13 Facts Most People Don't Know About The Coconut Crab, The Biggest Arthropod

Although most people don't think about crabs as bone crushing, kitten-eating, mastadons of the tropics, most people have never met this terrestrial hermit crab. About the size of a small dog, the coconut crab - otherwise known as the robber crab or palm thief - is the biggest arthropod in the world, often weighing up to nine pounds. These nightmare crabs look more like an alien from outer space than a species of Earth, and their look isn't the only crazy thing about them.

There are plenty of creepy coconut crab facts. These guys can use their four-foot long legs to scuttle quickly from place to place; burrow into dark holes in the ground; and even climb soaring coconut trees. Sometimes known to take down a small mammal, the coconut crab is a true marvel of nature and one that continues to frighten and titillate anyone nearby. But while some believe they are harmless beach combers, others have suspected them of much greater crimes. If you love crabs that are scary, look no further than the coconut crab.

Life is good for the coconut crab. Found on tropical islands around the Indian Ocean and parts of the Pacific, these terrestrial critters can live anywhere from 30 to 60 years. Their days consists of napping in shady corners, looking for shiny object, and of course, finding coconuts to eat, which is their favorite food. They are the world's largest arthropods, a phylum of joint-legged creatures that also includes spiders, crustaceans, and other insects. Although the Japanese spider crab is technically larger, it lives underwater where it's weight is supported.

To read more on this story, click here: 13 Facts Most People Don't Know About The Coconut Crab, The Biggest Arthropod

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There is a Lizard Sex Satellite Floating in Space, and Russia No Longer Has it Under Control

At this very moment, a Russian satellite full of geckos -- (possibly) having sex -- is floating around in space -- and mission control has lost the ability to control it.

The Foton-M4 research satellite launched on July 19 with five geckos on board. The plan: To observe their mating activities in the zero-gravity conditions of Earth orbit. Several other earthly creatures, including plants and insects, were also placed on board for experiments.

But shortly after the satellite made its first few orbits, it stopped responding to commands from mission control. The equipment on board, however, is still sending scientific data back to earth, a spokesman for Russia's Institute of Biomedical Problems said.

"The biological experiments started as soon as the satellite was launched," Institute press secretary Oleg Voloshin told RIA Novosti on Thursday. "The scientific equipment used for the experiments operates properly. We receive the telemetry data from the spacecraft and analyze it. … The current tasks have so far been fulfilled."

Teams of experts are working to reestablish a connection to the satellite, according to the company that built Foton-M.

"Specialists of the main mission control group are currently working to establish sustainable contact with the satellite and implement the planned program for the flight," the Progress company said on its Web site, according to Interfax.

In the meantime, those lizards are being left more or less alone, to do as nature intended for the rest of the 60 days mission.


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8 Species of Birds Have Possibly Gone Extinct Over Past Few Decades

A new study has found that eight species of birds are likely to have completely disappeared in the past couple of decades.

Researchers recommend that three species currently listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List be reclassified as extinct, while one be treated as extinct in the wild.

Four more bird species are dangerously close to extinction, if not already there, and should be re-classified as critically endangered (possibly extinct), researchers say.

Eight species of birds may have completely disappeared over the past couple of decades, a new study has found. Among these is the Spix’s macaw (Cyanopsitta spixii), a bird that inspired the character of Blu in the 2011 animated film Rio. Found only in Brazil, the bird has not seen in the wild since 2000.

Like the Spix’s macaw, several other bird species are believed to have become extinct in recent years. To pinpoint the ones that may already be gone, researchers from BirdLife International, a global partnership of conservation organizations focusing on bird conservation, looked at 51 species of birds with a “reasonable possibility of being extinct.” These are species that have either not been seen in the wild for more than 10 years despite exhaustive surveys, or species that have been seen within the last 10 years, but whose tiny population has suffered well-documented decline.

To read more on this story, click here: 8 Species of Birds Have Possibly Gone Extinct Over Past Few Decades

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Cat Film Festival Organizer Combs Through Nearly 20,000 Videos to Find the Purr-fect Picks

The Internet is brimming with cat videos, but only the best will make the cut at CatVideoFest Opens a New Window. .

Will Braden is the organizer of the event, and he watches nearly 20,000 cat videos for each year’s installment of the annual kitty-themed film festival.

“We have a submission form on our website, so we get thousands and thousands that way. But as you can imagine, not all of them are solid gold,” he tells the Chicago Tribune Opens a New Window. . “Reddit is another good resource, there are so many subreddits about cats. And beyond that, learning how to type ‘funny cat’ and other search terms in other languages is another good way to find videos.”

To read more on this story, click here: Cat Film Festival Organizer Combs Through Nearly 20,000 Videos to Find the Purr-fect Picks



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ALERT: If You Purchased a Horse in Weld County, a Horse Tested Positive for EIA

WELD COUNTY, Colo. (The CO Dept. of Agriculture) - The Colorado Department of Agriculture’s State Veterinarian’s Office is continuing their investigation into a Weld County horse that tested positive for Equine Infectious Anemia (EIA) in late August. With the help of records from CDA’s Brands Division and Rocky Mountain Regional Animal Health Laboratory, the State Veterinarian’s Office has determined that approximately 240 horses have been on the quarantined premises during the same time as the index positive animal. Approximately 100 of these horses were sent to 20 other states across the country and steps are being taken to locate, quarantine, and re-test those horses. At this time, no other horses have tested positive for EIA.

“We are working to locate approximately 140 horses that went to different premises across Colorado. We are asking horse owners to contact us if they purchased horses in Weld County between July 18 to August 20, 2018,” said State Veterinarian, Dr. Keith Roehr. “We will work with owners to see if their horses came from the quarantined property. This is an important step in the disease investigation.”

So far, the investigation has resulted in:

The index premises in Weld County is under a quarantine order; two associated premises are also under hold orders. There is no cure or treatment for EIA. Therefore, horse that tested positive in the index case has been euthanized.

Fifteen premises are under hold orders in nine Colorado counties: Adams, Arapahoe, Crowley, Delta, Douglas, El Paso, Mesa, Montrose, and Weld.

Thirty-seven exposed horses have been located in Colorado.

To read more on this story, click here: ALERT: If You Purchased a Horse in Weld County, a Horse Tested Positive for EIA


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Why Do Pet Cats Attack Their Owners?

The danger of pet cats?
Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world and are savagely beloved by millions, although the dangers present from their razor sharp claws and teeth, such as serious infection, are largely not taken seriously. But how much of a threat do they really pose to human health? Have domesticated cats ever killed a person?

In this article...
Can cats cause human fatalities or severe injury?
Overlooked dangers of pet and feral cats
Why might a cat become aggressive?
A list of reported cat attacks and aggression, plus video
Human fatalities

Cats are too small to kill a human by force with the exception of human babies, although there are no reported cat-related deaths involving infants in recent U.S. history. Domesticated cats are also the subjects of various folklore, including the old wives tale that they can suck the breath from an infant, which might lead some people to believe that they are dangerous with small children.

However, cats typically have little incentive to attack a helpless child. They are predators of small animals like mice and birds, and have territorial tendencies directed towards competing animals and predators, therefore babies are relatively safe. The recipients of reported cat attacks have largely been adults, although aggression toward infants has occurred. You won't find statistics about cat bite incidences like you will dogs and exotic pets, because people don't really care.

To read more on this story, click here: Why Do Pet Cats Attack Their Owners?

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Service Dog Patiently Guides Blind Dog Down Steep Stairs

This Cocker Spaniel, named Kimchi, is the only blind dog in the Philippines with his own guide dog!

Kimchi, now estimated to be between 10 and 12 years old, was found abandoned in the streets by CARA Welfare Philippines. He was thin, mangy, weak, with flea-infested matted fur, and already blind. He was later adopted by a family with a Golden Retriever mix called Ginger, who is now almost 13 years old. Since then, a very special bond has developed between the two.

In the clip, captured on August 26 in Quezon City, Ginger can be seen patiently leading Kimchi as they go down the steep stairs, and out of a hotel.

He walked one step once then he stopped to wait for Kimchi. He was so caring and wise dog.

The two dogs are so attached to each other. They walk along the beach, across the street, go to shopping malls...

To read more on this story, click here: Service Dog Patiently Guides Blind Dog Down Steep Stairs


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Man Builds Motorized Horse

This is a video highlighting Steve Bacque (aka the Crazy Cranford Cowboy), a former Texas rodeo cowboy who married a lady from New Jersey, moved there, and had no place to keep a horse in the area. So what did he do? Built a reigns-controlled one powered by an electric golf cart motor and named it Charger. Man, sometimes I wish I was a crazy person.

Charger can do up to 40 miles per hour (though he has a governor to rein him in to about 15 miles per hour) and can handle up to 600 pounds. Charger even has a wheelie bar in the back, which is "not just for show," Bacque warns. Yes, this motorized horse can pop a (small) wheelie.

Charger turns left and right with the reins and even brakes when you pull back on them. A key turns him on, and a gas pedal sets him in motion.


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How Much Do Dogs Really Remember?

If you live with a dog you may think they have a pretty good memories. After all, a dog who’s been through obedience training remembers commands and hand signals. And they always know which fences are the most fun to bark at and which shops will give them treats when they’re out for a walk.

But do dog memories work the same way as human memories? The answer is no, not really, but sometimes. Read on to learn how your dog’s memory works, and find links to research and more info.

When you think about going for a walk, you probably remember specific walks you’ve taken in the past. You may reflect in your mind’s eye on a particular path, or recall the time it rained while you were out for a stroll. Dogs don’t really think that way— research shows, in fact, that they have very little direct recall.

Instead, dogs have associative memory. Dogs remember people, places, and experiences based on associations they have with them. For example, they may “remember” walks because of their association with your walking shoes and get excited when they see you putting those shoes on.

To read more on this story, click here: How Much Do Dogs Really Remember?
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National Park Service Researchers Discovered a Litter of Four Mountain Lion Kittens: Possibly Products of Inbreeding

Thousand Oaks, California - National Park Service researchers discovered a litter of four mountain lion kittens, but they are suspected to be products of inbreeding.

Two boys and two girls were found in a remote area of the Santa Monica Mountains. They are now P-70, P-71, P-72 and P-73.

It is the fourth litter of kittens for mother P-19. Researchers believe she mated with P-56, a 3-year-old male who is also her grandson. P-56 is also a product of inbreeding, as his mother mated with P-12, who is his father and grandfather.

Genetic testing is required to confirm the paternity for P-56, but researchers found that two mountain lions spent about 90 days together before the birth of a kitten and that's the gestation period for mountain lions.

National Park Service biologists took tissue samples, conducted a general health check and marked the kittens with ear tags.

Researchers have studied P-19 since she was four weeks old, and she is now 8 years old. Of the seven kittens from her previous litters, four died, two were never given GPS collars and one is confirmed to be alive.

Various entities, including Caltrans, are working on a plan to build a wildlife crossing bridge over the 101 Freeway in the Liberty Canyon area.


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Meet Moony Strangecat a Unique Cat Because She Has a Hormonal Condition Known as Hypertrichosis

Her name is Moony Strangecat, and with one look you will understand why she has that name. The reality is that Moony is a rather unique cat because she has a hormonal condition known as hypertrichosis.

So, her fur grown rather uncontrollably and it gives her that signature “strange” look.

Hypertrichosis is also referred to as “werewolf syndrome, ” and it means that her coat does require a lot of care and maintenance.

If she isn’t groomed regularly, her hair will become matted and dirty.

We all know that cats spend a lot of time grooming themselves, but Moony Strangecat needs help with all her fur! There is no way a cat can take care of all of that fluff!

Moony is a regular cat despite her long fur, she likes to frolic, sit in the sun, nap, and head pets. Being outdoors is one of her top three activities!

Happily, Moony has a groomer that she has been going to since she was a kitten, so she is in good, capable hands.

Moony’s looks may scare people or think that a creature has escaped from Hogwarts – but, she is just a loving cat – a true one-of-a-kind!

In fact, Moony is one of only two cats to have ever been diagnosed with hypertrichosis.

The other cat is Atchoum. 

If you have found yourself enthralled and want to see more of Moony, head on over to her Facebook page and follow her! The page is regularly updated with funny and cute images.

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Did You Know that Some of the Largest Dog Breeds Include the Great Dane, Saint Bernard and Mastiff? Take a Look at These Other Giant-Size Dogs!

People have been intrigued by giant-size dogs, keeping them to guard family, flocks and property and to hunt big game. They have also relied on four-legged giants to perform tasks that required size and strength, such as pulling carts with heavy loads.

Giant breeds often possess tender, loving temperaments, but before you get one, remember to factor in the costs associated with keeping one. In terms of food, veterinary bills and space, the costs can be gigantic.





Scottish Deerhound dog breed
This giant breed strode into the world’s view when GCh. Foxcliffe Hickory Wind ran away with the top dog title at the 2011 Westminster Kennel Club show. The lithe and lanky Scottish Deerhound, once bred to bring down stags in the Scottish highlands, is 28 to 32 inches tall, sometimes more, and weighs 75 to 110 pounds.






Irish Woofhound
The Irish Wolfhound, which is now more often found as family companion than bane of wolf pack, is described as having "great size and commanding appearance." He is the tallest of dogs, but not the heaviest. When full grown, a male Irish Wolfhound looms over other dogs, standing at least 32 inches tall and weighing 120 pounds. Females are a minimum of 30 inches and 105 pounds.





Mastiff
It’s possible that this breed’s name comes from the Latin word massivus, meaning massive. It’s certainly an appropriate description for a dog with a minimum height of 30 inches at the shoulder for males and 27.5 inches for females. Mastiffs have a weight range of 120 to 200 pounds or more.







Great Dane
Because of his majestic appearance, the Great Dane is sometimes nicknamed “king of dogs.” His size belies his gentle nature, but beware of his thwacking tail, which can clear a coffee table in seconds or knock the unwary off their feet. Possibly created by blending the Irish Wolfhound and the Mastiff, the Great Dane was originally used to hunt boar and guard estates, but these days, he’s a family dog. Male Great Danes stand at least 30 inches tall and weigh a minimum of 120 pounds. Females are at least 28 inches tall and weigh a minimum of 100 pounds.




Neapolitan  Mastiff
You wouldn’t want to run into the Neo, as he’s nicknamed, in a dark alley. His wrinkled, scowling face, plastered onto a massive head, and his massive body are enough to give any evildoer second thoughts — fast! Neapolitan Mastiffs range in height from 24 to 31 inches and weigh 110 to 150 pounds or more.

Saint Bernard
The Saint’s large size and thick coat helped him to rescue stranded travelers in the snowy Alps and take them to the Saint Bernard hostelry where they could be cared for. Now he spends his days snuggling with family members and keeping their hearts warm. Saint Bernards stand 25.5 to 27.5 inches tall and weigh 130 to 180 pounds.







Black Russian Terrier
Created in the erstwhile Soviet Union during the height of the Cold War to be a guard dog, the Black Russian Terrier has moved from military to civilian life as a welcomed family companion and guardian. Breeds used in its creation include the Airedale, the Giant Schnauzer, the Rottweiler, the Newfoundland and the Caucasian Ovtcharka. Males stand 27 to 30 inches tall and weigh 110 to 132 pounds. Females are 26 to 29 inches tall and weigh 100 to 110 pounds.





Leonberger
At least three big breeds went into the creation of the Leonberger: the Newfoundland, the Saint Bernard and the Great Pyrenees. No one really knows the “canine recipe” used by Heinrich Essig, but the result was a dog who at maturity stands 28 to 31.5 inches and weighs 120 to 170 pounds. Females are 25.5 to 29.5 inches tall and weigh 100 to 135 pounds.







Newfoundland
The water-loving Newfoundland originally hauled in nets for fishermen, which often required swimming long distances, pulling heavy loads, and rescuing people at risk of drowning. Among his distinctive characteristics are a massive head, webbed feet and a water-resistant double coat. Males have an average height of 28 inches and weigh 130 to 150 pounds. Females average 26 inches and 100 to 120 pounds.





Great Pyrenees

A flock guardian of French origin, the Great Pyrenees is distinguished by a thick, beautiful white coat. The breed once guarded the king of France and is still territorial in defense of family and property. Males stand 27 inches to 32 inches tall and weigh 100 to 140 pounds. Females are 25 inches to 29 inches tall and weigh 85 to 110 pounds.






Anatolian Shepherd
This Turkish flock-guarding dog warned off wolves and other predators and still works in that capacity today. He’s also a fine family protector in the right home. Anatolian Shepherd males stand 29 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 110 to 150 pounds. Females are 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 80 to 120 pounds.







Tibetan Mastiff
The Tibetan Mastiff impresses with his size, which is accentuated by his broad head and thick coat and mane. He is a family and property guardian who is aloof toward and watchful of strangers. Tibetan Mastiff males are 26 to 29 inches tall and usually weigh 100 to 140 pounds. Females are 24 to 27 inches and usually weigh 85 to 120 pounds. Tibetan Mastiffs are slow-growing and may not reach their full size until they are 3 to 5 years old.





Kuvasz
The Hungarian cousin of the Great Pyrenees, the Kuvasz also has a history as a flock guardian. The white-coated breed is thought to have originated in Turkey but was brought to Hungary with Ottoman invaders. The Kuvasz male stands 28 to 30 inches at the shoulder and weighs 100 to 115 pounds. Females are 26 to 28 inches and weigh 70 to 90 pounds.


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Can Dogs Feel When You Cut Their Whiskers?

A dog's whiskers make up an important part of their appearance, giving our pooches the unique look we know and love. However, you may be surprised to learn that your dog's whiskers aren't just any old facial hair. In fact, they actually have special powers to help your pet explore and understand the world around them.

 If you're wondering whether your dog will feel pain if you cut their whiskers, for example during grooming, the answer is no. But because they're linked to a wide range of nerves and blood vessels, whiskers are much more sensitive to being plucked, and unless there's any medical reason for them to be removed, they should be left intact. 

Signs of Whisker Pain Canine whiskers stick out from the side of the muzzle, jaw, and above the eyes. Depending on the breed, they might feature quite prominently on your dog's face or be lost in a sea of bushy fur, and you may notice that they're usually some of the first hairs to develop in young pups. However, one thing that all dogs do have in common is that their whiskers perform an important role. 

In fact, dog whiskers technically aren't whiskers at all but are actually known as vibrissae. Your dog relies on these highly sensitive tools to gather and analyze information about the world around them, which means you need to treat them a little differently to ordinary hairs. While whiskers can be cut and trimmed without causing any pain for your pooch, pulling, twisting or plucking them will definitely cause your dog grief. Of course, the way a dog reacts to this pain will vary depending on the animal involved and the level of discomfort. Some dogs will yelp, growl, or whine, and all will try to pull away as quickly as possible. Others may paw at their face to let you know that all is not right. 

To read more on this story, click here: Can Dogs Feel When You Cut Their Whiskers?


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Three Good Reasons to Never Trim your Cat's Whiskers

Long, short, wondrous, colorful, adorable, wispy and wiry. These are all words used to describe whiskers. Yes whiskers, special hairs that all cats have and need.

I have stared at the beautiful strips coming out at a hundred different trajectories, watching kitties play or bask in the sun, and wondered what exactly they were for. As a human female I do not want any whiskers on my own face, where as men’s whiskers can often be quite attractive. Men sometimes use facial hair as a measure of their masculinity. As for felines, it is definitely more than just for vanity, as beautiful and cute as they may be. Whiskers are very important—probably much more important than one would initially realize.

To read more on this story, click here: Three Good Reasons to Never Trim your Cat's Whiskers


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