Who said elephants can’t climb? Watch the moment a rather agile elephant was caught climbing over a five-foot wall in an effort to feast on a safari lodge’s mangos:
Guests staying at Mfuwe Lodge in South Luangwa National Park, Zambia, had just departed for their afternoon game drive on Saturday when the giant pachyderm strolled in for an unexpected visit.
Mfuwe’s general manager Ian Salisbury, 68, spotted the bull elephant calculating how to haul its giant legs over the stone wall.
Andy Hogg – managing director of The Bushcamp Company – filmed the elephant’s brief but unsuccessful hunt for fruit.
A family of elephants are known to frequently visit the lodge between October and mid-December in search of a sweet treat, but this unexpected visitor was too late in its search for mangos, which were out of season.
Ian, originally from Bacup, Lancashire, said:
“He just chose the most direct route and made himself right at home. The guests were very amused at the idea of a climbing elephant. They were in amazement that it would bother to climb over such a high wall.
They were out on a safari drive in the National Park at the time, so were sorry to have missed seeing it [in person].”
The lodge has a central foyer area that is open and often attracts a family of elephants in the early winter. But the herd usually take a stoned pathway, instead of taking the direct route of the wall.
Ian said:
“[The elephant] was a stranger to us. He wanted to investigate. He wanted to get into the central area where this big mango tree grows.
He was obviously quite hungry and expected to get some wild mangos for himself, though there aren’t any left now. That’s all done with for the year.
He came and stretched over, had a look around, ate a bit of grass, then strangely turned round and came back the same way, which was quite amusing. His easiest way of getting there was to climb over this high wall. It’s really unusual behaviour for an elephant, to climb so high.
“It was impressive he could coordinate his four legs to get over the wall because the elephant was quite a major bull, maybe around 30, so middle-aged.”
With unusually wet weather for this time of year, Ian believes the lone elephant may have been encouraged to take a detour to avoid floods.
He added:
“Elephants tend to wander around quite big distances and depending on the availability of food, they’ll turn up in certain areas.
It has been quite dry then over the last week or so, we had huge amounts of rain that almost caused a flood. Whether that encouraged him to have a look around, I’m not sure.”
SOURCE: LADBIBLE
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Sperm Whales Poo On Orcas In Self-Defence
The Poonado Incident: A Mysterious Encounter in the Depths of Bremer Bay
In the vast, unpredictable waters of Bremer Bay, Western Australia, spectators aboard a whale-watching vessel witnessed an extraordinary event that could alter our understanding of interspecies interactions in the marine world. The unexpected encounter between a pod of sperm whales and a group of orcas has sparked intense discussion among marine biologists and enthusiasts alike, suggesting a rare defensive strategy that might be termed "defensive defecation."
A Day of Discovery
What began as a typical whale-watching excursion quickly evolved into a pivotal observation session.
Jennah Tucker, a marine biologist with Naturaliste Charters, detailed the scene:
"The orcas were embarking on long, deep dives, which usually indicates foraging behavior. We were expecting a beaked whale to surface since that's what this population of orcas typically preys on."
Instead, the observers were taken aback when not one, but several sperm whales surfaced, appearing visibly fatigued and encircled by orcas.
Sperm whales release mysterious large, dark cloud to deter orcas | Naturaliste Charters, Mark Jackman
The Encounter
Sperm whales, known as the ocean’s largest toothed predators, found themselves in what Tucker described as an "intense pursuit." This interaction is notable not just for the drama and size of the creatures involved but for the strategic responses observed.
As the orcas tightened their circle, the sperm whales arranged themselves into a defensive rosette formation, with juveniles in the center—a tactic observed in other cetaceans when protecting vulnerable pod members.
The Poonado Incident
The turning point in this aquatic standoff came when a large, dark cloud emerged among the sperm whales. "We initially thought it was blood, which is usually a sign of a successful predation," Tucker explained. However, it soon became clear that this was no blood cloud but a massive expulsion of feces.
This cloud of fecal matter, whimsically termed a "poonado," led to an immediate and unexpected reaction from the orcas. "The orcas just took off into a surge," Tucker recalls, noting that the predators moved away swiftly, maintaining a distance thereafter. The sudden retreat sparked speculation: was this fecal cloud an intentional defense mechanism?
The concept of defensive defecation, while observed in various animals as a stress response, is relatively unexplored in marine contexts. Tucker remarked on the ambiguity of the situation, "Defecation in sperm whales has previously been observed in association with behaviors that indicate distress. However, whether this is a stress response or an offensive technique to deter predators isn’t well understood."
Experts are cautious about jumping to conclusions. The retreat of the orcas could be coincidental or influenced by other unseen factors. Yet, the timing and effectiveness of the response suggest a possible evolutionary adaptation worth further study. Marine biologist Dr. Samuel Gruber notes, "In the animal kingdom, survival often inspires innovative defense strategies.
While not glamorous, the effective use of such a biological response could indicate a new layer of interspecies communication and defense we’ve yet to fully understand."
One orca was spotted with something yellow in its mouth. Flesh from whales or other marine mammals is usually a dark red, like beef, with white tissue. The researchers were confused. | Jodie LoweThis incident not only enriches our view of sperm whale behavior but also challenges existing notions about predator-prey dynamics in the deep sea. It raises significant questions about the capabilities and strategies of marine mammals, highlighting the complexity and adaptability of these creatures.
The implications for conservation and understanding of marine ecosystems are profound. "Each observation like this gives us a new perspective on the natural world, encouraging deeper investigation and greater appreciation for these magnificent creatures," says Tucker.
Source: Discover Wildlife
Orange Sahara Dust Cloud Descends Over Athens
Orange Dust Haze Over Athens: The Sahara's Impact and What Lies Ahead
As Athenians woke up to an otherworldly scene, a striking orange haze enveloped the cityscape, an eerie reminder of nature's untamed forces. This isn't the first time the skies over Greece have turned shades of Martian orange, but the recent Sahara dust event is among the most severe since 2018.
This phenomenon, resulting from vast clouds of mineral dust carried from the Sahara Desert, casts a surreal glow and a thick blanket over Athens, extending as far north as Thessaloniki.
A Persistent and Expansive Issue. The Sahara Desert, an immense landscape of arid expanses, annually releases between 60 to 200 million tonnes of mineral dust into the atmosphere. While much of this dust settles back to the earth's surface relatively quickly, finer particles are swept across continents by upper-level winds.
In this instance, the dust not only shrouded Greece but also affected regions as disparate as Switzerland and southern France in late March and early April. This wide-reaching impact highlights the interconnectedness of environmental phenomena, transcending geographical boundaries.
Atmospheric Conditions and Public Health
The mingling of dust with unusually high temperatures has created stifling conditions in southern Greece. Kostas Lagouvardos, a noted meteorologist, likened the view from a local weather station to the surface of Mars, emphasizing the dramatic alteration in the landscape and atmosphere. The compromised air quality poses significant health risks, particularly for those with respiratory ailments. Greek authorities have advised the public to wear protective masks, limit outdoor activities, and postpone physical exercise until the air clears—a temporary but vital adaptation to the hazardous conditions.
Complicating the environmental challenge are the wildfires that have flared up concurrently. In the past 24 hours alone, the Greek fire service has battled 25 wildfires. One particularly fierce blaze near a naval base on Crete necessitated the evacuation of homes and a kindergarten as temperatures on the island soared above 30°C (86°F). This confluence of dust, heat, and fire underscores the broader climatic vulnerabilities that Greece, like many parts of the world, faces amid changing global weather patterns.
Looking Ahead: Environmental Implications and Actions
The recurring dust episodes and their intensification call for a reevaluation of environmental and health preparedness strategies. Enhancing predictive meteorological models and public health advisories can play pivotal roles in mitigating the impacts of such dust storms. Moreover, understanding the broader implications of these dust clouds on climate change, soil deposition, and even marine ecosystems will be crucial.
As we contemplate the orange haze that temporarily transforms day into dusk, it serves as a vivid, visual reminder of our planet's dynamic and interconnected environmental systems.
The need for increased research, international cooperation, and proactive measures has never been more apparent, ensuring that societies can better anticipate, respond to, and ultimately thrive amidst these challenges. The dust will settle, but the conversation and actions it precipitates must continue to evolve.
‘Whale Bones’ Capturer Earns Underwater Photographer Of The Year
In the icy waters beneath Greenland's vast frozen expanses, a spectacle of history and present intertwines, illuminated by the minimal natural light filtering through the thick ice sheet above.
Here, Swedish underwater photographer Alex Dawson captured a scene so compelling it earned him the prestigious title of Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024.
His photograph, titled "Whale Bones," portrays a diver navigating the remnants of a whaling past, a stark reminder of the transient yet impactful intersections between human activity and marine life.
The image features freediver Anna Von Boetticher, a friend and frequent collaborator of Dawson, as she explores the skeletal remains of a minke whale. The setting is haunting and ethereal. Located no more than 7 meters below the ice's surface, the site is relatively accessible, yet the conditions are anything but ordinary. The limited light creates an otherworldly glow around the diver, who, equipped with a torch, appears as an explorer from another planet.
Alex Mustard, chair of the judging panel for the Underwater Photographer of the Year 2024 awards, described the photograph as being shot in "the toughest conditions." He praised the composition for its ability to guide the viewer through the narrative seamlessly, highlighting the "visiting alien" feel that the diver's suit and torch contribute to the scene.
The image not only captures the physical remnants found beneath the ice but also tells a broader story of ecological and historical significance.
Celebrating his victory, Dawson took to Instagram to express his gratitude and honor for receiving the award. His post reflects a deep appreciation for the craft and the profound experiences that underwater photography can afford.
He noted, underscoring the challenges and unique aspects of capturing such a shot:
"This image was submitted in the Wide Angle category with freediving mode,"
Anna Von Boetticher's own reflections on social media add a personal touch to the achievement. She shared her pride in both the recognition of Dawson's work and her role in it, celebrating the collaborative spirit that such projects entail. Her words highlight the partnership and shared dedication required to bring such compelling underwater narratives to the surface.
This win for Dawson is not merely a personal triumph but a resonant moment for the underwater photography community. It underscores the genre's capacity to engage with pressing environmental narratives and to evoke both beauty and contemplation through visual storytelling. The photograph of the whale bones beneath Greenland's ice is a poignant reminder of the delicate balance marine ecosystems must navigate amidst human influence.
As the viewer's eyes traverse the contours of whale bones and the diver's illuminated path, the image of "Whale Bones" invites a meditative pause on the impact of past actions on the present and future marine environments. It serves as both a window and a mirror—showing us the hidden wonders of underwater realms and reflecting our own roles within these narratives.
In exploring these depths, Dawson and Von Boetticher not only capture images but also capture imaginations, prompting a dialogue about conservation, exploration, and the unseen parts of our world.
Deforestation Forces Animals To Eat Infected Bat Poo in Uganda
The Unseen Dangers of Deforestation: A Deep Dive into Uganda's Bat Poo Crisis
In the dense canopy of Uganda's Budongo Forest, a strange and potentially dangerous new food source has emerged for the local wildlife: bat guano.
This phenomenon has come about not through natural evolution but as a dire consequence of human activity—specifically, tobacco farming, which has led to a severe depletion of the native flora.
The ramifications of this change are profound, shedding light on the complex interplay between deforestation and emerging infectious diseases.
The Unintended Consequences of Agricultural Practices
Over the last six years, a collaborative research project between the University of Stirling and the University of Wisconsin-Madison has unveiled startling findings about the diet of local wildlife, including chimpanzees, antelopes, and monkeys. Dr. Pawel Fedurek from the Faculty of Natural Sciences at the University of Stirling first observed these animals consuming bat guano, a substance rich in viruses, some of which are related to the infamous SARS-CoV-2.
The guano serves as an "alternative source of crucial minerals" for the animals, according to the study published in the prestigious Nature journal. This shift in dietary source is a direct result of the local palm trees being "harvested to extinction" to facilitate the drying of tobacco leaves, which are then sold to international markets.
The environmental impact of this agricultural practice extends beyond deforestation: it has created a pathway for potential zoonotic virus transmission, highlighting a subtle but devastating aspect of selective deforestation driven by global tobacco demand.
Viral Pathogens: A Hidden Threat in the Forest
Lab analysis of the collected guano revealed 27 viruses, all previously unknown to science, underscoring the vast unknowns that lie within wildlife and their interactions with pathogens.
Prof. Tony Goldberg from the University of Wisconsin-Madison pointed out the novelty of these viruses and the potential dangers they could pose to humans and other animals. "All 27 viruses were new to science," he explained, "so we don't know what effects they might have on humans or other animals. But one virus stood out because it was a relative of a virus everyone knows: SARS coronavirus 2."
The study provides a critical example of how new infections might jump species barriers, a scenario that has become all too familiar with the recent COVID-19 pandemic. The potential for similar future outbreaks is real and alarming.
As Dr. Fedurek noted,
"Our research illustrates how a subtle form of selective deforestation ultimately driven by a global demand for tobacco can expose wildlife, and by extension humans, to viruses residing in bat guano, increasing virus spillover risk."
This research not only raises awareness about the unintended consequences of agricultural practices but also stresses the urgent need for interventions to prevent future pandemics. By understanding the triggers and pathways of virus transmission from wildlife to humans, researchers hope to improve our ability to foresee and mitigate the risks of emerging diseases.
The Budongo case study is a stark reminder of the interconnectedness of our environmental, economic, and health systems. It underscores the need for a more sustainable approach to agriculture and land use that considers the long-term health of both the planet and its inhabitants.
As we continue to encroach on natural habitats, the line between wildlife and human disease reservoirs becomes increasingly blurred, necessitating a re-evaluation of our impact on the world around us.
California’s Beaches Play Host To Moonlit Fish Orgies
The Moonlit Dance of the Grunion: California's Coastal Phenomenon
Under the glow of the full or new moon, a spectacle unfolds on the sandy shores of Southern California that could rival any scene from a blockbuster movie.
Imagine a scene straight out of a marine version of Mad Max—thousands of small, silvery fish, known as grunion, hurl themselves onto the beaches in a frenzied, nocturnal ritual that is as chaotic as it is captivating.
This isn't just any animal behavior; it's the grunion run, a mating dance dictated by lunar cycles and tides, where survival and reproduction intermingle on the sand.
What is The Grunion Run?
The grunion run is one of nature's most extraordinary reproductive events, where grunion emerge en masse on select Southern California beaches. This remarkable phenomenon occurs strictly under the darkness of the new or full moon, when tides are high enough to reach the upper stretches of sandy shores.
During these nocturnal events, female grunion ride the high tides up the beach, where they proceed to dig themselves tail-first into the sand to lay their eggs. Males follow suit, wrapping themselves around the females to fertilize the eggs externally. This synchronized dance ensures that the eggs are safely nestled in the wet sand, where they incubate for about ten days. The timing is crucial; the eggs must remain undisturbed until the next set of high tides, which will facilitate the hatching process and allow the newborn grunion to be swept into the ocean.
The grunion run is unique not just for its spectacle but for the precise environmental conditions it requires. The beaches where grunion spawn are often the same stretches popular with tourists and locals for recreational activities. This overlap makes the grunion particularly vulnerable to disturbances from human activity, such as beach grooming and pollution, which can endanger both the eggs laid in the sand and the adult fish during their spawning.
At the heart of understanding these unique creatures is a community-driven initiative led by Karen Martin, a seasoned scientist from Pepperdine University. Since 2002, over 5,000 volunteers, affectionately dubbed "grunion greeters," have played a pivotal role in gathering data about these fish at 50 designated beaches across California. Martin asserts, "We couldn't do it without them. There is no other way for us to get this kind of data. It's pretty remarkable, actually."
These citizen scientists are crucial because grunion, smart and elusive, defy traditional methods of population assessment. They dodge nets, ignore bait, and, as a result, remain somewhat of an enigma in terms of exact numbers. Their conservation status hangs in a precarious balance, underscored by a noticeable decline in their populations over the past decade due to beach erosion, light pollution, coastal development, and the indirect impacts of tourism and local activity.
Regulation and Preservation Efforts
Efforts to protect the grunion have a storied history, with initial regulations dating back to 1927 when the California Department of Fish and Wildlife first observed the grunion's vulnerability during their onshore spawning. The restrictions have evolved from banning certain fishing gear to implementing no-take seasons, extending from April through June, thanks to sustained advocacy and accumulated data from the grunion greeters.
These regulations have become more stringent over the years. For instance, in 2020, the fishing restrictions were further tightened, with limits set on how many grunion one could harvest even outside the no-take season, reflecting the growing concern over their declining numbers.
The Ripple Effect of Citizen Science
The data collected by the grunion greeters has not only informed regulatory changes but also fostered a broader awareness and appreciation for these marine creatures. The community's involvement has turned local residents into staunch defenders of the grunion, often educating others about the importance of adherence to the fishing regulations.
Karen Martin reflects on the transformation in perception towards citizen scientists, from skepticism to a valued partnership. "People are excited to know that they've made this sighting and that their knowledge is useful—that somebody cares about what they've seen," she says. This shift signifies a deeper societal connection to local wildlife and ecosystems, proving that community involvement in scientific endeavors can yield substantial environmental stewardship.
A Dance Worth Preserving
The grunion run is more than just a biological curiosity; it's a testament to the intricate ties between lunar cycles, marine life, and human interaction. As Southern California continues to grapple with the challenges of conservation and urban development, the fate of the grunion underscores the broader dialogue about our role in safeguarding not only these spectacular fish but also the delicate balance of the ecosystems they inhabit.
In essence, the dance of the grunion is a call to action—a reminder of the beauty and fragility of nature and our enduring responsibility to protect it. As we look towards the future, the ongoing collaboration between scientists, citizen volunteers, and policymakers will be crucial in ensuring that the grunion runs continue to enchant and educate future generations.
Source: BBC / Cover Image: Karen Martin