Conservation status: Very Vulnerable

The lifespan of an African bush elephant

A healthy African bush elephant can live up to 70 years. However, not many reach this age in the wild. Most elephants die due to poaching or starvation from old age.

Gestation period

The African bush elephant is one of the few large mammals that have to wait two years until their baby is born. However, due to their baby elephant’s size, they are commonly born with their legs bent. Surprisingly, these not-so-tiny baby critters, it can up to half an hour after birth that they take their first few steps. They often rely on their mother’s encouragement and their trunk for support. Once these African bush babies find their balance and become aware of their surroundings, they will begin to notice miniature tusks after six months, which will continue to grow throughout their lives. 

Infancy (0 – 2 years)

As soon as an African bush elephant is able to walk,  it will search for its mother’s breast for its first meal. As a result, the baby will stay near its mother for the next two years before it has the confidence to socialise with other members of the herd. 

Like most playful toddlers, it’s not uncommon to become separated from their mothers. Once they realise their mother isn’t at trunk’s reach, they will not hesitate to use a low-frequency sound. This low-frequency cry alerts the mother of their location, which will always be distinguished from the crowd. Although, it’s commonly known that male calves tend to drink greater quantities of milk compared to females – resulting to staying nearer to their mother’s side, and having easier access to their hourly meal. 

Juvenile (2-5 years)

After the second year of being part of the world, you will be able to notice a difference in size between genders. Males are generally bigger than the females. However, all adult females in the herd (mothers, aunts, sisters and grandmothers) will contribute to the well-being of their calves.

Young adult (12-19 years)

When this type of elephant reaches its teen years, elephants go through physical and hormonal changes. During these years, the African bush elephants’ milk teeth (four molars) are replaced with their adult ones (around the age of 15), and continue replacing them up to six times throughout their lifespan.

Additionally, they become sexually mature. However, most teenage male elephants don’t search for a partner until they reach their 20s. It is common that during their teen years, male elephants leave their maternal herd and go in search for bachelor groups (any herd with no distinguishable alpha male), and then eventually live alone.

The females, on the other hand, stay in the same herd as their mother and other female relatives. After the age of 12, females are considered sexually ready to reproduce, but they often wait a couple of years to mate.

Mature adult (20-50 years)

Between these years, a male elephant will go in search for female herds to reproduce. Once the elephant finds a group of females, he will show off his large tusks, which represent dominance. Once it finds a young female that is interested and is secreting oestrus (the hormonal signal to indicate that she is fertile), he will mount her for a few minutes, and then spend between a few hours to a couple of weeks together, caressing each other. After two weeks, the male elephant will likely leave in search of another female. Once a female elephant becomes a mother – she will often wait to have another baby after her most recent calf is either four to six years old; when they no longer need to breastfeed.

Senior (50+ years)

When a female elephant reaches her 50s, she will stop having calves. Instead, she will pass on her wisdom and possibly behave like a grandmother to younger females.

When an elephant surpasses the age of 60, the adult set of teeth will no longer be replaced. Eventually, the few lucky elephants that reach between the age range of 60 and 80, they will need to be kept in captivity to help them eat; otherwise, these critters can easily starve to death.

Where can you find an African bush elephant?

You can find this critter in different countries of the Sub-Saharan Africa.

The African bush elephant diet

You’ll be surprised to know that the average amount of food consumed by an adult African bush elephant is up to 230 kg of greenery, and it drink on average 190 litres of water per day! This giant herbivore enjoys eating a variety of vegetation:

• Small plants
• Twigs
• Bushes
• Fruits
• Grass
  

With the massive amount of food an bush elephant has to consume, it’s no wonder they can grow over 3 metres long and can weight up to 6,500 kg for males. As for females, they are often smaller, but they are still bigger than any other mammal you may come across!  Females can grow on average 2.6 metres long and weigh between 2,000-6,000 kg.

How do African bush elephants survive in the heat?

During a hot afternoon, these clever critters will flap their large ears to lose body heat; especially when they are having a tasty meal.  However, whenever they aren’t eating, they will search for a fresh amount of mud or dust.  They will use their trunk to throw the dust or mud around their body, which also works as a protective layer for their sensitive skins to protect them from the sun after having a quick bath in a river.

What are the African bush elephant’s threats?

Predators (poaching)

Even though African bush elephants look like they can take care of themselves from any predators; there’s one predator they’ve always had difficulty running away from – humans. For hundreds of years humans have hunted these magnificent creatures for their ivory tusks and other parts of their bodies to keep as trophies. Fortunately, since 1977, hunting became illegal. However, the demand for ivory did not diminish. Due to a high demand of ivory for invalid Chinese medical purposes (which has been disproved to contain any medical properties) and manufacturing art, poaching became the number one reason for the vast decrease of the African bush elephant. 

It’s no secret that many countries of Africa have political and economical issues. This often results to people struggling to maintain a descent way of living. With lack of education and fair paying jobs, the very desperate individuals will result to poaching.  Even though poaching and trading is illegal, the number of elephants is still in decline. However, there are a number of organisations that dedicate themselves to stopping the unnecessary death of elephants. 

Lack of land and farmers

Each year elephants lose more and more space to roam, especially with areas where farmers live. These critters have a great memory of places to visit, but whenever they are met with a restriction such as fences or crops; elephants won’t hesitate to clear the path or have a quick snack. It’s a common issue that whenever an elephant destroys a year’s worth of crops, farmers feel they don’t have any other options apart from hunting or pushing away the culprit(s). This results to either starvation or getting killed in no longer inhabitable territory that they once called home.  

African bush elephant and emotions

In the last few decades, researchers have identified that elephants are one of many species of animals that go through a range of complex emotions.  This sociable creature can be quite affectionate, especially if they are related to one another. African bush elephant always have each others backs, from calf-carer to being there when there’s been  a loss.

In the last couple of decades, researchers have confirmed that whenever elephants come across a dead elephant or its bones; they will likely stay in the area for respect. They will often visit the deceased multiple and even touching or smelling the deceased or its bones. Like humans, and many other animals, elephants often go through the sense of loss. Whenever an elephant dies, its friends and family go through different stages of grief, as well as visiting the location of the deceased as part of grieving process. 

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Conservation status: Extinct

Where did the Bramble Cay melomys live?

Before the Bramble Cay melomys went extinct, it use to live in the northern edge of the Torres Strait Island of Queensland, Australia.

A brief history of the Bramble Cay melomys

This little rodent was originally discovered in 1845 by a group of European crew ship. They stated that the island seemed overpopulated with this critter, and described them as “large rats”. During their brief visit, they spent their time killing them for fun. It wasn’t until 1924 that this critter was given its scientific name (Melomys rubicola).

When and what caused the extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys?

This critter was confirmed as extinct in June 2016. Researchers from the University of Queensland stated that the extinction of the Bramble Cay melomys was due to numerous factors, such as the introduction of exotic plants, predators, competitors (green turtles and seabirds) and diseases from people that visited the island.

However, researchers have argued that the most likely cause for their extinction was due to climate change. Due to the increase of sea level, this lead to a loss of habitat and coastal erosion.

Although, researchers originally feared the extinction of this mammal may have occurred before 2016. They were unable to find evidence of a Bramble Cay melomys’s faeces, skeletons or nests between 2011 and 2014. Researchers had hoped to find traces of this animal, but waited until 2016 to confirm its extinct classification.

Where and when did the Bramble Cay melomys sleep?

Like all rodents, the Bramble Cay melomys was a nocturnal critter, who spent its sleeping time in burrows and under logs.

How long did Bramble Cay melomys use to live?

It was estimated that this creature could have lived at least two years in the wild.

The Bramble Cay melomys diet

The diet of the Bramble Cay melomys was not exclusively investigated. However, it was reported that its diet was mostly vegetation, such as the Portulaca oleracea plant, and whenever the opportunity presented itself, turtle eggs was a delicacy.

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Conservation status: Critically endangered (extinct in the wild)

Did you know there are only two northern white rhinos remaining in the world?!

The northern white rhino is one of two subspecies of white rhinos that are considered to be extinct in the wild. The other type of subspecies for the white rhino is the Southern white rhino. While they have features that make them unique, the main difference between the southern and the northern white rhino is their population size.

There are two remaining northern white rhinos in the world – named  Najin (27-years-old) and Fatu (17-years-old). In March 2018, the last remaining male, Sudan, aged-45 passed away due to age-related complications.  Sudan was Najin’s father and Fatu’s grandfather. While Sudan was alive, he lived at Kenya’s Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Thanks to this organisation the three remaining northern white rhinos were protected by heavily armed soldiers 24 hours a day.

What is the Ol Pejeta Conservancy and what do they do?

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a non-profit organisation that protects African wildlife. The Conservancy protects five types of animals: Lions, African elephants, leopards, Cape buffalos and different species of rhinoceros. The three remaining northern white rhinos were relocated from Dvůr Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic to this Kenyan Conservancy. Thanks to many donations, this organisation is able to protect  amazing animals by using a variety of security measures, such as, fences, local communities, highly trained dogs, drones and heavily armed soldiers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qdb0FNsxIF8

Where did the northern white rhino originally live?

Northern white rhinos were once found in the savanna and grasslands of numerous countries, mostly the East, south and Central areas of Africa.  In the case of Sudan, he was born (hence the name) in South Sudan 1973. However, between the 1970s and 80s, the rhino population plummeted from 500+ to 15 due to heavy poaching. As a result, the remaining rhinos were relocated to different conversations where they were kept in captivity for their own protection. 

The lifespan of a northern white rhino

It was estimated that the northern white rhino lived up to 40 years in the wild, and up to 45 – 50 years in captivity. However, for many decades it was very rare for this type of rhino to reach adulthood due to poaching. However, in 2010, the youngest norther white rhino (Najin) was able to was able to give birth to the last female rhino – Fatu (Sudan’s granddaughter).

Even though Najin is still considered young, she’s unable to have more offspring due to her weak legs. As for Fatu, even though she is young too – she cannot get pregnant either. She was unfortunately born with a uterine disorder, which prevents an embryo from being implanted.

This is Sudan, the Northern white rhino .

When did the Northern white rhinos become sexually mature?

Like most animals, female northern white rhinos become sexually mature by the time they are seven-years-old. As  for male rhinos,  their maturity often varies between 10- 12-years-old.

Gestation period for a norther white rhino

A gestation period for a rhino is  an average of 16 months. Due to their size while they’re in the womb, rhinos commonly only give birth to one baby, which made repopulating very difficult. 

The Northern white rhino diet

All species of rhinos are herbivores that enjoy a variety of twigs, fruits and grass.  However, the two remaining rhinos enjoy eating short grass. Najin and Futa eat mainly during the morning and later afternoon – when the temperature is not too high. Throughout the day, when it becomes too hot, these rhinos try to preserve their energy by napping. 

This is Fatu, the youngest remaining Northern white rhino in the world.

How much do they weigh and how big can they grow?

On average, a healthy male adult rhino use to weigh 2,300 kg (5070 lbs) and a female adult weigh on average 1800 kg (3,968 lbs). The size of a rhino use to vary, but it’s been recorded that they could grow between three and a half to four metres in length. This critter is known to be the third biggest African mammal, with the elephant and hippopotamus being the first and second largest animals.

Norther white rhino predators and threats

Like most animals when they are young, there’s always something that can threaten their lives, especially in the wild. For the northern white rhinos though, their threat use to be large predators such as hyenas, African wild dogs and crocodiles. However, in recent decades, predators were not the problem. Instead, humans have been their biggest threat.  

Poaching is the number one reason why all northern white rhinos were killed in the wild. Some cultures still believe that rhino horns contain special medicinal properties that can cure a range of diseases. However,  for many years – researchers have identified horns as simply a large nail with absolutely no medical purpose!

Can we save the norther white rhino population?

So far there have been two options that conservationists and scientists have tried to do to help increase the rhino populations. For many years, conservationists have tried to crossbreed one of the female northern white rhinos with a male Southern white rhino, however, each attempt has not been successful.  

On the other hand, scientists from numerous countries across the world have tried to work the with in-vitro fertilisation (IVF). They believe that they can conceive an embryo by using harvested eggs from the two remaining female rhinos and stem cell. Afterwards, the embryo would be carried and given birth by a surrogate mother. 

Unfortunately, this type of project is considered costly and has no government backing. However, thanks to thousands of generous people, the main source of income for this IVF project relies mainly on donations. Each donation increases the possibility to bring back the magnificent northern white rhino.

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Scientific name: Madoqua

A Madoqua, is a small type of antelope, which is formerly known as the dik-dik. Despite its unusual name and size, this is a shy critter with an impressive lifestyle and handy physical characteristic that help it survive in the wild.

The origin of the name dik-dik

The name dik-dik originated from the sound that both male and females make when they are in danger.

The population size of dik-diks is considered large enough that they are classified as least concern. However, like all other critters in the world, dik-diks have to constantly be alert of the dangers in their surrounding, such as predators, habitat loss, and being hunted by humans for their skin.  

Dik-dik physical characteristics

On average, this critter can weigh between 3 – 6 kg (6.6 – 13.2 lb) and often range between 50 – 70 cm in height. They have small bodies, with short fur and an elongated hairy snout.

How can you tell the difference between a female and male dik-dik?

At first, it may not seem completely obvious which gender is which, because they both look alike. However, there are two physical characteristics that differentiate between them.

Firstly, females have bigger bodies, and secondly, male dik-diks are the only ones that can grow small horns when they reach puberty.

The dik-dik diet

This small critter eats a variety of leaves, herbs, fruits, berries, flowers and pods. Surprisingly, this critter doesn’t have to drink water as often as other animals. Dik-diks can stay hydrated through its herbivore diet of plants and juicy fruits.  

Fascinatingly enough, dik-diks have pointy shaped heads that allows them an easier access to flowers, fruits and berries that grow in thorny bushes, which not many animals are able to reach without getting injured.

With the help of their pointy shaped heads, they are also able to keep an eye for any predators while they enjoy their meal.

Remarkably, dik-diks have a similar digestive system as cows! They have four chambered stomachs, they have to regurgitate their food, and then chew it multiple times in order to make sure the food is digested properly.

How long does a dik-dik live?

On average, this tiny mammal can live up to 10 years in the wild, and up to 17 years in captivity. The reason why they live significantly longer in captivity is because they are protected from predators and humans that want to hunt them.

A dik-dik’s threats

Dik-diks have to constantly be vigilant of predators. They have to keep an eye on multiple large animals, such as:

• Humans
• Wild dogs
• Eagles
• Hawks
• Cheetahs
• Pythons
• Hyena
• Lions

When a dik-dik sees a predator, it makes an alarming sound to alert others, and then it runs away. Remarkably, a running dik-dik can reach a speed of up to 42 km/ h (26 mph).

The dik-dik reproduction

Female dik-diks are known to be monogamous critters, while the male are considered polygamous, and try to mate with as many females as possible.

They often become ready to reproduce during the dry season of the year, which is between June and December. On average, females breed twice per year, with a gestation period of 5.7 months; resulting to giving birth to one offspring, also known as a fawn.

A dik-dik offspring

When a dik-dik gives birth, the fawn will rely on its mother until it sexually matures. Females will be sexually mature around 6 months, and 12 months for males. When these offsprings have reached maturity, the parents will force them to explore and find other groups of dik-diks to socialise and create their own herds.

Do dik-diks fight?

It’s unusual for females to be involved in fights, but it’s common for males to have a few confrontations. Whenever they fight, it’s often involving their territory.

A fight commonly consists of vigorously nodding their heads and walking enough distance to charge at each other. This process often lasts until one of them gives up, by stomping the ground and urinating.

Where do dik-diks live?

There are five different species of dik-diks: the salt’s dik-dik, Gunther’s dik-dik, Silver dik-dik, Kirk’s dik-dik and this dik-dik. These critters are all scattered around different countries of Africa, such as Kenya, Sudan, Uganda, Angola, Namibia, Tanzania and Ethiopia. However, this type of dik-dik can be found in Somalia.

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Conservation status: Least Concern

The Southern hairy-nosed wombats are scientifically known as Lasiorhinus latifrons. This critter one of three species of wombats:

1. The Southern hairy-nosed wombat
2. The bare-nosed wombat
3. The Northern hairy-nosed wombat

What makes each type of wombat different?

• The Southern wombat has softer, shinier fur compared to the Bare-nosed (common) wombat.
• If you take a look at the Southern hairy-nosed wombat’s snout, it is much smaller compared to the Northern wombat’s snout. However, as their names suggest, they both have equally hairy snout, but found in separate isolated areas within Australia.
• Southern wombats have longer ears and a wider snout than the common wombat.
• The Northern hairy-nosed wombat and the Bare-nosed wombat are bigger than the Southern wombat. A Southern wombat can grow between 100 – 120 cm.  

Historically, the southern hairy-nosed wombats use to be hunted for their meat, but it wasn’t frequent due to the difficulty to capture them. Their population size is categorised as a Least Concern compared to the Northern hairy-nosed wombat.

The Southern hairy-nosed wombat offspring

The Southern Hairy-nosed wombat commonly has one offspring, also known as a joey, every two years. When a joey is born, it’s completely hairless and weighs up to two grams.

Like kangaroos, wombats are marsupials.  When a wombat joey is born, it will travel from the birth canal to the mother’s pouch. Then, it will stay in its mother’s pouch for up to 9 months, holding onto its mother’s teat, which prevents the baby from falling out of the pouch. When a joey leaves the pouch, it will eat solid food and will stay by its mother’s side until sexual maturity at the age of 3.

When a wombat reaches adulthood, both males and females can weigh up to 32 kg.  As adults, all three wombats have to rely on their amazing sense of smell in order to avoid crossing other wombats territories, which is often marked with their faeces and urine.

When do wombats mate?

Southern hairy-nosed wombats mate between spring and summer in Australia (September until December).

How long do Southern hairy-nosed wombats live?

On average, the southern hairy-nosed wombat can live up  to 12 years in the wild. Their lifespan is shortened due to loss of habitat, getting hit by vehicles and disease (sarcoptic mange). However, when this wombat lives in captivity, it can live up to 20 years, and is protected from the exterior threats.

What is sarcoptic mange?

The sarcoptic mange is a mite that causes a severe skin disease, which affects both bare-nosed and southern hairy-nosed wombats. So far, there’s no sign the Northern hairy-nosed wombat can get affected by this mite.

Is sarcoptic mange dangerous for wombats?

This disease is considered fatal. It begins by causing the host to scratch incessantly, therefore leading to irritation, hair loss, and skin disfigurement. Over a short period of time, the host’s senses and internal organs also become affected. If not given early treatment the disease eventually results to a slow and painful death.

Although, this type of mite also often affects other animals such as feral dogs, foxes, deer and any animal with fur that walks next to tall grass, which is where these mites can be found.

The southern hairy-nosed wombat diet

The Southern hairy-nosed wombat needs to have a low metabolism in order to conserve energy. Its digestive system is more efficient than other herbivore animals. The southern hairy-nosed wombat has a wider variety compared to the Bare-nosed wombat. The Southern wombat enjoys eating:

• Soft grass
• Shrubs
• Bark
• Bush roots
• Mosses

Guess what: Wombats Poop Cubes!

Surprisingly, all three species of wombats are one of few animals in the world that use their faeces for territory and it’s in the shape of a cube. Having the shape of a cube prevents the faeces from rolling away from the marked area.

What’s the best time to find these wombats?

This critter has a similar daily time frame as the Common and Northern wombats. You can find the Southern hairy-nosed wombat at night time, they are nocturnal. They often spend their day in their underground tunnel homes.

Where do these wombats live?

The Southern hairy-nosed wombat can be found in the South Coastal Regions of Australia. However, Southern hairy-nosed wombats can be found in many sanctuaries and zoos across Australia.

Ideally, all three species of wombats should have enough space to walk and run. Wombats can run as fun as 40 km per hour!

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Conservation status: Least concern

Here you can learn about the wombat’s offsprings, where you can find them, what they eat, their unique poop, and more!   

For starters, this critter is formerly known as the common wombat. Common wombats are scientifically known as Vombatus ursinus, and it’s the most common type of wombat recognised by many people from around the world. The bare-nosed wombat is one of three species of wombats:

1. The bare-nosed wombat
2. The Southern hairy-nosed wombat
3. The Northern hairy-nosed wombat

What makes each type of wombat different?

• All three wombats look closely alike; they have short legs with muscular bodies. However, their snouts differentiate. The bare-nosed wombat has a small snout, whereas the hairy-nosed wombat has a larger and flatter snout.
• The bare-nosed wombat weighs more than the southern wombat by over 10 kgs.
• All three wombats have equally soft fur, but the bare-nosed wombat has smaller ears than the hairy-nosed wombat.

This type of wombat is considered as least concern for their population size. Even though there are thousands of bare-nosed wombats compared to its neighbouring wombat family such as the northern hairy-nosed wombat, their population has recently become affected. Their population size is declining due to habitat loss, urban development, and humans.

The bare-nosed wombat offspring

The bare-nosed wombat commonly has one offspring, also known as a joey, every two years. A bare-nosed wombat has a  pregnancy that lasts for five months. When a joey is born, they are about the size of an adult hand, weighing 2 grams.

A joey will stay in its mother’s homely pouch until it is five months old. The pouch is uniquely designed to prevent dirt from entering in any situation. The newborn joey will safely stay in the pouch by clamping onto its mother’s teat.

After five months, a joey leaves the pounce weighing between 3 and up to 7 kgs. After being exposed into the wild, a joey is normally weaned between 12 to 15 months of age, and often becomes independent after its 1. 5 years of age.

By the time a joey reaches sexual maturity, which is by the age of two, it can be quite a heavy fella, weighing between 17 and 40 kgs. When a bare-nosed wombat reaches adulthood, it can grow between, 80 cm and 1.3 metre.

How long do bare-nosed wombats live?

On average, this critter can live up 15 years in the wild, and 20 years if they live in captivity. Although, it was recorded that the longest living bare-nosed wombat, Patrick, from a zoo in Australia lived for 30 years.

Do bare-nosed wombats fight?

The bare-nosed wombats usually has confrontational moments during mating season, more commonly between males. During these territorial situations, the bare-nosed wombats are very vocal. Wombats make a variety of noises, such as low growls, clicking sounds, rough coughs, or grunting  noises. Although, when they are really angry or are provoked, they commonly make hissing sounds.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yu4uxxCvo6k

What is the mating ritual for bare-nosed wombats?

When a male wombat is ready to mate, he will begin the ritual of having to literally chase the desired female. The chase consists of both wombats running in a circle. The female wombat mildly runs, which eventually slows down in order to the male wombat to catch her, and result in mating.

What’s the best time to find these wombats?

These fellas are nocturnal critters, you’ll likely to find the bare-nosed wombat in one of two occasions, either during dawn or dusk.

What does the Bare-nosed Wombat eat?

The bare-nosed wombat has a unique diet compared to the northern and southern wombats. Bare-nosed wombats generally enjoy a variety of plants and perennial grasses, such  as the bluebush and feather grass.

During the dry seasons in Australia, this resilient critter enjoys eating different bindi plant species such as Soliva sessilis and Tribulus terrestris.

The bare-nosed wombat can eat tribulus terrestris plant.

Solivas essilis plant

Guess what: Wombats Poop Cubes!

Surprisingly, wombats are one of few animals in the world that use their faeces for territory and it’s in the shape of a cube. Having the shape of a cube prevents the faeces from rolling away from the marked area.

Where do these wombats live?

The bare-nosed wombat can be found in several locations in south-eastern Australia: Tasmania, New South Wales, Queensland and Victoria. This furry critter likes to live in a variety of habitats which include, but not limited to, woodlands, open vegetation, mountainous, coastal and hilly areas.

Australia contains some of the most visually perplexing animals on the planet and the Wombat is just the beginning. Do you know any more interesting Wombat facts?

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Conservation status: Endangered

For starters, this critter is scientifically known as Lasiorhinus krefftii, they are quick critters, they can move up to 40km/h, and it’s one of three species of wombats:

1. The Northern hairy-nosed wombat
2. The Southern hairy-nosed wombat
3. The bare-nosed wombat
   

Genetics

When you look at the three wombats, your first impression will be that they all look alike. However, genetically speaking, they have a nine percent difference with one another, which is a massive difference compared to humans and chimpanzees that have less than one percent difference!

What makes each type of wombat different?

• The NHN wombat has a soft, grey fur, but as the name suggests, it has a large number of whiskers on its snout shaped nose, which sets it apart from the common wombat.
• The face is quite different from the Southern and the common wombat. They also have a broader square shaped mouth, with long pointy ears.
• The common and southern wombats weigh less than the Northern wombats. On average, the northern wombats can weigh up to 40 kgs, while the common wombats weigh up to 35 kgs and the southern wombat can weigh up to 26 kgs.

It’s an unfortunate fact, but this critter is one of the rarest land mammals you’ll find. It’s listed as Critically Endangered, with a 2012 census stating that the population size of this critter is less than giant pandas and Sumatran tigers. There are about 200 NHN wombats remaining.

Even though the number of northern wombats is smaller than its neighbouring wombat species, they have to compete for food. There are other factors that have affected their population size, such as wild dogs, diseases, with habitat loss due to droughts, wildfires and floods.

How long do Northern hairy-nosed wombats live?

On average, the Northern hairy-nosed  (NHN) wombat can live up to 26 years in the wild.

When can you find the Northern hairy-nosed wombat?

During its life, the NHN wombat does most of its activities during the night (they’re nocturnal critters), but they prefer to often avoid harsh weather by staying underground in a network of tunnels. Due to spending most of their time underground, the NHN wombats have poor eyesight and rely on their sense of smell to find their food.

Are Northern hairy-nosed wombats sociable?

These furry fellas aren’t the most sociable critters with humans, but they can tolerate, and often prefer other wombats’ company. Northern hairy-nosed wombats often share their underground homes with up to 10 members.

The Northern hairy-nosed wombat and its offspring

Surprisingly,  male wombats are not sexually mature until they are about three years old, and 2.5 years for females. When a wombat has an offspring, they are known as a joey. A joey is weaned at 12 months of age, but they stay and are protected in their mother’s pouch for eight to nine months.

However, wombats have one offspring at a time, usually every two years, especially when there’s plentiful of wet weather during April and November.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3q6n2U9aazk

The Northern hairy-nosed wombat diet

This chubby critter’s diet is quite extraordinary compared to other animals. Its main food source comes from different types of grass:

• Black speargrass
• Bottlewasher grass
• Golden beard grass
• Three-awned grass
• Various types of roots
• Buffel grass

Although,  northern hairy-nosed wombats have teeth that can effectively grind food from an early age and throughout their whole lives. They don’t have to feed for multiple times a day, due to its low metabolic rate. This wombat can spend up to six hours eating during the winter months, and up to two hours during the summer.

Guess what: Wombats Poop Cubes!

Surprisingly, all three wombats are one of few animals in the world that use their faeces for territory and it’s in the shape of a cube. Having the shape of a cube prevents the faeces from rolling away from the marked area.

Where do these wombats live?

You can find the NHN wombat in two locations in the wild of Australia; Epping Forest National Park and Richard Underwood Nature Refuge. These locations are well-protected that increase their chance of survival, with the hope of increasing their population.

In Epping Forest National Park, they have had an increase of attention and funds that help care for these fellas such as fire management, control of predators, predator-proof fence  removing invasive plant species, and general care, while researching and monitoring their population.

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If you’re planning to own a new pet, KnowYourCritter strongly recommends adoption over purchasing them; your actions will reduce the illegal farming of pets.  

Although, adopting doesn’t mean you’re limited to your usual furry friends like cats or dogs, there are many animals you can choose from that need a loving home, or you can volunteer at shelters to lend a helping hand.

There are many rescue centres that care for unwanted animals across the UK, and KnowYourCritter has created a list of where you can find them. If you are not ready to adopt but you would like to visit or give your time to these organisations, pay them a visit and find out how you can help make a difference to the lives of hundreds of animals.

Wood Green Animal Shelter

You’ll never find a greater variety of animals needing a loving home than at the Wood Green Animal Shelter. Just ten minutes from Wood Green tube station, this rescue centre was established in 1924, and their aim is to rehome animals including (but not limited to):

• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Ferrets
• Guinea pigs
• Goats
• Horses

Wood Green Animal Shelter is a charity based organisation, and is one of a few places that operate a euthanasia policy for very ill or overly aggressive animals, which can’t be aided despite all efforts to help them.

The Cat & Rabbit rescue centre

If you live in or near rural Sidlesham, you should pay a visit to The cat & Rabbit rescue centre. Established in 1986, this honourable organisation has rescued over 10,000 animals, and it continues to go the extra mile for unwanted animals.

This animal haven relies on charitable donations or volunteers to care for felines, rabbits and guinea pigs.  These small pets have the liberty to roam and enjoy the quiet outdoors, but are protected in predator-proof enclosures.

Blue Cross

The Blue Cross is an animal rescue centre, founded in 1897. This special charity provides shelter to a variety of unwanted animals that are in of need a loving home, for instance:

• Dogs
• Cats
• Chinchillas
• Rats
• Horses
• Rabbits
• Hamsters
• Gerbils
• Guinea pigs
• Degus

Blue Cross also provides other services that aim to help pet owners that can’t afford private veterinary treatments, and offer educational information on the responsibilities of animal ownership.

RSPCA (Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals)

RSPCA is oldest and one of the first animal welfare organisations across England and Wales, founded in 1824.  This animal rescue centre focuses on investigating cruelty complaints, rescuing a variety of pets, farm and wild animals.

Each RSPCA branch tries their best to rehabilitate every critter, followed by finding a caring family to adopt a pet or releasing them into the wild.  rehoming unwanted animals. RSPCA relies on charitable donations and volunteers.

National Animal Welfare Trust

What better place to find elderly pets than at the National Animal Welfare Trust (NAWT). This rescue centre follows the no-kill policy since it was founded in 1971. The NAWT relies on donations to care for the following animals:

• Birds
• Dogs
• Cats
• Rabbits
• Guinea pigs
• Field animals (goats, pigs and horses)

You’ll be able to adopt and sponsor these animals from a variety of branches across the UK, such as in Somerset, Watford, Cornwall, Berkshire and Essex.

Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service

If you’d like to have a pet but don’t have the space to have one, you can sponsor a wild animal that is a permanent resident at the Wildlife Rescue & Ambulance Service.  This charity was founded in 1999, giving abandoned, orphaned, or neglected animals a second chance in life. All volunteers are welcome to be part of an unforgettable experience.

This rescue centre for wild animals is located in Trent Park which is owned by the London Borough of Enfield. When you visit Trent Park, you’ll be able to witness the variety of amazing animals that’ll never be turned away. Some of the animals been taken care of are, but not limited to:

• Foxes
• Amphibians like turtles and frogs
• Birds(small birds of prey, chickens, ducks, geese parrots and budgerigars)
• Pigs
• Ponies
• Rabbits
• Chipmunks
• sheep
• Goats
• Hedgehogs
• Squirrels
• Ferrets
• Mink

Some these animals will be recovering from injuries and are released back into the wild. However, there are others that can’t that won’t be safe or survive in the wild; they become permanent residents at this haven for all critters.

FreshFields Animal Rescue

If you live in Liverpool or in Wales, you’re one of the lucky people to be near the FreshFields Animal Rescue. This amazing rescue centre was founded in 1979; caring for over 1200 critters such as cats, dogs, birds, farm and wild animals.

The aim of this charitable organisation is to rescue abused, neglected and injured animals, as well as care and rehome them when they are in good health. FreshField Animal Rescue welcomes all volunteers, encourages the idea of neutering pets, and  it provides educational tips on how to care for your pet and other animals.

The post The right animal rescue centre for you appeared first on Know Your Critter.

There are many dog and cat rescue centres across the UK; many, if not all, are funded via donations from the public. Each centre tries their best on rescuing, rehabilitating and rehoming unwanted pets.

According to the RSPCA, in 2014, over 30, 000 cats were abandoned in the UK, and the annual Stray Dog Survey stated that there were over 47, 000 dogs abandoned in 2015. While many rescue centres try their best to find these unwanted animals a safe yet happy home to live in, not all abandoned pets are fortunate enough to be rehomed.

Before you take the important step of adopting a furry fella, you should think which rescue centre is ideal for you, as well as the type of dog or cat you’d like to have; would you prefer a pet with a pedigree, crossbreed or mongrel background?

• A pedigree is an animal that is purebred over generations, it’s parents are the same breed.
• A crossbreed is when there are two purebred parents but from different breeds.
• A mongrel breed comes from parents of mixed breeds.

KnowYourCritter has put together  the following list of rescue centres you can trust, and decide where you’ll want to adopt your new friend from.  

Retired Greyhound Trust

What can be a better companion and friend than a retired greyhound? Historically, these lovely greyhounds didn’t have anywhere to go, or anyone to care for them after having to retire from their racing days.

Luckily, in 1975, the Retired Greyhound Trust (RGT) was founded. Their aim is to take in these unwanted fellas and find them a loving home.

Adopting a greyhound could be the best decision you ever make. This tranquil critter is great for all ages, and is hypoallergenic; they have very short and thin hair, so you won’t have to worry about taking allergy pills when they’re by your side.

You’ll also be surprised to know that greyhounds require very little maintenance.  They’re happy with two walks a day and a comfortable bed to relax. Regardless of their age, this breed is always grateful for your love and care.

Dog Trust

A well-known UK animal welfare charity is Dogs Trust, formerly known as the National Canine Defence League, founded in 1891. “Dogs trust is a charity specialising in rehabilitating dogs” turns into with the powerful slogan “we never put a healthy dog down”, The Dogs Trust provides nationwide kennels for abandoned dogs and rehabilitates them for adoption. They also provide neutering and microchipping schemes across the UK and other countries; their aim is to reduce unwanted litters of stray dogs.

Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

You can make a difference to a loveable dog or cat by visiting Battersea Dogs and Cats Home. This charity aims to never turn away a dog or cat in need of help since the first day they opened their doors in 1860.

This rescue centre has volunteers that work tirelessly to care for unwanted pets; they try their best to match the right dog or cat to the right person. Battersea Home never gives up on finding a loving home for these amazing critters, no matter how long it takes. Adopting one of these friends could be the best decision you ever make.

Cats protections

Are you crazy for cats? And are you searching for a pet? The Cats protections is the purr-fect place to find and adopt your new friend. Cats Protections is a charitable organisation in the UK, founded in 1927, with the aim to rescuing and rehoming unwanted cats.

Although they also share the wisdom and knowledge of caring for cats, and encourage owners to neuter their pets. This rescue centre has multiple branches that vary in size, they have paid staff, but mostly volunteers that care for the well-being of these lovable fellas.

Celia Hammond Animal Trust

If you are looking to adopt a kitten or older cat, visiting the Celia Hammond Animal Trust could be the best decision you ever make. The Celia Hammond Animal Trust was founded in 1986, with several branches across London.

Their aims are to care for the welfare of all abandoned and unwanted felines, with low-cost neutering clinics across London, while educating people about animal welfare, and encouraging people to consider adopting.

Celia Hammond promotes a strict non-destruction policy towards animals, unless they are suffering from a fatal illness or are beyond any veterinary aid given to them. But for the luckier ones, they are provided with refuge and care.

The Mayhew Animal Home

If you live in or near London, and wish to adopt a cat or dog, The Mayhew Animal Home & Humane Education Centre  is the place to go. Founded in 1886, this charity promotes animal welfare, as well as caring  for unwanted pets, and sometimes a variety of other animals. This pro-active animal haven also provides services such as advising pet owners how to care for their friend, and offers free microchipping for dogs.

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Classifying dogs can vary in different countries, but in the United Kingdom, The Kennel Club categorises dogs seven dog groups: Hound, Gundog, Pastoral, Terrier, Working, Toy and Utility dogs. Every group encompasses a large number of breeds; of which require different levels of dedication for their physical and mental wellbeing.  

What’s the difference between a dog type and a dog group?

As of 2014, there are 340 recognised types of dog breed in the world. However, many of these breeds overlap in their size, their appearance and where you can find them. All dog breeds can interbreed with each other, and therefore; regardless of how different the breeds can look, they are all the same species.

In the last two centuries, humans have purposefully created new breeds to serve a purpose which was needed during that time. Many old breeds have been lost because of this, but some breeds that exist today derive from them, and show features that are similar to those before.

We classify types of dog into dog groups because of their common ancestry, as well as modern breeds that have naturally changed to create new ones through interbreeding.

1. The Hound Group

These wonderful companions were historically bred to be part of packs for tracking, chasing and killing prey. They have a great running speed, are highly intelligent and a fantastic sense of smell.

But they cannot be left alone for long periods of time; there’s a need to have the companionship of other dogs. Hounds get along with other dogs and children, as well as being very loyal to their owners.

Examples of types of hound: Beagle, Dachshund, Basset hound, Bloodhound, Scottish Deerhound, Plott, etc.

2. The Gundog group

Historically, Gundogs were bred to work at finding and retrieving gamebirds. This athletic group of dogs are psychologically sensitive creatures.

If they don’t have enough physical activity they can easily become depressed. Ideally, these energetic friends need to live in the countryside where they have plenty of space to run.

Gundogs love to have long periods of playtime such as chasing a toy, going for a run at the park and a swim. If you live in the city, you’ll have to have a big garden; these energetic fellas need plenty of space to roam.

Examples of types of gundog:  Cocker Spaniel, English Springer Spaniel, Brittany, Pointer, Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, etc.

3. The Pastoral group

For centuries, this fascinating group of dogs were bred to live in the countryside to herd and protect livestock, but they also make great companions.

The breeds from this group are considered highly intelligent and need frequent exercise in order to maintain mentally healthy.

Pastoral breeds have sensitive ears and need to avoid loud sounds, otherwise, they can easily develop noise phobias if not accustomed to loud sounds from a young age.

Examples of types of pastoral: Shetland Sheepdog, Border Collie, German Shepherd, Briard, Komondor, Hungarian Puli, etc.

4. The Terrier group

These dogs were are natural diggers; they were historically bred to hunt, dig out and retrieve small animals.

They are very affectionate, independent and charismatic critters, and are the most playful dog group that enjoy play-fighting. Be careful of their hard bite when they become too excited!

But you’ll appreciate and enjoy their independence, charisma and affection. Although, you can’t over-exercise this group when they are puppies, due to their growing bones.

If you have a dog from this group, including smaller pets like a rabbit, hamster, cat, guinea pig, etc, you’ll need to pay extra attention your dog doesn’t hurt them. Their hunting instinct can kick in easily unless they have grown up with the small pet from an early age.

Examples of types of terrier: Parson Jack Russell Terrier, West Highland White Terrier, Staffordshire Bull Terrier, Bull Terrier, Border Terrier, Irish Terrier, etc.

5. The Working group

Working dogs were originally bred for guarding, rescue, or even work for the police. More often than not, they are of a larger breed to make use of their speed and power. These guys make great companions and don’t need extreme exercise, but they’re impressively strong!

Examples of types of working dog: Boxer, Siberian Husky, Schnauzer, Rottweiler, Dobermann, Great Dane, etc.

6. The Toy group

This less demanding group was developed, altered and bred over generations to be small and compact for city living. Because of this, they also don’t have the need for frequent or strenuous exercise. If you live in a flat or in a small home, it should be fine for these little guys to spend their time indoors.

That’s not to say that they like staying put. If you have a garden, they will enjoy playing or roaming by themselves for a little while. They prefer going on journeys alongside their owners, but they need to be carried because they get exhausted quickly.

Be warned that you will need to be more compassionate with these little guys and they tend to be more fragile than other dog groups. These fellas are the closest to having a friendly cat.

Examples of types of toy dog: Chihuahua, Pug, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pomeranian, Yorkshire Terrier, Bichon Frise, etc.

7.  The Utility group

This handy group were originally bred for numerous jobs from herding to guarding. They have a mixture of non-traditional breeds.

If you choose a dog from the Utility group, you’ll need to do a bit of research for the specific breed to find out its temperament and traits.

Examples of types of utility dog: Miniature Schnauzer, Boston Terrier, Shih Tzu, Lhasa Apso, Poodle, Dalmatian, etc.

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