Special Species

Depending upon where you live, this is a menace worth knowing about. If your dog simply licks or, heaven forbid, picks one up in his mouth, it can take only seconds before the signs of toxic poisoning emerge.

Potbellied pigs are smart, social, and playful pets, but they need time, space, and proper care. Sadly, 95% are surrendered when owners underestimate the commitment these curious animals require.

Most people hate them, banishing them from their homes and yards by any means necessary. They've been around since the earliest ecosystems on earth though, and still play a critical role. Can you guess what these fascinating creatures are?

In the US, wildlife officials and ranchers shoot these predators to help prevent attacks, but a study concludes it may not be the best solution. The number of attacks actually increased the following year after shooting a small number of these predators.

Insights into crocodile vision explain how they can lie in wait, seemingly motionless, until prey approach and then launch a surprise attack with startling precision. Their eyes, though less precise than human vision overall, are uniquely suited for this type of ambush hunting.

At a tremendous personal cost, this mama kept 160 eggs healthy and safe while perched on a rocky ledge for nearly five years. Although she slowly lost weight and her skin grew lax and pale, the only thing that remained in the spot at the end were broken shells.

With the discovery that the distress calls of babies across a range of species share certain characteristics, these researchers found that mammal mamas have an instinctive response, even when it's not their own baby. Does your pet have a motherly instinct as well?