WildCreatures

Scuba diving is an exciting sport that takes the adventurous on a journey into a world that very few are fortunate enough to experience. The reefs below the waves are beautiful beyond description and the ocean life is fascinating. Each dive is different and there is more to learn than anyone could ever manage. This scuba diver has explored the waters in Belize, Mexico, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Galapagos Islands and Papua New Guinea. He has seen bizarre and wondrous creatures, but he has just found something unlike any other living organism that he has ever seen. Initially drawn to a shiny sphere nestled in the coral and sponges in Kimbe Bay, Papua New Guinea, this diver believed he was about to pick up a piece of glass or other litter that had been dropped overboard. As he drifted closer, it looked like it could even be a metallic ball. It was completely spherical and uniform in shape, roughly the size of a large chicken egg. Although experienced scuba divers are well acquainted with the rule not to touch the reefs or sea life, the one exception is that removing litter from the ocean is advisable in most cases. This diver drew closer and he was able to see the shine from his dive lights penetrating the outer surface, reflecting back at him from surfaces within the sphere. With a little imagination, he could now picture it as some alien object or well polished meteorite. As he reached for the strange object, he found the outside slightly springy. It was not metal or glass and he realized that felt like a peeled grape or even a huge eyeball. It was anchored to the coral and removing it would disturb the life around it. Reluctant to touch it further, he left it where it was and brought his video footage back to the dive ship. A dive instructor and photography expert on board explained that this was actually a species of algae and that it grew so large that it is believed to be the largest single celled organism on the planet. Aptly named "bubble algae" or 'sailor's eyeball", they occupy most oceans throughout the world. Scientists are keen to use these algae in research because they make it easy to study the migration of water soluble compounds across biological membranes. The ocean is full of fascinating and wonderous creatures. We are only beginning to understand our environment and the life forms that share our planet.

The ocean is full of strange and diverse life, with secrets well beyond our understanding, and even beyond our imagination. Scientists are finding new animals and new plants constantly and applying what they learn about them in ways that could change our lives. Scientists have made a discovery very recently surrounding one of the ocean's smallest and most numerous inhabitants and a strong possibility of a cure for Covid 19. The compounds in these tunicates are now in phase III clinical trials and researchers think it is 27 times as effective as a drug that was previously leading as a hope for an effective treatment. These small animals are called tunicates and they live on the rocks and coral on the bottom of the ocean. They can be found in shallow areas and at depths of up to 200m. A few species are even capable of thriving deeper than this. They live singly, or in colonies, anchored, in most cases, to the surfaces on which they take up residence in their larval stage. They begin life as an organism that is very similar to a tiny tadpole in appearance and structure. They select a surface, affix themselves and begin metamorphosis into the brightly coloured siphon feeder that is seen in this video. These scuba divers are exploring the waters of Kimbe Bay in Papua New Guinea, taking a close look at these amazing creatures and studying their habitat. Although they appear to be simple animals with no remarkable features, they are far more complex than meets the eye. Tunicates filter water at a rate that equals their own body volume every second. This equates to roughly 4,000 litres (1,000 gallons) of sea water being filtered each day by an organism that is the size of a chicken egg. The tunicates extract bacteria and oxygen from the water to sustain them, making the ocean cleaner in the process. Large colonies, working together, can have significant effects on the water around them. They have a heart, stomach, circulatory system, an intestine, and even reproductive organs. Their hearts reverse the flow of blow every few minutes. Their complexity is impressive and astounding, considering their ordinary and simple appearance. But what has scientists so excited recently has nothing to do with their physiological complexity. Their tissues hold a chemical compound called "aplidin" which is a potent antiviral agent. Researchers are convinced that it is one of the most effective treatments available for the battle against Covid 19 and other viruses. As recently as January of 2021, the drugs that have been created with this compound are entering phase III clinical trials. Researchers had previously held great hope for "remdesivir", a promising cure, but aplidin now appears to be 27 times as effective against the novel coronavirus. With the race to battle Covid 19, science is looking in new directions for treatments and cures. It is a lesson to us all that such discoveries come from the plants and animals around us. Protecting our environment and the creatures of our world is important for reasons that we are only beginning to understand. What other crucial secrets lie beneath the waves, or in our forests?

Golden retrievers are one of the world's favourite breeds, They are beautiful and gentle souls, with angelic faces that almost seem to be locked in a perpetual smile. Their compelling eyes seem to peer into our core and we instantly fall in love with every part of them. These dogs are no exception. They all live on a beautiful little farm in Cavan, Ontario. Their owners run a top-notch breeding service called "As Good As Gold", aptly named and highly respected. The dogs here live the perfect life. They roam the house with complete freedom, occupying beds and couches in comfort. They have a large property to run and woods to explore. And mornings are an exciting time for these beauties when they line up and stare in anticipation, waiting for the call for outside playtime. When they hear the magic words and the twist of the door handle, they erupt in excitement and scramble for the door in the most beautiful stampede imaginable. It's outside play time and they cannot wait to see what lies on the other side of the door. It's winter in Ontario and fresh snow falls during most nights, allowing the dogs to roll and sniff, scratch and run. Very few things warm our hearts like excited dogs loving life. As Good As Gold is a breeding service that provides dogs only to loving homes with families who understand the commitment of owning an animal for ten years or more. A family looking for a dog should carefully investigate their breeder to ensure that the puppies are being carefully bred for both health and temperament. They should ask questions about veterinary care and nutrition, and interviewing the vet that the breeder uses is also very wise. References and previous clients should be carefully considered to make sure the breeder's reputation is solid. A tour of the facility and a look at the parents of the pups will also provide a lot of information. Breeders who do things right will often have a long waiting list, but it is worth the wait for the right dog. And just as important, while a family investigates and checks the breeder, a good breeder will also check their prospective forever families carefully too, asking for references and a show of commitment and preparedness for the challenge of raising a puppy properly. The best breeders will place their dogs only with families capable of providing the love and care that a dog deserves. Taking time to research and select a good breeder is crucial for getting the right dog, and it can also save you from medical expense or heart ache that can come later with the health and personality issues that we can expect from unprofessionally bred pups. Getting a dog from an online advertiser who cannot answer questions or provide references is often a recipe for disaster.

The Cassiopea, or upside-down jellyfish is a very unusual member of the true jellyfish family. Like other jellyfish, it is capable of delivering a potent sting, but with this species, it does not do so to paralyze and ingest food. It uses its sting for self defense. Even the way it delivers this sting is highly unusual. Most jellyfish have their sting cells in tentacles that trail underneath the animal. When a creature swims close enough to make contact, the jellyfish stings it and pulls it in to be ingested. The Cassiopea must live on the bottom of the ocean floor, pulsating as it filters water. Amazingly, the stinging cells are actually excreted in a mucous and they drift away from the Cassiopea, creating a cloud of stinging cellular masses that can irritate and repel predators. The jellyfish live in colonies or clusters, increasing the effectiveness of this stinging cloud. Swimmers have reported reactions to the stings just by being near the jellyfish, without coming into contact with them. The reason that they live upside down is because they obtain food energy through a symbiotic relationship with other creatures called dinoflagellates that live within them. The dinoflagellates are able to produce energy through photosynthesis, creating a food source for their host jellyfish. They must also live in waters shallow enough to have sufficient light penetration for this process to occur. Because of the appearance of the animal as it lies upside down, it is commonly referred to as the Medusa. Both the method of eating and the fact that the Cassiopea does not sting to prey on food make this a very unusual animal indeed. Scientists have only recently discovered that the jellyfish can release their stinging cells into their environment. The more we learn about our fascinating ocean creatures, the more we understand how limited our knowledge has been.

Coral is vital to the survival and overall health of the oceans. It is a source of food and shelter for countless organisms. It creates a natural barrier for waves and currents, protecting shoreline and beaches from erosion. We understand that without coral, much of the life in the ocean would die, and our own existence would be threatened at the same time. But scientists are only beginning to unlock the secrets that lie beneath the surface of the ocean. This leather coral is a perfect example of how crucial a seemingly ordinary animal, smaller than a pencil eraser is vital to our own health. These leather corals are actually made up of many thousands of tiny animals all clustering together to make what appears to be one larger organism. Each individual filters the water and feeds on microscopic plankton, or relies on photosynthesis to obtain food and energy from sunlight. The process of photosynthesis actually relies on a complex relationship with smaller organisms that live within the tissues of the coral itself. The tiny corals polyps secrete calcium carbonate to give the larger colony structure and rigidity. But the real secret of the leather coral featured here in this video is a toxic substance that they produce and excrete to interfere with the growth of competitive species of coral around them. Meant to assist them by limiting competition, the toxin also has medical benefits that are being explored. Researchers have discovered that the isolated compounds may inhibit the growth of cancerous tumours in humans and other animals. The compounds may also reduce inflammation and damage following strokes. Several other benefits are being investigated as well. Protecting the biodiversity in our oceans has never been so important. We have not even scratched the surface as we discover more benefits every year that lie waiting for us in the mysterious depths of our planet's waters. As we understand nature more, we must also learn to respect and preserve it. And if we need one more reason to care for our coral reefs, they are beautiful.

Humpback whales are among the most beautiful animals in the ocean. They inspire awe and wonder in anyone who is fortunate enough to see one up close. These whales come to Tonga to breed and to give birth, in an environment that is safe from orcas and predatory sharks. The females have their calves in the waters that surround the beautiful islands of Tonga. They nurse them and protect them as they quickly grow big and strong before making their way to the colder waters in the north to feed on krill. The whales rest near the ocean bottom in bays around the islands. They come to the surface to breathe and then dive again. But the babies spend more time on the surface and they are curious when they see strange creatures like these humans swimming above. This baby is enormous, even at two weeks of age and he is playful. He rolled and cavorted and swam around the people, delighting them completely with the interaction. Humpback whales are one of the most intelligent animals in the world. As recently as 100,000 years ago, they were the smartest creatures in existence. Today, we are beginning to understand that we share the planet with remarkably complex and wonderful beings, and yet we exploit and hunt them to near extinction.

Squirrels are among the cheekiest of all the creatures that we are likely to see at the back yard bird feeders. And as adorable and entertaining as they are, they often take more than their share of the food that we put out for our little feathered friends. This squirrel is the boss of this feeder, commanding respect with his size and agility, chasing away all who would dare to land here and try to carry off a peanut. Even the blue jays wait their turn when he arrives and takes his position on the platform where the food is piled. But, despite his dominance and relaxed attitude, he eats in such a hurry that the shells of the peanuts fly and fall all around him. He nibbles like he is on a tight schedule to get at the nuts inside the shell. We cannot help but be reminded of that lovable character, Cookie Monster, on the timeless television show, Sesame Street. Cookie monster devoured his snacks with enthusiasm and a complete disregard for tidiness, just like this furry little fellow. This back yard feeder in Millbrook, Ontario, Canada, was set up initially to provide the neighbourhood crows with a little help getting through the winter. A veterinarian and her family raised a family of orphans when their nest fell from the tree and they were abandoned by their parents. She supplemented their food after they were released and adopted by the wild crows in the area. Ten years later, the ones that relied on this family for help, still come back and occasionally call out a very human-like "hello", as they learned to do when they were being hand fed. Other crows frequent this feeder as well, along with song birds of all kinds. Although the squirrels here are greedy enough to take a large share, there is always more than enough food for the furry animals, as well as the feathered ones.

Galapagos tortoises are enormous creatures that inspire awe and wonder. Check out these little girls' reaction upon meeting one!

The frogfish is beautiful and bizarre, and unlike most other fish in the ocean. From its appearance to its unusual means of locomotion, it hardly resembles the other fish that live in the underwater world, and yet, it is indeed a fish. One of the strangest things about the frogfish is the appearance. They resemble chunks of vegetation or alga, in what is referred to as "aggressive mimicry". Meant to lure prey that are in search of a meal, the frogfish entices smaller fish to come closer and then it lunges and inhales them. Some even wiggle spines equipped with a fleshy attachment in imitation of a small creature. The frogfish is part of the anglerfish family, and many employ this is their principal method of hunting. The colour of the frogfish varies greatly, providing them with excellent camouflage among coral or rocky reefs. The frogfish reside on the ocean bottom at depths of up to 100m (330 feet) in most cases. Their means of locomotion is as unusual as their appearance. They use their pectoral fins like legs as they make their way over rocks, sand or mud flats. But they also use a form of jet propulsion, gulping water and forcing it out through their gills, creating a forward movement that assists them as they use their fins. Some species even grip the sea grass or sargassum weeds with their fins and "climb" over it to move about. Frogfish are poor swimmers and prefer to remain still, waiting for food to approach them. Their bodies are not stream lined and they are not adapted for locomotion in the same manner as most fish. The mouth of the frogfish points upwards, enabling to gulp and inhale small fish as they approach from the front for a closer inspection of the bait. These scuba divers were exploring the depths of a mud flat area in Papua New Guinea, hoping for a glimpse of one of these unusual creatures. At home in the murky darkness, this little fellow made his way along the ocean bottom 20m (60 feet) from the surface. The ocean is full of strange and beautiful creatures.

Sea turtles are among the most loved of all the ocean's creatures. Here we see them swimming gracefully in the Galapagos Islands. Pacific Green turtles grow to an enormous size. Once they reach maturity, only large sharks and humans pose a threat to them. A cautious and respectful diver might be lucky enough to get close enough for a video or photo opportunity like this one. Moments like these are cherished by any who love the underwater world. This turtle casually swam along in search of vegetation while the nearby diver joined, in complete awe. These beautiful animals grow to 1.5m (5 feet) in length and can weigh up to 190kg (419 pounds), although exceptionally large males have been measured as high as 395kg (871 pounds). They are endangered due to the overharvesting of both adults and turtle eggs for human consumption, as well as due to mortality from being caught in fishing nets. Loss of nesting areas for real estate development has put even more pressure on the turtles. Once full grown, humans are their biggest threat. It would be beyond tragic to lose these beautiful creatures forever.

Raven is an 11 month old Great Dane who just might believe she is a horse. She has grown to a whopping 130 pounds and her long legs carry her through the forest with the speed of a galloping stallion. But she has not quite mastered balance and coordination and she is adorably clumsy on her long limbs. Raven has just been given a new red coat and she simply loves it. Being a short haired dog, she is feels the chill on long walks through the forest in this Canadian winter. She not only appreciates the warmth, but she has also learned that when the coat goes on, she is on her way to this magical wonderland of endless trails. She has been working hard on her recall training and she has only recently been allowed to run free while here. Previous walks were always on a leash as losing her in a remote forest, or having her run off after an animal could be disastrous. Now that she is so well trained, she is experiencing the freedom of off-leash explorations and she could not be more thrilled.

Scuba diving opens up an underwater world for the adventurous, allowing them a glimpse into a mysterious and beautiful realm. It is a world of breath taking beauty and animals that defy description. One of the most fascinating is the giant manta ray, a flat fish that moves gracefully through the ocean by flapping its enormous wings. They filter zooplankton and feed by moving through the water with their mouth open. Elongated fins on the front of their heads help to channel water into their mouths, aiding in the feeding process. Intelligent animals, manta rays have one of the highest brain to body mass ratios of all fish. They are gentle creatures, despite their immense size, and they are occasionally curious. A respectful scuba diver may find himself able to approach a manta, or he may find that the manta swims close to him, allowing for a close look for those who are so lucky. Similar to whales, manta rays often breach, leaping out of the water for reasons that are not fully understood. It could be part of a mating ritual or to rid themselves of parasites and remoras. Manta rays can be found swimming alone or in groups of 50 or more. With a wingspan of up to 7m (23 feet), they are an awe inspiring sight. This scuba diver was thrilled to capture this close encounter on film and he was even more thrilled to find later that his scuba partner had also captured the two of them together. Although scuba diving is a safe sport and it offers entry into a peaceful and relaxing environment, it should only be done after proper training to avoid dangers and mishaps.

Hornbills are large, heavy birds that inhabit tropical rainforests in many countries. Their bills are magnificently coloured and massive, and their plumage is spectacular. But even more interesting than their appearance is their unique nesting habits. The female seals herself in a crevice in a tree, with the aid of her mate, creating a plaster-like material with twigs, figs, and feces. They leave a slot large enough for the male to insert his beak so he can feed the female while she is in the nest. She remains inside to lay her eggs and raise the young for at least six weeks. At that time the female breaks the seal and emerges but she reseals the nest and joins the male in bringing food for the young. After a few weeks more, the young will beak the clay-like seal and emerge themselves. This hornbill is a resident at the Toronto Zoo where he lives in a large enclosure full of trees and plants. Highly intelligent, these birds do well with a lot of mental stimulation. The employees at the zoo give the animals toys and objects that will arouse their curiosity. Even the food is provided in a way that will require thought and problem solving. Fruit is skewered and attached to a log so the bird can slide it up and off the end. One of the most interesting features is the large, hollow structure on top of the hornbill's beak. The function of the casque is a mystery, although the birds do use them as a battering ram in aerial combat with competitive males. The Toronto Zoo is a world leader in conservation and education efforts that help to protect species like these from going extinct.

Sea lions are truly the puppy dogs of the sea, resembling our four legged friends in their behaviour as well as their facial appearances. Their personalities are similar in many ways. They enjoy play time and frolicking in the surf and on the sand, and their fun loving nature delights tourists and residents alike. These hilarious animals inhabit almost every beach or rocky shore in the Galapagos Islands. A bull sea lion is a large and formidable animal. Powerful, and equipped with large teeth like a giant breed dog, they command respect when they need it. They are territorial animals and there is only room for one mature male in each colony. There may be dozens of females and their babies, but the bull has breeding rights and will chase off any male who challenges him. In return, the male discourages predators and protects his colony, even supervising the young sea lions when the mothers are out in the ocean, hunting for food. This adorable baby has come to his mother with plaintiff cries for milk. Baby sea lions are always hungry and they know that their mother's nap time is the perfect opportunity for a meal. But the father, who thinks it is cuddle time, does not want to be interrupted. He barks and snarls at the baby and tells him it's not time for a drink. The sad baby wanders around crying but he finds a spot in the sand to have a nap. He will get his chance soon enough when the father gets hungry enough to go out into the water for his lunch. Sea lions are one of the most interesting and entertaining parts of a visit to the Galapagos Islands.

Galapagos tortoises are incredible animals, instantly recognized by their enormous size and giant armour plated shells. Large enough to fill the passenger compartment of a compact car, they are awe inspiring to look at. But even more incredible than their size is their ability to live to more than 200 years of age.

Blue jays are a welcome sight at any back yard bird feeder, with their beautiful plumage and vivid colour. Noisy and bold, they are often the first to arrive at back yard bird feeders, and the most likely to announce their presence with shrieks and calls. Other birds watch them and follow, hoping to find food where the fuss can be found. Blue jays are also easy prey for hawks and owls, as they fly slowly compared with other birds. Blue jays are one of the most beautiful birds that can be attracted to a feeder. They enjoy a wide variety of nuts and seeds and they delight both amateur and experienced bird watchers alike. This blue jay seems intent on finding the perfect peanut and he picks one up and discards it, repeating this several times before flying off with his prize. Somehow, he must be able to tell which shells hold the most delicious peanuts.

The underwater world is full of animals that are strange and wonderful in comparison with those that we see on land. This scuba diver slipped into the water from the island of Vava'u in the Kingdom of Tonga, taking his lights and camera with him to show us what emerges from their hiding places after the darkness sets in. The reefs are beautiful and appealing during daylight with their colours and picturesque beauty. The reefs are equally beautiful at night but this world and its creatures undergo an incredible transformation. This is when many animals emerge silently to hunt and explore. The delicate balance between the hunter and the hunted is complex and it can change in an instant. The cover of darkness provides the perfect means for animals to go undetected, like the octopus, one of nature's stealthiest killers. They glide through the water or slither over the ocean bottom, coordinating their eight powerful arms to find and ensnare prey, even in tight crevices. The octopus explores the rocks and coral with its tentacles while it spreads its mantle wide to capture any prey that are lucky enough to avoid the suckers on its arms. Once the octopus gets the fish its grasp, there is no chance for escape. A stingray cruises under the diver and glides over the sand in search of tiny animals buried beneath. Their electroreceptor cells are able to detect minute electric currents from mollusks and crustaceans that hide on the ocean floor. A porcupine fish drifts slowly over the sand and debris. They have no ability to fight or injure an animal, but they do not need such abilities to ward off attackers. Their skin and organs contain a powerful toxin that is potent enough to kill a grown man. They are also capable of inflating to many times their usual size and causing their spines to protrude. This makes it almost impossible for predators to swallow them. A sea anemone waves its tentacles in the current, snaring small animals and immobilizing them with the venom injected by their sting. They are animals, even though they are anchored to the coral or rocks like a plant would be. A sting from a sea anemone can cause irritation, pain, and even nausea. Closed and difficult to recognize during the day, this creature extends its tentacles under the cover of darkness. A small, but colourful lobster ventures out in the night to dine on carrion. Janitors of the ocean, they clean the rotting carcasses and vegetation from the ocean floor. A white eel explores crevices and hiding places, relying on its sense of smell to detect prey. Capable or inflicting a nasty bite, scuba divers maintain a respectable distance from eels. The ocean is completely different after dark. Each time a scuba diver enters the water, it is a unique adventure.

Veterinary technicians have one of the most wonderful jobs imaginable. Their days are filled with visits from people with dogs, cats, and other beautiful pets. Anyone with a love for animals would be envious of those who enjoy such an occupation. And as fun as their typical days are, a visit from a new litter of puppies like these golden retrievers makes the day even better. These vet techs at Sherbrooke Heights Animal Hospital in were thrilled to hear the the puppies from As Good As Gold breeders were coming for their checkups. Who can resist a bunch of fluffy puppies like these? The puppies are as energetic as they are adorable and keeping them all together is a feat. Their owner brought them to the clinic in a wagon that is perfect for the job. The entire clinic was overjoyed at this wagon full of cuteness and they all gushed over them through the entire visit. They all received a clean bill of health and made their way to the door to go home. The techs all gathered around to see them off!

Pileated woodpeckers are the largest species of woodpecker in North America. They would be second to the ivory billed woodpecker, although sadly, it is now believed to be extinct. The pileated is a giant bird that feed on insects burrowed into rotting trees and logs. It uses its keen sense of hearing to detect grubs and beets beneath the wood. Once it locates its prey, it hammers with its powerful beak to uncover and devour the insects. They actually play a vital role in the health of many forests, keeping the population of destructive insects in check. A pileated woodpecker can be heard for miles as it beats loudly on hollow trees to announce its presence and dominance to other woodpeckers. They are territorial and this display is meant to keep rivals from entering their feeding or breeding area. A pileated woodpecker grows to an incredible 49cm in height (19inches). It is a heavy bird, weighing up to 300g (2/3 lb). They are also known to eat fruits and berries, including the berries of the poison ivy plant. They will also eat ants in large quantities when the colonies are found in dead trees. The nest of the pileated is constructed by hammering out large holes in dead trees. The male makes a nest and this attracts a female where they will work together to raise their young. The nests are not used twice and the large cavities often become a shelter for other birds and woodland animals, such as owls. This also plays a beneficial role in the health of forests. Pileated woodpeckers are a welcome sight at back yard bird feeders such as this one. They love suet cakes that are filled with nuts and seeds. Their large size and bright plumage make them a delightful sight for bird enthusiasts and photographers. This videographer placed a GoPro camera on a pole right beside the suet feeder in his back yard and he was fortunate enough to capture this large male paying a visit. Providing food for local birds can make a great difference to their survival, especially when harsh conditions make it more difficult to find food.

Raven is an 11 month old Great Dane puppy with a love for life that is a thrill to watch. Like all puppies, she is full of energy and enthusiasm. A large Great Dane at full gallop is a beautiful sight but Raven is also adorably clumsy with her legs that are long and gangly. She runs like freight train full of joy and happiness when she discovers the yard full of freshly fallen snow. This is Raven's first winter and she is overjoyed at the opportunity to play. Raven's owner had brought her outside with the intention of taking her in the car to the nearby forest for a long walk on the leash, but Raven was having such fun running around free that he decided to let her have her moment before they got into the car. She can't decide which direction to go in as she runs around in circles at full tilt. After a few minutes, Raven grew tired and willingly got into the car for her daily forest time. Great Danes are one of the most beautiful and loveable dog breed and anyone who owns one usually falls completely in love with the breed. They are strong, noble, protective, and incredibly affectionate. After a day running and playing, they are content to stretch out on the couch and sleep as their humans relax and watch television or sit by the fire.

A small action camera stationed at a back yard bird feeder was intended to capture images of colourful birds and cute squirrels as they dined on their morning supply of peanuts in the shell, but instead, it captured surprising footage of a very interesting conversation between a polite crow and unfriendly red squirrel. The squirrel has been munching away on his breakfast and wasn't intending to share. He's been aggressive in his attempts to chase away all the crows and the blue jays, and even the black squirrels who would like a few nuts themselves. But a patient crow lands on the branch and makes several clear attempts at winning the squirrel over with a single word "hello", spoken with a voice that resembles a talking a parrot. In fact, he tries to say it 3 or 4 times. The squirrel does not seem impressed and he still refuses to share. But at one point he dashes off to hide a nut for later and the crow and his buddies take this as their opportunity to grab a little food and fly off with it. The crow is definitely trying to speak like a human and it's no accident that he says "hello", although his pronunciation is no longer quite as clear as it used to be. This story actually started about ten years ago when a nest of crows fell out of a tree in small town, Millbrook, in Ontario, Canada. The property owner tried putting the nest back up on the branch and he hoped that the parents would return to care for their babies. After a few hours, it was clear that they were abandoned and he called a veterinarian who lived up the street. They watched the nest until it was almost dark before deciding that the baby crows were orphans. They would not survive the night on their own. The veterinarian's family adopted the babies and raised them, feeding them meat, dog food, turkey mash, and they also taught them to find their own food. The crows quickly learned to fly and they began living in the trees, returning throughout the day for food. They grew and thrived, and the family inadvertently taught the crows to say hello. The crows even seemed to understand that this word was a greeting, as they would use it to announce their arrival. The crows became more wild over the late summer and they were accepted by the local crows. The orphans migrated south the first winter, but the family still sees crows that will allow them to get slightly closer than is usually possible, and at least two still say "hello" occasionally. As time has progressed, this family has maintained their love for the local crows and they feed them peanuts, but they also believed that the crows they raised would likely be passed on by now. Each winter that comes and goes makes this more likely. And yet, this crow that speaks to this squirrel shows that at least one of them is still alive and well. The squirrel may not understand how special this crow is, or how amazing it is that he is greeted in such a away, but the family was delighted beyond words to see this footage. It is truly heart warming to connect with a wild animal and to help it in a time of need. It is even more wonderful to see them still doing well more than a decade later.

White-tailed-deer are beautiful creatures that roam freely through many forests on North America and a few other countries in Europe. Shy and reclusive, these deer will often avoid contact with humans. Their keen hearing and smell allow them to detect predators and other animals long before they are seen. Deer are surprisingly stealthy in their retreat and they can slip away into trees and brush easily without making a sound. Deer are herbivores and they are hunted by many predators, and by humans, making the extremely difficult to approach. Even a large male, commonly referred to as a stag or a buck, will avoid people, despite the fact that they have formidable antlers that can be used as weapons in self defence. During the rut, or breeding season, stags have increased testosterone and they can be very aggressive, even towards humans. Their hooves and their antlers are capable of causing very serious injury. But as with almost all wild animals, keeping a respectful distance and acting in a non-threatening manner will usually be enough to prevent an unpleasant or dangerous encounter. This man has found that sitting very still and silently in a remote forest will occasionally provide him with a close look at the wildlife as they wander past him or around him. He set up a camera and took a seat on a gentle slope, deep in the woods. Before long, he heard the rustle of footsteps in the autumn leaves. A few female deer (does) appeared behind him grazed on the patches of green grass that still remained. A large stag with an impressive set of antlers followed close behind them and it wandered straight towards the man. He remained motionless and quiet as the deer came very close and stared at him curiously. Although they could smell him, and undoubtedly recognized him as human, they seemed unafraid. One of the females approached so closely behind that this man could feel her breath as she sniffed him and the camera. Something that this man has learned from being close to deer for prolonged periods is that they communicate with each other far more than we once believed. Even the most subtle ear or tail movement can have meaning in a herd and can raise the alarm if danger is perceived. They are attune to the eye movements and even the breathing of the animals around them, taking cues from small changes in behaviour. This man is breathing slowly and keeping his eyes slightly averted. His relaxed posture is meant to tell the deer that he is not in a position to give chase or cause them harm. It is believed that deer have hearing so keen that they can even hear the heartbeat of a human or an animal that is close enough. In this case, patience has paid off and the deer soon relaxed enough that even slow movements do not scare them off. Spending time in a tranquil forest with wild deer almost close enough to touch is one of the most peaceful experiences imaginable.

Raven is an eleven month old Great Dane puppy who is full of energy and enthusiasm for anything that is new and fun. Like all dogs, she loves long walks in new places where the smells and sights are novel and interesting. She enjoys a walk down her street several times a week and there is always somebody to greet or a friendly dog to visit, but walks in the forest get her excited like few things do. Luckily for Raven, she lives in a beautiful area of Ontario, Canada where the nearby forest offers hundreds of trails and a vast expanse of woodland that is rarely busy. She gets walks over new trails several times per week as well. Raven's property is large enough for her to run free and she has been trained to stay in her own yard, so off leash time is frequent for her. Unfortunately, Raven is a spirited puppy with a tendency to forget her manners when she smells or sees a squirrel. For this reason, letting her run free off her property has been unsuccessful. Until now! Raven's owner has been working hard with her on recall training and leash walking. She has been trying her best and making serious progress, so it seemed like a good day to take her deep in the Ganaraska Forest to test out her progress. Dave unclips Raven's leash and tells her she is free to run. She seems unable to believe her good fortune at first and she stares at him in disbelief for a few seconds. Suddenly she understands that she is no longer restrained and she begins to run like a freight train over the trails and through the trees. Anyone who has ever had a Great Dane knows how they are like a bull in a china shop. They are large and powerful and they don't seem to know their own strength. Raven gallops like a horse, back and forth, sniffing and exploring. And to her credit, she came running back to Dave every time she was called. A treat and a pat on the head, along with a little praise, was all it took to keep her in check. Raven came across deer and porcupine tracks, and still kept within sight of her human. This is more than a small feat for a puppy like Raven. After 5km (3 miles) of trails through some of the most beautiful forest in North America, Raven was very tired and happy. As they drove away from the forest, she rested her head on Dave's shoulder and seemed on the verge of sleep. She sighed with contentment as she was told that she had been such a good puppy that she would get another chance for running free the following day. To see an overjoyed Great Dane at full gallop through snowy forest is a breath taking sight!

Back yard bird feeders can bring hours of joy and satisfaction as the neighbourhood birds flock to the feast and display their colourful plumage. Many song birds and others stay in countries with a cold winter climate, relying on seeds and pine cones to sustain them through the winter. But food can be scarce and a thick blanket of snow will make finding food very difficult. Cold temperatures also present severe difficulties for small birds as their metabolism must adjust to provide them heat. This causes their food requirement to increase greatly during cold weather. Back yard bird feeders can be extremely helpful to these beautiful creatures and a fresh supply of seeds and nuts can mean the difference between surviving the winter or perishing during the coldest months. Supplying the right food will also attract different species and it can be very rewarding to do some research to see what will best fit the needs of the birds in your location. Attracting the most unique or most colourful birds can also be an interesting challenge. This bird enthusiast has bought herself an ample supply of suet cakes filled with nuts and seeds that are perfect for woodpeckers and nuthatches. Another feeder close by provides a platform that can be filled with peanuts in the shell. This is the favourite feeder for crows and blue jays, but the blue jays also like the suet and they happily feed on the fatty seeds when the woodpeckers will allow it. A red-bellied woodpecker is the first bird to arrive for breakfast in this video. His beautiful red crest and red tinted stomach plumage make him a gorgeous sight at the feeder. Many bird enthusiasts will use the opportunities provided by the feeders to record the birds as they get their fill. It's a win-win situation for both!

North America is home to 23 species of woodpecker and there are at least 180 species worldwide. They are unique and fascinating birds that inhabit forests and even treeless areas in all but a few countries on our planet. They largely prey on insects that hide under bark or bore into the wood of unhealthy trees. They use their keen sense of hearing to detect their prey and then they hammer out holes in the wood to access them. Without woodpeckers, insect pests would overpopulate and threaten the health of forests. Woodpeckers are more difficult birds to attract to bird feeders because they prefer to find their food in decaying trees, but they can be tempted with dried fruit and suet cakes. Being solitary and territorial, they are also less likely to exist in large numbers around your home. Kristy is a nature lover and bird enthusiast. Her Christmas list included several new bird feeders for song birds and a new wire cage for holding suet cakes. These are specially designed to attract woodpeckers because they are heavy enough to allow the larger birds to perch on them in the same way they would cling to the side of a tree. The suet cakes fit in perfectly, allowing the birds access to a balanced supply of suet, nuts, and seeds. Within minutes of placing this feeder out , several species of birds were excited by the contents, including three different woodpecker species that landed on the feeder within seconds of each other. A hairy woodpecker was the first to arrive, but after a few small pecks at the food, he was chased off by a red-bellied woodpecker. This larger bird feasted for much longer before the arrival of a pileated woodpecker caused him to fly off. The pileated woodpecker is the largest in North America. The ivory-billed woodpecker is larger, but it is now believed to be extinct. pileated woodpeckers are striking birds with flaming red feathers on their heads and black and white plumage on the rest of their bodies. Bird enthusiasts like Kristy become very excited at the sight of one feeding at their back yard feeders, but to see three woodpeckers within such a short time was quite a thrill!