Nature/Wildlife
We live busy lives, often in urban settings, so when the time comes for a vacation, many of us know that the best thing to do is to turn to nature. Nothing blows the cobwebs away more than a trek in the mountains or communing with creatures in the deep forest. Whether peering into a volcano, riding horseback along a trail, or spotting wildlife on a river cruise, something deep within us needs to feel connected to the natural world. All regions of the world present opportunities for enjoying nature.
In cooler temperate climates you may seek out snow-capped mountains such as the Alps, while equatorial regions offer the dense jungles of Asia or the vast plains of Africa. Anywhere animals live free offers us the chance to witness their majesty and understand better our place in the natural order. We can give ourselves privileged memories of seeing lions, elephants and gorillas on safari, or witness orangutans, monkeys and birds in the trees of the rainforest. The oceans and coastlines of the world offer opportunities for encounters with whales, dolphins, penguins, seals and more. Nature is always good for the soul.
Healthy Oceans, Healthy Planet
Last week there were many reports and posts across social media acknowledging World Oceans Day. Some highlighted the beauty and majesty of our planet's oceans, its animals and plants; others were focused on how we are slowly killing this life giving resource. This...
‘Shellebrating’ World Turtle Day
World Turtle Day was started in 2000 by the American Tortoise Rescue organisation. The aim of this special day is to share information about this species and create respect for tortoises and turtles that will enable them to survive and thrive. Here are ten fascinating...
Is The Term Jewfish Offensive?
Jewfish has been the colloquial name for the goliath grouper (Epinephelus itajara) for quite some time. Is it still being used? Is this naming a bit out of step with our politically correct times? Do you think that the term is offensive? Have we ‘evolved’ into such a...
Gardens of the Queen – Cuba’s Underwater Garden of Eden
Today's trending dive destination is Cuba and the diving hotspot is Jardines de la Reina. This incredible dive destination has been a marine park for over 20 years and the protection has paid off. The area resembles the Caribbean at the time when Christopher Columbus...
South Africa’s Marine Protection – Have Your Say!
South Africa’s Department of Environmental Affairs is lobbying to establish 22 marine protected areas (MPAs) along the coast. This move is a long time coming; currently less than 0.4% of South Africa’s coastline is protected! World famous Aliwal Shoal is set to be...
The ‘bends’ treatment for Tucker the Turtle
An olive ridley turtle was near death and stranded on the shores of Oregon, USA. Since his rescue, he has been receiving treatment traditionally used to cure divers suffering from the bends. Tucker, as his carers at the Seattle Aquarium affectionately call him, was a...
Galápagos Marine Life Now Protected!
Monday 21 March 2016, President of the Republic of Ecuador Rafael Correa, announced the creation of a marine sanctuary in the area of the Galápagos Islands. The Galápagos Islands are a World Heritage site. The area has been protected since 1998 by the Galápagos Marine...
‘Famous’ Great White Sharks Contribution to Conservation
Have you ever wondered why the ocean’s apex predator needs to be protected? Are you interested to learn how certain ‘famous’ lady sharks have contributed to bringing awareness to their plight. Let us introduce you to a couple of 'leading ladies' in the world of shark...
‘Enslavement of sentient beings’ at Nemo Aquarium in Thailand
While the world moves towards banning the incarceration of dolphins, Dolphins Bay Phuket opened in November, undeterred by public objections. Strong opinions against this facility have been expressed on the Dolphins Bay Phuket community Facebook page about Nemo. An...