Archive for May, 2010

  • Stunning Saltwater Crocodiles

    Posted in Wildlife A-Z | May 5, 2010
    Saltwater crocodiles are the largest living crocodile species on the planet. They are also known as estuarine crocodiles. Saltwater crocodiles are famous as they are said to eat humans. Male crocodiles grow to an average size of 17 feet. They weigh nearly 1000 pounds. Some crocodiles grow up to 23 feet and are know to weigh nearly 2200 pounds. Saltwater crocs are affectionately referred to as ‘salties’ by the Australians. Their striking range is enormous. They inhabit the brackish and freshwater areas of eastern India, Southeast Asia, and northern Australia. They are exceptional swimmers and are often spotted far into the sea. Saltwater crocodiles are opportunistic predators. They hide with a lot of patience below the surface of water along  [...]
  • Amazing Jackrabbit

    Posted in Wildlife A-Z | May 3, 2010
    In reality, jackrabbits are hares and not rabbits. Hares tend to be larger than rabbits. They have taller hind legs and longer ears. Jackrabbits derived their name due to their ears. Earlier, some individuals used to refer to them as ‘jackass rabbits’. Mark Twain, the famous writer, made the name famous by using it in his book on western adventure named Roughing It. The name was then shortened to jackrabbit. Jackrabbits have five species. All five species are found in central and western America. Jackrabbits are very fast and can attain a speed of 40 miles per hour. They use their hind legs to propel them for more than 10 feet during leaps. They evade their predators by their high leaps and a zigzag running style. Black-tailed jackrabbits  [...]
  • Majestic Emperor Penguins

    Posted in Wildlife A-Z | May 1, 2010
    Emperor penguins are the largest species of penguins. The average height of the bird is 45 inches. These flightless birds reside on the Antarctic ice and the cold surrounding waters. Penguins indulge in physiological adaptations to tackle the extremely harsh climate. The wind chills can touch -76 degree Fahrenheit. Their behavior is also very cooperative. To escape the wind and spread warmth, they huddle together. Individual penguins take turns as they move toward the group’s protected interior. After a penguin has been warmed to a certain degree, it moves to the group’s perimeter. This ensures that others, too, can get protection from the biting cold. These penguins spend the winter on ice. They also breed during this season. Female penguins  [...]