The Bismarck-ringed python inhabits the Bismarck Archipelago and is often seen in rainforests and piles of coconut husks. Adult snakes reach lengths of up to 6 feet.
During its juvenile years, it is characterized by brilliant orange and black rings. However, as the snake matures, that vibrant color fades to a more subdued brown with black rings or a uniform blackish-brown tone with a light spot behind its eye.
Primarily feeding on small rodents, the Bismarck-ringed python is an active forager. They also venture into human settlements and agricultural domains to hunt prey.
Blue-ringed octopuses are venomous creatures dwelling in Pacific and Indian Ocean tide pools and coral reefs. They favor hiding within crevices, showing skilled camouflage patterns.
When disturbed, they reveal their true vibrant yellow color with eye-catching blue rings, serving as a warning display. One of the four species, the Greater Blue-ringed octopus, glows blue due to light reflectors concentrated in the blue rings5, a phenomenon triggered by muscle movement.
They are small, measuring only 5 to 8 inches, but their toxin, tetrodotoxin, can kill humans swiftly. Their bites are almost unnoticeable until respiratory issues and paralysis set in.
Studies revealed that every octopus carries venom. However, only a few species, like this one, pose a substantial danger to humans.
Sarcastic fringeheads grow to a maximum of 12 inches but are larger than all other fringeheads. This fish is very aggressive and territorial.
The sarcastic fringehead may get the first part of its name from its amusing fighting style. The sarcastic fringehead will engage in a mouth-off. It will open its alien-like mouth and show its colorful interior and size to its competitor. Two male sarcastic fringeheads might even smack mouths.
Another explanation comes from the Greek word sarkasmós, which means to tear or bite and translates to ‘sarcastic’ in English. The scientist who named it was likely referring to fish’s needle-sharp teeth.
Eastern Lowland Gorillas, also known as Grauer's Gorillas, live in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo home, specifically two national parks and surrounding forests. It thrives in the broadest range of altitudes, from lowland tropical forests to mountainous terrains.
They are also the largest gorilla subspecies, earning the rank of the heftiest living primate. Its appearance resembles a mountain gorilla with a jet-black coat, albeit shorter on the head and body.
Despite seasonal changes, Eastern Lowland Gorillas exhibit steady nesting patterns1. However, habitats differ between adults and young, with immatures favoring tree nests, indicating vulnerability. Moreover, the absence of an alpha silverback substantively influences nesting choice, signifying the male's critical protective role.
However, our knowledge of its social patterns, history, and ecological role is currently limited. This unfortunate situation stems largely from ongoing civil unrest in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which hinders consistent research efforts. This circumstance underscores the cross-link between human-generated strife and our ability to study and protect crucial elements of biodiversity.
The Mountain Gorilla endures high altitudes within the cloud forests of three national parks, spanning across the Virunga volcanic mountains and extending its reach into one of Uganda's national parks. This species inhabits zones climbing up to 7,200 to 14,100 feet.
Unlike other types of gorillas, the Mountain Gorilla possesses thicker, longer fur designed to withstand colder climates inherent in its environment.
Despite being smaller than the Eastern Lowland Gorilla, adult male gorillas demonstrate distinctive bony crests atop and at the back of their skulls, giving them a conical appearance. These crests also anchor their powerful jaw muscles.
Starting in 1967, Dian Fossey dedicated 18 years to a detailed study of mountain gorillas. She brought new findings to light, implemented accurate counts, and introduced helpful conservation methods, like anti-poaching patrols. Her work continues through the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund International, protecting Virunga's mountain gorillas.
Similarities in genetic makeup to humans expose mountain gorillas to human diseases2. An immune system ill-developed against such diseases results in respiratory infections, accounting for approximately 20% of sudden deaths among these gorillas.
Fun Fact: Did you know the Eastern Gorilla is the largest gorilla subspecies? These massive apes can reach up to 6 feet tall when standing upright. With their muscular build and powerful arms, they can weigh up to a whopping 400 pounds.
You can find the mountain gorilla in the heart of the Virunga mountains and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. These great apes have long hair, formidable jaws, small noses, and a dense coat that helps them survive freezing temperatures. Moreover, this old-world monkey lives 7,200 to 14,100 feet above sea level, where it gets pretty chilly.
The rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), also known as the ring-necked parakeet, ringneck parrot (in aviculture) or the Kramer parrot, is a medium-sized parrot in the genus Psittacula, of the family Psittacidae. It has disjunct native ranges in Africa and the Indian Subcontinent,[2] and is now introduced into many other parts of the world where feral populations have established themselves and are bred for the exotic pet trade.
The rose-ringed parakeet (Psittacula krameri), also known as the ring-necked parakeet, ringneck parrot (in aviculture) or the Kramer parrot, is a medium-sized parrot in the genus Psittacula, of the family Psittacidae. It has disjunct native ranges in Africa and the Indian Subcontinent,[2] and is now introduced into many other parts of the world where feral populations have established themselves and are bred for the exotic pet trade.
Known for its fragrant white blooms that appear in late spring, the fringe tree (Chionanthus virginicus) produces beautiful blue-purple fruits after it flowers. "As a native tree to Eastern North America, it requires minimal maintenance, making it a hassle-free, and stunning addition to your landscape," says Hesseltine.
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