Owl whisperer's conversation with wild owl caught on night vision camera
The Galápagos Islands are famous for many things, and one of the most remarkable is the fearlessness of the wildlife. This is a barn owl, one of two species on the Island of Santa Cruz. On a very dark night, this owl could be heard in the distance as it called out. Cameron has spent a great deal of time studying and imitating owls in various locations around the world. He has had considerable success with enticing owls near. Often they perch in a tree close by and answer his calls. Cameron traveled to Santa Cruz to experience the wildlife on land and in the ocean, but it was unexpected that he would have an opportunity to meet one of the local owls.
Cameron listened to the unique call in the distance. Convinced that it was an owl, he called back. The owl called in response a few times and was then silent. Within minutes, this beautiful bird had closed the distance and was perched extremely close to him. Using a dim light source and a camera equipped with night vision capabilities, the owl was captured on video. Cameron repeats the "hiss" that the bird makes and the bird seems extremely interested. It answers him several times, with one of the exchanges being caught on film. The owl sat and looked at him curiously for several minutes before Cameron decided to leave and let the owl focus on hunting.
Shortly after dark the following evening, Cameron stood at the edge of the woods and called out onto the night. Almost instantly, a distant call was heard. Again, the owl appeared and watched him as he hissed. The two had another conversation. Cameron slowly and quietly walked to the tree that the owl was perched in and he found that the owl was not only unafraid, but it moved closer as well. This encounter was not recorded, but Cameron and the owl were less than 1m (3 feet) apart by the end of the exchange. Another owl also arrived and perched close by. It appears that this was a mating pair. Cameron decided again to keep the encounter short in order to not distract the birds from their feeding routine.
Barn owls of the Galápagos Islands are smaller owls with a wing span of 68cm (2.5 feet). Because they are nocturnal, and generally shy, the barn owl is rarely seen by visitors or even locals on the islands. To catch one on video at such close range is a very rare occurrence.
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Giant Galápagos tortoise provides up-close footage of its underbelly
Galápagos tortoises are among the most iconic animals in the world. Their enormous domed shells and long neck are instantly recognizable. These ancient animals are beloved and they have become a symbol of the islands here in one of the most remote and fascinating areas of the planet.
A wildlife videographer was hoping to capture interesting footage of these giant beasts eating and moving in the grass in a protected area on Santa Cruz Island. He left a camera quietly running in an area that was frequented by the tortoises. Moving away and leaving the camera in the grass was meant to allow the tortoises to go on about their business without feeling disturbed by the presence of a human watching them. But the tortoises were more comfortable with the tiny cameras than expected and they actually walked right over it as if it weren't even there.
The first section of footage shows a large male making his way toward the camera. After a brief rest and a snack, he continued walking, seemingly unaware that there was anything different about the small object in front of him. He straddled it and filmed the underside of his shell as he made his way along. Few people have seen the underside of these giants. Their carapace is only a few inches from the ground and an adult tortoise will almost never find itself flipped over. The camera reveals that the shell is quite concave, a necessary feature that allows the males to mount the domed shell of a female tortoise during breeding.
The massive legs of the tortoise can bee seen as they pass the camera. In a second section of footage, a tortoise slowly ambles past the camera and inadvertently kicks it, rotating precisely to provide a view of its back side as it walks past. A third tortoise is making its way at and past and it knocks the camera over, ending the footage completely.
Tortoises like these mature males are ancient, but it is difficult to precisely know their age. Believed to live possibly as long as 200 years, there are few records of these animals that show when they were born. Studies over the last century show that many here are known to be more than 100 years old. Some of them are believed to exceed 130 years of age. Researchers have marked them and careful records are now being kept. Future generations will have better answers as we learn more about them.
The origin of the tortoises on these islands is a mysterious and interesting debate. Naturalists believe that they arrived here from Africa, making their way on floating rafts of vegetation that arrived on the ocean currents. Tortoises can survive without food or fresh water for up to a year. Although many animals would perish on such a journey, giant tortoises are uniquely adapted for such a trip. Tortoises can store a great deal of water internally and they have thick leathery skin that prevents evaporation and water loss. Their scales resemble the skin of dinosaurs and they do more than just prevent water loss. These armoured surfaces provide protection if the tortoise needs to retreat into its shell to avoid a predator. The tortoise can simply outwait any animal that was trying to attack the vulnerable areas of the tortoise's body. There are few natural predators that threaten tortoises once they reach a decent size. But the introduction of rats and dogs here has reduced their numbers significantly in recent decades. Humans also consumed these tortoises as they provided meat for sailors on long journeys in past centuries. Now, through conservation laws and great effort, the populations are making a comeback.
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Researchers sneak up on bizarre & reclusive giant Mola Mola fish
Researchers gathering underwater footage and data in the Galapagos Islands found what appears to be a Mola Mola cleaning station. These bizarre and mysterious fish grow to an incredible weight of nearly 2,270kg (5,000lbs). They are the largest of the bony fish anywhere on the planet. Often described as the animals that evolution forgot, or the fish that nature forgot, they look like a clumsy, prehistoric beast that consists of only a head and fins.
Descended from pufferfish, they have a tail that has evolved into a smaller, less obvious structure. They swim using their enlarged pectoral and ventral fins, in an unusual flapping motion. As expected, they are not fast swimmers. Although they can reach surprising speeds for very short distances, they generally swim at about 3.5km/h (2mph). When alarmed or threatened, the Moila Mola will often dive and accelerate, trying to reach depths at which their pursuers are not able to follow. They have little other ability to defend themselves.
Mola Mola are frequently referred to as ocean sunfish, due to their flattened shape. But common sunfish are unrelated to the Mola Mola and the similarity is in name and shape only.
These ocean giants swim with their mouth open at all times. They are actually incapable of closing their mouths. Originally thought to feed only on jellyfish, it is now understood that Mola Mola feed on small fish, fish larvae, squid, and crustaceans. Jellyfish comprise only 15% of their diet.
Mola Mola lay more eggs than any other vertebrate. They are capable of producing up to 300 million eggs at one time. They start out as larvae and tiny "fry" and then grow quickly, reaching a weight that is approximately 60 million times their birth weight. They will do this in a span of up to ten years. This believed to be one of the fastest growth rates of any known vertebrate animals. Their extreme growth rate and the implications that this could have for science and research are currently being studied.
These researchers have made their way along a wall where Mola Mola have been sighted previously. Carefully remaining partially concealed by the rocks, they peek out at this giant fish and record it as it suspends itself in a vertical position. This is an intentional signal to the wrasses in the area that the Mola Mola wants them to clean it, removing small parasites and dead skin. This helps the Mola Mola remain healthy and the wrasses receive a meal in return.
It's an example of a mutually beneficial, or symbiotic relationship. The researchers are recording this behaviour in what is a relatively rare opportunity to get so close to such an easily spooked animal. Tracking devices are also being installed on the fish to get a better idea of what their migration habits are. It is hoped that, as we learn more about these ocean giants, we will also gain a better understanding of how to conserve them.
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Amazingly Close View Of Majestic Lion Drinking Water In Africa
Lions are among the most majestic and awe-inspiring animals in the world. With their spectacular mane, it appears that they have a crown on their heads. Their large, muscular bodies command respect and even fear. It is no wonder they have been described so frequently as the "King of Beasts".
To see a lion on the plain in Africa, in its own environment is a thrilling experience that could never be forgotten. These tourists were given a rare close up view of a big male slurping water from a depression in the ground at the edge of a watering hole in Kenya, Africa. This is an area where many animals come to drink and the mud that surrounds it has been trampled and pitted. This thirsty lion has casually walked in and claimed a spot at the edge to drink. Not surprisingly, the other animals have retreated, giving the lion plenty of space.
This is a protected area of Kenya where animals cannot be hunted. They live wild and free, enjoying the added protection here. Guests who were being escorted through this area in a jeep were excited to be able to witness this beautiful moment. From the safety of their vehicle, they were able to capture this on video.
Interestingly, lions slurp water in the same manner as smaller cats, and even dogs. Their tongue curls inward, not outward, and the water is brought into the mouth as they lap quickly and repeatedly at the surface of the water. It might be expected that the tongue would curl in the opposite direction but this is not the case.
According to the Kenyan government, the lion population in the country is now estimated at 2,489. This is an increase or nearly 25% since estimates of the year 2010. This has been accomplished through habitat protection, conservation laws, and the promotion of co-existence of humans and lions in a peaceful manner. While lions were deemed to be on the brink of extinction, this new information is cause for cautious optimism.
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Spotted ribbontail stingray eats animals hidden in the sand
Stingrays are highly intelligent and well adapted animals that live in most oceans around the world. They are beautiful to watch in motion as they glide along the ocean floor. Their flattened bodies are perfect for allowing them to skim over sand and debris, hunting for crustaceans, fish, and mollusks buried beneath. Their wings are used to beat the sand to uncover the animals, allowing them to be sucked into the stingray's mouth for consumption. A stingray's snout has pores filled with a gelatinous substance that detects the electrical impulses of prey, even those hidden or buried under solid material.
The jaws of the stingray are powerful, with flattened teeth that can crush shells to eat the animals sheltered within. Prey is inhaled into the mouth, crushed and swallowed. The sand and shells are expelled and the stingray moves on to the next meal.
The stingray has a special adaptation for breathing as well. It inhales water, but not through its mouth. It has spiracles located behind the eyes, through which water is sucked in, forced over the gills and expelled. This makes it possible for the stingray to breath, even when its body is buried in sand. The spiracles and eyes remain uncovered as the stingray benefits from the camouflage of a sanding covering.
As with many of the ocean's animals, a special adaptation creates a defense from predators. In most species of stingray, the tail is equipped with 1-3 sharp barbs. If a stingray is threatened or is stepped on, the barb can deliver a painful injury. The barbs often break off and remain in the wound. Although the wound itself is rarely fatal, the barb also has a venom that causes pain, and slows blood circulation. Stingrays are not aggressive and will very rarely attack humans or other animals, but accidents due to being accidentally stepped on in areas with swimmers are one of the leading causes of injuries from fish.
The stingray is a fish, and part of the shark family. They are cartilaginous, meaning that they don't have bones. Stingrays have the highest ratio of brain size to body mass of any fish and are thought to be the smartest of the fish. They demonstrate and ability to remember, learn, and communicate which exceeds what was previously believed.
Stingrays are still very mysterious creatures and we don't yet understand them fully. As we gain understanding of their roles in the health of the ocean and our planet, we will also gain insight that will help us protect them for the future.
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Kenyan woman and ex-cop form unusual business partnership
Naomy is an extraordinary woman in Kenya, Africa. She is modest and humble but her heart is enormous. She takes of her family through farming in a very harsh climate. The soil near her home is difficult to farm so she travels five hours by bus to a rented plot where she grows corn, carrots, and other vegetables. She sells vegetables at the market near her farm and returns when she makes enough money for the family and the cost of the bus. This is no small task in a world where $3-4 in sales is a successful day. Some days are much less.
Naomy lives with her grandparents in a basic home without water or electricity. They get by with kerosene for lighting and salvaged wires for clothes lines. She charges her phone at a nearby barbershop and treks 2km to the nearest source of water. It is a drainage ditch beside a road where water collects. They fill plastic jugs to haul water back home that they need for drinking, washing, and cooking. Kenya can be an unforgiving and difficult place to live. But despite the challenges, Naomy has taken on an extra responsibility. Young Emmanuel was abandoned by his parents when he was two years old. Naomy welcomed him into her family. She has been caring for him for seven years, feeding him, providing clothes, and paying for his schooling, one of the biggest expenses that she faces.
Naomy realized that she needed help. Her grandparents were ill and needed food. She prayed and worried about what to do and then reached out to strangers in other countries through Facebook. She saw profiles of four random people that she hoped could give her some assistance. She asked each for money to help her family. Three of the responses were blunt suggestions to get a job instead of begging. These folks thought Naomy was a scammer. Naomy felt discouraged and helpless.
One of the requests reached David from Ontario, Canada. Equally suspicious of requests for money, David told Naomy he couldn't help. She answered with a very polite and gracious message, thanking him for the kind answer.
David is a retired police officer who is familiar with how to look into a situation like this to see if it is real. He looked through Naomy's profile and saw a young woman who was exactly who she had claimed to be. He dug deeper and found that she had been completely honest and sincere. It was obvious that she did need help.
David began talking with Naomy, asking questions about the world that she lived in. She was friendly, kind, and hard working, doing what she could in a tough situation. David and his wife are avid gardeners themselves, so they had a lot to talk about. They exchanged pictures and videos of their countries, comparing food, animals, people, and living conditions.
Naomy shared pictures of a boy named Emmanuel. When asked, she explained that she had adopted him when he was abandoned. This is a common occurrence in such a desperate world. Naomy had been abandoned by her own parents and she would not see Emmanuel grow up with the same feeling. She took him in as her own, even though she had little to share.
David was impressed with such compassion and generosity. It was clear that Naomy truly deserved some help. Emmanuel was no longer in school because the fees had been unpaid and Naomy couldn't earn money quickly enough with her small farm.
A few years ago, David had accidentally stumbled on an ability to make money with videos through the Rumble platform. He knew that Naomy's videos were fascinating and that others might be as interested in her world as he was. He suggested that they upload videos she had sent. Because she would be sending some new clips that David asked for, there would be significant costs for data. David sent money to cover this, effectively buying the videos from her to upload to Rumble. As hoped, the videos earned a little money immediately. For several months, they worked together to create a monthly income. Naomy receives all of it. Emmanuel's school fees were now covered for the next term, plus a little extra for food for the family.
In a world where $70-100 is a typical income, the earnings from the videos were making a big difference. Naomy isn't receiving charity. This is a wage that she is earning. She is now actually a "professional videographer". David acts as her editor and publisher. It's a small business partnership that is putting food on the table in Kenya and putting a wonderful young boy through school.
David and Naomy will likely never meet. They live on opposite sides of the world. But despite the distance, a friendship and a partnership has been formed that will make things a little easier for this beautiful little family.
David was asked by a few people what could be done to help Naomy. A GoFundme was created that David manages. He can send funds directly to Naomy through his bank. Every dollar reaches Naomy and her family.
https://gofund.me/bc65456a
Any questions can also be addressed to David McNab
mojo_videos@hotmail.com
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Titan triggerfish avoided by scuba divers for very good reason
The titan triggerfish is a true giant among the triggerfish family. It is enormous and formidable, with a set of large teeth and powerful jaws During nesting season, it can be very aggressive in the protection of its eggs. Scuba divers share stories about the titan biting through air hoses and wetsuits, inflicting serious wounds and creating dangerous situations. Unwary divers may wander into the nest area, focused on the large and colourful fish in front of them. If attacked, a diver may realize their mistake but their natural reaction might be to swim upwards away from the nest. This may result in an even more vigorous attack because the titan triggerfish defends a cone shaped territory above the nest. The correct response is to swim away horizontally until the titan loses interest and swims back to the eggs.
Other fish and marine animals also have a healthy respect for the titan triggerfish. They steer clear whenever possible. As this large beast rips chunks of coral off the reef, the smaller fish try to get at the debris and smaller animals that are uncovered. But the triggerfish snaps and postures, reminding the fish that they are not welcome around the titan’s food. Titan triggerfish dine on sea urchins, mollusks, and coral. They are capable of break off large chunks of coral in the process.
The titan triggerfish grows to a length of 75cm. It’s a hefty fish that is well deserving of the name “titan”.
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Spanish dancer slug is a breathtaking underwater sight
Spanish dancers are a spectacular sight as they swim through the ocean. They spend most of their lives crawling over the sand or coral, eating sponges. But occasionally, they make their way through the water by undulating and flapping in a motion that is completely mesmerizing.
This incredible specimen was one of several in a patch of reef, found in Fiji. Several were observed as they slowly made their way across the coral. But one was swimming freely, flapping like the skirts of a flamenco dancer. These are impressive creatures with brilliant colour. They are truly a sight to behold when they are in motion like this.
The Spanish dancer is one of the largest sea slugs, capable of reaching 60cm (24 inches) in length. Most commonly, they are 20-30cm (8-12 inches) long. They are poisonous and few creatures are capable of consuming them.
The feathery structures on the back of this slug are external gills, used to filter oxygen from the water.
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Dog Dreams Of Chasing Deer He Saw During Afternoon Walk
Murphy is a wonderful dog who would love to make friends with everybody, including the neighbourhood deer. When the herd crosses the path in front of him when he is out for his afternoon walk, he whines and pulls frantically at the leash to chase them. He can barely contain his excitement as he watches them run past and he sniffs eagerly at the ground where they just set foot.
After the walk is over, old Murphy likes a good nap. But as we can see from his twitching toes and legs, the excitement is far from over for Murphy as he snoozes. He must be dreaming of the deer and galloping after them. It's tempting to wake him up but a good boy like Murphy deserves every moment of joy that life can bring. His family lets him sleep undisturbed so he can enjoy it all.
Murphy is a lucky dog. He belonged to a serviceman in the U.S. military and he was dearly loved and well treated. But when his owner was deployed overseas, he placed Murphy in a caring home. Murphy was somehow not the right fit for this family in the long term, and he eventually found his way to a rescue facility. It was here that he waited a very short time before being discovered by a retired gentleman from North Carolina. These two bonded and became the best of friends. Murphy moved to Tennessee a few years later and it is here that he walks the neighbourhood, meeting his doggy friends and seeing the deer run past.
Murphy's days are spent on meandering walks through the forest, chasing a ball in the back yard, sleeping by the fire and getting petted whenever he wants. Murphy really does live the good life, as every dog should.
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Bizarre alien-like animal wanders sea floor by night
This strange looking creature is an animal that lives on the ocean floor at various depths. It belongs to a group of animals that is one of the most numerous of the ocean animals, and also one of the most vital. It is a sea cucumber, commonly known as a worm sea cucumber. Although they come in different shapes and sizes, se cucumbers are similar in many ways. They move slowly or remain stationary on the ocean bottom as they filter debris and waste from the water and the sediment. They digest and process large volumes of debris over their lifetime, making the ocean cleaner and keeping it free from harmful bacteria that would overpopulate among the waste if they did not do their jobs.
Simple organisms, they possess no true brain. Their sensory ability and locomotion is controlled by a ring neural tissue. They generally have a sensitivity to light and to touch due to the scattering of nerve tissue along the outer surfaces. They move over the ocean bottom consuming the organic matter that has settled. Some of them feed the organic matter into their mouths using feathery appendages that draw in food toward the centrally located mouth.
This sea cumber measured approximately 2m (6 feet) in length, with a girth roughly equivalent to a large English cucumber. It was making its way along in the dark of night when it was seen by a scuba diver who was using lights to illuminate the reef as his group explored and recorded the nocturnal activity.
The ocean is a completely different world by night. Different animals become active under the cover of darkness, hunting by using their keen senses to locate prey that is less able to see them coming. As the sun sinks beneath the horizon, many animals seek shelter, hiding among the coral and rocks. The animals that emerge from hiding are strange and fascinating. They move easily in the darkness, gathering food and avoiding becoming food. For scuba divers, exploring the darkness is intimidating and enthralling at the same time. It is a world of eerie silence and great beauty at the same time.
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A Journey In Africa Too Incredible For Words
Kenya is home to some of the most majestic and beautiful animals on the planet. Some roam free in the wild and others live in vast game sanctuaries where they are easier to protect from poachers. Due to habitat loss and and hunting, many of these animals are on the brink of extinction. These safaris are funded by donations, government grants, and tourism dollars. They provide a haven for the wildlife, as well as an opportunity for people to see them and understand the importance of conservation. To lose animals like the rhinoceros, elephants, lions, or giraffes would be beyond tragic.
Imagine taking a hot air balloon into the air and drifting with the wind over Kenya, see the world from above. Tree tops beneath, immense grasslands, and winding rivers make up the landscape. Animals here are a mix of predators and prey. Some are both at the same time. The balance is fragile and it can change without warning.
Imagine touching down to explore and get a close up look at some of them, seeing them in their own environment and on their terms. It is not without risk, as these animals are truly wild. Guests on these tours accept that they need to be careful and respectful of the animals and their space at all times. But carefully guided by experienced experts, the animals have no reason to cause anyone harm.
Imagine watching giraffes swinging their heads fiercely as they establish the herd pecking order, hippos crossing a rapids, zebras wading through crocodiles to reach the grass beyond the river, and young stallions playfighting in the middle of a herd of wildebeest, and a baby elephant scratching his backside on a thorn bush. Look into the eyes of a giraffe as it chews its dinner of leaves. Watch from the ground as a leopard caches a freshly captured impala in a tree to keep it safe from scavengers and other hungry carnivores. A huge lion, the king of beasts, scratches in satisfaction after feasting in the sun.
A mother rhino and her large calf keep a watchful eye as they graze behind some shrubs. Two young lionesses chase each other playfully but the technique we see in the chase is striking similar to how a grown lion takes down its prey. A lion with a gorgeous mane grooms himself without a care. Another tears apart the remnants of his earlier catch, or perhaps he's sharing in kill that was made by his pride.
The sights of Africa are breath taking and a slow ride over the wilderness in a balloon is possibly the most incredible way to experience them all. These memories were captured on video so that those who have not had the good fortune to experience something like this can get a taste of what it would feel like.
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Royal blue tangs have a "battle royale" on the reef
The royal blue tang, also known as the regal blue tang is a gorgeous fish, but it's fascinating for reasons that go far beyond the beautiful colour. This fish start out as eggs, which is not unusual, but they hatch 24 hours after fertilization and begin their life in the ocean as larvae that feed on plankton.
As a fish species, they are important, but not as human food. Since they eat algae that has bacteria, they can cause ciguatera poisoning if consumed. They are important as bait fish for other species, contributing to the fisheries industry and overall health of the reef.
Tangs have a caudal spine that can inflict a serious wound. The spines protrude when the tang experiences stress. With a quick, sideways thrashing motion, the spines are used as a weapon. The injuries caused are prone to infection. Some tangs are believed to also be venomous.
These two fish are involved in a territorial dispute or a courtship attempt. It's difficult to tell the two situations apart. The fish dart rapidly up and down and in circles as one pursues the other. Scuba divers are delighted to find these fish on the reef. They are very photogenic and visually appealing. The royal blue colour that lends them their name is extremely striking.
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Glorious sunrise above the clouds on Bali volcano is beyond breathtaking
Almost everyone has memories of a sunrise that they will never forget. Perhaps they shared it with someone special in a moment that will live on in their memory forever. Or maybe it was the first rays of morning seen in a magical location. These tourists embarked on a journey that would take them up the side of a volcano in Bali, Indonesia, to one of the most perfect vantage points to meet the dawn.
The journey started long before first light, departing at 3am by jeep for a drive over rugged terrain, marked by lava rocks and gullies. The steep inclines and tumbling rocks made the trek a treacherous one. But the prize waiting for them was worth every minute.
Guests arrived by the dozens, all taking a seat on benches or ledges on the side of one volcano to gaze out over the valley and neighbouring volcano in front of them. As the sun began its slow climb, an orange and red spread over the horizon like a crimson blanket, slowly being unrolled. Streaks of golden light spiked upwards, piercing the dark blue sky and drawing gasps of amazement and appreciation from the crowd.
Clouds rolled through between the volcanos, obscuring the jungle and village below. It was like watching the world wake up as the colour flooded the sky and slowly revealed the outlines of palm trees and volcano peaks in the distance. At times, there was only the hushed silence as the spectators took it all in. At other times there were emotional moments and cries of delight as some people were actually brought to tears by the glory of our planet.
The meaning and the impact were very different for each person watching, but they all seemed to share the understanding that this place and this time would be remembered forever. The silhouette of such a majestic peak, formed so long ago was stunning. Knowing that from this high peak, these would be the first rays of light to shine on this part of the world made it even more special.
With pictures and memories to last a lifetime, guests slowly got into their jeeps for the trip back. And every single one took a long, last look, drinking it all in before saying goodbye to one of the most beautiful sunrises imaginable.
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Bold Monkey Feasts On His Stolen Bananas
Monkeys are very clever and very cheeky animals. They have extremely flexible ethics when it comes to food and they are not above robbery and theft to get it. This big male macaque ventured in the open door of a tour bus and hijacked an entire bag of bananas from the seat nearest the door.
Tourists watched in disbelief as the monkey brazenly hopped up onto the bus and climbed onto the seat. Knowing exactly what he wanted, he snatched the bag and jumped back down onto the ground before anyone could intervene. He made his way over to the sidewalk in front of the bus and ripped the bag open so he could sample the "fruits of his crime". Without shame or worry, he munched away, confident that nobody would try to take the bananas back. He eats rapidly and keeps a watchful eye all around, but that's only so that he can be aware of any other approaching monkeys. With his agility and quick reflexes, no clumsy human would stand a chance of getting the bananas away from him.
This monkey lives in Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali, Indonesia. It's a sanctuary where the monkey troop roams freely, enjoying a very natural life in many ways. Tourists are welcome to wander the paths of the forest and watch the monkeys. Occasionally, the monkeys take a serious interest in the tourists, or their snacks. Although these animals are still wild, they are well acquainted with people visiting and they can be trusted enough to allow some interaction. Guides wander the paths as well and they keep a close eye the animals to make sure that everything remains friendly.
Visitors are able to see monkeys close up here. The monkey troop thrives in a sanctuary that is protected and funded by tourism, and the village itself profits from the tourism funds that the forest brings. This is a win for all concerned.
But guests are warned to avoid bringing food as it can cause misunderstandings and aggression, even among the monkeys themselves. The bananas had been left on the bus innocently enough. Nobody expected this smooth criminal to commit such a brazen daylight robbery.
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Beautiful sea turtle works hard to get its meal in the crevice
Hawksbill sea turtles are the most beautiful of all sea turtles. Their ornate shells are decorated with green, brown, and golden markings, making them a true to delight to see on the reef. But their beauty was nearly their downfall as the demand for their shells brought them perilously close to extinction. Hunted to make brush handles and jewelry boxes, the number of hawksbill sea turtles plummeted in the last two centuries. Although they are making a comeback, they are still listed as critically endangered.
Strict laws now prohibit the use or exportation of turtle shells like these. Conservation efforts and education have also helped to ease the pressure on these beautiful animals. They are carnivores because they eat sponges, which are also animals, and they eat coral. But the hawksbill helps keep algae at bay on the reef, which helps with the health of the coral. Their absence would leave a hole in the ecosystem that would have detrimental effects on the ocean.
This magnificent turtle is a large one, and likely to be at least 50 years old. Some turtles live more than 100 years but the true longevity of hawksbills is unknown. They have many predators in the early years, including crabs, birds, and fish. But once they reach maturity at about 20 years of age, their shells act as sufficient protection from all but large sharks and orcas. Habitat loss and fishing nets also continue to be a serious threat for the turtles.
This large female was busy trying to get at a yellow sponge that had grown in the crevice under some coral. Determined, the turtle broke off chunks of coral and rubble to get at the tasty meal beneath. The videographer spotted the turtle from quite a distance. Hoping to get a close look without disturbing the turtle, he made a very slow and cautious approach. The turtle kept an eye on the scuba diver at first, but soon realized that the clumsy human meant her no harm. She carried on eating without reaction. Usually, hawksbills are shy and reclusive. They will not allow a close approach under most circumstances. Even among their own species, they are not social animals and they will only gather together to mate.
This beautiful animal was a joy to see so close up. This is a dive that the scuba diver will not soon forget.
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Cheeky monkey makes itself at home on woman's head
Monkeys are one of the most amusing and fascinating animals. Perhaps their faces, or their behaviours remind us of ourselves. They have an uncanny resemblance to humans that strikes a chord with us.
This monkey lives in Ubud Monkey Forest in Bali, Indonesia. It's a sanctuary where the monkey troop roams freely, enjoying a very natural life in many ways. Tourists are welcome to wander the paths of the forest and watch the monkeys. Occasionally, the monkeys take a serious interest in the tourists.
This lucky visitor was taking a break from the walking and she took a seat on a wall. The cheeky monkey was quick to run out of the trees and climb up on her shoulder. It was hard to decide if the little fellow was looking for an opportunity to groom her hair, or hoping for a treat out of her pocket.
This sanctuary guest was thrilled to have such an encounter with such a friendly little monkey. Although these animals are still wild, they are well acquainted with people visiting and they can be trusted enough to allow such an interaction. Guides wander the paths as well and they keep a close eye the animals to make sure that everything remains friendly.
Visitors are able to see monkeys close up here. The monkey troop thrives in a sanctuary that is protected and funded by tourism, and the village itself profits from the tourism funds that the forest brings. This is a win for all concerned. And it was a huge win for this Canadian guest who described this as a bucket list item for her.
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Annoyed puffer fish can't shake off determined cleaner wrasse
Wrasses are small fish that enjoy a symbiotic relationship with many larger fish and animals in the ocean. They hide among the rocks and coral, waiting for the signal from predators to go to work. When the predators suspend themselves pointing upwards and hold their mouths open, the wrasses will dart into the mouth cavities and pick at meat and food lodged between the teeth.
Cleaner fish pick at parasites and loose skin on their hosts as well. They even clean the gill areas of food particles and pests. Usually, the larger hosts are happy with this arrangement and they welcome the wrasses, but this black spotted puffer fish is not in the mood for grooming. He shakes and spins in an obvious effort to discourage the wrasse. This pair were spotted in the waters around Komodo Island in Indonesia.
Puffer fish have large gill holes that cannot be closed. The wrasse knows this and he darts in upside down to get at something edible. Incredibly, the wrasse is almost half inside the gill of the puffer fish.
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Curious giant manta ray repeatedly circles scuba diver
Scuba diving in Indonesia is a dream come true for many divers. The waters here are home to beautiful and fascinating animals. Manta rays are among the most beautiful of all of them, and a highlight for the lucky few who see one up close. This thrilled diver met one face on as it drifted toward him with what appeared to be curiosity. It banked to the side and drifted away, but to his delight, the manta returned a few moments later and suddenly appeared right beneath him.
The current had carried the diver into shallower water and he swam along, looking at the coral and the ocean bottom. The giant stingray had snuck up behind him and then swam right under him, close enough to touch. It seems that curiosity had brought the manta back for another look. It drifted lazily under the diver for almost a minute, even circling and allowing the diver to keep up, as if it wanted to stay close enough to prolong the encounter.
The manta ray swam off again, leaving the diver in disbelief that he had swam in the close company of one of the ocean's most majestic creatures. As if this was not enough, the manta ray appeared one more time, passing over the diver's head. Giant mantas are capable of reaching impressive speeds with just a few flaps of their powerful wings. If the manta was at all concerned about the diver being close enough to touch it, there would be no difficulty for it to be out of sight in seconds. This manta seemed to be as fascinated with the clumsy human as he was with the ray.
Mantas are highly intelligent and very inquisitive. Although it is rare for them to repeatedly circle a diver, they do occasionally make close passes with apparent interest. Mantas have the largest brain to body mass ratio of any fish. Their brains can be up tp ten times as large as that of a whale shark. They have highly developed areas of the brain that are responsible for problem solving, adaptive learning, and communication. It is believed that they are self-aware, having the ability to recognize themselves in a reflection. In studies involving mirrors, mantas acted with extreme interest, but the behaviours were very different than those displayed when mantas encountered other individuals. The mantas even used the mirrors to examine areas of their own bodies that they could not see.
The belief that was once held that we are the only species with extreme intelligence is now being challenged as we begin to understand animals around us much better. But even still, we have more questions than we do answers. And it's clear that we underestimate the complexity of animals far too frequently.
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Big old lion has satisfying scratch after a big meal
This male lion is the undisputed king of his pride. He's the alpha male on this African plain and he enjoys the rights to mate with the lionesses in the pride and he eats first when there is a successful hunt. He's just finished a big meal and his stomach is full. He's now getting sleepy and it's time for him to have a snooze.
Lions spend a lot of their day sleeping. They are daytime hunters, only hunting at night if they feel pressured due to lack of food. Skilled hunters, they are capable of working together to take down prey with ease under normal circumstances. They share their kill, making sure that the whole pride stays healthy and strong.
Lions are the biggest of the cats, with the exception of the tiger. Only the male lion has the large mane that makes it instantly recognizable. The mane grows in the presence of testosterone. Recently, reports have been received of lionesses in northern Botswana that have grown manes due to their increased testosterone levels.
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Two zebra stallions playfight among wildebeest herd
Zebras are one of the most distinctively patterned mammals on earth. Their unique black and white striping has made them the subject of art and stories for centuries. They are beautiful to watch, especially when they gather in a herd and blend together in one of nature's most splendid optical illusions.
Scientists have debated the purpose or benefit of these stripes for years, concluding that they are confusing to predators who try to visually isolate an animal during pursuit. This creates a problem for lions that are trying to exhaust a single zebra by continually chasing it. This is hotly debated, as the stripes do not match background structures of the zebra habitat that would make them more camouflaged. Zebras also flee and separate during a chase, so lions would not have any obvious difficulty with the stripes.
Another theory is that the striped pattern is a deterrent for biting flies. It was found that flies preferred solidly coloured surfaces for landing. Thermoregulation was also suggested and studied, but there was no evidence that these stripes helped dissipate heat in any way.
These young males are beautiful as they posture and push each other around, establishing dominance and social position. It's all friendly enough and there seems to be no intent to injure. Much like horses, zebras have a complex and important social structure within the herd. These behaviours are crucial to the way the herd relationships are managed. Grooming each other and biting at the manes are also important behaviours that assist with social bonding.
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Scuba diver sneaks up on sea turtle peacefully sleeping
Sea turtles are among the most beautiful and peaceful animals on earth. They drift through the ocean with elegance and tranquility. For many who swim or scuba dive in the ocean, encountering a sea turtle is one of the most memorable experiences ever. To share the reef with them for a few minutes on their own terms is a magical experience.
Occasionally, scuba divers may encounter a turtle grabbing a snooze on the coral or on the sea floor. A full grown sea turtle has only a few predators and they will rest on the ocean bottom with confidence, even though they may keep their eyes partially open in case a threat appears.
With a slow and cautious approach, sea turtles will sometimes regard humans with mild curiosity, or with indifference. This scuba diver slowly descended to the sandy bottom and approached the turtle from the side. Taking his time, he avoided approaching from above, or straight on, as either would possibly alarm the turtle. Once it was clear that the turtle was not concerned, he crawled slowly over the sand, capturing video of the sleepy turtle. The image is zoomed slightly, but the diver was able to rest on the sand only a few meters from this beautiful creature.
After getting a close look and a short video, the diver made his way over the sand with a slow crawl so he would not disturb the turtle. Once clear of the area, he lifted off the sand and swam away in search of other sights.
This is a Pacific Green Turtle that lives in the waters surrounding Komodo Island in Indonesia. This area is famous for being the home of the world's largest and most ferocious lizards, the Komodo dragons. The waters around these islands are equally exciting to explore and they are home to sea turtles, manta rays, sharks, and fish of magnificent colour and indescribable beauty.
The underwater world is as mysterious as it is beautiful and we are only beginning to understand the complex life that exists beneath the waves.
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Annoyed pigeons bombard intrusive drone in their neighborhood
Drones allow a view from great heights, providing a way of looking at the world around us that would not be possible from the ground. This drone operator was trying to film a construction crane that was being used to build a highrise apartment. As the drone circled around for the right angle of approach, a flock of pigeons was also circling around. They took a sudden interest in the drone and flew straight at it.
The drone operator stopped it and let it hover so that the pigeons could continue on their way. They continued to circle and fly at the drone as if they were unhappy with the disturbance.
It's possible that the pigeons thought the drone was another bird, even a predator. It's possible they were acting territorial, unwilling to welcome a newcomer around their rooftops. Either way, the birds didn't seem pleased with the camera on a quadcopter. After waiting for them to settle down, the drone slowly moved away from their precious rooftop and left them to do what pigeons do on a sunny morning.
This crane looks impressive from the ground, but up close, it's an enormous piece of equipment that towers high above this city.
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Vocal Great Dane begs for salmon sandwich on long hike
Raven is a very happy dog who is living her best life. Her family loves long hikes in the nearby forest and they take her exploring almost every day. In the summer, Raven gets a special treat. Their weekends are spent at a remote cottage and the hikes in the woods nearby are an even bigger adventure. Moose and deer wander the woods and trails here. They leave scents that are a joy to the nostrils of a dog like Raven.
But the scents of the animals are not the only thing that register on this giant nose. She also smells the sweet aroma of the snacks in the backpack. On this extra long hike, salmon sandwiches are on the menu and Raven can hardly wait for hers. As her family eats, she prances around and sings with impatience. She doesn't have to wait long before she gets to enjoy her own salmon on two big slices of wholegrain bread.
Raven eats politely, biting off chunks, but she chews and swallows the whole thing in seconds. Raven's appetite is as big as she is.
Great Danes are wonderful companions. A fiercely loyal breed, they make great family pets. Although they do well with lots of exercise and adventure, they sleep a lot and tolerate lazy days on the couch equally well. After a hike like this one, Raven will flop down on her oversized bed in front of the fire and close her eyes. Until supper time, at least.
Anyone who has ever owned a Great Dane has fallen in love with this beautiful breed.
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Hungry bull sharks gather quickly when bait bucket appears
Bull sharks are massive and powerful animals that have a reputation for aggression. They can grow to more than 3m (10 feet) in length, weighing upwards of 350kg (800lbs). They are fearsome predators that are afraid of very little.
These scuba divers in Fiji have descended 25m (75 feet) beneath the surface to gather in an area inhabited by hundreds of bull sharks. They have a front row seat to a controlled feeding. These feedings are controversial and experts have differing opinions on how appropriate they are. Initially, it was seen as harmful to the animal life to interfere and change their behaviour. It cannot be denied that encouraging sharks to associate humans with food is potentially dangerous.
But this situation is far more complex than it would first appear. The nearby village off the island of Fiji was struggling to survive. Large fishing operations offered a substantial and irresistible compensation for the rights to fish on the reef within their boundaries. Soon after, the fish were depleted and the health of the reef was in serious decline. The sharks were in danger of starving.
These shark feedings began as a way to attract tourism dollars that would allow the village to thrive without allowing overfishing. The village is compensated generously for allowing the tours and the fisheries are not threatened. Fish populations are on the rebound and sharks have returned to the reef.
It's a matter of debate whether the benefit outweighs the harm on an ethical front, but it's undeniable that the sharks and fish populations have increased as a result of this change. If something had not been done, the reef and the village would have suffered irreparable harm.
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Mother Hippo Escorts Her Baby Across Dangerous African River
Rivers like this one in Kenya, Africa, are dangerous places for animals. Crocodiles inhabit the waters here, stealthily moving in on animals that cross them. A crocodile can take down large animals like zebras or gazelles with ease. They drag them under water and drown them, making them an easy meal.
But a full grown hippo is a force to be reckoned with. Hippos have enormous and powerful jaws and they would give even the hungriest crocodile a serious fight. This mother hippopotamus knows that lingering in the water is a hazardous thing, but she and her baby pause to gulp water before finishing their crossing.
Aside from rhinoceros' and elephants, hippos are the largest land animals. A female like this one will weigh over 1300kg (2800lbs). They are known to be one of the most dangerous animals in the world. Aggressive and unpredictable, the males claim stretches of river as their territory, defending it from other males and threats with ferocity. Their jaws can open as wide as 180 degrees and their gigantic teeth can deal a fatal wound.
While hippos appear to be similar to pigs, they are not closely related. Their closest relatives are whales, dolphins, and porpoises, having diverged from them approximately 60,000,000 years ago. Whales' ancestors were once land dwellers, and much smaller than the whales of today. In this time period, whales evolved rapidly to grow much larger than their ancestors. Their intelligence also increased dramatically in a relatively short period of time as well.
Hippos have few predators when full grown. These two will not likely encounter trouble as long as the baby stays close to its mother.
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