Keeping rabbits can be a great way to introduce kids to the joys of pet ownership. Note though that keeping rabbits as a pet is vastly different from having rabbits in your yard. Allowed loose, wild rabbits can be very destructive in gardens – especially if you happen to be growing crops. Worse, rabbits breed…
Are you planning on renovating your yard but not sure what to do? Adding a backyard pond will give your yard a new and refreshing look. There is something soothing just watching the water moving and listening to the splashing sound coming from the fountain. Add in the beautiful light reflections on the pond in…
When you think of algae, it likely conjures up images of green sludge smothering the surface of garden ponds, or slimy brown tendrils writhing along seashores. In fact, algae are responsible for creating and sustaining life on Earth, provide some of the most dramatic and spectacular natural wonders, and are proving indispensable in the fight…
When we think of ladybugs, we may imagine good-luck symbols, recall early childhood nursery rhymes, or simply smile as we conjure up their bright and cheery appearance. Most of us, however, probably don’t think of cannibals, predators, or attacks on humans. Despite being arguably the most cherished and well-loved of insects, these cute and colourful…
Most of us are familiar with the fruits of the fig tree. Festive favourites since the Middle Ages, soft purple vessels concealing dazzling ruby flesh. But there is more to the fig tree than just its fruit. They are some of the oldest and most ecologically important flora on the planet. They have played vital…
The mockingbird may not provide much of a spectacle to look at, with its dreary plumage and small stature. But beneath their understated and unremarkable exterior lies a truly feisty little bird with plenty of character and lots of talent. For centuries, the mockingbird has been revered, adored (and sometimes scorned!) for its uncanny abilities…
Bees, hornets, and wasps are some of the most feared insects of all. But they are also some of the most important! Hearing that ominous buzz and seeing a flash of yellow and black is often enough to send most of us running in the opposite direction. Knowing how to identify each can help us…
Hippos are undoubtedly some of the most imposing and awe-inspiring members of the animal kingdom. These mighty mammals have inspired fascination and fear in humans since the early Ancient Egyptians when they roamed freely around the Nile Delta. Having evolved over millions of years, and adapted perfectly to their unique semiaquatic lifestyle and environments, today’s…
In the past decade, we have seen an alarming number of species go extinct. This is a clear sign that our planet is in trouble and that we need to do something about it. The reality is that humans are causing mass environmental destruction, leading to the extinction of many animals and plants. In this…
Have you ever thought of getting a salamander as a pet? Don’t you just love looking at them while they move around the yard? If you enjoy watching them, maybe it is time you caught one and keep it in an aquarium. Some may find it weird to have a salamander as a pet since…