Naturenibble

Can You Eat Porcupine?

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Many civilizations in Canada are said to have eaten North American porcupines. Depending on the culture, it had varying degrees of prominence in the diet. As a tribute to the cultural significance of porcupines, Malecite referred to the Micmac as “porcupine Indians”. Some people still eat porcupines today.

The number of porcupines in the area has decreased over the years in several civilizations, including the Vuntut Gwitchin (Gwich’in), Aishihik, Champagne, Hopedale, and Inuit.

How Do People Eat Porcupines?

Believe it or not, porcupine meat is very versatile, meaning you can prepare it way imaginable and still enjoy it. I sound so convincing even though I haven’t tried it yet. However, my in-depth research has shown that many cultures have eaten them, boiled, stewed, roasted them, and more.

Let’s learn more about catching them, how and where they live and how to prepare porcupine meat.  Some people even eat the porcupine fetus. Research shows that porcupine meat improves skin health, delays aging, fights off the infection, and supports heart health.

Typhoid, epilepsy, and cancer are also some diseases that people believe are curable by porcupine meat or medicines. The onion-like concretions that form in porcupines’ bodies are supernatural or ghastly in appearance.

Hunting a porcupine

If there were no alternative sources of food, many northern civilizations would only kill porcupines in those scarce times. The slow and clumsy movement of a porcupine on the ground makes capture relatively simple. Porcupines were killed in a variety of ways.

In the winter, Tselona Kaska burns the porcupine out of its house before striking it with a club or stick, as did Waswanipi Cree, Mistissini Cree, Blackfoot, Tahltan, Tlingit, and Vuntut Gwitchin. When rifles became available, the Sioux, Chipewyan, Vuntut Gwitchin, and Hare (Sahtu) peoples also utilized them to defend themselves.

Snares were utilized by the Montagnais (Innu) and Micmac (Mi’kmaq), but traps and snares were employed by the Micmac (Mi’kmaq) as well Dagenais, but the Spokane utilized both snares and traps. Before the arrival of the caribou, the Chipewyan people hunted porcupines during Autumn. Porcupines were an ideal prey for Kutchin’s hunts … Read the rest of the story.

Do Porcupines Shoot Their Quills? How Do the Quills Work?

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What do Porcupines look like?

Porcupines are herbivores that love to eat leaves, twigs, bark, and green plants. They are considered rodents with brown, yellow fur and stiff quills covering their bodies except for their soft stomachs. Weighing only about 20 pounds and their length is about twenty-five to thirty-six inches full-grown, males are bigger than females.

They have a prehensile tail which is like a third arm and can wrap around a tree branch, allowing them to be stable climbers. They are the second largest rodent in North America, with the capybara leading them in size. Porcupines tend to be nocturnal but sometimes wander around during the daytime.

Tell Me about the Quills of a Porcupine

Porcupine quills are hollow hairs made of hardened keratin that look like hollow feathers. Keratin is the same material that your fingernails are made of and the same as porcupines’ claws. They have a saw-toothed feathery barb at the end of the quill that makes it stuck in you if you should happen to get quilled.

They are the self-defense mechanism and protection of the soft furry body of the porcupine. The quills are sometimes called guard hairs because they are really just hardened hairs. The interesting part is they contain an antibiotic naturally in them.

Does this mean the porcupine protects its predators? Well, yes, sort of, but it is really to protect the porcupine if it accidentally gets poked by its own quills. Quills can vary in length, depending on the species of the porcupine.

The average quill is about two to three inches, but the African crested porcupines can have quills that are a foot long and as thick as a straw. One porcupine can have about 30,000 quills spread over its back and on the end of its tail.

Can a Porcupine Shoot its Quills?

Porcupines cannot shoot their quills, not even one inch, but I would not get close to a porcupine. If you get too close, you could instantly have dozens of quills stuck in you. If you get close enough, the eight-to-ten-inch tail will swat toward you … Read the rest of the story.

27 Different Types of Porcupines

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Depending on where you stand, there’s something about nature that’s cute, stubborn, destructive, or dangerous. When it comes to porcupines, they embody nature. Their adorable faces and non-aggressive demeanor are welcoming, but the 30,000 quills on a porcupine’s back say, “not too close.”

Quills are the thorn-like structures on a porcupine’s body. Sometimes, they’re referred to as spines. With a porcupine, it’s a matter of ‘just look and don’t touch.’

Trust me, I learned this the hard way once I developed an interest in these animals! On the positive side, I also discovered that, contrary to popular belief, porcupines don’t shoot their quills. What happens is they get stuck and dislodge once they come into contact with human or animal flesh.

This is made possible by microscopic fish-hook-like barbs at the tip of each quill. But there is much more to this cute, ‘look but don’t touch,’ mammal. Let’s explore.

Amazing Facts About Porcupines

Porcupines are the world’s third-largest rodent after the capybara and the beaver. The quill-covered animals use their quills to defend against predators like lions, leopards, and humans. Biologically, porcupines are in the order Rodentia, but they subdivide into the Hystricidae and Erethizontidae families.

In layman’s terms, these two families are understood as Old World porcupines and New World porcupines, respectively. Old World porcupines are found in Asia, Italy, and Africa, while the New World porcupines are in North America and northern South America. Furthermore, porcupines are nocturnal, but the New World porcupines are not strictly nocturnal.

At times they come out during the day. They can also inhabit the trees and are generally smaller in size.

Different Types of Porcupines That Exist Today

There are many types of porcupines, many  being considered new world and the others  old world porcupines. Some of the new world porcupines are from a declassification of defunct taxonomic groups. Follow along as we explore all the types including their histories, habitats, diets, size, and much more..

Old World Porcupines

Old World porcupines are terrestrial rodents. They are larger and are strictly nocturnal. They primarily live in Africa, Europe, and Asia.

1. African … Read the rest of the story.

Types of Wolverines

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There is only one type of wolverine, although the creature lives in many parts of the world. The scientific name for them is gula and they are related to the weasel family and wolverines are the only living member of this genus or species. They are short, stocky animals, 25-30 inches long and have shaggy hair and big paws.

It can have mahogany brown fur, black and some white on its body. The species tend to vary in color and their sharp claws and large paws are used to hunting prey. Another name for the wolverine is the mountain devil or skunk bear.

Where It Lives

Wolverines live in forests, in the arctic, plains or tundra located in North America, Europe, and Asia. They are creatures that like solitude and need room to roam freely. Wolverines live in cold climates in Russia, Canada and Scandinavia too.

In the United States, it is found in Alaska, the Rocky Mountains, and the Sierra Mountains. In Canada, it is known to live in high elevation mountains,  boreal forests, tundra, and plains.

What It Eats / How Often It Eats

They like to eat meat primarily and hunt small animals, rabbits, rodents and sometimes attack larger animals if they appear to be weak or injured. They will feed on the corpses of animals like deer, elk and caribou. This often helps them survive the winter when there is less prey around.

They are known to dig into burrows and eat hibernating animals too. They do eat plants and berries in the warmer weather. Wolverines feed on wounded or dead animals that are not a threat to them when food is scarce.

Other types of food it eats are bird eggs, insects, roots, seeds and lavaw. It eats a variety of foods.

How It Gets Food

Wolverines often hunt at night and use smell to find wounded or dead carcasses to feed on. They look for small animals that are easy to kill . Sometimes they will attack a wounded animal and in some regions attack sheep to find food.

These animals adapt to the season and are flexible … Read the rest of the story.

10 Different Types of Badgers

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Badgers live all around the world and have a reputation as tough animals that will fight to the death. The Honey Badger, especially, is known to fight much larger animals and often wins those fights.  Badgers have their own lore around the world in addition to a reputation for toughness.

In North America, coyotes sometimes eat badgers and vice versa, but the majority of their interactions appear neutral. They often tolerate each other and have been known to work together hunting. The badger can root out rodents, and coyotes catch them when they try to escape.

Another story that may be more legend than truth, has it that a bird leads the honey badger to where the honey is. The badger attacks and eats his fill, and the bird gets what is left.

Family Mustelidae

Subfamily Melinae:

Hog badger, Arctonyx collaris

Hog badgers live in Southeast Asia, from China to Thailand, as well as parts of the Indian subcontinent. They like grasslands, hills, and mountains, and evergreen and tropical areas. These badgers are adaptable when it comes to food, and eat what is available in their area.

They eat plants, worms, and small animals. Hog badgers have a long snout and large claws that make them adept at digging. They eat fruit and roots, and earthworms appear to be a favorite.

Hog badgers are strong predators, and defenders of themselves when needed, with big claws, strong jaws, and a reputation as having a bad temper. They have a snout like a hog and can sniff out food underground. They can dig very fast, whether looking for food or digging out a place to hide.

Badgers are nocturnal, sleeping during the day in the burrows they have dug. They tend to be solitary animals but travel in small groups at times. Badgers have lived 12 years in captivity, and it is believed that is how long they live in the wild as well.

Hog badgers can dig tunnels where they live, and they can be extensive. In some cultures, badgers are hunted for food and for sport. In Thailand and India, they … Read the rest of the story.

7 Different Types of Geckos

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The geckos may have been popularized by an advertisement on TV, but they are cute little animals. It’s easy to see why someone might want one of their own. They are lizards and have a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and habitats.

They are reptiles, so they prefer warm weather, and live in places like rainforests or deserts. They range in size from just more than an inch to over a  foot long. Most of them do not move fast and are not active.

They are easy to tame and becoming more popular as pets. They live all around the world in warm areas. Geckos like to eat insects, and they do not need to eat every day, which makes them easy to care for.

Family Carphodactylidae

The Carphodactylidae family of geckos live in Australia. There are seven genera and a few dozen species in this family. These have padless feet, which allow those that have them to climb more easily.

Without pads, these geckos must use their fingers and claws to climb. There are the chameleon Carphodactylus, and others are differentiated by their tails with names like thick tail, leaf tail, and knobed tail. They are among the larger geckos at about six inches, half of which is the tail.

Geckos in this family prefer wet and warm climates, but they have been found in all areas of Australia. Many have colorful tails which separate them by species. They eat insects and may only eat every three or four days.

They can survive for as long as two weeks without food, using fat in their tails. Geckos can live 20 years in captivity, and more species are being kept as pets. Many are active during the day, in the morning and evening.

These different genera are found in different areas of Australia, except for the Nephrurus, which are throughout the country. The Undweroodisaurus is on the south coast, and the phyllurus is on the east coast. They typically lay two eggs a couple of times a year.

Genera of this family include:

Carphodactylus, Chameleon Gecko

Nephrurus, Knob-tailed geckos

Orraya, Long

… Read the rest of the story.

Webbed Feet: Why Are They So Important to a Bird?

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As someone who loves birds, you might be curious if all birds can swim. After all, not having webbed feet would seem to make swimming more difficult. However, webbed feet are not the only important features that help a bird to swim.

Waterproof feathers, the proper body weight, and even body proportions play an important role in whether or not a bird is adept at swimming or if swimming is a fatal activity. So, can birds without webbed feet swim? Let’s take a closer look.

Types of Birds

There are many different types of birds, and they come in all shapes and sizes. Some common bird families include ducks, geese, and swans; chickens and quail; eagles, hawks, and kites; owls; parrots and macaws; penguins; and robins, finches, and sparrows.

Birds are classified into two main groups: land birds and waterbirds. Landbirds include all birds that live on or near the ground, while waterbirds live near or on the water.

Some birds, like chickens, quail, and ostrich, are considered poultry and are kept as farm animals.

Two Kinds of Bird Feet

According to Bird Nation, Most birds have four toes on each foot, and these toes are usually arranged in pairs. The first pair of toes, known as the inner toe or hallux, is typically pointing backward. The second pair of toes, called the outer toe or digits 2-4, points forward.

Many birds also have a claw at the end of each toe. The arrangement of a bird’s toes helps it to perch on branches and grip its prey. Webbed feet, on the other hand, are better suited for swimming.

Most water birds have webbed feet, which help them to paddle through the water.

The Purpose of Webbed Feet

Webbed feet are helpful for swimming because they act like paddles. The webbing between the toes helps to increase the surface area of the foot, which gives the bird more power to move through the water.

Birds that have webbed feet include:

Ducks

Geese

Swans

Penguins

How Do Birds Swim?

The swimming motion of a bird is similar to the … Read the rest of the story.

25 Different Types of Chipmunks

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My first time actually seeing a chipmunk was at Glacier National Park in Montana. They were relatively easy to find along the trails and would scamper away in most cases. However, there were some that had learned how to get their food from tourists.

At trailheads, or at overlook areas, it was common to have a chipmunk come up to you and wait for you to throw them a crumb of bread or something. Some would even get aggressive. As aggressive as a five-ounce animal can at least.

There was a huge discrepancy between the healthy-looking fit ones in the wild, and the fat ones that could hardly walk through parking lots where tourists hung out. There are 25 species of Chipmunks, and three Genus: Eutamias, Tamias, and Neotamias.

Genus Eutamis

Siberian Chipmunk

The Siberian Chipmunk is the only Chipmunk that lives outside of the North American continent. It lives in central Russia, parts of China, Korea, and Japan. The Siberian Chipmunk’s diet is not very different than his North American counterpart.

They like seeds, grain, fruit, and vegetables, and will eat small birds and lizards when they get a chance. In the wild, it is believed they eat about six times a day, and they spend most of their time looking for food. Like squirrels, they will store extra food in their cheeks, and hide things like acorns to eat later.

Siberian Chipmunks get their food from foraging, always on the lookout for anything they can chew on. In captivity, Siberian Chipmunks are known to live as long as 10 years, but in the wild, their lifespan is two to five years.  Many are food for larger animals.

These animals are not nocturnal, they are active during the day and nap at various times. In winter, they do not hibernate, but will likely sleep much longer and eat less often. They may make a burrow in a log or in a bush, but some of them create underground tunnel systems.

Even when they have a system of tunnels, Siberian Chipmunks are individualistic and territorial about their own area.  The … Read the rest of the story.

Why is a Bear Waving at Me?

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Let’s say you’re out for a walk in the woods, and you come across a bear. The bear waves at you, and you’re not sure what to do. Here are some reasons why a bear might be waving at you:

1. The bear may be trying to scare you off.

2. The bear may be begging for food.

3. The bear may be trying to intimidate you.

If the bear looks angry or aggressive, it’s best to stay away and not make any sudden movements. However, if you’re unsure of the bear’s state, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and slowly back away from the bear. If the bear continues to approach you, make yourself as big as possible and make loud noises in an attempt to scare it off.

You can also try throwing rocks or sticks in its direction. If all else fails, use pepper spray or a bear horn to defend yourself.

Let’s dive deeper into some of the reasons a bear might wave at you.

Reason #1: Warning

When you see a bear waving its arms at you, it’s not trying to be friendly. In fact, the bear is trying to warn you that it is dangerous and you should stay away. Bears will usually wave their arms if they are feeling threatened or if they are about to attack.

What to do in response to a bear’s warning

If a bear is waving at you from a distance, you should stay calm and slowly back away and find a safe place to hide. If the bear starts to come closer, you should make yourself look as big as possible by waving your arms in the air and making noise. You can raise your pack in the air, stand on something, or link your arms with another person and stretch out.

Reason #2: Begging for Food

Bears are incredibly intelligent animals that have learned how to mimic human behavior in order to get food. This is the primary reason bears wander into campsites or approach hikers.

Bears are generally afraid of humans, … Read the rest of the story.

What Animals Eat Pumas?

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The puma, also known as the cougar or mountain lion, is one of the most widely distributed animals in the Americas. Native to both North and South America, this species is a top predator and there are no other animals that eat them. However, there are some animals that will kill pumas in order to steal their prey, avoid being eaten, or use their body as a trophy.

Wolves

Although wolves are typically smaller than pumas, wolves are bold hunters that will sometimes attack and kill pumas to steal their prey. However, their food may also consist of fruits, berries, plants, and vegetation. Wolves tend to eat in groups called packs; they hunt in tandem to take down larger animals like deer or elk.

The prey is eaten communally after being killed. Although wolves often kill other canines such as coyotes, they do not generally attack humans unless provoked. When hunting prey as a pack, however, they have been known to attack men who wander too far into wolf territory.

Elk

Even herbivores, like elk, have been known to kill pumas. Why? To avoid being eaten. Elk can weigh up to 1,400 pounds and they may kill a puma out of fear, just as they would with any other predator.

So while it’s true that an adult puma is capable of killing an elk, it’s also true that elk are typically larger than adult pumas and can defend themselves better against predators.

Bears

When a bear finds a carcass, it may kill a puma if it threatens to steal prey that’s rightfully its own. Grizzlies and black bears are capable of stealing all kinds of prey from larger predators. They’re also strong enough to kill or injure their victims, especially in cases where they work together as a team.

While bears don’t often eat pumas on purpose, it does happen sometimes when one comes across another in a battle for food.

Other Pumas

The most commonly occurring puma predator is another puma. If you’re unfortunate enough to be a puma but somehow manage to avoid being eaten by other big … Read the rest of the story.

Do Muskrats and Beavers Live Together?

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For the first time in my life, I saw a beaver close to my home. There is a little pond near where I live, so I saw the beaver there. I recently read about muskrats and realized these two animals are quite similar.

So, I wondered if these two animals ever lived together. Well, yes, muskrats and beavers often live together in the same habitat. These two animals are well-suited to living in close proximity to each other because they both build their homes in or near water and they both eat aquatic plants.

Both animals often share the same ponds, lakes, and streams, and they can even be found living in the same burrows.

Why Do Muskrats and Beavers Live Together?

There are a few reasons why these two animals get along so well.

Diet

First of all, they have similar diets. Both muskrats and beavers are herbivores that eat aquatic plants. These small animals are both in the rodent family as well.

The beaver’s diet consists mostly of the bark of trees while the muskrat’s diet is made up of aquatic plants, such as cattails, water lilies, and lily pads. The muskrat does feast on some animals such as crayfish, frogs, and fish, but the vast majority of its diet consists of plants.

Habitat

Another reason why these two animals can live together is that they both need similar habitats. Both muskrats and beavers build their homes in or near water-based areas like marshes, lakes, wetlands, ponds, bogs, etc. The beaver builds a lodge out of sticks and mud, while the muskrat constructs a dome-shaped nest out of cattails and other aquatic plants.

This similarity in habitat means that they are often found living in the same areas.

How Do They Build Their Homes?

The beaver is well-known for its ability to build dams. A beaver dam can be as long as 200 feet. However, one beaver dam is so big at 2790 feet, you can see it from outer space! The beaver uses sticks and mud to build its lodge, which is a … Read the rest of the story.

Are Hippos Faster Than Horses?

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Did you know that the word hippopotamus is actually Greek for “river horse”? The question is, does this name signify any similarities between hippos and horses? For instance, are they as fast as or faster than horses?

With their large bodies, it can seem like hippos are much slower than horses. The truth is, though, that they can actually move pretty fast – in some cases, as fast as a horse. Let’s take a look at these two magnificent creatures to understand what I mean.

How Fast Can a Horse Run?

Horses are known for their racing abilities and galloping speeds, but how fast do they actually move? Trained racehorses can typically move up to 44 MPH, though some have been clocked at speeds over 50 MPH. However, they usually can’t carry on at these speeds for more than 20 or so seconds.

And remember, those are trained racehorses. Most average horses top out at around 30 MPH, especially if there is a rider on their backs. Genetics can also play a role, with some horses reaching only 14 to 20 MPH.

What About Hippos?

There’s no doubt that hippos are larger than horses. In fact, they are the second-largest land animal, with the males weighing an easy 6,000 pounds and females weighing as much as 3,000 pounds. The largest breeds of horses usually top out at 2,000 pounds, though some weigh as little as 600 pounds.

Does this weight difference cause a difference in their speeds? Surprisingly, not as much of a difference as you’d expect. Believe it or not, this heavy beast can move up to 30 MPH – right in line with some horses and even faster than others.

So, while they may or may not be able to outrun a horse, they can certainly outrun humans! While they can move fast, their weight does impact this speed in a way. They can typically only run at 30 MPH for about 30 seconds.

If you ever find yourself being chased by a hippo – can you imagine such a nightmare?! – the best precaution I’ve found … Read the rest of the story.

When Do Gophers Sleep?

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Gophers, or pocket gophers, are furry rodents that burrow through yards and fields in the Western hemisphere. They primarily live in the Midwestern and Western U.S. regions. Minnesota’s nickname is the Gopher State.

However, a few species of gophers can be found in the southeastern U.S. in the states of Florida, Georgia, & Alabama. This gopher’s color varies from gray or white to near black. The pocket gopher is so named because of its characteristic cheeks that are fur-lined and used for multiple purposes – to move nesting materials and food as needed, among others.

Gophers have poor eyesight and hearing, so they fundamentally rely on the sensory navigation provided by their whiskers to survive. The gopher’s unique environmental adaptation works – for them because much of their lives are spent in dark (or low light) living conditions. According to the New World Encyclopedia –

“Burrowing animals, pocket gophers are found in habitats with soil where they can create subterranean tunnels and that do not flood, including meadows, forests, deserts, and agricultural fields, including high-elevation habitats.”

Gophers are considered small mammals, although, in the rodent kingdom, they are considered somewhat moderately sized – 5 to 14 inches long and weigh a couple of pounds. The gopher’s flat body and powerful legs make it easy to dig and traverse the tunnels built beneath the surface that may cover upwards of 2,000 square feet. Gophers dig extensive and functional tunnel mazes where they live and store food.

They have four large incisors that never stop growing to replace worn-out teeth caused by incessant digging. The gopher’s large teeth are always visible because its lips are located behind them – preventing dirt from entering its mouth when digging.

When Do Gophers Sleep?

In general, gophers tend to be active all year, and for the most part, at any time of day. Yet, I rarely see one, even if I am lucky enough to spend a lot of time outdoors. As noted by the Arizona Sonora Desert Museum,

The fossorial (a.k.a. burrowing) gopher is a rarely seen animal … Read the rest of the story.

Fox vs. Wolf

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A fox and a wolf are both mammals from the dog family. While they have very similar personalities, they have many differences in appearance, behavior and diet, and vocalization.

A fox is commonly red and has a pointed snout with long whiskers and a bushy tail. Wolves are generally grey and have a muscular body, broad snout, and smaller ears. Although they are both omnivores, wolves tend to hunt larger mammals. Both species are intelligent, stubborn, and make great parents.

Have you ever confused a wolf for a fox or vice versa? Here’s the chance to learn a bit about each of the two species so that you can tell the two apart in the future and know what characteristics they share and how they differ.

Comparison Of A Fox And A Wolf

Although foxes and wolves are both parts of the dog family (Canidae), they belong to different species. Grey wolves are Canis lupus, while red foxes are Vulpes vulpes. There are only two wolf species (red and grey), but there are 37 different species of fox.

These two species have similar personalities, as they are both intelligent, stubborn, and can easily adapt to their environment. Their appearance, behavior and diet, and vocalization (to name a few) differ.

Differences Between A Fox And A Wolf

These two species may share a common ancestor, but they are more different than you would think. Foxes and wolves differ according to their size, coloration, behavior, diet, vocalization, habitat, and offspring.

Size

A wolf is much larger than a fox – an adult male wolf is bigger than most large breed domestic dogs (reaching about 2.8 feet), while an adult male fox is the size of a medium-sized dog or large cat (around 1.3 feet). Wolves can weigh up to 180 pounds, while foxes only weigh 31 pounds – that’s a huge difference! In other words, a wolf is approximately six times the size of a fox. Wolves weigh more due to their large, muscular body.

They have a broad snout and smaller, less pointed ears when compared to … Read the rest of the story.

The Natural Cycle in Lakes You’ve Never Heard Of

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Nature is full of cycles of all kinds. All parts of nature, big and small, participate in some gradual process of change or renewal, and lake ecosystems are no exception. You may have heard of the water cycle, the rock cycle, or the nitrogen cycle, but there’s another cycle that you may not have heard of: the lake turnover cycle.

As cycles in nature go, it’s relatively unknown—or at least I can’t remember learning about it in middle school science class when I learned about all the other cycles—but it’s just as interesting as the rest.

What Is Lake Turnover?

Twice per year, temperature changes cause the top and bottom layers of water in lakes to cycle up and down and trade places, or “turn over.” This typically begins to happen at 50° to 55° Fahrenheit, and it can only happen in lakes with enough depth for the layers of water in them to stratify into different temperature zones. In other words, shallow, small lakes are too tiny for this to happen—the kiddie pool in your backyard won’t be showing signs of lake turnover.

What Causes Lake Turnover?

Lake turnover happens twice per year: once during the changeover from winter to spring when the top layer of water heats up and mixes with the rest of the lake, and once during the change from summer to fall when the top layer cools and sinks.

This process has everything to do with the relationship between temperature and density of water, and how that relationship makes water form separate, unmixing layers. Water is generally denser the colder it is, except for ice, which is somehow less dense than liquid water (go figure) and water colder than 39° Fahrenheit (again: go figure).

At any rate, water gets denser as it approaches 39° Fahrenheit, which is the temperature where water is at its most dense. As water cools further than 39° Fahrenheit, it becomes less dense. This fact will come into play when we look at spring turnover, the stage of lake turnover that’s slightly harder to comprehend, for me anyway.

Spring … Read the rest of the story.

Why do Moose have Antlers?

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Moose are one of the largest mammals in North America. Adult males can weigh up to 1,650 pounds and stand six to seven feet tall at the shoulders. Like other male members of the deer family, bull moose have antlers that they grow and shed each year.

These antlers can grow to be up to five feet wide and can weigh as much as 30 pounds! Female moose don’t grow them. So why do bull moose grow giant antlers in fall only to shed them in winter? As usual, it’s all about romance!

What are Antlers?

Moose have antlers rather than horns. Like other deer antlers, they grow from bone as an extension of a moose’s skull. But these “skull extensions” are not a permanent attachment). In contrast, cattle, sheep, and goats grow horns they keep forever that are composed of keratin—the same stuff that makes fingernails and hair!

If that sounds weirdly opposite, it gets worse. antler bones grow because of a rough velvet that covers them on the outside, supplying them  with blood throughout the growing season. This velvet can produce three-quarters of an inch of new growth per day!

How do Moose Antlers Grow?

Antlers begin to grow when the seasonal shifts in sunlight cue changes in the levels of a male moose’s testosterone, according to Dr. Bronson Strickland of the Mississippi State University. Longer summer days cause the buck’s hormones to activate antler growth. Waning autumn sun ramps up testosterone in the bull’s blood, signaling a stop in antler growth.

The antler velvet that has supplied them with blood throughout the year dries up, and males rub it off on trees and saplings to mark their territory with an oily scent. This marking signals a challenge to other male moose and an invitation to females.

What are Moose Antlers For?

During September and October, it’s mating season! Male moose search for mates by marking territory, by bellowing, and by fighting with one another. In addition to rubbing off their antler velvet to leave a signature scent on trees, bulls make … Read the rest of the story.

The Top 10 Closed Lakes in the World

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Before we dive into the best closed lakes in the world, let’s get on the same page regarding what we mean by a “closed lake.” Closed lakes are defined as endorheic basins with no surface outlet. Essentially this means that a “closed lake” is a lake that does not drain into a larger body of water.

These lakes can be found all over the world in a variety of climates and locations.  The ten largest closed lakes by surface area are all listed above.

1. Great Salt Lake- Utah, USA

The Great Salt Lake in Utah, USA, is the largest closed lake in the world with an area of 1,700 square miles, approximately

Fun Facts about the Great Salt Lake:

It is up to ten times saltier than the ocean

The Great Salt Lake has no fish

It is home to the brine shrimp

Things to do at the Great Salt Lake:

Visit Antelope Island State Park

Hike Frary Peak

Take a dip in the brine pool

2. Caspian Sea- Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Iran, Turkmenistan

The Caspian Sea is the second largest closed lake, with an area of approximately 143,200 square miles. The Caspian Sea is located between Europe and Asia and is bordered by Azerbaijan, Russia, Kazakhstan, Iran, and Turkmenistan.

Fun Facts about The Caspian Sea:

The Caspian Sea is a lake, despite its name

It contains about 16% of the world’s oil reserves

The Caspian Sea is home to the sturgeon fish, which is used to make caviar

Things to do at The Caspian Sea:

Visit the Caspian Sea Beaches

Go Sturgeon Fishing

Explore the ancient city of Derbent

3. Lake Superior- Ontario, Canada

Lake Superior is the biggest of the Great Lakes of North America and the third largest closed lake in the world, with an area of 31,700 square miles. Lake Superior is located between the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Minnesota.

Fun Facts about Lake Superior:

It is the coldest and deepest of the Great Lakes

Lake Superior contains 10% of the world’s freshwater

There are over 200 known shipwrecks in Lake Superior

Things … Read the rest of the story.

Do Deer Antlers Grow Back if Cut Off?

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Cutting antlers on deer is a process called de-antlering and is done to protect deer from injury and to sometimes aid in the process of record keeping for a deer farm. Some use deer antlers while in velvet as a medicine, but this type of cutting can injure and harm the deer.  There is a specific way to cut antlers and a specific time to do so where the deer has the least chance of being harmed.

Cutting antlers will let them grow back every year.

Why Cut Deer Antlers?

Antlers are cut for many reasons. For those that raise deer, cutting antlers can help minimize the losses taken each year from bucks fighting with one another. Cutting back the antlers each year can keep those losses to a minimum.

Deer farmers have learned that just by taking the simple step of cutting back antler growth, it can help disarm potentially devastating results from bucks trying to assert dominance. Another reason to cut antlers is so that there is an easier way to keep antler growth records because you are able to match up the antlers with the bucks without having to go and locate them in the farm pasture. It is a way to do management and marketing for the farm without having to match DNA between them.

Both of these reasons are typically used for cutting back antlers in a deer raising setting and for those with pasture deer. Lastly, some deer antlers are cut while still in velvet for medicinal purposes. This process can hurt the deer.

Medicinal velvet supplements “contains multiple substances including the female sex hormones estrone and estradiol. It also contains substances which may help cells grow and function”, according to RxList.

Does Cutting Antlers Hurt the Deer?

Cutting antlers can cause pain, health complications, shock and fear to the deer if there are not proper cutting techniques used. Cutting during velvet season will give a heightened period of these complications. Cutting dry antlers can lessen the complications when you use proper techniques such as tranquilizers, clean cutting tools, and a little TLC.

Having … Read the rest of the story.

Wolf vs Leopard – Which Would Win in a Fight?

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Who would win in a fight between a wolf and a leopard? Are you curious? I know I am.

I have always had a fascination with giant cats and dogs, er, wolves. After all, humans today live with miniature wolves and leopards in our homes just for sheer comfort and companionship. But, if a wolf and a leopard came upon each other in nature, who would win at the end of the day? Let’s find out.

Comparing a Wolf Vs. a Leopard in the Wild

Comparing a wolf versus a leopard is like comparing cats and dogs…and that is exactly what we are doing here. The leopard is a giant cat that is native to both the Asian and African continents, whereas the wolf is a large form of a dog that is less domesticated than our pets today. Leopards are great swimmers and are excellent climbers, giving them plenty of advantages when fighting in the woods or even in their own territory.

Wolves are made of an extremely muscular body and have the stamina to last far longer than a leopard, especially in a battle. Additionally, wolves are known for their bites, whereas leopards are typically known to use the power of their huge paws in order to gain a competitive edge over an opponent in the midst of a battle.

How does a wolf fight?

Wolves are unique as they do not typically find themselves being aggressive on their own or in a one-on-one scenario. This is why when wolves are referenced they are typically done so as a wolf pack. Wolves prefer to travel in packs, as this provides them not only with companionship and support but also with fighting power and plenty of intimidation to go around.

When a wolf is confronted by a predator, they are most likely to call out for their pack if there is one available. However, if left on its own, a wolf will fight similar to that of a dog, as it is not too distant from a dog’s makeup and genetics. Wolves may typically use their teeth more than … Read the rest of the story.

How Long Do Most Lakes Last?

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There are virtually endless awe-inspiring sights to see and take in around the world. With no shortage of wonders on planet Earth, it is no surprise that more people than ever have found a passion for all things Earth and science. For those who study geology and the waters of the blue planet, you may be curious as to how long a typical lake lasts.

The very idea of a lake disappearing may sound foreign or even impossible to you, however, if you are not familiar with the formation and evolution of lakes, rivers, and other Earthly bodies of water over time.

Some lakes may last only a few decades in regions with severe climate change and a lack of government resources to help replenish the lakes as they dry up. However, with the natural life cycle of a lake in a thriving and suitable environment, lakes can last anywhere from hundreds to thousands of years.

Do all lakes last the same amount of time?

No. Not all lakes will last the same amount of time, as climates shift and change around the globe all of the time. Because there are many factors at play that help determine how long a lake may last naturally, there is no easy way to set an average time that a lake will last.

Lake Formation

In order to understand why lakes do not last the same amount of time, it is important to understand how lakes are formed and what exactly defines a lake. A lake is a basin in the Earth that is suitable for water collection and/or accumulation. Basins throughout the Earth’s surface make for excellent lakes, streams, and rivers.

Many glaciers around the world are also known to have helped in the formation of the lakes we know today after they have completely melted. Other instances of lake formations may occur due to the Earth’s own crust and plate tectonics. As plate tectonics shift, the Earth’s crust and ground may pull apart, helping to form natural holes and basins which are suitable for lake water accumulation and formation.

Additionally, lakes … Read the rest of the story.

Which Countries Have No Forests?

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There are five treeless countries, or more appropriate, countries without forests in the world, according to World Bank data. One is truly hilarious, Greenland since the name would make us easily think it is filled with lush greenery. Anyway, the other four treeless territories are Monaco, Oman, San Marino, and Qatar.

So, if countries with trees are struggling with climate issues, what about those without them? How is it possible for a country to not have trees? Even deserts have a few, or so I thought since some deserts are too dry to have any trees at all that thrive there.

Let’s look at what scientists have to say, then analyze these countries individually.

Nations With Less than Percent Tree Cover

There are several countries that the World Bank states as having less than a percent of tree cover, including:

Oman

Greenland

Qatar

San Marino

Monaco

Nauru

Egypt

Libya

Djibouti

Mauritania

Kuwait

What is Considered a Forest?

Forest area is defined as land with trees taller than five meters and a canopy cover of at least ten percent, or trees that can achieve these thresholds in situ, covering an area larger than 0.5 hectares. Agricultural and urban land uses are not included in this calculation. Both the existence of trees and the lack of other major land uses contribute to the definition of a forest.

Ideally, the trees must be capable of growing to a height of at least 5 meters. As a result of human intervention or natural calamities, areas that have not yet attained but are predicted to reach 10% canopy cover and tree heights of at least 5 m are included in the study.

Inclusions

Plantations are mainly used for forestry or protection, as long as they meet certain height and canopy cover requirements, like those found in nature reserves, national parks as well as those found in areas of special scientific, historical, cultural, or religious interest. Shelterbelts,  windbreaks, as well as corridors of trees with an area larger than 0.25 ha and a width greater than 20 meters.

Exclusions

The presence of trees in agricultural production … Read the rest of the story.

Why are there No Trees in Qatar?

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When you think of Qatar, what is the first image that comes to mind? Do you picture vast deserts and plenty of warmth, or do you envision a growing city that is bustling with life and a giant economy day in and day out? If you imagined either one of these scenarios, you are not incorrect.

Qatar, although it has rapidly evolved in the past few decades, was known for quite some time for its lack of trees and other forms of greenery.

Why are there no trees in Qatar?

Qatar has gone through a lot of changes in the past few decades alone. Once a vast desert with plenty of old buildings and crumbling infrastructure, Qatar has since been transformed into a wealthy, bustling city for those who can afford it. While the rebuild was occurring in Qatar, trees were not considered a top priority, and many that were left were removed entirely.

It is also important to keep in mind that Qatar is located in a desert climate, making it much more difficult for trees to survive on their own. There are specific trees that are suitable for desert climates and regions such as Qatar.

Causes of a Lack of Trees in Qatar

A lack of trees in Qatar can be explained by simply remembering that Qatar is in a desert climate, which can be extremely hot and dry year-round, making it difficult for vegetation to grow, including simple trees. As Qatar began to expand and rebuild, it created a giant metropolitan city of its own. Those rebuilding Qatar with their high-rise buildings and skyscrapers neglected to consider any of the trees or vegetation that stood in its way, thus leaving the city flattened without any trace of trees that once lived.

As the importance of trees and nature becomes more well-known throughout the world, initiatives such as manmade forests are becoming even more commonplace, even outside of desert areas such as Qatar.

Is it healthy to live somewhere without trees?

Not always. In fact, trees provide plenty of benefits in nature and for the health of … Read the rest of the story.

Do Flamingos Live in the Rainforest?

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Flamingos do live in the rainforest, just not in the middle of it but rather at the edges. Close to lakes and estuaries where the rainforest meets the Andeans is where you’ll find Flamingos in the Amazon Rainforest region. Only two types of flamingos make their habitat on the outskirts of the Amazon rainforests and that’s the Andean and Puna.

The latter is the rarest Flamingo. Here’s a look at the different species of flamingos, those who live in the rainforest, and all the in-depth details you’d like to know about their lifestyle.

What is a Flamingo?

The flamingo is one of the oldest bird species remaining in existence. They stand out from other tropical species because of their unusual feeding habits and vibrant plumage. A common sight in zoos around the world, wild flamingos can be found in tropical and temperate locations, frequently near water and rainforests.

How Many Varieties Of The Flamingo Are There?

Flamingos come in six distinct varieties.There are also lesser, greater, James’ (or Puna), Chilean, Caribbean/American, and Andean flamingos. The tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Europe are home to the largest populations of flamingos on earth.

The largest and tallest Flamingo species. Only in South America can you find Puna and Andean flamingos. Of the six species, the Andean flamingo numbers less than 40,000.

In Africa and southern Asia, there are smaller flamingos. Among flamingo species, they are the smallest and most common. More than 2 million lesser flamingos flaunt their pink plumage, illuminating the skies and shorelines.

Flamingos Found in the Rainforest Region

James Flamingo(Puna)

While the Andean flamingo is slightly larger, the James flamingo is smaller still, being on par with the smaller flamingo of the Old World. It was Charles Rahmer, who was part of a collecting expedition financed by Harry Berkeley James, that first brought back a bird specimen of the species. Several species of flamingos live in the Andean plateaus of Peru, Chile, Bolivia, and northwest Argentina.

James’s flamingo is one of these species.

Andean Flamingo

South America’s Andes highlands are home to a unique … Read the rest of the story.

Are Flamingos Pink? If Not, What Other Colors Are They?

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Flamingos are one of my favorite birds. They’re so graceful and their color palette is simply stunning. However, I was recently surprised to find out that not all flamingos are pink.

There are several different types of flamingos, each with its unique color scheme. If you’re curious about flamingos and want to learn more about their coloration, this article is for you!

How Flamingos get pink skin

A flamingo’s pink skin is not a hereditary trait – this means that they were not born pink. According to expert Zoologists, flamingos are born white or dull grey. So how do they get their pink skin?

Well, it’s primarily caused by their diet. The food that they eat – algae, brine shrimp, and brine fly larvae – contains high amounts of carotenoids. These are the pigments in plants and certain sea creatures that give them their bright orange, yellow and red colors.

Once the flamingos consume these plants, the pigment is metabolized inside of the digestive system – turning their body and feathers pink. Some flamingos are brighter in color than others. This is primarily due to the amount of carotenoid-rich food they consume.

With that being said, the Caribbean flamingo is the brightest. In the Caribbean, carotenoids can be found in abundance. A fun fact to know is that flamingos eat upside down.

The reason being is because it has evolved to do so. Its top bill (beak) functions as a bottom bill and vice-versa. So, in other words, its bottom bill is much larger and stronger, so it has to turn its head upside down to eat to accommodate that.

This is the complete opposite of any other bird. They have long legs that allow them to wade in deep water to look for food. Once they find an area, they take their feet and stir up food from the bottom of the water – then dunk their head in to eat.

They use their tongue to filter out water or any other thing they don’t want to eat.

Can flamingos be other colors?

The feather colors of a flamingo … Read the rest of the story.

What Animal Eats a Cougar?

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The cougar (otherwise called the cat by many names) has no natural predators. Therefore, these mountain lions face no threat of being eaten by any other animals. Grizzly bears along with grey wolves, on the other hand, compete with them for resources and may come into conflict as a result.

When you look at the history of cougars, humanity is their greatest threat and the only current cougar predator.

What is a Cougar?

It is the second-largest cat in North America after the puma (sometimes known as the Panther or Mountain Lion). The cougar, unlike other big cats, is unable to roar. It instead purrs like a domesticated cat, something that cracks me up.

It’s like a bully coming at you, but sounding like a small child! House cats and cougars both have similar physiques, yet cougars are noticeably larger in stature. They’re slender, with round heads and erect ears.

From head to tail, they measure 1.5-2.7 m (5-9 feet). In contrast to males with 150 pounds(68kg), females might weigh as little as 100 pounds(45 kg).

Why are Humans Considered a Threat to Cougars?

Some U.S. state laws allow people to shoot cougars, even though they are a protected species. Human-caused factors, such as habitat loss and depletion of natural prey, pose a greater danger to cougar populations than conscientious hunting.

Preservation of Cougars

Both recreational hunters and farmers who protect their cattle have long been responsible for the deaths of cougars. Additionally, fragmentation, habitat loss along with human-caused injury, are grave concerns for cougar populations worldwide. Therefore, cougar populations have declined dramatically.

The IUCN Red List considers cougars to be of least concern because of the large number that remains in the wild. Eastern North and South American cougar populations were decimated by European colonization in the 17th century, despite their widespread distribution. Florida panthers, a rare subspecies, are found only in a tiny area of the state.

As a critically endangered species, the Florida panther is being protected by several government entities.

What are the Different Cougar Names?

Panthers, Catamounts, Pumas, Lions, and mountain lions are … Read the rest of the story.

Why Do Gophers Dig Holes?

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Gophers are furry, small burrowing mammals that dig holes to construct tunnels that help them negotiate their fossorial lives. Fossorial creatures live beneath the ground most of their lives. The surest sign of the presence of gophers is freshly formed mounds of dirt/soil.

Gophers, classified as a member of the Geomyidae family, are a type of rodent exclusively native to North and Central America. Gophers, which live in all kinds of soil, from woodlands to grasslands, are small – usually larger than a mouse but smaller than a typical rat. The gophers in the U.S have an average life span of about 1 to 3 years.

Gophers have fur-lined cheek pouches (that extend as far as their shoulders) to carry food and nesting materials throughout their underground neighborhood. Gophers use their incisor teeth to dig and as a defense if threatened. Gophers can close their lips behind their massive incisor teeth, sealing their mouths from the dirt loosened when digging.

Gophers, which are also known as pocket gophers, are a great example of nature’s adaptive ability. This is because gophers are efficient diggers with short, powerful forefront legs that have enlarged claws. In addition, their fur does not clump or cake when in contact with wet soil.

A gopher’s whiskers are unusually sensitive, which makes them quite [ invaluable when moving in low light or complete darkness. Interestingly, gophers are adept at moving both forward and backward in their tunnels with “…tails [that] provide important sensory information” that is needed for accurate, efficient movement.

Why Do Gophers Dig Holes?

Gophers build extensive tunnels underground (usually .5 to 1 foot below the top) as this is their habitat or safe space in the world. They typically build 3 to 4 mounds each day by pushing soil to the surface, although this varies by season and the specific gopher species. As the gopher removes soil, it creates a fan-shaped mound atop the ground that can be as high as six inches and as wide as 1.5 feet.

According to Colorado State University –

“One gopher brings about 2.25 … Read the rest of the story.

Lake Turnover: What Is It and Why Does It Happen?

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Imagine that you’re a fisherman who likes to spend his days on the lake. You’ve seen the turnover occur a few times and have been wondering if it’s killed any fish in the area. You’ve also heard that it can have some pretty severe effects on fish populations, so you’d like to learn more about it.

In this article, we’ll discuss what lake turnover is, why it happens, and what its effects are on fish populations.

What is Lake Turnover?

Lake turnover is an important process that happens in all bodies of water. It plays a crucial role in the health of aquatic ecosystems and can have a significant impact on fish populations. According to National Geographic, lake turnover is the process by which a body of water renews itself.

It occurs when the warmer, lighter water at the surface of the lake mixes with the colder, denser water at the bottom. This process is known as convection, and it happens in all lakes on a regular basis.

Why Does Lake Turnover Happen?

Lake turnover happens for a few reasons. The first is that it helps to oxygenate the water. As the warmer, lighter water at the surface mixes with the colder, denser water at the bottom, it brings oxygen down from the surface and circulates it throughout the entire lake.

This is important because it helps to keep the water clean and habitable for aquatic life. Another reason why lake turnover happens is that it helps to regulate the temperature of the water. As the colder, denser water from the bottom of the lake mixes with the warmer, lighter water at the surface, it helps to even out the temperature of the entire body of water.

This is important because it prevents the water from becoming too cold or too warm, which can be harmful to fish and other aquatic life. Finally, lake turnover helps to clean the sediment that has accumulated at the bottom of the lake. As the water mixes, it brings the sediment up from the bottom and circulates it throughout the entire body of … Read the rest of the story.

Are Deer the Only Animals With Antlers?

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There are many animals that have antlers and most people don’t know this because they only think of deer when they hear the word antlers. Antlers are bones that develop and grow on the heads of male animals in certain species, such as moose, caribou, elk, and deer. In this article, we’ll break down what antlers are, how they are used in nature, and we’ll talk about some of the other animals that have antlers as well.

What Are Antlers?

While most people are familiar with deer antlers, few know what they are. The horn-like appendages attached to a male deer’s head serve several purposes: one, to protect males from predators during their vulnerable adolescence; two, to attract females and intimidate other males. While most animal horns contain hair on at least some of their surface, antlers contain no hair whatsoever; they are wholly composed of bone.

You will find antlers only on the heads of members of the Cervidae family. Most male deer lose their antlers each year between late winter and early spring—often just after mating season—and then regrow them during the summer months.

The Main Parts of an Antler

There are six parts of an antler: pedicle, beam, tine, brow tine, point, and palm.

The pedicle is where new growth emerges each year.

The beam is a long bone that comes out of both sides of the pedicle and divides into branches.

Tines are bony spikes that branch off the main antler beam like fingers coming off your hand.

A brow tine comes out perpendicular to the main antler branch at its widest point and helps hold scent glands in place so that bucks can mark their territory with secretions from those glands as they rub their rack on trees during territorial rituals called scraping.

Points are sharp projections at the end of antler beams that serve no purpose other than making buck racks more visually appealing.

Palms or buttons form at the base of antlers and get larger each year until it’s time for them to fall off. They’re also known as pedicles or button bucks because

… Read the rest of the story.

Do Otters Build Dams like Beavers?

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An otter is a sleek, glossy, dense furry aquatic mammal with short legs, webbed feet, and a muscular tail and looks very similar to a beaver and a muskrat; but are they the same? Do otters build dams like beavers?

What’s the Difference Between Otters, Muskrats, and Beavers?

The otter, the muskrat, and the beaver look very similar to each other, and if you are by a pond or a river, you might mistake one for the other. If you can get close enough, there are definite differences between these three similar mammals.

The Otter

The otter’s body is a sleek, streamlined, athletic build designed for swimming and moving quickly. The body shape is the easiest way to tell them apart from the other two mammals. They are entirely fur-covered with a brown, dense, shiny coat covering them to the tip of their muscular tail.

Speaking of tails, their tail is long and fur-covered, very different than the beaver and muskrat. The river otter varies in size, ranging from 38 to 44 inches in length, and will weigh 30 pounds, but can be as little as 10 pounds depending on their region. You can also tell which animal lives there by looking at the area where the mammal is living.

An otter leaves piles of fishbone and scales because they tend to eat in the same place repeatedly. Otters are also very social creatures, and you will hear a barking similar to a dog as they chatter back and forth with each other. The land where the otter lives will have distinct smooth areas on the water banks, which are called “otter slides,” and they help the otter get into the water quickly.

They use these trails so often they cause them to look like slick slides, and the otter slides rapidly into the water – it’s a great escape route from a predator.

The Beaver

The beaver is the largest of the three mammals. They can weigh up to 60 pounds, look much rounder, and are definitely not very athletic looking. They are covered with long fur, and have … Read the rest of the story.

Why Do Beavers Hate Running Water?

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Beavers hate the sound of running water because they think that their dam could be having leaks. If they hear the sound of running water, they work for long hours to locate and repair the leak. This is why beavers go out daily to inspect the dams for leaks or defects.

According to the understanding of beavers, a dam should remain quiet, and the sound of running water indicates structural damage. Beavers are prompt to make any repairs in their dams, and they determine the success of the repairs depending on how quiet the water will be. In this article, I have articulated why beavers hate running water, among other exciting behaviors about these amazing semiaquatic rodents.

What Are Beaver’s Dams?

Also known as beaver impoundments, beaver’s dams are ponds that they create to offer protection from numerous sorts of predators such as wolves and bears. The dams also provide easy access to food in the winter season. These dams are a great modification to the ecosystem, which has led to beavers getting the nickname ecosystem engineers.

I thought that beaver dams looked like a typical heap of sticks from a distance. But getting closer, I noticed the outrageous effort and skill utilized in establishing every structure. The dams are watertight, and they use materials such as mud, sticks, and rocks to ensure that the dam harbors their families and their food.

Beavers are prolific builders and execute most of the work during the night. They are very creative in their construction as they start by diverting the water to reduce the flow pressure. The next step is driving branches and logs in the mud to form a base.

Sticks, barks, rocks, mud, grasses, leaves, and anything else at their disposal are used to reinforce the construction. They drag these materials and carry others with their jaws until the dam has flooded up to the proper depth. Beaver’s jaws are powerful as they can cut a 1.5-centimeter branch in a single bite.

Most of the maintenance work on the dam and lodge is done in the autumn. These dams … Read the rest of the story.