A pet is an animal companion or friend and basically, an integral part of most households. Different people favor different animals, some are dog people, some are cat lovers, some like horses, to each his own. But which animals are most popular? Check out the round-up of the 10 most popular pets, of which certain members may shock you, while others are all-time favorites.
1. Dogs
Easily the most popular pet in the U.S.A. Singles, the elderly, families and children, in short whatever your living style, a canine seems to be the pet of choice. Loyal, loving and caring with a silly and playful side, dogs are man’s best friend. When you are down and in need of cheering up, they are always there for you, silent but understanding, head resting on your knee. Their antics like tail chasing and crawling on their bellies can make even the most jaded of people, smile and laugh. And who can resist a look from their big, brown eyes gazing soulfully at you, especially at the dinner table.Their need for walks and exercise keeps their owners fit as well. With young and older children, dogs make excellent playtime companions. Every young boy should have a dog trailing after him. Their tender nature makes most dogs extremely tolerant towards toddlers and small kids, typical behavior like tail and ear tugging.
2. Cats
Cats can be the most confusing and individualistic of all animals. One minute, they are all over you, meowing and begging for your touch, the next minute, tail in the air, they stride off. Some of their mannerisms are highly amusing like chasing string or sleeping on the TV. Another way that cats assert themselves is bringing something they killed outside, inside the house and displaying it with pride, right next to that expensive bowl of kitty food that you have bought.Such personal traits and manners make cats very popular household pets. Their independent nature makes them very low maintenance and unlike dogs, they aren’t so vocal about everything. They can alternately act all snobby or very friendly with guests and children. Cat lovers and owners will agree, that with the feline animal, life is just one whim at a time. Also, there’s no sound as loving as a cat’s deep purring and no feeling as soft as a cat’s thick fur.
3. Birds
From parrots and talking birds to colorful small species in a cage, birds of all species, sizes and colors make excellent pets. They may not be as physical in showing their love as dogs and cats but birds are highly intelligent and can grow attached to their owners. The best bird species to own are parrots.
4. Fish
Keeping fish in an aquarium or fish tank is another popular pet choice. Fish are not the most expressive or companionable of animals. You can’t stroke or pet fish or take them out of their tank and play with them, but their swimming around in a tank, the deep blue of the water, all this gives you a sort of pleasure as well as adds to your house’s ambiance. Cleaning and tank maintenance as well as feeding, are important tasks in taking care of fish. Exotic breeds like Chinese fighting fish or piranhas are prized. Even the simple goldfish is a thrilling aquatic pet to own.
5. Guinea Pigs and Hamsters
Now they may both look similar and are often confused as the same thing. But these hairy members of the rodent family are among the top 10 most popular pets for families, especially those with kids in the 3rd, 4rth and 5th grade. Guinea pigs or hamsters are kept in a cage, with a wheel and feeding apparatus. Such small-sized pets are ideal tools to teaching children, how to be responsible for something else.
6. Rabbits
These are easily the most popular pets for young girls and families with small children. Rabbits, all soft and furry with their sniffling noses may not do much but if you have a yard, you can let them out of their hutch for some time and watch them play. Getting a pair of rabbits is an invitation for rabbit babies as rabbits breed a lot and alarmingly fast too!
7. Ferrets
Ferrets are a slightly different or weird choice in pets due to their rather hyperactive nature and a tendency to nibble through anything. But ferret owners swear by their mischievous antics that would crack anyone up and their inquisitive nature, which makes them a pleasure to own. But care should be taken with such pets around young children as ferrets can bite or lunge.
8. Turtles and Tortoises
Slow and steady reptiles ranging in shape and size. Tortoises are land reptiles and will require a small pond and outdoor area fenced in to hold them. Turtles are primarily water-based, hence they require a full-sized aquarium or tank. These reptiles make great low maintenance pets, requiring just feed and clean living space and live for many years. They are an extremely popular pet choice among young boys. Even though they can’t do any tricks or show a lot of affection, turtles and tortoises can get attached to their owners.
9. Snakes
A snake as a pet is every mom’s nightmare. But snakes are also highly popular pets. What’s not to like about them? They are exceedingly low maintenance as they need to be fed once in a while, they keep to themselves and do not make any noise and they are ideal for scaring the life out of people. From boa constrictors and pythons to little green grass snakes, snakes of all sizes and colors make excellent companions and pets. Just make sure that the snake breed is of the non-poisonous variety, prior to touching someone’s pet snake or purchasing one.
10. Iguanas
OK having a medium-sized scaly lizard may not be your cup of tea but iguanas are definitely one of the top 10 most popular pets in America, especially with teenage boys and young men. They are the ultimate geeky exotic pet, with their all-seeing third eye and scaly skin and tail. They can even change their skin tone to blend into their surroundings and eat insects and small rodents. It’s like having a mini-dragon for a companion.From the above list of 10 most popular pets, it’s easy to note the varying sizes and shapes of pets that are well-known and treasured today. In fact, most of the animals aren’t all cute and cuddly but rather are unique in their own way. Whatever your preference in a pet, there’s no denying their appeal and impact on your everyday life.
Thursday, June 7, 2012
African Serval
Servals (Felinae serval) have the largest ears and longest legs in relation to the size of their body of any cat. Their fur is yellow, gold to reddish with black spots that often merge to form stripes on the neck and back. Their ears have horizontal stripes. The stomach is usually lighter color than the rest of the body. They have a long neck and a small head.Servals live in well-watered grasslands of Africa. Their habitat overlaps with the caracal who usually preys on larger animals. The serval cat mainly eats hares, ground squirrels, hyraxes, and mole rats, but will also prey on frogs, snakes, lizards, insects, fish, and birds. They listen for their rodent prey. Once they have a position fixed on the animal, they leap with all four feet off the ground and pounce on the prey. Their success rate of pounces is 50%. Most other cats’ success rate is only 10%.
In length, serval cats are about 2 to 3 ¼ feet. Their tails are ¾ to 1 ½ feet long. At the shoulder they stand 1 1/3 to 2 feet tall. Weight ranges from 17.5 to 40 pounds.
To call other servals, servals have a high-pitched cry. Like other cats, they snarl, growl and spit when angry. Contented servals purr.
1 to 3 kittens are born per litter, although sometimes as many as 5 are born. They weigh about 9 ounces each. Kittens are born with their eyes closed, but they open in 9 to 12 days. They reach independence at about 6-8 months, but will stay in their mother’s range until they reach sexual maturity at 18 to 24 months.
The main threats to servals are hyenas, leopards, dogs and man. Sometimes they are hunted for their pelts which are passed off as immature leopard pelts.
- Serval cats are diurnal or nocturnal depending on the habits of the prey where they live.- The name serval is derived from a Portuguese word which means wolf-deer.
- The serval’s hind lets are longer than the front ones.
- A serval can leap in the air to catch birds.
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Feeding Your Ferret
Ferrets have unique feeding requirements, which are now finally being addressed by commercial pet food manufacturers, though with varying success.
Ferrets are obligate carnivores, and food passes through the digestive system of a ferret very quickly. They also lack the ability to derive nutrition from plant matter. For this reason, a ferret diet must be high in animal protein, high in fat, and low in fiber. All foods, including foods intended solely for ferrets, are not created equally, so be careful what you are feeding your ferret.Have Food Available at all Times
Ferrets have a quick metabolism along with a short digestive system, so need to eat frequently (usually every 3-4 hours). It is best to have food available constantly. Most ferrets will eat only enough to meet their needs, and will not become obese if allowed constant access to good quality food. Fresh, clean water is also a necessity at all times. If you are having a problem with your ferret gaining too much weight, check with a vet to rule out a medical problem and for advice on meeting their diet needs while maintaining a good weight. Increased exercise is usually the best way to approach obesity once health problems are ruled out, rather than diet restrictions.
Dry foods are the most convenient choice, as they can be left available at all times without concern of spoilage. Canned ferret food can be given as a treat or supplement, but only occasionally.
Basic Requirements for a Ferret Diet:High in protein - 30-40 percent on the label nutrition analysis
Protein must be high quality, highly digestible, and be animal-based (not plant-based)
High in fat (at least 20 percent, perhaps up to 30 percent on the label analysis)
Very low in carbohydrates and fiber (less than 3 percent fiber)
Sunday, June 3, 2012
Basic Facts About Penguins
Diet
Krill, fish and squid.
In general, penguins closer to the equator eat more fish and penguins closer to Antarctica eat more squid and krill.
Population
Range
Penguins can be found on every continent in the Southern Hemisphere from the tropical Galapagos Islands (the Galapagos penguin) located near South America to Antarctica (the emperor penguin).
Behavior
Penguins can spend up to 75% of their lives in the water. They do all of their hunting in the water. Their prey can be found within 60 feet of the surface, so penguins have no need to swim in deep water. They catch prey in their beaks and swallow them whole as they swim. Some species only leave the water for molting and breeding.
Penguins are social birds. Many species feed, swim and nest in groups. During the breeding season, some species form large groups, or “rookeries”, that include thousands of penguins. Each penguin has a distinct call, allowing individuals to find their mate and their chicks even in large groups.
Reproduction
Mating Season: Varies depending on the species, though most breed during spring and summer.
Incubation: Varies from 1 month-66 days depending on the species.
Number of offspring: King and emperor penguins lay one egg. All other species of penguin lay two eggs.
Some Facts About Ferrets
- Live 6-8 years on average (sometimes up to 11 or 12)- Females are called jills, and males are hobs. Baby ferrets are called kits. In North America, spayed females are sometimes called sprites and neutered males called gibs. A group of ferrets is a "business of ferrets."
- Males tend to be larger than females in length and weight. Females are 13-14 inches long and weigh anywhere from 0.75 to 2.5 lbs, whereas males are on average 15-16 inches long and weigh 2-3.5 lbs if neutered and are even larger (4 or more lbs) if not neutered.
- Most ferrets obtained in North America are spayed or neutered and descented at a very young age before being sold.
- Ferrets sleep a large part of the day, commonly around 18 hours. They naturally tend to be active at dawn and dusk, but usually adapt their sleeping and active times to the fit the schedules of their owners.
- Ferrets have relatively poor eyesight but a keen sense of smell and hearing
- The name ferret is derived from the latin furonem, which means "thief." Ferret owners can attest that this is a well deserved name, as they will happily steal anything they can get their paws on and hide it in their house.
- Ferrets come from the same family ("Mustelidae") as badgers, wolverines, otters, mink, weasels, black footed ferrets and polecats.
- The distant ancestry of the domestic ferret is somewhat of a mystery, although they are very closely related to the European polecat.
- The scientific name for ferrets is a somewhat controversial area - Mustela putorius furo is traditionally used, although recent scientific evidence has suggested they should have a name of their own, Mustela furo.
Source
Friday, June 1, 2012
Clown Anemonefish
Anyone with kids and a DVD player probably thinks they know all there is to know about the clown anemonefish, or, simply, clownfish. What they may not know is that the heroes of Finding Nemo are actually called false anemonefish. True anemonefish, Amphiprion percula, are nearly identical, but have subtle differences in shape and live in different habitats. Bright orange with three distinctive white bars, clown anemonefish are among the most recognizable of all reef-dwellers. They reach about 4.3 inches (11 centimeters) in length, and are named for the multicolored sea anemone in which they make their homes.
Clownfish perform an elaborate dance with an anemone before taking up residence, gently touching its tentacles with different parts of their bodies until they are acclimated to their host. A layer of mucus on the clownfish's skin makes it immune to the fish-eating anemone's lethal sting. In exchange for safety from predators and food scraps, the clownfish drives off intruders and preens its host, removing parasites.
There are 28 known species of anemonefish, most of which live in the shallow waters of the Indian Ocean, the Red Sea, and the western Pacific. They are not found in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Atlantic Ocean.
Surprisingly, all clownfish are born male. They have the ability to switch their sex, but will do so only to become the dominant female of a group. The change is irreversible.
Source
Top 10 Most Popular Dog Breeds
The American Kennel Club, a non-profit organization that maintains the largest registry of purebred dogs in the world, has announced which dog breeds were most popular in 2011.
The list of 157 dog breeds was narrowed down to the top 10 four-legged companions that Americans preferred to take home.
10. Rottweiler
For the first year ever, the Rottweiler lands on the AKC's list of top dogs. The large, sometimes formidable-looking dog has become a family favorite due to its loving and affectionate personality. One of the oldest-known herding dogs dating back to the Roman Empire, this German breed was originally bred to be a hunting companion. Today, with their sharp skills, Rottweilers are frequently used in search and rescue, as guide dogs for the blind, and as guard or police dogs. .
According to the American Kennel Club, the Rottweiler is basically a calm, confident and courageous dog with a self-assured aloofness, responding quietly and with a wait-and-see attitude to influences in its environment. It has an inherent desire to protect home and family, and is an intelligent dog with a strong willingness to work, making them especially suited as a companion, guardian and general all-purpose dog.
9. Dachshund
Lively and affectionate, dachshunds are known to be bold, curious and a bit mischievous. While devoted to their families, this breed needs strong leadership at home in order to avoid any behavioral issues. There are three varieties of dachshund: the short-haired, the wired-haired, and the long-haired.
Dachshunds also have a wide color variety, including: black, red, chocolate, tan or fawn, cream and blue-gray. Bi-color dachshunds may be black and tan, black and cream, chocolate and tan, chocolate and cream, blue and tan, or blue and cream. Brindled dachshunds (stripes covering the entire body) may be seen in any of the colors mentioned.
8. Poodle
Poodles are the runway models of the popular breeds, highly intelligent and graceful. Considered one of the most trainable breeds, the standard poodle are typically pleasant, happy and sensitive but can become high strung if not given the proper amount of exercise.
Poodles—who are born with one of a variety of solid colors, including white, black, apricot and gray–require extensive grooming. Their fur is also hypoallergenic, which may reduce allergic reactions and be helpful to pet owners who suffer from allergies.
7. Boxer
The boxer dog, a muscular, short-coated breed with a distinctive square head has had a place in the hearts of owners for decades. The boxer’s strong body and gentle, playful spirit are a great combination.
And what about his name? It is said that his moniker is a testament to his playful and curious side. You’ll notice that your boxer dog uses his front paws for just about everything. He’s likely to paw at his toys and food in a cat-like way. He also likes to jump up and motion with his front paws, making him look like he’s actually boxing, and hence the name.
6. Bulldog
While the bulldog’s appearance can be intimidating, it is among the gentlest of dogs. Small and stocky in stature with a wide, massive head, a bulldog’s coat may be white, black, red, fawn, brindle, pale yellow or a combination of colors.
Considered to be very affectionate and dependable dogs, bulldogs are gentle with children and known for their courage and their excellent guarding abilities. Bullheaded and determined, this breed can be very persistent and dominating. Strong leadership and attention are recommended.
One other thing for which bulldogs are well known? Loud snoring and a tendency to drool and slobber. What’s not to love?
5. Yorkshire Terrier
Energetic, loyal and clever, the Yorkshire terrier seems oblivious of its small size. Always ready for an adventure, "Yorkies" are easy to train and are considered excellent watchdogs.
Known for their ultra long, fine, silky coat that parts along the spine and falls straight down on either side, Yorkies are colored a combination of steal blue and tan. As you might expect, regular grooming is needed and Yorkie owners commonly pull back their dogs' hair on their head in a topknot. Depite the long hair, however, Yorkies shed very little.
4. Golden Retriever
With their ever-present smiles, wavy blonde fur, and joyful prance, the golden retriever has long been one of America’s favorite dogs. Perhaps it’s their family-friendly demeanor and golden looks that helps keep this breed in the Top 5 of all registered dogs in the U.S.
The golden retriever is classified by the American Kennel Club as a sporting dog, popular with hunters for its soft mouth and eagerness to retrieve in water.
True to its name the golden retriever loves to fetch. It’s not uncommon to be greeted by a golden with a favorite toy stuffed in its mouth. Known for its intelligent mind, the breed can learn more than 200 commands with training and encouragement.
3. Beagle
The beagle moves up this year from last year's No. 5 spot. Well before designer dogs like the puggle (half beagle, half pug) struck dog lovers as the hottest breed to bring home, there was just the good old beagle. In its pure bred form, this hound continues to hold on to its status as one of man’s best friends.
These droopy eared hounds are spunky, loyal and make great friendly pets for families with children. Beagles also tend to have lots of energy to burn. They can be mischievous and are often lead to trouble (garbage cans, shoes, dirty laundry) by their extraordinary hunting noses. Their natural curiosity often means they are a little tricky to train and require owners who are willing to be firm yet patient. Beagles are also known for their tremendous whining, sharp bark and thoroughly loud from-the-belly howls.
2. German Shepard
Often used as working dogs, German shepherds are highly intelligent and courageous. Known for their tremendous loyalty, these dogs are typically cheerful, obedient and eager to learn.
German shepherds prefer to be close to their families and therefore have a very strong protective instinct. Generally good with other pets and excellent with children in the family, it is recommended to train and socialize German shepherds from an early age with a firm and loving hand.
The breed's ability to rapidly learn has contributed to its wide use as a sheepdog, guard dog, in police work, as a guide for the blind, in search and rescue service, and in the military. The German shepherd also excels in many other dog activities including agility, flyball, and ring sport. But most of all, the German shepherd is favored as a loving family companion.
1. Labrador Retriever
For the 21st consecutive year, this loveable breed continues to be the most popular breed in the U.S., according to AKC registration statistics. The family-friendly Labrador retriever has won over the hearts of families across the country—millions of households count a Lab among their family members, and it’s easy to see why. Labs display a well-mannered temperament and are eager to please their owners.
The Labrador retriever originated in Newfoundland, where it aided fisherman with their catch. After being crossed with setters, spaniels and other retrievers, the Lab sharpened its skills as a true retriever. But what makes Labs even more popular is their kind, outgoing nature.
This people-friendly quality also makes Labs great dogs for children. The Lab thrives in an active household, where he can have lots of interaction. Kids will also love the Lab’s easy nature and trainability . In turn, Labrador retrievers tend to be very patient with kids. Be prepared to harness that energy: plenty of exercise and fetching games will keep your Lab happy and healthy.
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