What is Food? Along with air, water, shelter, and clothing, food is one of man’s most basic needs. Did you know that all foods are either plant, animal or fungal in origin? They all contain essential nutrients such as carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, or minerals, i.e. substances that are essential for the growth, repair, and…
In 2023, according to the ‘Reptile Database’ there are almost 12,000 extant species of reptile in the world. All living reptiles are grouped into one of four Orders, which are: turtles (includes tortoises and terrapins), crocodilians, squamates (lizards and snakes), and rhynchocephalians (tuatara). The latter Order contains a single species of reptile, i.e. the tuatara,…
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) is the global authority on the status of the natural world and the measures needed for its safeguard. Its “Red List” is an easily and widely understood system that identifies wildlife whose status on the planet is of some concern. A species is listed as “critically endangered”…
Snake Bite Statistics According to the World Health Organisation, more than 5 million humans are bitten by snakes every year. As a result, the best estimate is that somewhere between 80,000 and 140,000 people die annually from such attacks. Additionally, up to a further 300,000 victims are thought to suffer amputations or other permanent disabilities…
Did you know that the word “philomath” can be applied to a person who enjoys study and learning new facts. If that’s you, then I’m sure you’ll enjoy the following article as it concerns some surprising facts with regards to “islands”. Enjoy! Largest Island and Population You might be under the impression that it’s Australia…
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