Special Species

Get insights for your birds, small mammals, reptiles, or other unusual pets to give them the special care they need, from dietary to veterinary requirements.
hedgehogs
Special Species

All About Hedgehogs — 7 Facts About These Adorable Animals

Hedgehogs are native to Asia, Africa, and Europe, but in the US they're domesticated and often sold as pets. These intriguing insectivores have unique methods of self-defense and, if socialized from a young age, can even bond with their owners — but do hedgehogs really make good pets?
5 min read
declining bee populations
Special Species

Do You Make This Bee-Killing Mistake?

You may be accidentally sabotaging these little pollinators — even while trying to protect them. In Europe, it's less of an issue, but in the US, this single mistake could be doing more harm than good. Be careful, know what to choose, and what to avoid.
4 min read
horse intelligence
Special Species

Equine Intelligence — 9 Insights Into the Way Horses Think

As flight animals, horses have developed a unique set of highly perceptive senses, skills, and behaviors to help them survive. By delving into their ingrained instincts to flee, we can begin to unravel some of the ways that horses' minds work and ultimately strengthen the human-equine bond.
7 min read
snake anorexia
Special Species

When This Reptile Stops Eating, Here's What to Do

People aren't the only ones who can become anorexic — these creatures do too. These eight reasons may give you a hint about why they're rejecting food. And what to take note of his 'strike against eating' that lasts more than a few weeks.
6 min read
firefly facts
Special Species

Why You Can't See Fireflies in the Western US

Flashing fireflies have entertained children for generations, yet if you travel to the western part of the US, you never see them flash their lights. But if you travel to this part of the eastern US, you can witness one of nature's miracles: simultaneous flashing.
5 min read
pet uveitis
Special Species

A Vision Problem You Can't Afford to Miss

Don't ignore the symptoms — It affects dogs, cats, and horses, leading to pain, swelling, and overall discomfort. If treated right away, the prognosis is usually good, but if not, it can lead to blindness.
5 min read