The Slimfish Files » Animals

Types of Different Butterflies

Admin — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:47:45 +0000

Types of different butterflies can be found across South Africa, as well as the smallest butterfly in the world, the Dwarf Blue Butterfly, which has a wingspan of only half an inch. Swallowtail butterflies can also be found in South Africa and unlike the Dwarf Blue butterfly, this particular species are large and brightly coloured. These butterflies got their name from their tails, which resemble that of a swallow’s tail and make them an exquisite sight to see. Another unique feature of this butterfly is that when they are a caterpillar, they have a fork like structure behind their heads called an osmeterium, which they use to defend themselves when threatened.

For those people interested in types of different butterflies, there are places that they can visit to experience the beauty and serenity of these insects. One such place is the Butterfly House in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu Natal. This facility has walk through tours so that people can learn about the butterflies whilst being surrounded by these tranquil beauties. The Butterfly House additionally has a butterfly museum which is home to a number of different specifies of butterflies, as well as a nursery which sells butterfly host plants. The Butterfly House is also home to a gallery of butterfly art produced by local artists. This really is not a place to miss out on if you are interested in butterflies.

The Butterfly House is not the only place at which to interact with butterflies such as the Swallowtail, there are a number of different parks such as Butterfly World in the Western Cape which is the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa. These parks allow their visitors the chance to gather as much information about these often brightly coloured treasures from caterpillar stage right through their metamorphosis into the wondrous creatures we call butterflies. So why not visit one of these parks and the host of species available for your enjoyment, all whilst learning about types of different butterflies.

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Learn All About Tigers

Admin — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 10:34:31 +0000

When you want to find out all about tigers, it is important for you to know about their habitat. These animals are mainly found in India and Asia and there are only about five thousand wild tigers left roaming the planet. In order for these big cats to survive out in the forests, they need the forests to be healthy and they need prey and sufficient water. Some interesting facts about these beautiful animals include that even though each tiger has more than 100 stripes on their body, no two big cats have identical stripes. It isn’t normally the wild tigers that you will see at the zoo in South Africa, because they are found only in Asia unless they have been transported from there, which is unlikely and not allowed.

There is a lot of information for you to find out if you want to know all about tigers and what is as important as their habitat and routine is their diet. They like to feed on big prey, such as antelope, cattle, deer, wild hogs and even sometimes porcupines. This is the diet they prefer, and what they do is kill their prey and take it back to their family for a meal. More interesting facts include that a tiger’s roar can be heard at least a mile away and a large group of tigers is known as a streak.

They are dangerous animals, but very beautiful ones at that. You might be lucky enough to see one or two at your local zoo, but don’t be surprised if they don’t have these big animals on show all the time. They are slowly becoming extinct and they aren’t going to be easy to find one of these days; there are already so few of them left compared to fifty years ago. Gaining knowledge on tigers is wonderful, the more you know about them the more you learn to appreciate them.

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Facts About Dogs and Breeds of Dogs

Admin — Thu, 05 Aug 2010 14:46:30 +0000

If you are looking for some facts about dogs, there are quite a few things that will really grab your attention. A fact is that all types of dogs have been pets to owners for over 14,000 years. The other thing that a few only know is that your best friend can register around 35,000 vibrations sounds where a human can only register 20,000. There are many breeds of dogs around the world, and out of all of them the Irish wolfhound and the Great Dane are the tallest of them all. If you enjoy feeding your canine chocolate, it is about time you stop and take this advice: chocolates contain Theobromine, which is similar to caffeine and can kill your best friend.

If there are other facts about dogs or breeds that you need to know it is that training them when they are still puppies are important, because old dogs cannot be taught new tricks. Love your pet if he or she is precious to you, because during the World War II, when the Russians struggled to get behind Germany enemy lines they started training them to be suicide bombers. Looking at other breeds of dogs, such as the Greyhound, these lightning fast types can reach speeds of up to 72km/h. It is unbelievable, but true.

It is always important that you raise your puppies properly. That way they will remain loyal and will always be around you and make sure that you are looked after. There is so much advice that one can give when it comes to dogs and it is important that you listen to those people, especially if they know a bit more than you. Long before we were born, in the Middle Ages, Mastiffs used to have pots of burning sulphur strapped to their bodies and were sent to run into battle against mounted knights. We all wish that some of these facts about different breeds and types of dogs were not true, but that would be a lie.

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Facts About Dolphins and Dolphin Behaviour

Admin — Wed, 28 Jul 2010 11:54:35 +0000

Facts about dolphins are easy to find online or in your local library as they are one of the most beloved sea creatures because they are known to be very friendly. Dolphins are aquatic mammals; this means that although they live in the ocean they give birth to live offspring. Although you might think that they can breathe under the water, they cannot. They can simply hold their breath for a very long time, and must come up every now and then for oxygen to breathe. They eat a diet of various types of fish, depending on the area that they live in. Dolphins come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and in South America some dolphins even live in rivers and lakes because it is a good environment for them.

There are some other little known facts on dolphins that are dissimilar from the common ones about their diet and how friendly they are. Research has shown that dolphins engage in aggressive sexual behaviour and male dolphins have even been known to rape and gang rape female dolphins. Although this behaviour happens infrequently, it is something that is reported. One thing you might notice is that sometimes dolphins strand themselves on the beaches if their environment has been polluted, or they have suffered some trauma. This is known as beaching, and happens quite frequently. In some cases more than one dolphin will beach itself at a time, and this is an indication to researchers that something is wrong with their habitat.

Dolphins are great animals for training and are a common friendly appearance at sea parks across the world. They are extremely intelligent and can learn to do tricks for rewards such as fish. Dolphins communicate with one another through a series of sonar noises and are thus able to travel great distances with their group.

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What Kind of Animals Live in South Africa?

South African Animals

Admin — Tue, 09 Mar 2010 10:19:42 +0000

The South African animals will always be a wonder of the world, as are the Big Five; the elephant, rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo. When it comes to the mammals of the country, there are just fewer than three hundred different species of mammals; some of which are endangered, extinct and others who still roam. Whales, dolphins and sharks are some of the most popular sea creatures, and there are hundreds of beaches along the coast where whale watching is a necessity and many tourists come to the country to experience shark cage diving, and those who have the pleasure of being South African take part too. A safari trip is also popular in the country, as then you get to roam the bushes with the animals and see all kinds of reptiles and birds with a tour guide who will tell you all you need to know.

The big five are just an idea of what type of South African animals there are, but if you’re interested in the birds, you have about eight hundred and sixty different species to admire. The reptiles on the other hand, offer just three hundred and seventy species, some of which are fearsome and dangerous, where others offer no threat to humans. However, anyone who is not familiar with these animals shouldn’t interfere with them at all, as even though they may not be fatal, they can still be potentially dangerous. Going on a safari with a tour guide will show you some of the different animals we have the pleasure of having in our country, and will also provide you with the safety you may need around the animals.

Those who don’t fear sharks, or would just like the unforgettable experience, shark cage diving is one activity you don’t want to miss. Equally beautiful, but less adrenaline pumping is whale watching and by visiting aquariums around the country, you will be exposed to other magnificent sea creatures and South African animals.

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What Kind of Animals Live in South Africa?

Admin — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 14:38:31 +0000

Asking what kind of animals live in South Africa may result in a very long list of answers. South Africa is home to one of the most diverse ranges of wildlife in the world. It is sometimes easier to categorise them according to whether they live in the sea.

If you start with sea creatures when you ask what kind of animals live in South Africa you will also be met with a very long list. Its oceans are filled with thrilling aquatic life such as sharks, whales, dolphins and beautiful fish. The number of sea creatures that you can find is huge because South Africa has two very different coastlines. The west coast of South Africa has a very cold sea current making whales and Great White sharks common visitors. The east coast has a much warmer current and you can often sea bottlenose dolphins surfing the waves. This means that activities like whale watching and shark cage diving can be done on the west coast, and activities like swimming with dolphins are easier on the east coast. The sea is also home to many marine birds such as seagulls and fish eagles.

There are so many different kinds of land animals too. South Africa is well known for being home to the Big Five – Lion, Rhino, Cheetah, Leopard and Buffalo. These enormous animals often roam free in Game parks, which means that to scope out the Big Five you will need to go on a safari. What bliss! In the ‘bush’ as it is known in South Africa you will also be able to spot hundreds of kinds of birds including eagles, hawks, kites. There are also some scary reptiles to be seen like the crocodile and black and green mamba snakes. These are only some of the answers you can give when someone asks you “What kind of animals live in South Africa?”

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Safari Tours Near Cape Town South Africa

Admin — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 10:43:12 +0000

Safari tours near Cape Town South Africa are available at game reserves for those looking for a true authentic ‘big 5′ African wildlife experience. Horseback safaris, quad bikes, hiking and day trips are on offer to give people the choice of which experience suits them the most. Hotel pick-ups, scenic transfer, welcome drinks and full breakfasts are available for those looking to spend the day viewing lion, rhino, giraffe, elephant, hippo and more after departing on the 2-3 hour game drive.

Accommodation is available at the safari tours near Cape Town South Africa for those looking to spend more than a day trip and luxury chalets are privately situated and offer wonderful views of the veld and animals. Apart from the ‘big 5′ found within the reserves there is also a range of other wildlife including zebra, wildebeest, ostriches, jackal, baboons, lynx, eland as well as many other species of bok (deer).

Much bird life also exists within the grounds which can be seen on the short walks available close to the accommodation offered within the reserve. For many years this part of SA has not been home to such a facility and those looking for this kind of wildlife experience would have had to fly up to the Kruger National Park or one of the few reserves that exist in the Natal Province. It is wonderful now that tourists and visitors have the opportunity now to go on safari tours near the city of Cape Town here in South Africa.

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Cape Town Aquarium

Admin — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 15:23:31 +0000

Cape Town aquarium Two Oceans is ideal for tourists or other visitors to Cape Town looking for a day visit to the aquarium. This popular centre offers visitors a glimpse into the diverse life found off the coastline of South Africa. Over 3000 living animals including fish, invertebrates, birds and reptiles can be seen at this wonderful facility that gives people the opportunity to discover what lives in and around the coastline of this beautiful country.

A great place to visit, the Cape Town aquarium is home to ragged-tooth sharks and shoals of yellowtail fish along with Knysna seahorses and African penguins. The animals have been entertaining and teaching visitors to the Two Oceans since it first opened its doors back in November 1995. It has established itself as one of the most popular attractions for visitors and tourists to the Mother City. It is also recognised as an environmental education facility and plays host to many bus loads of school children each year where kids are taught and learn about coastal marine life and protecting the environment.

Feeding times happen at different times throughout the day and for the more adventurous there is the chance to dive with sharks amongst other predators in the large predator tank. Admission prices are different for pensioners, adults, teenagers and children so it is best to contact the Two Oceans directly to find out what the entry fees are. At the time of writing this information, admission for children under four years of age was free. Convenient secure parking is available directly next to the building, they offer baby care facilities, wheelchairs and access for the physically disabled and a souvenir shop to buy gifts and memorabilia. If you are looking for a great day out in the Western Cape then be sure to put this wonderful Cape Town aquarium on top of your list.

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South Africa Luxury Safari Tours

Admin — Thu, 02 Oct 2008 11:44:32 +0000

South Africa luxury safari tours are available for those coming to the country to visit and want to see the big 5 and other wildlife in a natural habitat and the bush. There are many operators and companies offering professional tours with qualified and experienced guides to take groups on outings into the wild. SA is home to some of the most beautiful animals on earth including Lion, Cheetah, Buffalo, Elephant, Giraffe and Hippopotamus just to name a few and thousands more species. Safari’s can be experienced on foot with armed guides, on open top jeeps or even on the back of an elephant giving people the ultimate experience, seeing wild animals from a wild animal, so to speak.

South Africa luxury safari tours offer people the opportunity to experience the wildlife adventure whilst staying in 5 star accommodation in the thick of the bush. These beautiful hotels and guest houses are situated in the wild close to where the animals are often seen yet offers you comfortable and a luxurious living space with exceptional service and hospitality. Or you could choose to spend your travel holiday in a place such as Sabi Sabi that offers luxury game lodges in the Sabi Sand reserve which have earned international praise for their unforgettable safari experiences.

The Kruger National Park is located here in South Africa and well known throughout the world as a prime destination for those wishing to travel to a place they can see Lion, Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, Giraffe, Buck, Wildebeast and all kinds of wild animals in their natural habitat, far too many to list here. If you are looking for a place to come and witness the beauty of the wild but not too keen on roughing it in a tent or cheap accommodation then check out the choice of South Africa luxury safari tours available to book online.

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Puppy Training Tips

Admin — Mon, 16 Jun 2008 11:32:18 +0000

Puppy training tips will help you train your puppy to obey your voice commands and will stop your dog from barking out of control, peeing or pooping in the house, jumping up on strangers or visitors and nipping, biting or growling. These tips help you to train your dog without ever having to hit or shout at your pet and without the use of nasty training devices such as electric shock collars and other cruel pet training methods which people are ignorant enough to make use of.

Training a puppy can often prove difficult and time consuming but with the correct tips and advice you can even have fun getting your dog to come to you every time you call him or her and obey basic commands like “sit” or “out”. You learn to teach your loving pet a series of training techniques that will appeal to the natural instincts of your puppy and will have him or her eagerly obeying your voice commands. The advice for training a dog to obey your voice is also an excellent program to get your children involved with.

When applied correctly and the lessons followed strictly you can begin to see the results of this program within one week of implementation. There really is no need to go looking for a professional dog trainer in your area if you adhere to these training methods religiously. Many people think that harsh discipline and beating an animal into obedience is the best way to train a dog, this is ludicrous. Instead they will be cowering and grovelling on the floor in submission every time you make a fast movement towards them and looking for ways to get away from you as soon as possible. But with the correct hands off approach you will have fun as you train your dog and will gain a mutual understanding and respect for one another making the puppy training tips a fun education for both of you.

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