Surfers are facing colder water and harsher winter conditions than usual in popular cold-water destinations, including Scotland, Iceland, Norway, Alaska and Canada, which are known for their rugged coastlines and powerful waves. Despite the challenges, including heavy gear, the risk of hypothermia and a lower ability to maintain energy whilst in cold water for extended periods, the biggest and most…
Wildlife officials in Kenya are concerned about a recent outbreak of rabies in hyena populations. The disease has killed at least 17 hyenas and some have bitten other animals and people. The outbreak was first detected in January 2021 in the Maasai Mara National Reserve and has raised fears that the disease could spread to other species and pose a public…
Authorites are taking aggressive action to combat the poaching of gazelles in Africa. Despite not gaining as many headlines as the poaching of elephants or rhinos, gazelles play a key role in African ecosystems and the tourism industry. Gazelle hunting is a traditional practice in some African regions for sustaining livelihoods, but commercial poaching has increased with growing demand for…
Sustainably sourced hardwood offers numerous benefits, including the preservation of forests that help mitigate climate change, supporting local communities, reducing carbon emissions, and promoting sustainable business practices. Using hardwood that has been sustainably sourced can be identified through certification programmes including the Forest Stewardship Council, Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification and the Sustainable Forestry Initiative. While sustainable hardwood…
The Arctic habitat is changing rapidly due to global warming and climate change, leaving iconic polar bears at risk of extinction. Melting sea ice, habitat loss, pollution and climate change are major challenges for the species. Polar bears rely on sea ice to hunt for their prey and find shelter, but as ice cover melts, it becomes increasingly difficult for…
Redwood trees have an intricate root system that is not just responsible for anchoring them into the soil but also for absorbing water and nutrients. Redwood roots can be divided into two main types: the surface roots and the anchoring roots, which are capable of diving down up to 20 feet in the soil. Recent research has uncovered a previously…
Rain is a natural phenomenon that can serve as an ultimate mood booster. The sound of rain helps reduce negative emotions while increasing positive emotions. The smell of rain increases serotonin levels, which regulate mood, and can promote happiness and calmness. Cool temperatures during rain can help reduce tension and promote relaxation and cooperation. Research indicates that rain brings several…
Rainforest destruction has led to an increase in animal-borne infectious diseases, as human activities lead to closer contact between humans and wild animals, and the stress and migration of animals weakens their immune systems. Examples of diseases include Ebola, Malaria and Lyme Disease. Rainforests provide habitats for nearly 50% of the world’s species of animals, many of which can be…
Experts are warning against keeping hedgehogs as pets. Despite their cute and curious nature, hedgehogs are not suitable pets for several reasons including being illegal in some places, not domesticated animals, requiring specialized care and being a health risk because they can carry diseases that can be transmitted to humans. If you already have a hedgehog as a pet, it’s…
A small community in Ohio is experiencing a skunk infestation, causing residents to express their concerns on social media. Skunks are attracted to food and shelter and prefer dark, safe places to make their dens. To prevent an infestation, residents should secure their trash cans, remove any fallen fruits or vegetables, seal any cracks or holes in their foundation, and…