rest assured that any upcoming emergencies will be manageable. Dave raises his arms in triumph as he stands at the edge of the Pacific ocean in Vancouver. This was a trip that made several dreams come true in one week.

When two men square off for their version of the world championship ghost pepper contest, the results are predictable and painful. Dave issued a bold challenge to the world over social media, claiming that he was the undisputed champion of ghost pepper eating. He dared anyone to try and dethrone him. He even offered to supply the ghost peppers, which were grown by his wife, Kristy in their back yard. Kristy had watched Dave try to eat the whole peppers before and she cautioned him against doing it again. But common sense and good listening are not Dave's strongest attributes and he went ahead with the challenge anyway. Dave's motivation was actually fueled by his desire to help a local charity, One City Peterborough in their fight against homelessness. He intended to raise pledges and also publish a video of the shenanigans, with all of the proceeds helping vulnerable members of the community who faced residence challenges. The pain would be short lived and the glory of the title belt would go on for years. Mark Smith is a man with a big heart who has been backing good causes for decades. His employer, Fitzsimmons Garage and Repair has been helping community causes for just as long and they agreed to sponsor the event. Spectators were invited to watch the antics and join in if they wanted to. Mark and Dave agreed to chew a ghost pepper for 30 seconds, swallow and then endure the heat for at least a minute. The first one to ring the bell and go for the milk would lose the challenge. Mark and Dave had been taunting each other for weeks leading up to the challenge, posting on social media that they were both determined to outlast their opponent. In the end, both realized that they had bitten off more than they could chew and they tapped out with milliseconds of each other to get some relief. Milk was supplied by Kawartha Dairy, and although it has a soothing effect, the pain subsides for only a few seconds. These peppers are rated as 1.2 to 2M scoville heat units, making them one of the 5 hottest peppers in the world. A few peppers are marginally hotter but scorched taste buds can't really differentiate between number one and number five on the heat scale. Mark and Dave sipped and gulped milk for more than twenty minutes to relieve the pain. Although this was not a hot day, sweat rolled off their faces and tears flowed from their eyes. Even their noses dripped as their entire faces screamed at them. Osmow's Restaurant in Peterborough donated gift cards for the sponsors, which was very appropriate considering the sauce choices that they offer for extreme spice on their delicious cuisine. Mark and Dave may not have really proven that they are champions of anything except being willing to go all out for a good cause. $850 was raised for One City Peterborough.

Jack is a beautiful and happy puppy who has a loving home and a wonderful family. But it hasn't always been this easy for Jack. Nobody knows how or where his life started, but it seems like he was abandoned by a heartless owner who left him in a Walmart parking lot to fend for himself. Jack was begging for scraps and sleeping in a corner until a concerned shopper called animal control the local animal shelter. Jack was taken to the animal shelter and housed with a gigantic Bullmastiff that took him under her wing like he was her baby. They slept together and played together with this gentle animal acting as his mother. Jack was relieved to find warmth and companionship, as well as food and water. He was a grateful little puppy and he truly loved the people who were caring for him. But Jack's life got even better when Elena and Dave walked into the shelter looking for a dog to make their family even better. These two kind folks heard Jack's story and they saw how he responded to the love of the bigger dog. It warmed their heart to look into his eyes, despite the extreme sadness of Jack's earlier days. It's heart breaking to think that a human could put Jack out and drive away, not caring what happened to him. The hurt and confusion that Jack would have felt is a tragedy. Dave and Elena fell completely in love with this beautiful little dog and they picked him up, knowing that they were going to take him home and show him what love truly was. Jack is part of their family now and he doesn't have to look back and wonder what he did to deserve being abandoned so cruelly. Elena went back to the animal shelter to check on the Bullmastiff and see how she was doing. To Elena's delight, the big dog had also been adopted by a loving family. This is a heart warming story that worked out for everybody. A dog is one of the most loving and loyal creatures on the planet. They ask for nothing but love in return. Good boy, Jack. You are now where you should be!

Sea turtles are among the most peaceful and beloved animals in the ocean. For most scuba divers, there are few animals that they look forward to seeing more than these beautiful creatures. This scuba diver was exploring a coral head in Papua New Guinea when she was lucky enough to swim with a pair of hawksbill turtles. These turtles are critically endangered. The two turtles that live on this remote coral head are quite accustomed to humans. They spent their first few years in a wildlife rehabilitation center before being released back into the wild. They were fed and cared for by humans and they learned to trust them. One of the rehab workers is a scuba diver who checks on these turtles often. They have no apprehension about approaching divers. This diver was thrilled to have such a beautiful encounter with two wild animals in their own environment.

Iguanas are large lizards that grow to an impressive 1.8m in length. They are commonly seen throughout the Caribbean and other tropical areas. They're very comfortable sharing their space with humans and they frequent almost all resorts in Mexico, as well as other sunny holiday destinations. This huge male iguana is the undisputed boss of the resort, wandering fearlessly through the trees and even the walkways. He is shown respect by the tourists here and they make way for him as he swaggers past. The tourists are also very fascinated with this photogenic creature and they can't help but stop to admire and photograph him on this sunny day. The iguana was on the lookout for berries and seeds that were falling from the trees above. One brave admirer decided to help him and she gathered up a handful of what seemed to be his preferred food. As if he had done this before, the iguana casually walked up and ate right out of her hand. Iguanas have a mouth full of very sharp teeth and they are capable of inflicting a serious wound if they are threatened, but like most animals, they have no desire to attack without provocation. Iguanas also have a powerful tail that they can swing in order to defend themselves from an attack. By the time an iguana reaches the size of this one, there are only a few predators that would risk injury by taking one on. For this tourist, allowing the iguana to choose the terms of the encounter paid off and she was rewarded with a close look and memorable experience.

Orioles are one of the most brightly coloured birds in North America. They migrate south for the winter, returning when the snow melts, and bird lovers wait anxiously for the first sight of them. They are so spectacularly coloured that social media pages and birder groups become filled with images and announcements as these beautiful birds make their way north. Bird lovers will have their feeders ready, able to predict the actual day that their beloved little friends will arrive. Orioles flock to backyard feeders with brightly coloured fruit and snacks. They love oranges cut open, grapes, and even grape jelly. They feed in a unique way, inserting their beaks into the orange and opening the beak to create a trough. This is referred to as "gaping". As juice fills the trough, they slurp it up. The orioles line up in the trees nearby, taking turns at the fruit or the feeder. For the most magnificent display, nature lovers will fill a tree or bush with orange halves stuck on the branches. The song of the oriole is striking as well, audible for a mile or more as the birds sing to attract other orioles. Like many backyard birds, the orioles gather around a water feature such as a pond and they delight in splashing around in the shallows. They will preen and soak for a few minutes as this happy little fellow is doing. Even though he is having a wonderful time, he is keeping a watchful eye on the skies above. Songbirds are well aware that predators such as hawks and kites will be keeping their eye on the feeders and ponds, waiting for a chance to snag an easy meal. This oriole is a male. The females are slightly orange, with more brown, and similar markings. Not as brightly coloured, the females are similar in size and appearance, with less vivid plumage. They are often more dominant at the feeder, chasing males away so that they can eat first. Orioles are easy to attract to a back yard and a wonder to watch. They are also very likely to return to a feeding spot for many years. It is well worth keeping them happy and well fed so that they show up year after year.

These cows are living a wonderful life on a beautiful farm in Ontario, Canada. They have acres of lush, green grass to graze on, rolling hills to wander, forested areas for shade, and ponds full of fresh water to drink from. They spend their days lazing in the sunshine, or cooling off under a tree. It's a world full of choice and gently blowing breezes. There is even a large bull named Gus who watches over his herd protectively. Life on this farm is as close as possible to what nature intended for these gentle creatures. Fiona and Flossey are the two cows here that compete for attention when Dave, the farm hand enters the meadow. These cows are well treated and they respond to kindness with trust and acceptance. They actually seek out human interaction and follow the farmers and Dave around the fields, curiously watching them work. Sometimes they even seem to want to help. These cows are brighter than most people realize and they have personalities and a gentle nature that make them extremely endearing. The cows form bonds with each other, preferring to spend time in the close company of their cow "friends". When given the chance to live like this, the cows develop a social structure and relationships. They even take turns caring for the calves, almost like aunties would do in our own families. Dave enjoys watching the cows and interacting with them during quieter moments. When it's break time, the cows will sometimes wander over and lie down beside Dave as he sits and takes a rest. And other times, the cows will ask for a scratch on the head or behind the ears, enjoying the petting the same way a family dog would. Surprisingly, these cows will also show a touch of jealousy if one of them gets more attention than they do. Flossey and her sister, Fiona keep Dave busy on this sunny day. He has both hands going and they let him know when he's not keeping up. These are large animals, each weighing more than 450kg (1,000lbs) but they seem to understand this and they take enough care to avoid knocking Dave over with their enthusiasm. It seems we are not the only beings with compassion and an understanding of the need to be gentle. Farms like these treat their animals with respect. When looking for a place to buy our food, there are a lot of good reasons to support the farmers like these ones who are doing everything right. Although it costs a little bit more to raise beef here than on a factory farm, it's worth spending our money at a place that avoids cruelty and poor conditions for the animals. Farms like this one can usually be found locally too, offsetting a lot of the added costs of transportation and retail. In the end, it doesn't cost much more and we can feel better supporting the farmers close to us while we encourage better care for such beautiful and gentle souls.

This Farm in Ontario is home to many unique animals. Among the most interesting of them all is Violet, a 4 month old Lamanche goat who seems to believe that she is a puppy. Since she was born, she has followed her people around the farm wherever they go. She also loves to chase and play with the dogs on the farm, just like she was one of them. She will wander up to people, even visitors, looking for affection and attention. She gently places her head against them, begging to be scratched and rubbed, just like a dog would. Violet is very smart and she quickly figures out everything on the farm, such as how to get food that she is not supposed to get into. But, with an adorable face like that, how can anyone ever be annoyed with Violet? After exploring and playing on the farm all morning, Violet is eager for her morning bottle. Violet has responded to the love and wonderful treatment that she gets on this beautiful farm. She is happy and trusting and she is incredibly affectionate. She is a perfect example of how animals respond so well to kindness.

Nurse sharks are often called the puppy dogs of the ocean. They are sharks, but they are completely harmless to people, unless they are treated unwisely. These sharks have a curious and gentle disposition and their mouths are downturned, similar to the mouth of a catfish. more like a catfish. But these sharks do have a mouth full of teeth in many rows and they are capable of biting if they are handled or feel threatened. Surprisingly, these sharks are ranked number 4 for bites on humans, simply because people mistakenly believe they can be touched or fed by hand. This nurse shark is a juvenile and it was following these scuba divers along the reef in Belize. When they stopped to look at creatures in the sand, the shark was immediately curious and it swam over to see what they were looking at. The shark headed straight for this scuba diver and his camera. To his surprise, the shark swam straight into his open palm, resting its nose briefly before turning and calmly swimming away. It's possible that the shark wanted to smell the diver's hand and it's also possible that the shark simply wanted to make contact. Allowing the shark to choose the terms of this interaction reduced the chance of a mishap, especially in the case of such a small shark. But it is still advisable to maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife to be on the safe side. Nurse sharks typically hunt at night, rooting through the sand for small fish and crustaceans. They inhale prey with by rapidly creating suction. They are capable of producing a more powerful suction than any other known vertebrate. Nurse sharks are just one of the endless number of fascinating animals that one might encounter on the reef. Scuba diving opens up a whole new world of beauty and mystery for the lucky few who are adventurous enough to slip beneath the waves to explore.

Humpback whales are beautiful and peaceful creatures. They are highly intelligent, with cognitive abilities that are comparable to dogs, chimpanzees, and dolphins. Scientists believe that as recently as 100,000 years ago, humpbacks were the most intelligent creatures on the planet at that time. Humpbacks are gentle creatures, despite their immense size and power. They are curious in nature and they tolerate the presence of humans in the water along with them, as long they are given a respectful distance. Tonga is one of the few places in the world where people are still allowed to get into the water with these magnificent beings. These lucky swimmers quietly slipped into the ocean and waited as a mother humpback and her calf approached and curiously looked them over. Tonga is a world free of orcas and other predators that would kill a defenseless baby whale. These whales come to the waters around Tonga to breed and bear their young. This calf is less than two weeks old. It will stick close to its mother and drink milk as rapidly as possible so that it will gain weight and strength. The baby will need both to survive as the whales migrate to their feeding grounds. When threatened, the mother will swim under her baby and lift it out of the water on her head. She will also use her massive fins to create a barrier between a predator and her calf. As a last resort, the mother will position herself so that she can slap her tail and strike with enormous power. Spending time with such a beautiful animal in its own environment is an indescribable experience. To be given the trust to interact with this newborn calf is touching and unforgettable. Humpback whales deserve every chance to thrive without human interference. To lose them forever would be beyond tragic.

Flossey is living a wonderful life on a beautiful farm in Millbrook, Ontario. It's what is knows an "ethical farm" where cows have space to roam and graze instead of being kept indoors for most of their lives. Flossey's farm has vast expanses of lush, green grass, rolling hills, ponds full of fresh water, and forested areas for shade. This is life as it should be for these gentle creatures. Dave is a farm hand who often helps out with some of the chores and animal care. He decided to take a break on this warm, summer day and he took a seat on the hill overlooking the pasture.

Hawksbill sea turtles are critically endangered. They are gorgeous, with ornately patterned shells and a unique facial structure, resembling the beak of a predatory bird. This striking beauty has caused a dramatic population decline for the hawksbills. They were already facing a threat due to meat and egg harvests, and they were placed at greater risk when their shells became the much sought-after material used to make jewelry boxes and hair clips. In the last century, their numbers plummeted, and they were on the brink of extinction. Conservation efforts and increased protection laws have helped this beautiful animal begin a comeback. These two turtles are actually success stories due to the efforts of researchers and rehab workers in Papua New Guinea. They were given critical care in their early years and then released back into the wild in a remote part of Kimbe Bay. Scuba divers visit the island where they live to document and study the wildlife and the ecosystem in this area. The turtles still trust humans, and they approach them curiously, looking for food and interaction. The turtles are interested in what the divers are looking at, and they will often swim between the divers and their photography subjects, competing for the attention of the divers. It is believed that these turtles remember the trust that they were shown, and they respond with particular interest to the specific diver that played a direct role in their upbringing and release. Hawksbill sea turtles are among the most beautiful and beloved animals in the ocean. To interact with turtles like this on their own terms is a beautiful and memorable experience.

Chris and Cameron are brothers who have been diving all around the world. They are young, but seasoned scuba divers with a serious love for nature, especially for the ocean. They have dipped their fins in the waters of Cuba, Cayman Islands, Belize, Mexico, Galapagos Islands, and Canada. True conservationists and nature lovers, they are seen here as they cruise over the reef in Belize, looking for invasive lionfish. An introduced species, lion fish were never meant to exist in the Atlantic Ocean. Since their accidental introduction by humans as early as the 1980s, these predators have been bred prolifically. Lion fish have no natural predators on this side of the world. They have voracious appetites, consuming up to 30 smaller reef fish each, every single day. This has been wreaking havoc on populations of resident fish. Experts encourage scuba divers to eradicate the fish through spearing, where allowed by law. Cameron and Chris have been doing their part by removing lionfish whenever they can. Ideally, lion fish should be removed from the ocean and eaten. They are an excellent fish for eating, with firm, white flesh, and a mild taste. Some experts have encouraged scuba divers to feed the lion fish to other predators in an attempt to teach them that the lion fish represents food. This is a hotly debated topic because this will affect the behaviour of sharks and eels, teaching them that humans are a source of feeding opportunities. This could potentially lead to dangerous interactions and accidents. The nurse shark that we see in this video has possibly been the recipient of a few lion fish. It seems curious about the spear that Chris holds and it may be able to smell fish on the end of it. It is more likely that the shark knows that Chris is hoping to spear one. It cruises around the divers, posing no threat to any of them. But Chris is severely startled as he looks down and sees the shark directly beneath him. A scuba mask limits peripheral vision and the divers are not aware of the animals that approach from the side until they are in front of them. In this case, Chris mistook the harmless nurse shark for another species of shark for a moment. Before he recognized it for what it was, he let out a blast of air and frantically paddled up and away from the friendly creature. Brothers are often entertained by the mishaps of the other, and these two are no different. Cameron could see this coming and Chris' momentary terror is more than a little amusing. Cameron pokes a little fun by trying to pet the shark and then he looks to see that the camera caught this moment. Scuba diving is a relaxing sport, but entering the ocean among the animals that were built to dominate this world leaves even an experienced scuba diver a little apprehensive about animals coming too close.

Wasps are surprisingly complex insects. They are carnivores, preying on pest insects that are harmful to agriculture. Although they feed primarily on carbohydrates such as fruits and nectar, they capture insects and carry them back to the nest as a source of protein for the larvae. They will also carry back chunks of meat or fish, when available. The workers chew and condition this food for the larvae. This can be seen happening through the opening of the nest. Although it appears that the worker is eating a grub, it is conditioning the food for the larvae. In an amazing display of partnership, the larvae secrete a sugary substance that the workers feed on. As the food supply outside the nest diminishes in late summer, there is less for the larvae to eat and they secrete less of the sugars. The workers begin to forage more for fruits and human garbage as a result. Other wasps can be seen building additional layers on the nest. These workers chew on wood fiber that is mixed with saliva to produce a paper-like substance that is used to increase the size of the nest. The queen is a much larger wasp with black and white markings instead of yellow. She can be seen moving within the nest. She will continue to lay eggs rapidly and the larvae will pupate after 18-20 days. By the end of the summer, a nest may have 3,000 to 4,000 workers and more than 15,000 larvae cells. Wasps carry a potent venom and are capable of stinging multiple times. Understandably, people fear these insects and see them as a dangerous threat. In truth, wasps are beneficial to humans, keeping the populations of other harmful insects in check.

Water snakes can grow to 1.5m (4.5 feet) in length. They are often confused with venomous rattlesnakes and cottonmouths. Snakes strike fear in the hearts of many, even though they are beneficial to our own existence. Perhaps it is the fear of the venomous snakes that could potentially cause us illness, or worse. Perhaps it is more rooted in the common fear of snakes that is the second most common fear in the world. It is helpful to at least understand which of the snakes pose a threat and which do not. Unprovoked attacks by snakes are rare and most of these are caused by an accidental close encounter that makes the snake react in self defence. Another common cause for mishap is when snakes are handled irresponsibly. This common northern water snake has similar markings as Massassauga rattlensnakes and cotton mouths. They are often mistaken for the more dangerous varieties. Water snakes swim beneath the water, able to hold their breath and completely submerge while hunting or moving in the water. Rattlesnakes keep their head above water when they swim. Watersnakes prey on fish, frogs, and other small animals along the shore. Although they can inflict a painful bite, they are not capable of seriously harming a human. Even the bite of a Massassauga rattlesnake, Canada's only venomous snake, is not powerful enough to cause life threatening symptoms for most humans. These snake make a loud buzzing sound when threatened and people and animals often have ample opportunity to avoid a regrettable encounter. Understanding snakes and their benefit to us is an important step in avoiding a problem with them, and preventing unfounded fear. Without them, rodent populations would go unchecked and we would have serious problems with parasites and other illness. Rodents are also an extreme problem for farmers, causing crop damage and increased costs.

Trail cameras are a great way to investigate and observe the wildlife without disturbing them. The footage often reveals wonderful and surprising things that happen in the quietest moments. But sometimes these cameras also reveal a heart breaking and cruel side of nature that is hard to watch. This was the case when the owner of this trail camera looked at the images recorded at a beaver dam in Northern Ontario. The bobcat in this video can be seen walking along a beaver dam. Its right, rear leg appears to be badly injured, as if it had been broken but healed improperly. The cat is emaciated and is obviously unable to pursue its prey. The will to survive must be strong as the bobcat is on the lookout for game birds or beaver that might present an opportunity for a meal. Sadly, the cat never appeared again on any future footage. It is very likely that it did not survive long after this video. In other footage captured during the same time period, a healthy bobcat can be seen stalking something at the water's edge. When healthy, these cats can be silent and shockingly quick. It appears to have its eye on a bird or other small animal that has come to the pond for a drink of water. A healthy bobcat such as this one is an impressive sight.