KristysWorld

The Galapagos Islands are home to many wonderful and fascinating creatures. Their finches are particularly famous after Charles Darwin landed here and discovered adaptations in the birds and other animals that were unique to these islands. This led him to question why, and he developed his theories of evolution that have shaped the way we view the world, and the way we view ourselves. These delightful little finches make their home in the airport on Santa Cruz Island. They are free to come and go but they have found an ample supply of food that is dropped by the many tourists traveling through. In this case, a large french fry is a meal for several of them. They take turns pecking at it and filling their tiny bellies. None of them are big enough to pick it up and fly off with it until it has been reduced in size. The typical diet of the finches grass seed and the seeds of other plants. They will also eat berries and insects when seeds are not readily available. And occasionally, a well cooked chunk of potato is on the menu as well.

The Harlequin Sweetlips is a fish that its remarkably beautiful with its vivid colour and striking spotted pattern. It is known by many names; Many Spotted Sweetlips, Clown Sweetlips, and the Clown Grunt.The most amusing of its names is Spotted Blubberlips. It is often described as the fish with the botox lips due to its large and pouty looking mouth. The Sweetlips stands out when seen, even from afar and it makes a wonderful photographic subject for scuba divers. These divers were exploring the reefs in Papua New Guinea when they came across this large specimen under a coral ledge. They often seek shelter during the day and come out at night to hunt for fish and crustaceans. The fish and corals in Papua New Guinea are beyond beautiful and the clarity of the water provides one of the top ten diving destinations in the world. The corals and reefs are stunning and the water is warm and inviting. Few sports provide such opportunities for exploration as scuba diving.

Scuba diving opens a door to world that is beautiful beyond description. It is a nearly soundless world of peace and tranquility. And at times, it is a world full of mystery and danger. It is a delicate balance that can change in an instant. The animals in this underwater domain are bizarre and fascinating. They have adapted in surprising ways to help them find food and also to help them avoid becoming food. This upside jellyfish has not been understood until recently. It has adapted to produce stinging cells, like most other jellyfish. These cells inject venom and immobilize prey, similar to other jellyfish. But what makes them different is that they secrete a mucous that is filled with tiny cell masses that are equipped to deliver this sting. They obtain nutrients in several ways. They enjoy a symbiotic relationship with the algae that grows within them. They also feats on brine shrimp and other tiny creatures that swim through the water. The upside down jellyfish releases balls of mucous that researchers describe as "potent little grenades". Separated from the jellyfish, these cells can survive for up to ten days. They sting any creature that comes in contact with the mucous. These cells are called cassiomes. The jellyfish can then draw the mucous back in and feed on the dead or paralyzed organisms. Originally, researchers who were studying these animals described stinging sensations and referred to it as "stinging water". It was only after closer inspection that they learned that the floating mucous had been released by these upside down jellyfish. The ocean is still largely a mystery to us and we are only beginning to understand the creatures that live there.

Cows are incredibly devoted mothers. They will watch their calves protectively and let them nurse whenever they want. They graze and look after their young all day and night. They are effectively living milk machines for their babies. And most cows won't tolerate another cow's calf stealing milk that is being made for their own baby. It will often result in a nudge or even a kick to send the thief on its way. But calves are persistent when they are hungry and they don't always get a full belly from their own mother's milk supply. It can be much easier to quietly move in behind an unsuspecting mother and gulp a few drinks before she catches on. This brazen calf decided to join his buddy at the udder and drink boldly. The mother was surprisingly distracted in her grazing and did not seem to notice that she had two demanding calves feeding at once. For once, this youngster's crime paid off and he got a large share without any reprimand.

Effie is a devoted mother cow who loves her calf and takes care of it very well. She patiently stands still and grazes while he drinks milk several times each day. In fact, little Helen would drink almost non stop. She's a demanding little calf who is growing rapidly and she needs all the nourishment that she can get. But poor Effie is tired after a long day in the sunshine and she would like a little time to relax and get off her feet. Helen wants milk right now and she playfully nudges her mother so she will stand up and let her have it. Like any mother who hears her child asking for a snack or playtime when she's just had some, Effie would like to have a rest first. She patiently takes the nudging and licking without complaint. Effie's eyes are droopy and she is exhausted. She eventually lies down, hoping her bouncy little calf will do the same.

These puppies are 7 weeks old. They will soon be going their new homes with their forever families, but before they do, they are being given a pajama party. Eleven beautiful little pups have matching outfits to wear for this special occasion. Golden retrievers have some of the most adorable puppies in the world. Beautiful dogs with a disposition to match, they are one of the best family dogs you could ask for. When they have been raised by knowledgeable and ethical breeders, like As Good As Gold in Cavan, Ontario, the results are simply perfect. These puppies are the love children of two amazing dogs with personalities that cannot be beat. The breeders here place a high emphasis on nutrition and health, caring for the puppies like they are children. The bond and trust begins at birth and by the time the puppies leave for their forever families, they are already suited for life with children and loving parents. When selecting a good breeder, one of the most obvious things to look for is how much emphasis they place on selecting the right homes. If they truly care for the dogs enough to place them well and follow up with support, advice, training, and high expectations for their upbringing, the dogs will thrive. People looking for the right dog should also seek advice from veterinarians and other owners. Of course, visiting the breeding site will also tell an owner if the dogs have the right facilities and care. Back yard breeders are common, but easily avoided if those points are followed. These breeders were thrilled and saddened at the same time to see these pups reach the age when they would leave. In celebration, they bought each puppy a pajama set and they dressed them up for a special play time and photo opportunity. Treats and extra love were served up as well while the pups frolicked in the sunshine. And the mother brought the milk. Every one of these puppies is going to a home where they will be loved and adored, as all dogs should be. A dog is forever. A dog is family. And every dog is As Good As Gold.

These baby bunnies are only a few weeks old. They live under the fence in a burrow beside a garden full of lettuce and other vegetables. But the home owner doesn't mind sharing her harvest with such a devoted mother. This little rabbit spends her days munching happily on all sorts of fresh produce and then running back to her babies to give them a drink of milk. She goes back and forth many times during the day and her demanding little ones are always as hungry as she is. This is a wild rabbit who has become very relaxed about living close to a people house. She knows she is safe within this fenced area and she seems to know that the people here will give her lots of space. He babies run free, with little to be worried about. Rabbits are one of the few species of animal that can actually become pregnant BEFORE giving birth to their litter. Amazingly, they often breed prior to delivery and will actually have been impregnated several days before their litter is born. They are actually double pregnant, in these cases. Rabbits are adorable and a delightful thing to watch as they run and play in a garden. Just be sure to plant enough vegetables for everyone, as they will clean out a patch of lettuce faster than you would expect!

Scuba diving takes people to a world full of mystery and wonder. Strapping on air tanks and slipping beneath the waves, divers see things and experience thrills that most people can only imagine. It is a world of indescribable beauty. But venturing into the deep can also represent danger. These scuba divers were returning from an ordinary dive in Belize, preparing to complete their three minute safety stop before climbing back into the boat, when some unexpected visitors arrived. Reef sharks are very new to these waters near San Pedro Belize. Changing climate and ocean currents have brought a change in the animal life. Ten foot Caribbean reef sharks can be cause for concern, especially when one of the divers is towing a tube filled with freshly speared lionfish. Lionfish are an invasive species and divers are strongly urged to remove them from the ocean whenever possible. They have no known predators and they are decimating coral reefs all throughout the Pacific Ocean. But the smell of blood training from the tube is a powerful attractant for this gang of sharks. While the camera is running, a large male shark swims directly beneath this diver and then abruptly turns and heads straight up at him. Although he is not actually attacking, this is how sharks often attack prey. The diver actually places the camera in between himself and the shark as the shark pokes his nose right onto the diver's groin area. Fortunately, the shark turned and did not have his teeth against the diver and he was unharmed. But this close encounter left the scuba diver with the clear understanding that it was time to leave the water. The diver with the fish dropped the tube, having attached an inflated buoy so it could be retrieved safely from above after all divers had moved away from it and into the boat. Scuba divers are well aware that they are the guests in this underwater domain and that improper behaviour here can have serious and immediate consequences.

Clown fish are some of the most recognizable fish in the ocean. We cheered throughout Disney's Finding Nemo, a movie that centered around a lovable clown fish trying to find his way home, despite the overwhelming odds. The vivid colour and stripes of the clown fish makes it stand out among all others. But clown fish are unique and incredible fish for much more than their appearance. They are among a group of fish known as anemone fish that are able to make their home in a location that would be deadly for almost any other creature. They love and thrive among sea anemones, stationary animals that anchor themselves on the coral, resembling plants more than animals. They sting their prey, paralyzing them with powerful venom, and then the draw them in for consumption. Yet, the clown fish are impervious to their stings and they seek shelter deep within the tentacles.

Kristy is a passionate scuba diver with a serious love for all of the creatures of the reef. She loves nothing more than a close up look at fish, corals, stingrays, and even the colourful sea slugs. But her favourite is the sea turtles. As she cruised over the corals in Papua New Guinea, she was having a very enjoyable close up look at a little turtle that was poking around in the shallows, looking for sea sponges to eat. Check out what happens next!

Humpback whales are immense creatures that inspire awe and wonder in anyone who sees them. To see one from a boat or from the shore is an incredible experience. But to have one chose to interact and swim within arm's reach of you is a life changing occurrence. This whale was curious about swimmers who were drifting at the surface in a shallow bay off Vava'u Island. It actually came directly toward them and then rolled over, looking one swimmer directly in the eye as it slowly passed, exposing its belly as if asking for a scratch. It might have been playful, or it might have understood the effect that such an encounter would have on this little human. The sound of the whales singing filled the water and the vibrations could be felt as if the sounds were being produced by immense underwater speakers. Tonga is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with humpback whales. The law requires that you have a licensed and experienced guide with you at all times. This is to help tourists maintain the required distance from the animals. It is crucial that the whales never feel harassed or fearful of people in the water. They come to these quiet bays to give birth and to mate. It is one of the few areas of the world that are free from predators such as orcas and great white sharks. Humpback whales are among the most intelligent creatures on earth. Only dolphins compare in terms of intellectual capacity. It is believed that as recently as 100,000 years ago they were the most intelligent creatures on earth, surpassing even our own predecessors. Their communication is so complex that we are only beginning to understand what the sounds could mean. A whale song can be heard through the ocean for hundreds of miles. Conservation efforts have made a great difference in the decline of these beautiful animals, but their numbers are still critically low. To lose our whales would be beyond tragic.

Puppies on their own are incredibly cute, but when there are so many puppies that they entirely fill the back of a car, it's more cuteness than anyone can stand. These fluffy little angels are all being loaded into the back of the car after completing their first veterinary checkup. There are thirteen perfect little fluffballs in this litter. They will soon be going to their carefully selected forever families and the breeders are committed to making sure that all are healthy and happy before they make their way. Their veterinary visit involved heart checks, vaccinations, and overall health assessments. Happily, all of them passed with flying colours. These are the love children of Stella, a beautiful Bernese mountain dog and Dexter, a strapping and handsome Maremma. They are both wonderfully dispositioned dogs and it's no surprise that their litter of pups is equally good natured. The puppies began life on a beautiful farm in the country near Peterborough, Ontario. They have rolling hills, woodland areas, and a crystal clear creek to play in and explore. Life could not be better for these very deserving little souls.

Giraffes are awe inspiring animals that tower over us. Enormous, yet gentle, we can't help but love these beautiful creatures. To see one from afar is memorable, but to see one close up is a sight that few would ever forget. These lucky tourists were on a safari tour through a protected area where the animals wander over huge tracts of land, safe from poachers and hunters. They have no reason to fear humans and they even hold a mild curiosity for those who come here for a close look and better understanding of these great beasts. This herd of giraffes was wandering from one area to another when they crossed the road right in front of a few cars. The spectators were treated to a close look right into the eyes of these magnificent creatures. With their phones recording, their eyes were wide with awe and wonder. Sadly, giraffes are threatened in many areas due to habitat loss and poaching. Our first step to conservation is gaining a better understanding of the important role they play on our planet. Losing them would be beyond tragic,

Puffer fish are the adorable little fish with the cherub faces that swim awkwardly around the reefs in most oceans of the world. This cute little fellow lives on the reef in San Pedro, Belize. He is completely wild but he has become very accustomed to the swimmers that frequent the protected marine area off the coast. Safe from harm, the animals here have learned that humans are not a threat to them. The fishermen come here to clean their catch and the scraps that go into the water are quickly gobbled up by the sharks, rays, fish, and other creatures. The water is crystal clear and the swimmers get a perfect view of all of their favourite marine creatures.

Visiting a safari is a wonderful way to see animals in a natural environment. Free to roam huge expanses of protected area where they are in no danger from poachers or hunters, the animals enjoy a safe and happy life. These giraffes and rhinos gave tourists a real treat as they wandered from the bush and crossed the road right in front of the vehicle. Giraffes and rhinoceros' are gentle creatures that pose no danger to humans, unless harassed or threatened. Even still, seeing them close up from the safety of a car is advisable. To watch them walk gracefully across the road only a few metres away is an unforgettable experience. The rhino actually stopped and looked directly at the car before deciding he wanted to cross. Despite weighing up to 2300kg, and being as solid and indestructible as an armoured tank, this great beast is a cautious one. Rhinos are herbivores, eating only plants. Surprisingly, they are able to ferment food in their hindgut, allowing them to eat coarse and fibrous plants when necessary. Once full grown, their only predators are humans. Hunted for their horns that are sold in illegal trade, poaching has brought them to the brink of extinction. Laws are currently being challenged and redrafted, allowing the sale of some rhino products. Boycotting this industry is the best way to stop it and protect these beautiful animals.

Sea lions are delightful animals that frequent the coast on most of the Galapagos Islands. Playful and curious, they are as lovable as our furry canine friends. In fact, they have long been referred to as "Sea dogs". They are graceful and agile in the water and they have no reason to fear humans. Residents and tourists maintain a strict "hands off" policy and they keep a respectful distance. The animals here have learned to coexist with people and the people have learned the same. But, in the water, if sea lions want to play, there is no avoiding it, and it is completely their choice to disregard the 2m distance rule if they wish. Thes young sea lions captured the heart of this videographer as she recorded them looking into her camera and swimming all around her. They never once touched her and she did not touch them, but they frolicked within inches of her. If she rolled or dove, they would do the same, clearly enjoying the games with this clumsy new friend. Sea lions are beautiful animals and to spend time in the water with them is to fall in love with them.

Rhinoceroses are enormous and powerful animals that inspire awe when seen close up. Like armored tanks, they have thick skin and massive bodies that are impervious to almost any predator. Their horn is a formidable looking weapon that allows them to fend off any animal that dares to attack them.

These swimmers were exploring the shoreline and tidal pools on San Cristobal Island in the Galapagos. They had been admiring the sea lions on land, delighted with their antics and strong resemblance to our canine friends, the dogs. When these swimmers entered the water, they were thrilled to be met by a group of playful and energetic youngsters. In sea lion terms, these are teenagers. Trusting of people and far to agile to be caught or harmed by a clumsy human, they have no need to fear as they pass closely and play among the swimmers. The sea lions rolled and spiraled and they seemed to respond with great enthusiasm when the swimmers did the same. It was a true example of human animal connection and communication as the pups obviously understood that they were being imitated and they too were eager to imitate the playful behaviour themselves. Sea lions are one of nature's most endearing creatures. A trip to Galapagos Islands to see these wonderful animals is well worthe the journey

Papua New Guinea is one of the world's top ten scuba diving destinations, and for very good reason. The colours and beauty of this underwater paradise are spectacular. The animal life is strange and beautiful. To slip beneath the waves in this amazing world to see the animal life close up is an unforgettable experience. For most of us, seeing colorful clown fish and sea anemones, or gorgeous tropical creatures would only be possible in a saltwater aquarium. But for the adventurous, getting close up to these animals in their own habitat is possible by strapping on tanks of air and descending beneath the surface to meet these animals in their own environment. It is not a sport for the faint of heart. Without proper training and guidance, mistakes can have immediate and disastrous consequences. Humans are the guests in this thrilling, but unforgivable domain and we must always be ready to deal with potential hazards or emergencies. The sights on the reef are breath taking and constantly changing. The animals move constantly and each dive is completely different, even if the location of the dive is repeated. Some of the creatures are curious about the clumsy visitors and others are wary. Some curiously inspect people to see if they could be food, while others simply want to look and then swim away. Any animal can be a predator one minute and prey the next and the balance is a delicate one that shifts in an instant. Scuba diving opens up a new world of wonders and magical experiences for those willing to learn how to do it safely.

This is Raven, a very well loved Great Dane. She is just 8 weeks old, despite being very large already. This is her first night with her forever family and she has settled in nicely, already finding the perfect spot on the family couch, right beside Kristy, her new owner. Raven will grow to be an enormous dog. Great Danes resemble small horses as much as they do dogs. They are fiercely loyal and brave, yet surprisingly gentle. They make excellent family pets and wonderful companions. Anyone who has ever had a Great Dane has fallen in love with the breed. They spend their time running, playing, and sleeping. Well known for their ability to completely take over a couch or bed, their immense size makes them extra lovable. Raven shares this home with a rescued Australian Shepherd cross named River. The two are completely inseparable. Raven obviously loves her cuddle time and will be showered with affection as she grows.

Loggerheads are endangered sea turtles that inhabit the waters of Mexico, Belize and other areas of the Caribbean. But their numbers are dwindling as their habitat is affected by pollution and their nesting areas are being destroyed by development. This loggerhead is named "Scarface" due to an injury that left him permanently disfigured and without one eye. Yet, he still thrives and seems to have no problems. Scarface has captured the hearts of locals, tourists, and fishermen. He frequents an area of the reef on San Pedro Island where the fishermen go to clean their catch. Scarface approaches the boat and begs for conch and fish scraps. They cannot resist his antics or his playful nature and they always provide him with a little bit of their catch. Scarface has a voracious appetite and would eat their entire catch if they continued to feed him until it was gone. The fishermen love Scarface and they don't mind at all giving him a little help to compensate for his injury. Scarface is friendly with swimmers as well, but his curious nature causes him to nibble or test bite almost anything that he can get his beak on. He has been known to bite tourists, although he has never caused any injury or harm.

The octopus is one of nature's biggest mysteries. Possessing no bones, these creatures are invertebrates. In fact, the octopus is the most intelligent invertebrate on earth. With highly complex memory and reasoning skills, flexibility and fluidity of movement that is unparalleled, and shocking strength, this is one of nature's greatest predators. It hunts most by night and it takes its prey by surprise. The octopus can move with great stealth, reaching into the tiniest crevices and passing through surprisingly small gaps in the coral in search of fish and crustaceans that hide for protection. They can grip their prey with powerful suction cups and envelop them with their bodies if they escape the tentacles. A razor sharp beak kills swiftly once the prey is captured. It is no secret why most fish fear the octopus so much. For scuba divers, catching sight of one of these beautiful and mysterious creatures is a rare treat. The octopus is reclusive during the day and is most commonly seen after dark with the aid of lights, as this is when it comes out to hunt. Octopus are also hunted at night and they are a preferred food for sea lions, large moray eels, and sharks. The octopus is as wary as he is fearsome. These scuba divers were exploring the reefs of Papua New Guinea when they came across this beautiful male specimen out looking for a mate. After observing the octopus closely for a few minutes, divers moved back and saw that there was a large female close by. The male wasted no time in making her acquaintance and the two were amorously engaged within minutes. Sadly, males and females will both undergo a metabolic change after mating that causes them to cease eating and digesting. The male dies a few weeks after mating and the female dies soon after her eggs hatch several months later. An octopus typically lives 6 months to 5 years, depending on the species. For all but one octopus species, they mate only once, and it is always fatal. Nature is full of beauty and cruel irony at the same time.

Golden retriever puppies might be the fluffiest, cutest, most adorable animals in the world. Their beautiful faces seemed to be locked in a perpetual smile as they approach each new moment with excitement and joy. They bounce, run, roll, and fall adorably over each other to get to anything new and interesting. These puppies are enjoying their last few days with their breeders at As Good As Gold near Peterborough, Ontario. They will soon be going to their carefully selected forever homes, many of them with children to play with all day long. Golden retrievers make wonderful pets and family companions and they are exceptionally good with children. These puppies love their back yard playtime and they are thrilled when the nap time enclosure opens and the green grass and open air await. They flow like a river of furriness over the steps and leap through the air into the yard. Once there, they will dig in the dirt, chew at anything new, and sniff at their parents through the fence. The older dogs are eager to join in the fun too and they wait patiently at the gate for their turn to come in and be with the pups. One of the best parts of all though is when the mothers come in and stand still so the pups can latch on and enjoy a drink of fresh milk. The puppies have been eating solid food for a few days and their milk drinking will soon come to an end. The mothers will be relieved and will finally have more time for their own fun when this duty is over. Mother golden retrievers are incredible parents. When selecting a breeder, it is not hard to find an operation such as this one where dog health and well-being is the highest priority. You will know a good breeder or kennel because they will proudly show you their facilities, the parents, the pups, and they will offer advice on nutrition, vet care, and dog health. Past clients and veterinarians can provide background and inside advice on their quality and their ability to provide ongoing support. And very importantly, prospective clients will also feel that they too, are being interviewed and assessed for their own suitability as dog owners. It is well worth the time to seek out proper breeders and boycott back yard puppy mills.

Polar bears are magnificent animals. Here we see one at a zoo going for a nice swim during a hot day. Adorable!

This is a wild deer that lives in a beautiful forest where hunting is not allowed. It is a protected area and the deer have been accustomed to the safety of this wonderful place. They have become accustomed to humans as well and have developed enough trust that they do not flee at the sight of a person. Watching from a distance is not difficult, but approaching closer is generally not something they will tolerate. This man has found that by remaining very still and patiently waiting, the deer will approach curiously and they will sniff at him and even allow him to hand feed them. After this deer figured out that the man had more corn in his pocket, the deer decided to stick its nose right in and help itself. It was actually confident enough to pick his pockets. This was shocking and amusing to the man with the corn and he couldn’t help but laugh at this very bold little deer. Expecting that the deer might venture close enough to get some interesting footage, there was a camera mounted on a tree branch above. But nobody would have ever expected footage quite like this!