Special Species: Birds, Reptiles, Wildlife and More!

Special Species

How Do Flamingos Stand on One Leg — Even When They’re Sleeping?

Flamingos are often thought to stand on one leg for thermoregulation, or body heat control, but research shows it requires no muscular effort. Their unique anatomy lets them balance passively, making one-legged standing easier than standing on two legs.

Special Species

A Lost Pet Is Finally Reunited with His Guardian

This pet disappeared from his home in California, leaving no clue. Reappearing on a dog-groomer's doorstep, three people helped him finally find his way home. This pet's marvelous misadventures will make you believe in the impossible.

Special Species

Cats, Dogs, Tortoises, and Hippos — Can Animals of Different Species Be Friends?

Animal friendships sometimes seem to cross natural boundaries, even connecting would-be hunters with their prey. What does science have to say about cross-species friendships and animal bonds?

Special Species

They May Tear Up Your Yard, but Read This Before You Wage War Against Them

Here are a few things you should know, because they may not actually be the enemy you perceive them to be. And they have hidden benefits for your yard. But here's what to do, should they decide to try to set up residence in your home.

Special Species

Why These Pets Deserve Better Care

These little animals are more needy than most people think. And since they feel pain and they're social, they deserve basic ethical treatment, plus vet care, enrichment, and stimulation. Wild fallacies abound, including these 10 owner mistakes. Do you make any of them?

Special Species

What's Intended to Help Is Killing Off Wildlife in Droves

Many people don't think twice about discarding these, but when flushed away into the environment, they disperse in water and land habitats and wind up inside a wide range of organisms, greatly affecting wildlife and ecosystems. These six items are among the worst.

Special Species

Panda's Preferred Food May Be Their Kiss of Death and Could Lead to Extinction

Every day, these giant adults eat 22 pounds of a food their digestive system was never designed to consume. And GI disease is a primary cause of death — whether they're wild or captive. Can their microbiome adjust in time to save the species?

Special Species

Why Do Sloths Live Life in Slow Motion?

Sloths are highly specialized animals designed for life in the tree-tops. Research revealed that this is a key reason why they, in turn, spend much of their life sleeping and otherwise moving at snails' speed.

Special Species

Do You Make This Accidental Bee-Killing Mistake?

Proof-positive about what's decimating our bee populations, despite all the quibbling and controversy. But even if you're all about protecting them, it's very easy to make this common mistake. What to know before you act to make your yard bee-friendly.

Subscribe to our newsletter for FREE pet updates