WildCreatures

Boris is a big fan of Christmas shopping. This adorable bulldog cross gets excited for an outing and loves getting his little sweater on to walk along the sidewalk and visit the stores in his small town home. He patiently waits outside, secured to his owner's cart and watches through the window.

The waters around the islands in the Kingdom of Tonga are home to one of the most majestic and beautiful creatures on earth. Humpback whales come here to breed and to give birth, in a place that is safe from predators like killer whales. Check out their incredible interaction with these scuba divers!

Polar bears are among the largest land animals in North America. They are the largest predator, growing up to 2.8m (9 feet) in length and weighing as much as 800kg (1760 lbs). Kodiaks, a subspecies of the Alaskan brown bear can grow almost as large. They are powerful and formidable animals when full grown, but they begin life as tiny cubs that weigh only 1kg (2.2lb) and they are toothless. Without the protection of their mother, the cubs would not have a chance at survival. Typically, polar bears have twins each year, increasing the odds of at least one cub surviving. Some polar bears do give birth to one or three cubs, but this is unusual. The cubs will nurse on mother's milk, growing rapidly in their first months. A polar bear produces a rich, calorie dense milk that is 31% fat. Polar bears are perfectly adapted to life in the cold water, where they spend most of their time. Despite being land animals, they are often referred to as marine mammals. Their large paws and streamlined bodies make them very adept swimmers. Despite appearing to be white, polar bears are actually black in colour. They have hollow hairs that reflect light in a way that makes them appear white, but the specially designed hair reflects sunlight down onto the black skin where it can be absorbed as heat. Polar bears eat a variety of food but seals make up the largest part of their diet. Ambush predators, they often wait at the breathing holes of seals or the birthing chambers. For this reason, a polar bear is dependent on sea ice for finding food. Polar bears have paws that ideally suited for life on the ice. Equipped with tiny bumps called papillae, and tufts of fur between their pads, the paws grip the ice extremely well. Their claws provide added traction, allowing them to move easily and quickly on even the most slippery surface. Polar bears feast on seals and store fat, allowing them to go as long as 8 months without food. This is particularly important for female polar bears that remain in their den to nurse their cubs for long periods. Referred to as Nanuq by the Inuit people, the word for polar bear actually means the ever wandering one, or animal worthy of great respect. Considering their massive size and unique adaptations that allow them to live in one of the world's most difficult climates, this name seems very fitting.

Dave loves to see the cows in the meadows when he is out for a walk around his neighbourhood. Several times a week, he walks past a farm where the cows are particularly curious and friendly. He noticed that they would approach the fence and even follow along the edge of the meadow as he walked past. He decided to go up to the fence and greet them properly. Dave even thought it would be fun to record the cows as they ran over to meet him. Obviously, the famers here must treat their animals with kindness because they are not hesitant to approach and even sniff at a stranger who stops and speaks to them. Much like large dogs, these cows seem very friendly. The farmers must also have a sense of humour too because Dave notices that the ear tags don't have the usual names you would expect like Florence, Maisy, or Henry. These cos are named Johnson, Hammer, Earthquake, and Tank. They are fitting names for large and stocky animals like these. This farm is one of many in Ontario that pride themselves on having beautiful outdoor meadows and paddocks for the animals. They are fed hay and grain in the winter, but during the warmer weather, they are allowed to roam free and graze on lush grass in a large meadow. This environment provides a more stress free existence for these gentle creatures. Many people turn to a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle because of the ethical concerns surrounding farming. Large, factory farm operations have their animals indoors without the freedom to move. Profit is placed a head of herd health and cruelty is not uncommon. But ethical farms like these provide a very happy life for the animals, and all but their final days are as close as possible to what nature intended. Anyone who chooses to eat meet can easily find farms like these in most communities.

Spotted eagle rays are one of the larger stingrays and one of the most beautiful. They are uniquely shaped and stunningly beautiful with their black and white markings. Having one of the highest brain mass to body mass ratio, they are also believed to be one of the more intelligent of the marine animals. They actually exhibit curiosity that resembles human curiosity, which can explain why the normally shy and reclusive rays will occasionally allow a close approach by a respectful swimmer or scuba diver. Like many other stingrays, the spotted eagle ray possesses a very complex set of electroreceptors that allow it to detect prey buried in the sand. Jelly filled pores around the snout, mouth and eyes for a complex network of receptors that are sensitive enough to react to the minute electrical impulses of crustaceans and mollusks. The ray will locate the food and then beat the sand and inhale it. Using its powerful jaws, the spotted eagle ray is capable of crushing even a large conch shell to get at the food inside. These stingrays possess a lateral line, like sharks and other fish, that allows them to sense minute changes in the motion of the water around them. Compressed energy waves, similar to sound waves, can help the stingray avoid predators by letting them sense the approach or rapid movement well in advance. Scuba divers love these beautiful animals and they consider it a treat to be able to get close to one. This videographer approached slowly and from the front, rather than from above, in a manner that did not alarm the stingray. Even moving fins and arms slowly will help the ray recognize that the scuba diver is not a threat. The result can be a close look and a few unforgettable images. This videographer was hoping to document the ray's ability to expel sand through its spiracles, or vents, located behind the eyes. While feeding, the spotted eagle ray will stir up a lot of sand to get at the prey buried within. They will also use their strong snouts to turn over rocks and chunks of coral. The spotted eagle ray is a magnificent creature that can reach an impressive 3.3m (10 foot) wingspan and a length of 5m (15.5 feet). They are a sight to behold in their own habitat.

The North Face Rally is a car club in the Toronto area that is well known for their beautiful supercars, but they are even more well known for their big hearts. They have been applauded for years for being active in their community, supporting the agencies and charities that make life happier for children and families. They have also directly supported families that are deserving of a little help. They have been called "The Fast and The Generous", after gaining a reputation for getting behind wonderful causes. In past years, the NFR have orchestrated one of the biggest shopping sprees and Christmas toy drives in Canada. They have donated to Sick Kids Hospital, a world renowned treatment center for children, as well as the Toronto Police toy drives, Toronto area shelters and community support agencies, and even some of the agencies in the Peterborough area. In past years they have teamed up with Brinks and delivered their donations in armoured cars for the most secure Christmas toy delivery in history. This year, the challenges of Covid meant that they could not personally shop and deliver toys, but they did not let that stop them from working their Christmas magic anyway. Once again, they raised an impressive total and provided the agencies they support with the means to do their own shopping safely. And in a very touching show of support, the North Face Rally has now reached across the world to help a four year old cancer survivor who has bravely fought since she was 18 months old. Johanita is now 4 and she has been through 6 surgeries for a brain tumor, 23 weeks of chemotherapy and a month of radiation treatments. She and her family are from the Galapagos Islands in Ecuador but they have moved to the city of Quito, to be near the hospital where Johanita has been treated for much of her life. Having survived the cancer, she was doing very well until she developed an infection in the shunt in her brain. Johanita needs urgent surgery to correct this, but her family has struggled with the crippling medical debt from previous treatments. Despite her father, Christian working long hours at two jobs and her mother, Johana caring for the family while he spends long weeks away, they simply didn't have enough money to pay the deposit for Johanita's surgery. The members of the North Face Rally heard Johanita's story and they had great respect for how hard Christian has worked to bring money home to his family. All of the members of this car club have become successful through their own hard work and determination and they could identify with such a hard working father. This year, the NFR wanted to reach out and help this family across the world. They have donated $2,000 ($1,600 U.S.) to help Christian and Johana save their daughter. Excited to be part of this Christmas miracle, they met around a laptop computer to make a video call and present Johanita with a cheque and their best wishes. Speaking directly to the family in Ecuador, they were able to virtually meet the little girl whose life they are helping to save. Christian spoke from the heart as he thanked the car club and explained their family's fight with cancer so far. He is very moved by the fact that such support would come from strangers in Canada whom they have never met. The timing of this gift is perfect as Johanita was able to have the surgery performed the following day. Compared with what she has been through already, this procedure will be much easier for Johanita and her prognosis is excellent. Thanks to NFR and other donors, she is on her way to a healthier and happier life. Johanita's parents will incur more debt from this surgery, despite having some insurance coverage. Anyone wishing to support a very deserving and very grateful family can visit this link: gf.me/u/y99u4d Questions are also welcomed through David McNab at ptbocyclist@hotmail.com

Tonga is one of the only places in the world that humpback whales can go to be safe from predators. Pregnant females migrate yearly to the waters that surround the 169 islands in the Republic of Tonga to give birth to their calves. The males follow because these waters are also their breeding grounds. Humpback whales are among the most intelligent and complex creatures on earth, following behind humans and possibly dolphins. Their communication is so complex that we are only now beginning to understand how much information may be contained in a single whale song. Their repeating patterns of squeals, grunts, and pings can go on for as long as twenty minutes before beginning a second, identical loop. They can be heard for hundreds of kilometers. This very fortunate swimmer had travelled from Canada to Tonga in the hope of seeing one of these incredible animals close up. This gigantic male lay resting on the ocean bottom more than 50m (150 feet) beneath him, rising to get a few breaths of air before sinking back down. The swimmer was astonished to watch the enormous animal heading almost directly toward him. It gracefully curved and drifted up beside him, only a few meters (15feet) away. Looking into the eye of such a magnificent and intelligent creature, it's impossible not to wonder what they think of us. If they could speak to us, what wisdom would they pass on? What questions would they ask. As recently as 100,000 years ago, they were the most intelligent creatures on earth. They have been around far longer than humans and even our human ancestors. They have as much right, if not more, than we do to live on this planet and yet they are hunted and harvested by humans for their blubber, oil, and bones. Many countries have banned whaling but there are still countries who pursue and kill them for their carcasses, or under the guise of conducting scientific research. If we could look into their gentle eyes and swim in their presence we would likely all understand the horror of such practices. To lose these magnificent creatures would be beyond tragic!

The pileated woodpecker is the largest woodpecker in North America, except for one possibility. The ivory billed woodpecker, now feared to be extinct is slightly larger. The pileated grows up to 49cm (19 inches) long and has a wingspan of 75cm (30 inches). It is roughly the size of an American crow. This bird can carve out a rectangular shaped hole in a tree with impressive speed to get at carpenter ants and wood boring beetle larvae that are beneath the surface. Their tongue is long and slender and can be used like a spear to pull its prey from crevices. The pileated woodpecker also eat fruits and berries, including the poison ivy berry. Aptly named for the striking red crest on its head, "pileatus" in Latin means red capped. These woodpeckers can be found at back yard bird feeders during harsh weather when finding food is a challenge. Normally, the blue jays rule the roost at this bird feeder, even daring to harass the crows. But when the pileated woodpecker comes to feast on peanuts in the shell, the jays keep a respectful distance and flutter nervously around the tree branches to wait for their opportunity. The woodpecker seems to be nervous himself, casting a wary eye to the sky above. Red tailed hawks and other birds of prey circle the skies in the nearby farmer's field and they will often make a pass over bird feeders in the hope that they can snatch a meal out of the air. As formidable as his large beak is, this male would pecker would have no chance to defend against the talons and razor sharp beak of a hawk. Nature is made up of complex relationships and the balance is a delicate one. Animals may be squabbling for food one minute and they might find that they are the food the next. There can be no room for error, even for a bird this large. After feeding quickly on peanuts, he hops back to the shelter of the tree and makes his way up to safety. Bird feeders provide hours of fascination and pleasure for people as they watch the animals around them visit. This woodpecker was a rare treat to see.

Chameleons are beautiful and fascinating animals, extremely well known for their ability to change color to blend in with their surroundings. Check it out as this one chomps down on some yummy crickets. Awesome!

Cameron has always had a gift for earning the trust of wildlife. His gentle approach has allowed him to hand feed wild deer, wild turtles, and even ocean creatures. He has always enjoyed bonding with animals and his family has often been amazed with how easily he can do this. In his teens, Cameron perfected the art of imitating birds such as crows, ravens, and even owls. On forest hikes, Cameron calls to the birds and entertains his family as the birds answer his calls. On several occasions, owls have actually flown from deep in the woods to land in nearby trees. On a rainy Canadian morning, Cameron was in the back yard of his home and he saw this beautiful barred owl on the edge of the forest that borders the yard. Feeling the desire to get closer, and some hope that he could record some video, Cameron began making his way over. For more than 20 minutes, he slowly inches closer as he calls to the owl and speaks in a soft voice. Incredibly, the owl stares directly at him as he approaches, but it also looks around, even turning its back or its head so that it isn't always able to see him. This suggests a serious level of trust and a feeling that he is no threat to the owl. At one point the owl is perched on a broken limb and Cameron steps within five feet of it. The owl looks down at Cameron and at his phone that he is using to record. Even for Cameron, this is a close encounter and we hear the thrill and wonder in his voice. He is overwhelmed at the beauty of the bird and the magic of the interaction. The owl makes a short flight into the cedar grove but it perches only a few steps away. Cameron followed and walked right up, this time being able to stand almost close enough to touch the owl. He extends his hand, inviting the owl to come and perch on his hand. Although this seems like a farfetched idea, the owl seems to be considering the idea. During this encounter, the owl sees movement on the forest floor nearby and she swoops down to grab at something. Cameron walked a little closer so he could see if she caught a mouse but it appears that maybe it was just a leaf that had been moving. The owl flies back up into a tree and Cameron walks up yet again. Cameron films from below the branch and reaches up again, almost touching the owl. As if wanting to keep out of reach, the owl flew, but only to a branch on the other side of Cameron. It might have been curiosity or perhaps indifference, but this owl has no trouble with Cameron coming close. This is one of those videos that tells a story that few would believe if they didn't see it for themselves. But for Cameron's family, they aren't as surprised by this as you might think. They are all waiting to see what he comes up with next.

Raven is a an 11 month old puppy who loves to play and chew things as all puppies do. She has a collection of balls and toys that would be the envy of any dog, but sometimes her favourite chew toy is her own back leg. As she was lying on her couch in the living room, she took sudden notice of her back leg as it it were a an animal of its own. She suddenly lunged at it and bit it. The leg in her mouth kept straightening as if trying to escape. As this was repeated over and over again it was difficult to tell if she was completely aware of the fact that it was her own leg. But perhaps this is just the sense of humour that dogs possess. Part of the fun of owning a dog is watching the loveable and ridiculous things that they do to entertain themselves. It is the unique character traits and habits that are so endearing for us and make us watch them with such rapt attention. Great Danes are a particularly loveable breed. They are spectacularly graceful at full gallop and adorably clumsy on their long legs at other times. Owners of this breed will tell you that they act much like humans in the way they sprawl out across an entire couch, or in the way that they sit with their front legs on the floor, seated much like a person. The breed is also famous for heavily leaning on their people in an adorably affectionate manner. Almost everyone who welcomes a Great Dane into their family falls completely in love with the breed and cannot bear to be without at least one.

Tobermory is a small harbour tucked into the shore of Lake Huron's massive and beautiful Georgian Bay. Mare than 20 historic shipwrecks from a long ago time lay on the bottom, inviting adventurous scuba divers to venture beneath the waves to explore them. Wooden steamships with massive boilers that propelled them over the lakes with their cargo were once commonly used to deliver food, building materials, and other products between cities and even between Canada and the United States of America. The five Great Lakes are among the largest bodies of fresh water in the world, created during the ice age when glaciers carved paths and left rivers and lakes behind when they melted. Lake Huron is situated on the Canada/U.S. border and it's northern shore is Georgian Bay, almost as large as the rest of the lake itself. The tiny, but picturesque town of Tobermory is a popular place to visit, especially for those who seek an opportunity to scuba dive in cold, but crystal clear conditions. The visibility is a blessing because there is a lot to see near Tobermory. This is where marine Fathom Five National Marine Park is located. Famous for the Flowerpot Island with it's unique structures towering high above the shore, land adventurers also flock to the area for sightseeing and pictures. The 420 million year old dolomite has been worn by the weather and waves to create mysterious caves and structures both above and beneath the water. But Fathom Five holds the allure that brings scuba divers from around the world to visit more than 20 old wrecks that have been surprisingly well preserved in the icy depths. Wooden beams, rudders, boilers and ship hardware are on the lake's bottom, just as they were when the wrecks came to rest after their destruction. A few of the wrecks have actually been placed intentionally to create interesting dive sites for exploration. Such is the case with this ship, the Caroline Rose which was built in the 1940s in Nova Scotia, Canada. Originally sunk by mishap, it was towed to its current location to make it accessible for scuba enthusiasts. A trip to Tobermory holds something for everyone. Summer scuba diving events are held by Float n' Flag Dive Centre in Burlington for those looking to investigate this area and the wonders it holds.

The great hornbill, also known as the concave casqued hornbill is a very large bird with an enormous bill. They are found in India, Nepal, and Southeast Asia. Adorned with beautiful markings and vivid colours, it is a strikingly beautiful animal. This hornbill has a beak that is almost half as long as its body. It uses its beak to pluck figs fruit from trees, as well as the ground. It will also occasionally feed on rodents, small lizards, and even the young of other birds by using its long bill to snatch them out of crevices in trees. The hornbill relies on heavily forested and unlogged areas with an abundance mature trees. Often congregating to feed in groups as large as 150 to 200 birds, they are capable of making a lot of noise, particularly during mating season. The function of the large casque structure on top of the beak is widely debated. Many think it is to amplify sound. Scientists believe it has evolved as a result of sexual selection. Males occasionally use their casques to bash against the beak of another male in flight during courtship competition. Typically, these birds live in smaller groups of 2-40 individuals and they are monogamous in their mating once a pair have been established. The hornbill is known to be a punctual bird, visiting trees in a particular order and at specific times that are similar each day. The hornbill's behaviour is as fascinating and unusual as its appearance. When the female is ready to lay her eggs, she selects a hole in the trunk of a tree high into the forest canopy. She seals herself inside the nest by creating a wall made from her own excrement (feces), figs, leaves and sticks. The combination of substances dries like hard clay and keeps predators out. She will leave a small opening through which the male can insert his beak to provide her with food. Hornbills receive sufficient moisture from their diets and they do not need to drink water. Her self incarceration will approximately six weeks. Her chicks hatch from the eggs after four weeks. When they are two weeks old, she will break down the wall and let herself out. She will rebuild the wall and join the male in feeding the young through the narrow slit. When the young are old enough to venture out, they will break the wall and leave the nest. Hornbills are a threatened species, logging and forest destruction for agriculture has led to serious habitat loss for these incredible birds. They are also easily sighted and are commonly hunted for their casques which are kept as trophies or sold on the black market. Hornbills are also a highly sought animal for the illegal pet trade. Conservation education and efforts are increasing to protect this incredible bird so that we do not lose them forever.

Scuba diving is one of the most thrilling and fascinating sports on earth. Strapping on tanks of air, the adventurous can slip beneath the surface of lakes and oceans and see what many people can only dream of seeing. Check out these mysterious caves located in Tobermory, Canada!

Scuba diving is a truly exhilarating sport. With proper training and guidance, it is perfectly safe and risks are kept to a minimum. But slipping beneath the waves is never completely predictable. These scuba divers were reminded of this when they were making their way from one dive location to another, in the the remote waters around the Galapagos Islands. Watching from their ship, they were thrilled to see dolphins escorting them on their way. Dolphins will often swim alongside moving vessels and it is believed that they use the waves and the turbulence from the boat to help propel them along. It is also possible that it will somehow help them in catching fish as they swim. It is even possible that they are enjoying the boat as something to play with. The scuba divers could not resist the urge to get into the water with these playful creatures and they eagerly slipped on their dive gear as the boat came to a stop. They dropped into the water and began looking for the dolphins. They caught a brief glimpse of them but they vanished soon after. Within minutes, the divers found themselves surrounded by dozens of white tipped reef sharks. As long as divers do not panic, sharks will rarely see them as potential food. They will approach curiously and swim close to inspect the divers, but the danger is very low. Still, the divers saw this as a good time to make their way back to the surface because sharks in these numbers can be unpredictable. They react quickly to the movements of the other sharks and the result can be a problem for people in the water. The divers stayed together, stayed vertical and moved smoothly back to the boat. Sharks are beautiful animals that exude power and grace as they swim. To see them in motion is an experience that is certain to evoke awe among those who witness it. But to swim in their presence as they circle around is an unforgettable thing. For those who venture into the ocean, it is always wise to remember that humans are the guests in this underwater domain and that we must treat the inhabitants with caution and respect, or else the consequences can be serious and unfortunate.

The W.L. Wetmore lies on the bottom of Georgian Bay in a passage known as Devil Island Channel. Smashed and broken, the huge timbers and metal parts are surprisingly intact, serving as a vivid and eerie reminder of the disastrous night and near tragedy of November 20th, 1901. Nearly 120 years have passed since the ship was dashed upon the rocks in gale force winds and blinding snow, but the ship's beams and giant boilers have been preserved in the icy depths. Captain Adam Hartman, owner of the Wetmore set off from Parry Sound, Ontario with his crew and an enormous load of timer, bound for Buffalo, New York. It was late November of 1901, more than 13 years before the world would see the start of the first great war. Steam ships were a commanding presence on the Great Lakes that bordered Canada and the United States as they kept trade alive. The lumber industry relied on these great ships to ferry supplies and products between the two nations. The Wetmore was a powerful ship and she towed two schooner barges, The King and The Brunette, also fully laden with great stacks of lumber. Sadly, none of these ships would reach their destination. Lake Huron, one of the Great Lakes is a massive body of water that includes Georgian Bay. The name is misleading as Georgian Bay is almost as large as the rest of Lake Huron. Its waters are every bit as unpredictable and treacherous as the rest of the five Great Lakes. Winds drive rain and snow in all directions without warning, especially in November and shipping during this time is not without risk. With no warning, the weather turned foul and a blinding snowstorm raged and pounded the ship. The familiar beacon of the lighthouse in Tobermory harbour could not be seen and Captain Hartman found navigation impossible. Unintentionally, they ventured into Devil Island channel and struck the rocks of Russell Reef. An ominous thump was the first indication that there was trouble. Before the Captain could order the engines to be stopped, a grinding crunch told the crew that the propeller had struck the bottom. The blades were destroyed and the ship was at the mercy of the waves and the powerful wind. As the ship was pounded against the rocks, the crew made the decision to abandon the Wetmore and take their chances in the icy water. A crewman became tangled in the rope that was towing the Brunette and the rope was cut in order to save him. Inadvertently, this also saved the Brunette which drifted away from the rocky shoal. With only one lifeboat and a fire now raging on the King, the crew jumped overboard and began to swim. The most perilous part of the whole event was the half mile journey across the channel to Babbit Island and their only chance of survival. The crew would later credit teamwork and perseverance for their success as the stronger swimmers helped the others. They stayed together as a group and all of them made it ashore, even though one crew member had suffered a broken leg. As they made their way slowly to land, they watched the King burning and the two ships being dashed on the reef. The Wetmore and King slipped out of sight right in front of them. The crew battled the cold by huddling together for warmth and building a large bonfire on the island. Nearly 36 hours after the ships wrecked, a passing tugboat saw the flames of the bonfire and came to their aid. All members of the crew were saved. The Wetmore and the King were complete losses, as was a great quantity of lumber. The Brunette was found stuck in a muddy shoal nearby, with little damage from the mishap. The timbers and ship parts strewn across the lake's bottom are stark reminders of the power and unpredictability of nature. The wrecks of Tobermory lie in various depths of the crystal clear water of Lake Huron. They are world class dive sites that attract scuba divers from all around the planet. Float n' Flag Dive Centre in Burlington runs an annual event called "Tobermory Takeover" that provides the adventurous with a tour of various wrecks and dive sites in these waters. Their events are the perfect way to explore some of the most fascinating and intact wrecks from the turn of the century.

Marine iguanas are among the world's most unusual creatures. Specially adapted to one of the most harsh and unforgiving environments on earth, they live on lava rock beaches in the Galapagos Islands, covering almost every surface that the sun touches as they bask in the heat. There is no food for them on the barren shore and the vegetation inland is coarse and inedible for them. These vegetarian lizards have evolved in order to survive in this world. They live on algae that grows in the raging surf along the coast, sometimes as deep as 33m, or 100 feet below the surface. The iguanas are cold blooded and they rely on the heat of the sun to warm their bodies so they can move swiftly, as well as to allow them to digest food. Warm muscles are crucial to avoid predators like hawks, foxes and large rodents. The black rocks are a perfect place to soak up heat and seek shelter. They lie in the open until they have warmed enough to brave the cool water. Despite being at the equator, these islands are surrounded by cool ocean currents that keep the temperature low. The lizards will have a very limited time once they begin to lose body heat, and they will only feed for approximately 30 to 60 minutes each day, provided they have warmed enough to do so. Once warm, the iguanas begin diving off cliffs or slipping off the rocks into the surf to feed. They leave the shore in groups, timed as if on a synchronized clock. They are powerful swimmers and they can hold their breath for up to 30 minutes at a time. They are limited by the temperature and their feeding is done as quickly as possible before they return to the shore to warm up again so they can digest what they ate. They will enter the water once per day and it is important that they store up as much algae in their bellies as they can in a short time. The algae, and the water that they ingest contain enough salt that most creatures would be unable to survive on this diet. But the lizards have another unique adaptation; special salt ducts that allow them to expel the salt in a thick liquid that is sneezed out of their nostrils. Lying on the rocks after feeding allows them to digest the algae and rid their bodies of the toxic levels of salt. Keeping an eye on the sky above them for birds of prey, they must always be wary. The marine iguanas have short snout and a face that closely resembles a dinosaur. In fact, many people believe that the marine iguanas provided the inspiration for the famous Hollywood monster, Godzilla. Their faces are almost identical. The Galapagos Islands are home to some of the most unusual creatures on the planet and people journey there for a close look at some very unique wildlife. Charles Darwin made these islands famous when he studied the wildlife there in 1835 and put forth his theory of evolution. Swimming with marine iguanas is a highlight for divers from around the world and a big part of the adventure that many seek in the Galapagos.

Cassowaries are large and prehistoric looking birds with large casques (prominent head ridge) that are believed to amplify deep acoustic sounds made by the bird. There are also theories that the bony casques act like a helmet to protect the bird from falling seeds where they forage, or from collisions with trees as they sprint through the forest. Cassowaries are capable of producing a low frequency boom sound that is at the lower limit of human hearing, and is the lowest frequency sound produced by any bird. It is believed that this helps them communicate with each other in dense brush. They are shy birds that will avoid humans at all costs. To see one is a rare sight as they are very capable of disappearing into the forest long before they are discovered. Cassowaries can live 40-50 years in the wild. They are the third tallest and second heaviest bird in the world, after the ostrich and the emu. People in countries where they live are well aware of the hazards of approaching a cassowary and even military troops arriving in New Guinea are warned to show them proper respect. Documented cases of aggression from the cassowary have been used to study their behaviour. Most of these cases involve attacks on humans, and many others on domestic dogs. In the majority of the cases studied, the attacks have come when the birds are being fed or when they expected food. Several attacks were on humans that had been feeding the birds previously and had developed a sense of trust. This perception was unfortunately misguided. Rarer cases had involved attacks in self defense when people were attempting to kill or injure the cassowaries. With the highest recorded numbers of attacks on people and the severity of wounds inflicted, it is no wonder this bird is commonly referred to as the World's most dangerous bird. Like all animals, they should be treated with respect and caution. Feeding wild animals can have immediate and disastrous consequences.

Gorillas capture our fascination and our hearts as we watch them and we are reminded in many ways of ourselves. Capable of very human behaviours and even similar facial expressions, it is not difficult to believe that we are so closely related. This gorilla baby is enjoying some affectionate time with his mother, having just had his morning milk. But what he does after he is finished is a behaviour that we have all seen young human children do very frequently. He sticks a finger up his nose, looks at what he has pulled out and promptly pops his finger into his mouth. He repeats this several times in a way that looks as if he has been exposed to human children and he has learned this from them. The truth is that this baby has almost definitely not see this action performed by people and that he has simply learned it on his own for whatever reason. This might suggest that some of the same instinctive behaviour is influencing the gorillas and ourselves in a similar way. These are western lowland gorillas, the smaller of the subspecies, yet the males can reach a weight of 270kg (600lbs). They have incredible strength and are reported to be 7-8 times as powerful as an Olympic weightlifter, although this is not easily verified. standing erect, can reach a height of almost 2m (6ft). They possess formidable teeth and jaw strength, capable of a biting force that is greater than a large dog. Despite such immense power, gorillas are generally calm and non-aggressive unless disturbed or threatened. Even the adult males, known as silverbacks, are not likely to attack humans unless provoked. The western lowland gorilla is a critically endangered species. These gorillas live at the Toronto Zoo, one of the world's highest rated zoos, and recipient of numerous top awards related to conditions and health programs for the animals. They are world leaders in conservation efforts and education. When considering which facilities to support or avoid, a little research goes a long way. Supporting the organizations that are active in animal welfare around the world is crucial if we want to see animals like these survive.

Humpback whales are incredibly majestic animals that inspire awe in anyone who sees one. Believed to be among the most intelligent creatures after humans, they are beautiful and mysterious. To actually swim with one is life changing. These lucky people were swimming in the waters of Tonga, hoping to see these magnificent whales in their own habitat. They didn't expect to be so close as a gigantic male rocketed upwards and exploded through the surface in a spectacular breach. The incident was thrilling, and a little unsettling at the same time as this 50,000kg giant was not far away from the swimmers when le leaped in the air and came crashing down again. The true enormity of a whale cannot be fully appreciated until you see one from such a close vantage point. One of the swimmers captured the footage on his GoPro as he was watching another whale below. The second whale appeared on his left and was obviously heading up to breach. The fish eye lens of the GoPro makes the whale appear to be farther away than he actually was. The camera man lifted the camera out of the water and then plunged it back under the surface again in order to capture the entire event. As the group exchanged looks of astonishment and wonder, they yelled and cheered with excitement over what they had just witnessed. Humpback whales travel from all over the planet, arriving in Tonga for breeding and mating. It is one of the few places on earth where the calves are safe from killer whales, their most common predator. The whales eat krill in the colder waters, storing up their fat reserves for the long migration to these tropical waters. They do not need to eat while they are here. Females will spend several months nursing their calves until they are large enough to make the journey back to their feeding grounds at the end of the year. Humpback whales have been declining in numbers in the last two centuries. Whaling for commercial products and oils, as well as increased interference from shipping have taken a huge toll on the populations around the world. Losing these magnificent animals forever would be beyond tragic.

Gorillas are incredible animals with intellect and emotion. When we look at them, we can't help but be reminded of ourselves. They are capable of facial expressions, as well as gestures and behaviours that resemble humans a great deal. But many people claim that animals are incapable of emotions and the complex social bonds between individuals that come with emotions. Social bonds and caring for offspring are explained as mere instinct by those who feel that animals lack emotion. These gorillas behave in a way that suggests otherwise. While the mother's instinct to feed her young or the baby's instinct to seek milk from his mother are behaviours that do not necessarily require emotion, the other subtle behaviours seem to be far more than instinct. This devoted mother holds her baby close and gently strokes his head. She cuddles with him in a very affectionate way. The tender expression and loving contact is more than just instinct. It seems to be fulfilling an emotional need for both. The mother may also be recognizing the baby's need for comfort and reassurance. This is unselfish behaviour that requires a level of compassion and understanding of the emotional needs of the baby. We are only beginning to recognize the complex thought processes that are demonstrated by the animals around us. And we are learning more and more that the emotions that we think set us apart may be more widespread than we once believed.

Osprey, also referred to as fish eagles are the second largest predatory bird in North America, second only to the bald eagle. They have an impressive wingspan of up to 2m (6 feet). Their wings are specially adapted with an extra joint that allows them to take off after being submerged in water. This gives them the ability to plunge into a lake or river, capture a large fish, and then lift off into the air again. These fish eagles were captured on video in an aerial battle for a catfish that was caught nearby. The first osprey returns to his nest with his meal, but he is followed by a male from a nearby nest. Determined to steal the fish, the invading osprey comes in from behind and above. The resident osprey has predicted this and he is already lifting higher to gain advantage. As the invader drops and tries to land in the nest, the one with the fish has already circled around and is now attacking from above. With claws spread, the osprey with the fish means serious business if he is able to puncture the neck of the attacker. He still holds the fish in his other talons as he fights. Although this may be more because he is reluctant to give up his food, it is also very possible he cannot release his grasp on the catfish. Fish eagles have barbs on their talons that prevent fish from being dropped. In order to pull his talons out of the fish, the bird must land and use his beak and other claws to pull the fish free. In the midst of this battle both birds actually struck the camera mount. They continued their fight for several minutes before the female from the nest arrived to help chase away the intruder. Battles such as these are not common between the fish eagles and capturing one on camera was a rare occurrence. Osprey generally mate for life. They are loyal to their mates, and also to their nests, preferring to use the same location each year to raise their young. Occasionally, territorial conflicts arise when competing birds arrive at the same time after migrating north in the spring.

Orangutans are among the most intelligent of the great apes. They are also one of the most gentle. They are delightful animals that fascinate and delight us to no end. Puppe is a 53 year old Sumatran orangutan with a beautiful personality. Her favourite spot in the large enclosure that she calls home is right if front of the glass where the visitors gather to look at her and take pictures. Puppe is known to take care of her belongings, according to Ben, one of her caregivers at the zoo. She has been given a soft blanket which she keeps in good condition. She spreads it out on the ground and stretches out right at the window. She has also been given a squeegee which she learned to use by watching the cleaners as they wiped the glass of the enclosure daily. When Puppe takes a liking to people, she interacts with them in the most adorable way. Here, we see her taking a shine to young lady who has crouched down in front of the glass with a warm smile for Puppe. Puppe wastes no time, moving up close and staring back, watching this woman with interest. The woman pointed to smears on the glass that was between them and she made some effort to wipe it. Puppe reached into her bucket of soapy water and got out her cloth in response. She began wiping the window, as if she might want a better view as well. When her cloth got tucked under her, this kind woman pointed it out and Puppe eventually looked where she was being shown. She wiped the window thoroughly and then picked up her squeegee, wiping at the water on the glass with surprising precision. Puppe's visitor was delighted and emotional as this interaction unfolded between them. She pointed to spots that needed attention and Puppe responded with clear understanding. After some effort with the cleaning routine, Puppe wiped her forehead as if she had worked up a sweat. This delighted her friend even more. As we can see in the reflection in the glass, this lady is filled with a mix of laughter and wonder. It even seems that her eyes tear up slightly during the exchange. Puppe has captured her heart, as well as her interest and people stopped to watch both with equal wonder. As with most of the apes, eye contact follows a complex set of guidelines for Puppe and we see that although she does watch her friend, she avoids prolonged staring right into her eyes. But, all the same, Puppe clearly finds her friend equally fascinating. Orangutans have become critically endangered. Habitat encroachment by humans, poaching, and destruction of forest for farming has wiped out much of their population. Puppe was an orphan when she came to the Toronto Zoo. Having no option to release her into the wild, she was cared for here and provided a wonderful life. She has lived far longer than orangutans in the wild typically would and she has been given excellent care. Zoos like this one provide opportunities for study, conservation efforts, education, and captive breeding that will ultimately help us in our desire to see these beautiful creatures avoid extinction. The Toronto Zoo is one of the most highly praised zoos in the world for its efforts to help the animals, and our planet. The staff here is committed to providing their animal family with nothing but the best. Puppe truly has found the right place for a second chance.

Sally Lightfoot crabs are gorgeous creatures with some of the most vivid colour in the animal world. Intense red patches with black, white, and gold accents make this crab a welcome sight for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. But just as amazing as their appearance is the very important function that they carry out as they patrol the beaches and rocky shores looking for decaying plant and animal materials. They clean the beaches and keep the algae growth in balance. Without them, most beaches would be littered with rotting material, accompanied by very unpleasant odours. The algae that they feed upon would make the shoreline a difficult place to walk, without the crabs continually pruning and consuming it. Sally Lighfoots live in the Galapagos Islands and they enjoy a symbiotic relationship with another animal species that lives exclusively in the Galapagos. The marine iguana is a unique lizard that has adapted to a world that lacks vegetation during the dry season. They dive for algae beneath the waves. The Sally Lighfoot crab eats the dead skin and the skin parasites off the lizards, getting a free meal in the process. The legs of the crab have hooks instead of feet, allowing them to clutch the lava rock tightly. This prevents them from being washed away, even in powerful surf. The crabs begin life as black creatures with red spots. Each time they molt, a new shell grows with larger red spots until the crab is completely coloured. As they mature, they become faster and more agile, increasing their ability to avoid predators. This makes their lack of camouflage less of a problem. Anyone who has taken a trip to the Galapagos Islands will undoubtedly have seen these beautiful crabs along almost every shore. They truly are nature's janitors!

Penguins inhabit the Antarctic and the southern tip of the continent of Africa. We don't expect to see them anywhere else, as they require a cold climate. We certainly would never expect to see them in tropical areas or near the equator. Yet, there is a species of penguin that thrives almost directly on the equator in the Galapagos Islands.