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Category: Wildlife

Wildlife

  • great cormorant eats the whole fish instantly

    The Instant Gulp: How the Great Cormorant Swallows a Fish Whole in the Blink of an Eye

    Picture the scene: a dark, almost prehistoric silhouette perched on a half-submerged log. Its long, serpentine neck is held still, its sharp, hooked beak pointed towards the water. This is the Great Cormorant, a master angler of the avian world. For long stretches, it is a creature of immense patience. Then, in a flash, it disappears beneath the surface with barely a ripple.

    When it re-emerges moments later, a flash of silver struggles in its beak. But the struggle is brief. With a deft flick of its head, the cormorant expertly flips the fish into the air, catching it head-first. Its neck tilts back, a muscular ripple contracts down its throat, and in a single, stunning motion, the entire fish vanishes. There is no chewing, no tearing, just one incredible, instantaneous gulp.

    How is this seemingly impossible feat accomplished? Witnessing a cormorant swallow a fish that looks far too large for its slender neck is to witness a masterpiece of evolutionary engineering.

    A Feat of Biological Engineering

    The cormorant’s ability to eat its meal instantly is not magic, but a collection of remarkable anatomical adaptations.

    1. The Hooked Beak: The process begins with the beak. The tip of a cormorant’s beak is sharply hooked, giving it a secure, vice-like grip on its slippery prey. This ensures the fish cannot escape during the crucial moments before the swallow.
    2. The Head-First Rule: The cormorant’s signature move—flipping the fish to swallow it head-first—is a matter of life and death. Fish have scales, fins, and gills that all point backward, toward the tail. Swallowing a fish tail-first would be like trying to push a brush against the bristles; the fins and scales would catch in the bird’s throat, potentially causing it to choke. By swallowing it head-first, the fish slides down smoothly, its fins and scales lying flat.
    3. The Gular Pouch and Elastic Esophagus: Here’s where the real magic happens. The bare, often colorful patch of skin on a cormorant’s throat is called a gular pouch. This skin is incredibly distensible. Paired with a highly flexible esophagus and the absence of a rigid wishbone structure found in many other birds, the cormorant’s throat can expand to an astonishing degree. As the bird swallows, its neck widens dramatically, accommodating the entire body of the fish as powerful muscles pull it down into the stomach.

    A Hunter Built for Efficiency

    This entire system is built for one purpose: efficiency. As pursuit predators, cormorants expend significant energy chasing fish underwater. They are powerful swimmers, using their large, webbed feet for propulsion. Once a catch is made, they can’t afford to spend precious time and energy on the surface tearing it apart, which would also make them vulnerable to theft from gulls or other predators.

    The “instant gulp” method allows the cormorant to secure its meal quickly and get back to hunting or find a safe place to perch and digest.

    The Iconic Pose

    After a successful fishing session, you will often see a cormorant standing on a rock, buoy, or branch with its wings spread wide, like a heraldic crest. This isn’t an act of vanity. Unlike ducks, cormorants have less preen oil on their feathers. This partial wettability is thought to reduce their buoyancy, making it easier for them to dive and hunt underwater. The trade-off is that they must spend time in the sun and wind to dry their wings before they can fly effectively again.

    So, the next time you are near a lake, river, or coastline and spot that sleek, dark bird, watch closely. You might just witness one of nature’s most efficient and dramatic performances. You’re not just watching a bird eat; you’re witnessing a masterclass in survival, a perfectly executed, instantaneous gulp that has been millions of years in the making.

     

  • Angry Hippo Tries Fighting Off 7 Lions

    “I visit the park at least three times a year. For this trip, I was with my mate Bruce, another enthusiast. We love Kruger, but like so many others, we always seem to miss the big sightings, so what happened here was a big surprise!”

    “The day was going well! This was our third lion sighting, but you can never have too many of those, so we stuck around with the pride that was on the Lower Sabie Riverbed. Things became interesting when a hippo appeared, and it came from almost nowhere.”

    Just a moment after Barry noticed the hippo, it was already trotting toward the lions to chase them off. “The first two lions didn’t take any chances and quickly scattered! But not the rest! No, the other lions decided to challenge, and you can see the chaos unfolding in the video.”

    A fully grown hippo is a daunting challenge for any predator, even lions! But the wild is unpredictable, and lions must take what comes their way. That couldn’t have been truer for these 5 lionesses who tried turning a threat into an opportunity.

    Their tactics were incredible! After quickly assessing the best option, one of the lionesses distracted the hippo while the rest surrounded it, almost like it was scripted. And it happened so quickly!

    When the hippo noticed how it had been outplayed, it started to panic, and that’s when the real chaos began! You can see the desperation as it ran around in circles with its mouth wide open, just trying to grab a lion!

    The lions were calm and calculated, so the more panicked it was, the worse it became for the hippo. Eventually, the hippo couldn’t keep up with the lions and their movements, and the lions came closer and closer to jumping on it.

    It wasn’t long before the hippo was overwhelmed. Its only grace was the river being just meters away, but challenging lions was definitely not the best idea it ever had! This time, the hippo managed to sneak away with only a few lessons.

    “We could hardly believe our eyes as we watched everything unfold. One or two other motorists passed by, shaking their heads in disbelief. Bruce and I were playing a game we devised, giving us points for predicting various sightings or events and losing points for incorrect predictions. This was the first time I predicted an attempted takedown by a cat. Even though it wasn’t technically a hunt, I was super excited to see it unfold, hence the commentary on the video.”

  • A cyclist was injured after getting distracted and being involved in an accident

    A cyclist was injured after getting distracted and being involved in an accident on Thursday (19) in Caraguatatuba (SP). With his head down, the man hit the back of a parked truck.

    The accident was recorded by the security cameras of Bonfim Filho’s house, who was startled when he heard the impact noise.

    “A fear of the noise He called his son and they went to the hospital,” the resident said.

    For the details you can check g1.com.br/vanguarda

  • Lion Destroys Hyenas Distracted by Eating a Hippo

    Jordan Nell, a safari guide, was on a drive in the northern part of Sabi Sands when he came across this insane lion-hyena-hippo sighting.

    “These two male lions are known as the Mantimahle males, descendants of the mighty Mapogos. We found them crossing from the Manyeleti Game Reserve in the northern Sabi Sands (Buffelshoek).”
    “After losing visual we tracked them and tried to loop around to get ahead of them. That’s when we actually stumbled upon the hyenas feeding on the hippo, just by chance!”

    Hyenas don’t normally take down hippos and tend to stick to scavenging for food. It’s likely this hippo was already dead or killed by a different predator. However, a large enough clan of hyenas might be able to attack a weak hippo.

    But, Jordan and his guests weren’t the only ones to find the hyenas…
    The smell must have attracted the two big lions, and the hyenas were so focused on eating that they didn’t even notice before it was too late!

    “The lions didn’t think twice before charging in and grabbing two of the hyenas! It was a show of pure brute strength!”

    Hyenas and lions are natural competitors, so lions will take any chance they get to remove their rivals from the equation. Male lions are significantly stronger than hyenas and can easily take one out.

    After the hyenas were successfully taken care of, the lions relished their claimed hippo feast.

  • Rare deep-sea fish known as the black sea devil captured on camera

    The Black Sea Devil: Captured on Camera for the First Time

    In a groundbreaking discovery, marine biologists have captured stunning footage of a rare deep-sea fish known as the black sea devil, officially named Melanocetus johnsonii. This elusive creature, which dwells in the darkest depths of the ocean, has long remained a mystery to scientists. However, thanks to cutting-edge technology and the tireless efforts of researchers, we now have a rare glimpse into the life of this fascinating creature.

    The black sea devil, a member of the anglerfish family, is characterized by its menacing appearance and bioluminescent lure. With a body length of up to 18 cm, it is one of the largest members of the anglerfish family. Its body is jet black, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the darkness of the deep sea. Its most distinctive feature is a long, thin appendage that extends from its head, adorned with a glowing lure. This bioluminescent lure is used to attract prey in the pitch-black abyss of the ocean floor.

    Despite its fearsome appearance, the black sea devil is not known to pose a threat to humans. In fact, it is believed that this fish feeds primarily on small crustaceans and other fish that are lured in by the glowing lure. Due to the extreme depths at which it lives, the black sea devil has adapted to survive in an environment with intense pressure and cold temperatures. Its unique physiology allows it to withstand the harsh conditions of the deep sea, making it one of the most fascinating creatures on Earth.

    Capturing footage of the black sea devil has been a long-standing goal for marine biologists, as it has remained one of the most elusive creatures in the ocean. The recent footage was captured using a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) equipped with high-resolution cameras, which was able to descend to depths of up to 2,000 meters. This cutting-edge technology has allowed researchers to explore the deep sea like never before, providing invaluable insights into the lives of the creatures that inhabit this mysterious realm.

    The discovery of the black sea devil on camera has generated significant excitement within the scientific community, as it offers a rare glimpse into the life of this elusive creature. It also serves as a reminder of the vast and largely unexplored world that lies beneath the surface of our oceans. As we continue to explore and learn more about the deep sea, we can only imagine the other fascinating creatures that await discovery.

    In conclusion, the capture of the black sea devil on camera is a testament to the incredible advancements being made in marine biology and deep-sea exploration. This groundbreaking footage not only provides valuable insights into the life of this fascinating creature but also serves as a reminder of the importance of protecting our oceans and the myriad of life forms that call them home. As we continue to delve deeper into the mysteries of the deep sea, who knows what other incredible discoveries await us?

     

  • Walking on stilts Omo Valley Banna Tribe boys.

  • In school today we learned WWE moves from cats

  • Miss Margaret spiders.

  • Baby Elephant Is So Brave With Her Rescuers

    A Tiny Trunk, A Giant Heart: The Incredible Bravery of a Rescued Baby Elephant

    In the wild, vulnerability is a constant threat, especially for the very young. So when a baby elephant is found alone, separated from the protective circle of her herd, the story is usually one of fear and panic. But every so often, a tale emerges that replaces fear with astonishing courage, reminding us of the profound resilience of nature. This is the story of one such little elephant, whose bravery in the face of uncertainty is melting hearts around the world.

    The calf, estimated to be just a few months old, was discovered by rangers on a routine patrol in a vast conservation area. She was distressed, dehydrated, and heartbreakingly alone, her small frame a fragile silhouette against the immense landscape. Her herd was nowhere in sight, likely forced to move on in search of water, leaving their youngest member behind in a tragic twist of fate.

    For the rescue team from the local wildlife trust, this was a familiar and delicate scenario. A frightened baby elephant can be unpredictable and difficult to approach. They prepared for a long, patient process, expecting to be met with fear and defensive charges born of sheer terror.

    What they encountered instead was nothing short of remarkable.

    As the team slowly and cautiously approached, the tiny elephant stopped her frantic pacing. She watched them with large, intelligent eyes, her ears fanned out in a gesture of curiosity rather than aggression. She held her ground, not out of defiance, but with a palpable sense of weary resolve.

    “In my 20 years of wildlife rescue, I have rarely seen anything like it,” said lead rescuer Ben Carter. “Normally, a calf this young would either run or mock-charge. She just… watched us. It was as if she understood we were there to help.”

    Her first act of bravery was allowing them to get close. Her next was accepting their offering. One of the rescuers held out a bottle of rehydrating solution. With a gentle hesitation, the baby elephant extended her small, clumsy trunk, touched the bottle, and then began to drink greedily. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated trust.

    The team knew the clock was ticking. They needed to transport her to the safety of a dedicated elephant orphanage. Throughout the process—being gently guided onto a rescue vehicle and comforted during the journey—the little calf remained incredibly calm. She leaned against the soft blankets provided for her, occasionally letting out a low rumble, a sound of tentative contentment rather than distress. The rescuers spoke to her in soft, reassuring tones, and she seemed to listen, absorbing their kindness.

    “Her bravery wasn’t about being fierce; it was about her willingness to be vulnerable with us,” Carter explained. “She made a choice to trust strangers in her most desperate hour. That takes a kind of courage that is simply awe-inspiring.”

    Now safe at the sanctuary, the brave little elephant has been given a name: “Asha,” meaning ‘hope.’ She is receiving round-the-clock care, bonding with her human keepers and slowly being introduced to other orphaned elephants who will become her new family. She is already showing a playful and inquisitive personality, chasing birds and learning how to use her trunk to pick up branches.

    Asha’s story is a powerful testament not only to the incredible spirit of these majestic animals but also to the vital work of conservationists. Her quiet courage in the face of adversity has become a symbol of hope—a reminder that even in the most dire circumstances, a helping hand can make all the difference, and that sometimes, the biggest hearts come in the smallest packages.

  • Giraffe Kicks Lions To Defend Itself

    The Gentle Giant’s Fury: Giraffe’s Devastating Kicks Thwart Lion Pride Attack

    In a stunning display of defensive power, a lone giraffe proves why it’s one of the most respected—and dangerous—animals on the African savanna.

    The African savanna is a stage for a constant, unscripted drama of life and death. Lions, with their coordinated hunting strategies and raw power, are often cast as the undisputed rulers. But a dramatic encounter, recently captured by a fortunate safari group, serves as a powerful reminder that even the “King of the Beasts” can be humbled by the surprising fury of its intended prey.

    The scene began as a classic ambush. On the dusty, sun-baked plains, a lone bull giraffe was calmly stripping leaves from a tall acacia tree, its towering frame a seemingly easy target against the horizon. Unseen by the giraffe, a pride of lions had been stalking it, using the tall grass and scrub for cover. With the silent coordination that makes them such formidable predators, they began to close in.

    The attack was swift. One lioness burst from cover, launching herself towards the giraffe’s hind legs, aiming to hamstring the giant and bring it down. Almost simultaneously, two others emerged, attempting to distract and surround their quarry. For a moment, it looked as though the giraffe, outnumbered and caught by surprise, was doomed.

    But what happened next was a breathtaking display of pure, defensive power.

    Panic gave way to instinct. Instead of attempting to flee, which would have exposed its vulnerable flanks, the giraffe stood its ground. In a movement that was both graceful and terrifyingly violent, it swung one of its long, stilt-like legs forward and then back with incredible force. The kick was not just a simple strike; it was a lethal pendulum, a five-foot lever of bone and muscle tipped with a hard, heavy hoof.

    The first lioness took the full impact. The blow connected with a sickening thud that echoed across the plains, sending the predator tumbling head over heels through the dust. A second kick, delivered with lightning speed, caught another approaching lion square in the chest, knocking the wind out of it and sending it yelping in retreat.

    The lions, accustomed to their prey either running or quickly succumbing, were completely thrown off balance. Their coordinated attack dissolved into chaos. They circled warily, their low growls now mixed with confusion and pain. The giraffe, now fully alert, pivoted on its powerful legs, its enormous eyes watching every move, ready to unleash another bone-shattering kick.

    “People often underestimate the giraffe,” explains wildlife biologist Dr. Anja Fischer. “We see them as gentle, passive herbivores. But that’s a dangerous misconception. A giraffe’s kick is one of the most powerful and effective defensive weapons in the entire animal kingdom. It can easily crush a lion’s skull or shatter its spine with a single, well-placed blow. Lions know this, and an experienced pride will often hesitate to attack a healthy adult giraffe unless they are truly desperate.”

    After a few tense moments, the lions made their decision. The cost of this meal was too high. The injured lioness limped away, and the rest of the pride followed, melting back into the savanna, their hunt a failure.

    The giraffe remained still for a few minutes, its massive chest heaving. Then, with a calm that defied the life-or-death struggle it had just won, it turned and majestically walked away, leaving no doubt as to who had won this particular battle. The encounter stands as a stark and thrilling lesson: in the wild, there are no easy victims, and the gentle giant of the savanna walks tall with a warrior’s spirit and a kick that even kings must fear.