Evolutionary Twist Of Fate Allows Cats To Swim [Video]

Ron Callari — Mon, 20 May 2013 10:45:38 -0700

If you've ever been a cat owner, you know that felines abhor all things associated with H₂0. Differing from dogs, it appears their DNA gave them the gene that says cats don't mix with water. However, with seventy-five percent of the planet covered with water, it appears certain habitats would require some cats to acquire aquatic skills to include -- of all things -- the doggie-paddle!

Our Lying, Cheating Ways May Have Evolved From Apes

Ron Callari — Thu, 16 May 2013 07:41:43 -0700

Who hasn't told a little white lie or purposely deceived others over the course of one's life. Ever wonder why the moral code of "thou shall not lie," has found its way into our religious and legal systems down through the ages? Perhaps because deception is so intricately woven into our DNA that man needed constant reminders that our darker nature was inevitable.

'Flight Of The Bumblebees' Cancelled Due To Weather & Maintenance Disruption [Videos]

Ron Callari — Thu, 11 Apr 2013 10:27:15 -0700

Composed by Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov for his opera, The Tale of Tsar Salton (circa 1899-1900), the "Flight of the Bumblebee" is one of the most recognizable orchestral pieces to stand the test of time. Unfortunately, that haunting refrain just might outlive our bee population, leading many to wonder if the demise of the bee is a case of the "canary in the mineshaft?"

Animals Known To Be First Responders For Their Own

Ron Callari — Tue, 14 May 2013 07:12:00 -0700

There are thousands of stories about man saving animals in hazardous situations. Saving the whales from hunters, saving dogs from euthanasia and the like have become causes that go to heart of our love of animals. But what about animals saving their own? Here are some of the rescue missions conducted by caring animals that show their compassion and desire to help members of their own species.

When Did "Dogues" Become Fashionable?

Ron Callari — Sat, 11 May 2013 07:44:47 -0700

If you're socially active online, by now, you've most likely come across a dog impersonating a cover model for a canine version of Vogue magazine. As a potential harbinger of dog memes to come, professional photographer Lucy Snowe is however not the first person responsible for the new "dogue" craze.

Canine Cannibis Might Be Just What The Doctor Ordered

Ron Callari — Wed, 08 May 2013 04:44:42 -0700

Dependent on what part of the world one scores it, maryjane, gange, pot, grass, hemp, reefer, Maui Wowie, hashish, Panana Red and countless other pseudonyms all fall under the herb known technically as cannabis. And while it's been a underground staple of humanity's medicine chest for hundreds of years, up to recent date, it's been prohibited in most states throughout the U.S.

Social Media Attempts To Save Man's Best Friend From Euthanasia

Ron Callari — Sun, 05 May 2013 06:41:13 -0700

Over the course of the last several years, social media has been known to fuel the fires of protest, social upheaval and even assist in the election of world leaders. It's been one of the 21st Century's vital tools in reaching the masses and drawing instant attention in real-time for the causes that serve mankind. This week's that ecosystem widens uniquely to include aid for man's best friend.

Bald Eagles Deprived Of The Wind Beneath Their Wings

Ron Callari — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:49:36 -0700

Injuries to bald eagles appear to be on the rise, but it's not clear as to why. If one was to Google News the keywords "bald eagles injured," one would find over 100 separate cases of injuries to bald eagles just within a few short months. Various sightings have located those with injured wings due to territorial fights with fellow flock members, gunshot wounds from hunters and fractures due to various environmental hazards.

Therapy Dogs Are Not Too Cool For School [Videos]

Ron Callari — Tue, 30 Apr 2013 09:46:21 -0700

A therapy dog is a canine specifically trained to provide affection and comfort to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, hospices, as well as people with learning difficulties, and those in stressful situations, such as disaster areas. But what about the traditional stress that plagues college students every year, the world over, particularly when exam time rolls around?

Soldier Dogs Deserve Same Rights As Humans When Serving Our Military

Ron Callari — Thu, 25 Apr 2013 07:30:05 -0700

Dissimilar to their human masters, dogs don't enlist in the U.S. Military -- they're drafted. And while they have no say in the matter, all of these four-legged recruits take their responsibilities very seriously. Military Working Dogs (MWDs) are however still formally considered 'military equipment' versus the co-species in arms that they really are. But all that might change with the new bipartisan Canine Members of the Armed Forces Act if Congress would only act.

'Big Year' Birders Count More Than Four & Twenty Blackbirds [Videos]

Ron Callari — Sun, 21 Apr 2013 14:28:50 -0700

Some think of a "big year" as one that marks a significant birthday or anniversary -- giving cause for a grand celebration. Others in the birding world use that term to denote a very different milestone entirely. A big year for birders is when serious bird-watchers get even more serious by dedicating 12 months of their lives to seeking out and counting bird species.

When The Crow Became The Leader & Kemo Sabe, The Sidekick [Video]

Ron Callari — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 07:01:16 -0700

The "crow" signified wisdom to the Native American Indian. Believed to have the faculty of speech, the crow was perceived as a "pathfinder" on hunting parities, and to adorn oneself with crow's feathers was a trend adhered to by a number of tribes. To stuff an actual crow and wear it as a headdress, however, has no historical antecedent in American Indian lore. That was -- until an American actor, with Indian heritage envisioned a new "Tonto" for the 21st Century.

Rumor Has It What Happens At 'Yappy Hour' Stays At 'Yappy Hour'

Ron Callari — Tue, 16 Apr 2013 06:50:06 -0700

What happens when two dogs walk into a bar? Well, chances are if there entering Rumors, a hotel just a few blocks off the Las Vegas Strip, they're not only going to be welcomed, they're going to have an opportunity to fraternize with other four-legged guests. And to boot, at this hotel's Yappy Hour, they'll even receive some swag, filled with edible doggie treats.

'Jersey Strong' Dogs Find Shelter In Vermont?

Ron Callari — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 08:34:45 -0700

New Jersey proved to be a pretty resilient state when Superstorm Sandy hit it shores back in late October. Whether affected by flood waters or power outages, New Jersey folks rose to the occasion to overcome Mother Nature's harsh blow -- while taking on the proud new moniker, "Jersey Strong." No longer punch line fodder for TV talk hosts, residents of Jersey not only attended to their individual and personal needs, but in many cases assisted in the recovery efforts of others.

Did 'Bird Brain' Da Vinci Get It Wright?

Ron Callari — Sun, 14 Apr 2013 01:55:21 -0700

With the new STARS TV show, Da Vinci's Demons debuting this past week, Leonardo Da Vinci's fascination with birds in flight has once again come under scrutiny. Since the series is dubbed a "historical fantasy," there is only so much you can consider as fact. But one thing is certain, Da Vinci invested a lifetime distinguishing avian flight patterns.

Did You Miss National Pet Day?

Ron Callari — Fri, 12 Apr 2013 14:35:17 -0700

What pet owner doesn't know the importance of the date April 11th? Well, that's National Pet Day, founded by celebrity pet lifestyle and animal advocate Colleen Paige to not only appreciate our four-legged friends, but to create awareness about the thousands of animals waiting for homes across the U.S. So, if you missed the official holiday, there's always the present to show your existing pet a little love, and perhaps even consider visiting a shelter to acquire a new one.

Music Inspired By Bees: "What's The Buzz, Tell Me What's A-Happening?" (Music Videos)

Ron Callari — Sat, 05 May 2012 09:43:53 -0700

One common, yet false assumption about bees is that that their buzzing is caused by the beating of their wings. Not true. The sound is actually the result of the bee vibrating their flight muscles. This is especially pronounced in bumblebees, as they must warm up their bodies considerably to get airborne at low ambient temperatures. Yet, the sound they do produce while fearful to many humans has indeed inspired a good number of musical compositions over the years.

Royal Antelope vs Dik-dik: Does Size Really Matter?

Ron Callari — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 13:45:48 -0700

While the Dik-dik called Aluna is stealing the current animal kingdom's spotlight, it wasn't too long ago, the public and the Twittersphere went agaga over the birth of a Royal Antelope. So what's all this fuss about? Well, apparently miniature versions of larger breeds hold a special place in our hearts.

Is The Camel As Much A Political Animal As The Elephant & Donkey?

Ron Callari — Sun, 07 Apr 2013 04:07:38 -0700

While the two-party system would probably never consider changing their political icons, it's odd that very seldom (if ever) do you see one of our political figures riding either a donkey or elephant? And with the 21st Century well on its way and since both parties are often criticized for being stuck in the past, perhaps it's time for one of them to update their logo as a way to energize their base and motivate their constituencies.

Polar Bear Needs To Take A Dance Lesson From A Sea Lion? [Video]

Ron Callari — Thu, 04 Apr 2013 08:02:04 -0700

On Dancing With The Stars, we've learned that sometimes the least coordinated human can learn to dance. Save folks like Wynonna Judd who was recently voted off the current season, others like Donnie Osmond and Kirstie Alley (not known for being able to 'shake their tail feathers') proved not only able to excel quickly, but in some cases win the competition. But what about the animal kingdom- do they also have the moves?

Sony's Animalia Launches #TechforPets For Our Pets

Ron Callari — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 00:22:43 -0700

While pet toys are in abundance in today's marketplace, a much overlooked product line for our pets has been technological gadgets. While humans have benefited and progressed with each new technological advancement, our pets have not been privy to some of our favorite toys. Well, all that is now changing as Sony's Animalia line launches some very innovative pet technology.

Metamorphosis Of The Butterfly Celebrated In 366th Birthday Google Doodle

Ron Callari — Tue, 02 Apr 2013 09:19:32 -0700

Google Doodles are considered today world famous. Whether commemorating an individual famous accomplishment or celebrating a noted celebrity's birthday. Google is more than often aprepos at hitting our sweet spot when it prompts us to remember some of the famous folks that made significant contributions to mankind over the years.

What Would Jesus' Pets Have Done?

Ron Callari — Sat, 30 Mar 2013 11:16:31 -0700

Did you ever speculate if Jesus had pets and if so, was he a dog or cat person? We know a lot about the baby Jesus and how that story relates to the Christmas holidays, and of course the end of Jesus' life as it pertains to Easter. But what about Jesus as a boy? What was his preferences and how did he relate to the animals that walked the Earth with him some 2000 years ago.

Five-Star Treatment For Peabody Hotel's Lucky Ducks & Duckmaster

Ron Callari — Thu, 28 Mar 2013 01:06:27 -0700

There's one hotel in the U.S. where the only place you won't find ducks is on their menu. The 144-year old Peabody Hotel in Memphis, TN is known for a tradition that has stood the test of time. Their famous ducks are today, national celebrities that have appeared over the years on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson, Sesame Street, the Oprah Winfrey Show, in addition to People magazine and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.

Top Ten Lost Amphibians, Wanted Alive!

Ron Callari — Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:05:41 -0700

Extinction is a fact of life on this planet, as evidenced by the dinosaurs. Causes can vary from climate change to asteroids. According to a 1998 survey of biologists conducted by New York's American Museum of Natural History, nearly 70 percent believed that we're in the early stages of a human-caused extinction, known as the Holocene Extinction, which predicts that up to 20 percent of all living populations could be become extinct by 2028.

'War Horse,' Anachronism Or Still Relevant For The Military?

Ron Callari — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 09:21:37 -0700

Having been a theater-goer for both 'War Horse' on Broadway and Steven Spielberg's movie adaptation, I was curious to learn if military horses had seen their day or whether they were still vital for certain types of military missions. Certainly when President Obama used "horses and bayonets" as a put-down line to show how his opponent Mitt Romney was lacking from a strategic defense standpoint, it suggested that war horses were a thing of the past.

Who Put The Grump In Grumpy Cat & Launched A 1000 Memes [Videos]

Ron Callari — Sun, 24 Mar 2013 06:12:36 -0700

The cat who became an Internet sensation overnight is not a cat at all. Less than 1 year-old, Grumpy Cat is really still a kitten about to celebrate her 1st birthday on April 4, 2012. Perhaps one of the reasons she appears so grumpy - too much attention too soon? Another might be because her real name is "Tarder Sauce." So, how would you like it if people called you "grumpy" all day long.

'Game Of Thrones' Begs The Question: How Do You Raise A Dragon? [Videos]

Ron Callari — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 11:55:54 -0700

Answer: Very carefully! How cute and cuddly lion cubs seem in zoos and on TV. In a horrific incident that occurred at the Cat Haven Sanctuary in California this year, Dianna Hanson, a 24-year-old intern was suddenly and shockingly mauled and killed by her favorite and most beloved big cat, a five-year-old lion named Cous Cous. Seen as a 3-month old cub on the 'Ellen DeGeneres' TV show, when cats mature, their primal instincts are triggered differently and even their owners are at risk. Could the same be said about Khaleesi Daenerys's dragons on 'Game of Thrones?'

Social Media's Favorite Pet "Larry" Evolves To Iconic Status [Video]

Ron Callari — Sun, 17 Mar 2013 07:33:10 -0700

Twitter's first bird logo cost less than a pint of beer at a Silicon Valley saloon. The stock image on which Twitter's first bird logo was based was created by graphic designer Simon Oxley at the ridiculously low price of $15, of which Oxley may have seen $6. Today's recent iteration was masterminded by classically trained Doug Bowman who was hired away from Google by Twitter, at an expense which was considerably more.

Patron Saint Of Animals Sends Gull & Twitter Bird To Usher In Pope Francis I?

Ron Callari — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 08:05:12 -0700

Newly appointed pontiff Jorge Mario Bergoglio is the first pope to take the name of the Catholic friar known for being a nature lover and preacher to birds. The much-beloved Italian patron saint Francis of Assisi is often portrayed with a bird in his hand. So it could not have been any more appropriate when both a gull and the Twitter bird were the first two images associated with the world's first glimpse of Pope Francis I?