Fruit bats in Roatan swam a feeding bowl to get sugar water
Fruit bats in Roatan, like many other places, are known to be attracted to sweet substances. If you place a bowl of sugar water outside at night, you may indeed observe these bats coming to drink. This behavior is quite common among fruit bats, which have a diet that primarily consists of fruits, nectar, and sometimes flowers. The sugar water simulates the sweet nectar they would find in flowers, making it an attractive source of nutrition for them.
This bowl was placed on a post to make it more accessible to the bats and help avoid other animals from reaching it. The bats appeared each night at dusk. This is when fruit bats are the most active. Dim lighting or no lighting around the bowl will make the bats feel safer and more likely to approach.
Fruit bats, also known as megabats or flying foxes, are part of the Pteropodidae family. They are found in tropical and subtropical regions around the world and are notable for their large eyes and keen sense of smell, which they use to locate food. Unlike microbats, which use echolocation, fruit bats rely on their vision and olfactory senses to navigate and find sustenance.
Fruit bats vary in size from the small long-tongued fruit bats, with wingspans of about 10 inches, to the larger flying foxes, whose wingspans can reach up to 5.6 feet. Their diet mainly consists of fruit, nectar, and flowers. They play a crucial role in pollination and seed dispersal, contributing significantly to the health of their ecosystems.
They are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, as well as mangroves, swamps, and savannas. Roosting sites include trees, caves, and man-made structures.
Fruit bats face threats from habitat loss, hunting, and disease. Deforestation and urbanization are major contributors to their declining populations. Various conservation programs are in place to protect fruit bat habitats and raise awareness about their ecological importance. Some species are also protected under international law.
Understanding and preserving fruit bats is crucial not only for their survival but also for the health of the ecosystems they support.
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Endangered hawksbill turtle casually eats as scuba divers look on
Hawksbill sea turtles are the most ornate and beautiful of the sea turtles. They are so beautiful that they have been hunted for their shells and they came perilously close to extinction in the past century. Conservation laws and education have helped to stop the slaughter of these peaceful animals and their numbers are slowly increasing now.
Hawksbills feed on soft corals, sponges, and the algae that grows on them. They cruise over the reefs looking for places to feed. They are carnivores, unlike many other sea turtles, although the sponges that they feed on are misunderstood and not always recognized as being animals.
These scuba divers were lucky enough to see two of these beautiful animals in one spot. The turtles slowly circle each other before one swims off in search of another area to graze. Capable of diving to considerable depths for food, these turtles grazed on the vertical wall and the top of a coral head.
Scuba divers are delighted to see one of these endangered species on a dive, and even more so when they see more than one. Having the turtles act so casually while they were feeding made for a very peaceful and memorable experience.
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Drone captures total eclipse over the shore from bird's eye view (Sped up 7.5x)
The eclipse of 2024 created a path of darkness across North America that created lineups and traffic jams, but also awe and wonder. In the space of several minutes, broad daylight turned to near darkness as the rays of the sun were blocked out by the moon passing between the sun and the earth. A drone was sent up to a height of 124m to capture the event. The clouds prevented a view of the sun or the moon, but the darkness sweeping over the shore was dramatic and unsettling. As the light dimmed, the video is sped up to 7.5x. Part of the darkest period is edited out for brevity.
The daylight reappeared as quickly as it left, leaving everyone in awe.
These events are spectacular from the ground, but even more so when filmed from a bird's eye view
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Majestic swan shows off his gorgeous plumage
Mute swans are truly magnificent birds, known for their striking beauty and elegance. Their plumage, especially in adults, is indeed breathtaking. With their pure white feathers and gracefully arched necks, they exude a sense of regal charm. During the breeding season, their plumage can become even more vibrant, with a slight yellowish tint appearing on their bills. Watching a trumpeter swan display its plumage is a captivating sight, a reminder of the awe-inspiring diversity and beauty of the natural world.
This majestic male lives near Presquile Park in Ontario Canada during the spring. He and his mate have a few young and they watch over them carefully. Accustomed to humans, he allowed a close look and even put on a display for the camera.
The recovery of swan populations is indeed a heartening conservation success story. Once on the brink of extinction due to overhunting and habitat loss, concerted conservation efforts have helped these species rebound significantly. Through measures such as habitat restoration, protection of nesting sites, and careful management of hunting, the trumpeter swan population has been able to recover.
Conservation organizations, government agencies, and dedicated individuals have played crucial roles in this recovery effort. By raising awareness about the importance of preserving wetlands and other essential habitats for these majestic birds, as well as implementing measures to reduce human disturbances, we've been able to give swan populations a chance to thrive once again.
While challenges remain, such as habitat degradation and potential conflicts with human activities, the recovery of the swan serves as a testament to the power of conservation action and collective commitment to safeguarding our natural heritage.
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Grouper in Roatan gets a teeth cleaning by his little friend
Groupers are intelligent fish, and capable predators. They ambush their prey or actively hunt fish, octopus, and crustaceans. They create a powerful suction as they open their mouths and inhale their prey. Small fish are wise to avoid the powerful jaws of the grouper.
But the ocean is a complex world with many unusual relationships that exist between the inhabitants here. The grouper has found a resting spot in a large barrel sponge. The sponges are animals, although they are rooted in place, unable to move. They draw sea water in and pass it out, filtering nutrients that they consume as food. The gentle water flow may be enjoyable for the grouper as it also enjoys the concealment from predators and their intended prey. Barrel sponges are the longest living animals on the planet, occasionally reaching 2500 years.
This grouper is involved in a mutually beneficial arrangement with the small wrasse that darts in and out of its mouth. The wrasse is known as a cleaner fish and they hide among the corals and sponges until they are called into action. A larger fish such as this grouper signals the wrasse by tilting upwards and opening its mouth wide. The wrasse trusts the grouper in an age old contract that provides the wrasse with food as it cleans the teeth of the grouper. This benefits the grouper by preventing rotting material from remaining in the mouth, causing infections and sores. The grouper gets free dental care and the wrasse gets a meal. The grouper will not break the trust of his little friend.
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The Absolute Beauty of Indonesian Rice Fields From the Air
The sight of rice fields in Indonesia, especially when captured from the air by a drone, is truly breathtaking. These fields, known as "sawah," create a stunning patchwork of green and gold landscapes that are a testament to the intricate and labor-intensive agricultural practices of the region. In places like Bali and Java, rice is often grown on terraced fields carved into hillsides. These terraces create a dramatic, stepped landscape that looks especially striking from above. The symmetry and geometry of the terraces are both functional and visually appealing. Depending on the stage of the rice growth cycle, fields can display a range of colors from vibrant greens to golden yellows. This creates a dynamic and ever-changing mosaic when viewed from the air. In the early stages of rice planting, fields are flooded with water. When viewed from above, these water-filled fields can reflect the sky, clouds, and surrounding landscapes, adding a mirror-like quality to the scenery. Viewing rice fields from above through drone footage provides a unique perspective that highlights the beauty and complexity of Indonesian agriculture. Whether for artistic, educational, or recreational purposes, these aerial views are a stunning way to appreciate one of Indonesia’s most vital and beautiful landscapes.
The world depends on rice as one of the most consumed foods that we grow. The low cost provides many people with sustenance at an affordable price. The labour costs of rice picking are low, due to many factors. Many ride farms pay their workers with a share of the grain, as opposed to a monetary wage. This is the reason that a bag of rice that is purchased in North America is priced at pennies per pound, even though it is shipped from the other side of the world.
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Badlands salt flats look like an alien landscape when seen from the air
The badlands of Saskatchewan, Canada are full of breath taking scenery, unique geographic features, and salt flats that appear like something from an alien landscape. A drone, taking flight over the area surrounding Chaplin Lake filmed the salt and the Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals plant that collects salt here. Chaplin Lake is a series of lakes that makes up the second largest saline lake in Canada and the fourth largest in North America.
Sodium sulphate has been mined here since 1947. In the 1980s, the importance of this area was recognized when migratory bird populations were declining. Chaplin Lake is an important stopover for birds in the spring. Researchers approached Saskatchewan Minerals about preserving habitat for the migrating birds. Water levels are maintained so that drought does not cause the lake to dry up and flooding does not cause elevated lake levels. Thirty species and more than one hundred thousand individuals visit the lake each year. One hundred and fifty species make this area their home. Populations of brine shrimp attract the birds to this area. Preservation of the grasslands around the area is also an important part of protecting the bird populations that rely on this part of North America.
The mining operation produces sodium sulphate which is used as a filler in the manufacture of powdered home laundry detergents. It is also required for paper pulping. Saskatchewan Mining and Minerals is one of the world's largest producers of anhydrous sodium sulphate.
Seen from the air, this salt reservoir looks like a frozen ice field, or the surface of an alien planet. Water from the the factory lagoons flow outward along a river, with crystals on the banks that appear like ice crystals. The encrusted flats resemble lakes frozen in the dead of winter. These salt flats are as stunning as they are crucial to the animals, and to our own existence. The preservation of habitat amid the mining emphasizes understanding of the delicate balance involved here.
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Blanding's turtle gets a little help from conservationists
Blanding's turtles are known to face challenges due to habitat fragmentation caused by dams, which can impede their movement and access to necessary habitats. In some cases, conservation efforts may include measures to help these turtles navigate around or through dams to reach their nesting sites or other important areas. This can involve constructing turtle-friendly passages or even physically assisting them to move past obstacles. These efforts are part of broader conservation strategies aimed at protecting and preserving the species.
This turtle was blocked by the cement wall that had been erected in this wetland more than 100 years earlier. The wall allows the lake level to remain high, creating habitat for wildlife and waterfowl, as well as fish. It also provides cottage access to areas where there are no roads in to the lake properties.
This large female had been stuck behind the wall in what seemed like an attempt to access the wetland beyond. She was moved a short distance and placed where she could choose to enter the water or turn and go toward dry land and forest. She seems to smile as she heads right into the marsh. This turtle was believed to be the same one that had been sighted in previous years, right where she was released.
Blanding's turtles are famous for their yellow throat and lower jaw and the appearance of a happy smile.
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Venomous lion fish continuously tries to eat photographers subjects
Lion fish are an invasive species in Caribbean waters, having been introduced by accident to a world where they have no predators. They destroy reefs by devouring huge quantities of small reef fish, upsetting the delicate balance that keeps everything in check. But here, in the waters around Fiji, lion fish like this one are part of that balance.
This lion fish can be seen extending its highly venomous spines to coral small fish in its attempt to inhale them. It is following this scuba diver as she makes her best effort to photograph some of the small fish on a night dive. The lion fish is a crafty fellow and he knows that he can use the diver to help with the attempt to back the small fish into a corner. He is also hoping that the lights give him an advantage as they make it difficult for the prey to see him closing in.
The scuba diver must be careful to avoid the sharp points on the fins. Each one can deliver enough venom to cause intense pain, swelling, and possible respiratory difficulty. In most cases, the sting is not life threatening, but in rare cases, it can require immediate medical treatment to avoid dangerous complications.
Lion fish are beautifully ornate when their fins are extended. Their markings are striking, with contrasting orange, white and black stripes. In the Caribbean, the fish are a menace and scuba divers are encouraged to kill them whenever possible. The meat of the lion fish is delicious and flaky, making them a very appealing source of food. Harvesting lion fish in many places is necessary for the survival of the reef.
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Dramatic sunset footage of ominous lightning storm approaching harbor
Lake Ontario is one of North America's five Great Lakes. It is a massive body of water that stretches out past the horizon. Just like the ocean, storms form and grow over the water on Lake Ontario, pressing toward land with a force that cannot be ignored. Thunderheads roll in and lightning cracks, reminding all those on the water that it is foolhardy to delay heading for shore.
This is the marina harbour in Cobourg, Ontario. As the thunder boomed and the pressure dropped, the winds increased their strength. Boats were suddenly racing for shelter as the storm threatened to strike. When rain comes down hard on the lake, visibility becomes so poor that finding shore is challenging. The waves can appear out of nowhere and small vessels can be tossed without mercy. These fishermen knew that time was running out. Even the geese flying past seemed to sense the need to find shelter on the shore.
While this storm was brewing, a drone was capturing the sights, recording lightning, thunderheads, and a dramatic sunset. The wind was strong enough that flying the drone was difficult and rain threatened to begin at any moment. Weather like this can easily knock a drone out of the sky, but the colour and the spectacle was too beautiful to ignore.
As the sky darkened suddenly under the looming clouds, the last fisherman reached safety in the harbour and the drone was brought in for a landing. Within minutes of the final clip, rain pelted down, making it impossible to see even the breakwater from the beach. The wind bent the trees. Lightning cracked loudly and the skies opened up for almost an hour. These last moments truly were the calm before the storm.
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In the middle of a shark feeding frenzy in Roatan
Shark feeds are controversial in the minds of many people, however, the role they play in shark conservation and education is undeniable. The positive aspects are often underestimated.
Once sought for food and sold in illegal fin trafficking, sharks were harvested in greater numbers. People in many countries simply cannot resist the income that is provided and their survival makes the ethical dilemma impossible to consider. Eco tourism provides an alternative to harvesting the sharks. While it can be argued that the sharks should not be taught to associate humans with food, these shark dives do provide an incentive to conserve sharks. They are worth more alive than dead. It's a debate with many perspectives.
These divers witnessed what happens when a few scraps are held in a bucket and later released. It's a small and controlled feeding that provides an injection of dollars into a struggling economy. It is also an experience that leaves many divers with a new appreciation for the beauty of sharks. We see here that the sharks pose no threat to the divers, dispelling the myth that they are cold blooded killers, ready to eat anything or anyone they encounter.
Sharks play a crucial role in the health of the reef, the ocean, and the planet. If we lose sharks, we will not survive. Understanding and appreciation is the first step in developing the needed respect for sharks. The balance of nature is fragile and we have a great responsibility to avoid upsetting it.
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Massive hippos bask in the afternoon sun beside the river
Hippos are massive animals that live in Africa. They are the third largest land mammals on earth. Only elephants and white rhinos are larger. They can reach an incredible 4.9m (16 feet) in length and a mass of 1500kg (3,300lb). Due to their aggression and their size, adult hippos are rarely preyed upon. Young hippos are occasionally taken by lions or crocodiles. Surprisingly, the hippo's closest relatives are whales and dolphins. Aquatic mammals like whales evolved from land animals that were very similar to the hippo. Originally, it was believed that hippos were closely related to pigs due to molar structure and other similarities, but DNA and fossil records have c hanged this line of thinking in the past century.
Hippos are most active at night, roaming the shallows along riverbeds in Africa. They are herbivores, eating aquatic vegetation, and occasionally farm crops, which contributes to conflict with humans. Known to be aggressive, even when not provoked, hippos will occasionally charge humans or boats.
The hippo produces a red oil, as can be seen on these sunbathing adults, which acts as a sunblock, protecting them from UV rays.
Fascinating creatures, they are best regarded from a distance as they can be ferocious and deadly.
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Ingenious floating pina colada bar in Roatan
Copinaco's Floating Bar is a unique and ingenious business that brings the pina coladas right to you as you wander the beach. Roatan is home to some of the most beautiful shorelines in the world. Tourists come here for the beauty and for the island warmth. The sun and the sand make this beach a pleasure to stroll and a sight to behold. What makes it even better is the fact that this gentleman, Sammy delivers one of the world's best pina coladas as you dip your toes in the ocean. He paddles his kayak up and down the shore, starting his day at 10:00 and ending it when the last pineapples or coconuts are sold.
Loading the kayak with hundreds of pounds of fruit, rum, pina colada mix and straws, he sets out along the shallows, searching for thirsty tourists who need some refreshment.
Dave, a visitor from Canada heard the call for drinks as he strolled. Eager to support a hardworking businessman, he rushed down to greet this mobile bartender. In his hurry, Dave almost took a few beanbags in the head as he barged through a game in progress. Sammy threw out his anchor, a small concrete block and he set to work preparing a very fresh drink for Dave.
At $10, this monstrous drink was a bargain and the experience added to the value. Sammy earned his money and a tip.
In a world where it is hard to make ends meet, this brilliant entrepreneur has created a solid business model and developed a niche market that makes him very comfortable. Sammy is a huge hit among the locals and the tourists in this little paradise, and it's easy to see why.
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The raw power and beauty of Clydesdales running free in a meadow
The sight of Clydesdale horses running free in a sun-kissed meadow during summer is a spectacle that speaks to the raw power and innate beauty of these magnificent creatures. Their muscular bodies, adorned with flowing manes and tails, effortlessly galloping through tall grasses that sway in the gentle breeze is a sight to behold. With each stride, the ground trembles slightly, emphasizing their strength and grace.
Their coats, shimmering in the sunlight, showcase a range of colors from chestnut to bay, with white markings adding to their allure. As they move, their hooves kick up earthy fragrances, mingling with the sweet scent of wildflowers that dot the landscape.
Their movements are synchronized yet individual, a testament to their unity as a herd while celebrating their individuality. Their expressions are serene yet spirited, reflecting a deep connection to their natural environment.
In this idyllic scene, there's a sense of freedom that transcends boundaries. These majestic creatures embody the untamed spirit of the wilderness, reminding us of the beauty and power that exist when nature is allowed to flourish undisturbed. These horses are experiencing freedom and joy as they run through this meadow in Ontario. They are living a beautiful life at this wonderful farm.
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Anemone fish can live where few other fish can
Sea anemones are predatory animals that anchor to the coral and sway in the ocean current as they search for food. Their tentacles can resemble the long leaves of a plant as they grasp at fish and small animals that serve as food for the sea anemone. In some species, the tentacles are much shorter. The tentacles contain stinging cells that are equipped with an external sensory hair. When triggered, the cells fire a harpoon-like barb and inject a toxin. This can be used as defense or for hunting. Small fish and other marine animals become paralyzed and are then devoured by the sea anemone.
But there are fish that are immune to the sting of the sea anemone. Clown fish and anemone are well known exceptions, with their mucous that prevents the activation of the sea anemone's stingers. Clown fish are the best known, but not the only fish with the ability to produce this mucous. There are a few other species that are referred to as anemone fish. These two are the Fiji anemone fish. They live among the deadly anemones, taking cover at the slightest sign of a threat. Predators don't dare follow the anemone fish into the tentacles and the small fish are safe within.
These fish continuously rub up against the tentacles, even when predators are not near. The contact with the anemone helps them accumulate mucous which combines with their own mucous to produce the substance that masks their presence from the stinging cells.
The anemone benefits from the fish in a perfect example of a symbiotic relationship. The anemone fish becomes aggressive and chases other fish away that might nibble at the tentacles of the anemone. The fish excrement provides the anemone with nutrients. The entire arrangement is a win-win situation for both animals.
Anemone fish are loyal to an anemone, remaining in the same location and protecting their host. Often found in groups, there will be one breeding male and one breeding female. If the female dies, the male will turn into a female and the largest non-breeding male will assume the role of being the male breeder.
Anemone fish feed primarily on zooplankton that drift past on the ocean currents. As expected, these fish were found on the reef surrounding an island in the Republic of Fiji.
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Fire dancer in Roatan gives mesmerizing beach performance
A fire dancer's sensual performance on a beach in Roatan is a captivating sight, blending the raw energy of fire with the serene beauty of the ocean and the soft sand underfoot. As the sun set over the water, casting warm hues across the sky, the fire dancer's movements became a mesmerizing dance, each flicker of flame casting shadows that swayed with the rhythm of the waves. Moni Noo appears to forget the crowd as she becomes immersed in the music, carried away by the feeling it gives her.
Her movements are graceful yet intense, weaving intricate patterns of light in the air with her flaming torches. The fire itself seems to respond to her every motion, twisting and twirling in sync with Moni's body, creating an otherworldly spectacle against the backdrop of the sea.
Spectators gather around, drawn by the hypnotic allure of the performance. The atmosphere is charged with excitement and awe as the Moni moves with fluidity and precision, lost in the moment and completely absorbed.
The combination of the sultry beach setting, the hypnotic dance of fire, and the sensuality of the performance creates an experience that is both exhilarating and enchanting, leaving spectators spellbound long after the final ember fades into the night.
Moni is a captivating young woman in Roatan who claimed this beach as her stage to perform for spectators. During her dances, she becomes completely lost in the music and carried away in the moment. Her dance is hypnotic and powerful. Her love for her art is contagious and her charm over the crowd is obvious as applause erupts when she finishes her dance.
Find Moni Noo on Facebook, or on Instagram (wanda.full)
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Would You Venture 2,000 Feet Below the Waves in This Homemade Submarine?
Building a homemade submarine is a complex and potentially dangerous endeavor that requires a deep understanding of engineering, materials, and safety protocols. However, enthusiasts have been inspired by the story of Karl Stanley, who built a homemade submarine named Idabel in Roatan, Honduras.
Built with a steel hull and capable of reaching depths of over 2000 feet, Idabel is used for deep-sea exploration tours in Roatan. Stanley’s success was due to meticulous planning, rigorous testing, and a passion for marine exploration.
While the idea of building a homemade submarine is exciting, it is essential to prioritize safety, thorough planning, and compliance with legal requirements. This project should not be undertaken lightly and ideally involves collaboration with experienced professionals.
These tourists from Canada were curious about the prospect of exploring the depths and seeing the underwater world from the safety of a submersible. But the thought of doing so in a submarine built without the safety standards that we are accustomed to in North America made these guests decide that scuba diving might be a better option.
Would you consider going more than 2,000 feet beneath the waves in a sub that looks like a minion from the famous animated movies?
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Pacific green turtle calmly eats as scuba diver watches enthralled
Pacific green turtles are truly beautiful animals. They are among the favourite creatures of all that scuba divers encounter in the ocean. This is a Pacific green sea turtle, one of the larger sea turtles. It spends a good part of its day eating the aquatic vegetation that grows around the corals. But they also spend a good part of their day sleeping. They descend to the bottom in shallow areas, approximately 10-15 metres (30-45 feet) in depth where they seek a good place to rest. They can hold their breath and slow their oxygen consumption, allowing them to stay down more than 30 minutes before they rise to the surface for a few breaths of air.
Often, before settling down for a snooze, green turtles will scratch their shells and their belly on the coral. They can be found under ledges or on coral protrusions, rocking back and forth, scraping their hard shells or leathery armpits as if they are itchy.
Sea turtles also find their food at depth and they happily munch away on sea grasses and algae. This turtle lives on the reef near Komodo Island in Indonesia. Scuba diving here requires that all people keep a respectful distance away from the animals. A responsible scuba diver will avoid startling or affecting any of the creatures in the ocean.
The largest recorded green turtle reached a weight of 395kg (871 lbs). The females of the species nest in the sand on beaches along many coasts in tropical and subtropical waters. They venture ashore during the night, dig a deep hole, deposit their eggs and then make their way to the sea, never seeing the hatchlings when they emerge. Baby turtles dig their way out of the nest after several months incubation. Only a few survive the treacherous trek to the water, and many more are eaten by predators before they reach shelter in the ocean. Sea turtles are among the most beloved of all the creatures in the ocean. Truly gentle creatures, they are a beautiful sight to see.
#greenturtle #Komodo #Indonesoia #animal
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10,000 pound kugel sphere is a fascinating wonder of engineering
Kugel fountains are often called floating sphere fountains but the sphere is not actually floating. It is held in place by pressurized water that forms a thin film on which the sphere aquaplanes. These are water features or sculptures where the sphere sits in a fitted hollow in a pedestal. Pressurized water flows between the sphere and socket, creating a mechanical hydrostatic bearing that is nearly frictionless. These spheres can weigh thousands of kilograms, but the efficient bearing allows them to be spun by the force of a hand. The sphere does not float, being denser than water. They are often made from granite. The hydraulics of the fountain can be controlled so that the axis of rotation of the sphere changes continually.
This kugel fountain sits outside the Guinness Book of World Records Museum in Niagara Falls, Canada. The sphere is massive, weighing more than 4,500kg (10,000lbs) and measuring almost 2m (6 feet) in diameter but a person can apply a small amount of pressure to stop the ball from rotating. The direction of the sphere can be changed easily. It is a true feat of engineering to manufacture such a precise structure that the water can hold it off the pedestal.
These guests to Niagara Falls found this structure very fascinating as they figured out the principle behind it. They posed for pictures with it as they began to understand what they were seeing.
Kugel fountains can be found all over the world. Many are at popular tourist destinations, such as science museums, shopping centers, lobbies, and gardens. With a little imagination, there is no end to what the human mind can invent.
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Two puffer fish glide beautifully over the reef in Roatan
Roatan, part of the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a renowned destination for its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life. These two pufferfish swimming over the reef are a captivating sight, blending the unique behaviors and appearances of these fascinating creatures with the vibrant underwater landscape.
Diving into the crystal-clear waters off the coast of Roatan, a scuba diver is immediately greeted by the vibrant colors and bustling life of the coral reef. Among the myriad of marine creatures, two pufferfish glide gracefully over the coral formations. Their round bodies and distinctively expressive eyes give them an almost comical appearance, but their slow, deliberate movements suggest a creature very much at home in this underwater paradise.
The reef itself is a tapestry of colors and textures, with corals ranging from the delicate branches of staghorn coral to the robust, mountainous shapes of boulder coral. Schools of smaller fish dart in and out of the coral, their silvery scales catching the sunlight that filters down through the water.
The two pufferfish continue their leisurely exploration, seemingly unfazed by the presence of the diver. Their slow, purposeful movements and the serene beauty of the reef create a scene of tranquil underwater harmony. It's a perfect encapsulation of the diverse and vibrant marine life that makes Roatan a world-renowned diving destination.
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The beauty and mystery of Roatan revealed
Roatan is an island in the Republic of Honduras. It is home to more than 41,000 people. It is also one of the world's most beautiful tourist destinations. A group of Canadians made their way to Roatan to experience the magic and the mystery of this unique place. They were not disappointed.
The warmth of the people is one of the first things that grabs you in this little piece of paradise. The food, the smells, and the abundance of culinary choices make exploring this island a pleasure that doesn't stop.
This video provides a close up look at the mystery and wonder of Roatan, filmed on land, underwater, and from the air. The beauty is unrivaled and the magic is unforgettable. Roatan should be on everybody's bucket list.
The animals in Roatan are fascinating. An indigo hamlet darts about, showing off the brilliant blue colour that gives it the name, divers exploring with Native Sons Dive Centre carry their tanks across the beach, hop on a boat and depart on an adventure they will not forget. Two giant porcupine fish frolic over the coral, curious about the divers. An orange spotted file fish changes colour in seconds to blend in with the reef, a spotted eel hunts for food, a school of squid glide past, and a grouper lurks in the soft corals. A great barracuda shows its menacing teeth, a blue spotted file fish regards the divers as it eats algae, and dog tooth snappers follow the divers, hoping for a handout.
A grouper hides in a barrel sponge, getting a teeth cleaning from his little wrasse friend. An upside down jellyfish pulsates on the sand, creating a flow of water to filter nutrients. A basket star expands in the darkness to reach out for its meals, and a moray eel patrols the sea bottom, hoping to ambush an octopus or a fish. a string jellyfish, almost invisible drifts on the current, and a massive channel clinging crab walks along, eating algae. A giant midnight parrot fish turns around in its crevice. A moray eel investigates the camera. A queen angel fish shows off her stunning colours, a school of surgeon fish provide a beautiful display, and a peacock flounder blends in on the sand with impressive camouflage. Creole wrasses dance over the coral head. Scuba divers explore a mysterious swim through, a box fish nibbles, and hungry sharks compete for fish scraps in a controlled feed. Guests visit a sanctuary and get a close look at parrots, sloths, and monkeys. A fire dancer gives a mesmerizing performance on the beach (Moni Noo). Amid shouts of taco taco taco, one of the locals performs as he cooks his wares. A boat takes us on a tour of the mangroves, home to thousands of species that come here to hide until they are big enough to survive in the ocean.
A visit to Roatan provides memories that will last a lifetime.
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Deadly flooding in Kenya bursts dam, creating raging geyser
In recent news, Kenya has experienced intense flooding due to heavy rains, which caused a dam to burst, resulting in significant damage. The flooding has killed at least 17 people washed away crops and farmland, impacting the livelihoods of many farmers in the affected areas. The dam broke at 4am, taking many residents and farmers by surprise. Unable to escape the raging torrents of water, people were drowned, trapped, and swept away by unexpected flooding.
Naomy, a famer in this area struggles to grow the carrots and beans that she needs to pay the bills and feed her family. Her crop was completely washed away by the rising water, leaving her broke and unable to pay the farm bills such as rent. She will not have the harvest that she was counting on to put food on the table for the coming months. In an effort to explain her situation to a Canadian friend, she recorded this footage of the dam close to her home. The intense power of the water is unbelievable.
Efforts are being made to address the immediate needs of those affected and to plan for longer-term recovery and support for the farming communities impacted by this natural disaster. But there is no relief for the lost earnings that this disaster represents for Naomy, and for subsistence farmers like her.
If you wish to help Naomy by donating any amount, this gofundme link allows you to show your support.
https://gofund.me/63c7776e
Questions can also be directed through David McNab, the video uploader at mojo_videos@hotmail.com. Thank you.
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Huge moray eel is a formidable night predator
The thought of a huge moray eel slithering through the dark waters around Roatan's reefs is definitely thrilling! Moray eels are fascinating creatures, known for their snake-like appearance and predatory nature. Roatan, with its vibrant marine life and diverse underwater ecosystems, provides an ideal habitat for these mysterious creatures.
At night, when many reef inhabitants are tucked away in crevices or resting, the moray eel becomes more active, taking advantage of the cover of darkness to hunt for prey. Their keen sense of smell and excellent vision in low light conditions make them formidable nocturnal predators.
As the eel patrols the reef, it utilizes its strong jaws and sharp teeth to capture fish, crustaceans, and other small marine creatures. Its sinuous movement through the maze of coral formations creates an eerie yet captivating scene, reminding us of the wild beauty and untamed nature of the underwater world.
Encountering such a creature while diving or snorkeling in Roatan's waters would be an unforgettable experience, providing a glimpse into the fascinating lives of these apex predators of the reef.
This huge moray makes repeated attempts to locate the fish that it can smell hiding in the crevices. It is only a matter of time before the eel snatches a fish. It is difficult to hide from these incredible beasts.
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Vivid colors of Autumn as they were meant to be seen
Spectacular colour like this should be seen from a bird's eye perspective.
Aerial footage from drones has captured these stunning views of Ontario's autumn foliage, showcasing the vivid colors of the season. Some of the top spots for experiencing these breathtaking views include Algonquin Provincial Park, where expansive forests and lakes create a vibrant tapestry of red, orange, and yellow. The Muskoka region, famous for its picturesque lakes and sugar maples, and the Agawa Canyon, known for its scenic train rides through a landsc0ape painted with fall colors, are also highlights.
These sugar maples near Peterborough, Ontario, are in full display of the fall colours in October each year. Skimming over the tops, this drone takes us on a voyage of colour and visual wonder.
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Very chill camel enjoys a tasty snack
This camel is completely relaxed as he spends the day at a fair in Chilliwack, British Columbia. He's very comfortable with people and he happily allows anyone to pet him and scratch his ears. He'll also happily take a handful of fresh, green hay. He munches contentedly as the people passing by stop to get a close look.
Camels are sturdy mammals known for their distinctive physical characteristics, which enable them to thrive in harsh desert environments.
Camels are large, with adult camels standing about 6 to 7 feet (1.8 to 2.1 meters) tall at the shoulder. They can weigh between 880 to 1,320 pounds (400 to 600 kg).
One of the most distinguishing features is the hump on their back. There are two main species of camels. A dromedary (Arabian) Camel has one hump. A Bactrian camel has two humps. A camel's humps store fat, which can be converted into energy and water when food is scarce.
Camels have large, tough mouths that are well-suited for eating thorny desert vegetation. They have slit-like nostrils that can close to protect against sand and dust. Their eyes are large, with long eyelashes that help keep sand out, and a third eyelid (nictitating membrane) that provides additional protection. Camels have long, powerful legs, which help them walk long distances and carry heavy loads. Their broad, flat feet are specially adapted for walking on sand, with tough, leathery pads that prevent sinking. Camels have thick fur that helps insulate them from both the heat and cold. In the summer, they shed much of this fur to keep cool.
Their coat color ranges from light brown to beige, providing natural camouflage in desert environments. Camels are highly adapted to conserve water. They can drink large amounts of water quickly (up to 40 gallons in one go) and can survive for long periods without drinking.
Camels can tolerate body temperature fluctuations that would be fatal to most other animals, which helps them avoid sweating and thus conserve water.
These characteristics make camels well-suited to life in arid and semi-arid regions, where they have been used by humans for transportation, food, and other resources for thousands of years.
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