Your basket is currently empty!
Category: Animals & Pets
-
Reasons To Interact With Your Cat
Reasons To Interact With Your Cat
Reasons To Interact With Your Cat: Playing enhances your bond with your cat. Playing with your cat is the finest method to strengthen your friendship.
Do you want your cat to perceive you as more than just a source of food, shelter, and warmth?
If this is the case, regular play sessions will help your cat recognise you as the object of his affection and greet you when you return home.
Allow your cat to believe that your hands are toys. If your cat learns that it’s acceptable to scratch or bite your hands, it’ll take the devil to break her of the habit.
Playing with your cat will help keep him from growing overweight.
Eating a decent and balanced diet is the most excellent method to keep your cat from becoming overweight, but exercise also plays a role in keeping your feline healthy.
If your cat is a house cat, playing with you may be their only source of exercise. But don’t overdo it, and keep playtime to approximately 15 minutes.
Playing allows your cat to gain confidence.
Kittens learn how to connect with their siblings and other cats through play; they find their position in the world through social education. Playing with your cat will aid in his learning process.
Regular play sessions paired with caressing will acquaint your cat with human interaction, making him less inclined to hide and shrink away when visitors arrive.
Playing allows your cat to hone her hunting skills.
All cats have an inherent instinct to hunt. A cat only kept indoors has little chance to act out and develop this instinct.
Spend some time playing with an interactive cat toy, such as a catnip on a string.
Encourage your cat to chase the mouse and pounce on it for the kill.
Maintain a wide selection of cat toys, but only use three or four at a time, and engage your cat with a different selection the following time. Keep some toys for play sessions to keep your cat interested, and put them away in between.
Toys like catnip mice can be safely left out for your cat’s amusement, but keep in mind that cats can and will consume small items.
Never encourage children to play with buttons, strings, bells, or other similar items.
Playing assists your cat in releasing aggression.
Cats frequently exhibit violent behaviour when bored. When you play with your cat, teach him not to scratch, bite, or attack you. When your cat plays softly, praise her, and stop the game as soon as she signs of wanting to use her teeth or claws.
This will teach your cat that aggressive behaviour should be focused on her toys rather than on you!
Your kitty enjoys playing!!!Cats, like people, require entertainment throughout their lives. Add some fun to your cat’s life to break up the routine of eating, sleeping, and using the litter box.
Your cat will be happier, more confident, and less aggressive.
Playing is enjoyable for you!Finally, playing with your cat is enjoyable for you as well. A cat is an excellent pet to keep around to enjoy its beauty and keep it company.
Introduce your children to a cat.
Are cats and children compatible?
So your family has owned a cat since you were a child. And bringing a cat into your home would be an excellent way to educate your children about the joys of being around animals.
You are most likely correct.
However, just because you have great recollections of growing up with a loving cat does not guarantee that everything will always go smoothly.
They will undoubtedly be enthusiastic about the prospect but ensure they understand that caring for a living creature entails joy and responsibility.
Prepare to assume all responsibility for caring for the household cat. When children are old enough, they can and should be taught to do some of the tasks, but if they lose interest, it is up to you.
Set up a space where your cat can go when it doesn’t want children’s attention (or adults).
A room or location where your cat can be alone when he feels the need can help to maintain harmony.
Children must be informed about the sharpness of a cat’s claws and fangs to avoid terrible experiences! Explain that cats may bite or scratch when upset, agitated, or overstimulated.
Kittens are not the most excellent choice for small children. A youngster may not comprehend how delicate a kitten is and how an overly affectionate embrace could injure the creature.
A kitten may also be less tolerant of a child’s fast movements and joyous yelling than an adult cat. An older cat, at least two years old, is more likely to accept a toddler’s attention quietly and is undoubtedly more robust than a kitten.
Show your youngsters how to hold a cat appropriately. Show them how to take up a kitten gently, one hand on the chest and the other on the rear legs.
Children and cats can form powerful bonds that teach them love and respect for animals that will continue for the rest of their life. Teaching your children the fundamentals of pet interaction will benefit them for many years.
-
How To Set Up A Tropical Fish Aquarium
How To Set Up A Tropical Fish Aquarium
How To Set Up A Tropical Fish Aquarium: Are you starting with tropical fish for the first time? Here’s our step-by-step guide to getting started.
Aquarium with fish
Of course, the aquarium is necessary, but they come in various designs and sizes to suit all tastes.
As appealing as it is to select a unique shape, a regular rectangle is preferable for the following reasons:
It has a large surface area to volume ratio. This is necessary to allow oxygen to permeate the water and CO2 to diffuse at night.
Because of the surface area and oxygen supply, an enormous surface area allows you to fit more freshwater fish in a given space than a small surface area tank.
ahm articles There are also numerous fish that require space to swim and move around, as well as those that require a substrate area to feed and breed, such as cichlids and catfish.
And purchasing the largest aquarium you can afford is not a sales ploy.
Larger water volumes are more stable in temperature and water quality than small tanks, allowing you to retain a far wider variety of fish species in more significant numbers.
Because much small tropical fish are schooling fish, a community tank requires a large enough tank to accommodate schools of fish.
Most aquarium species, including a school of six or more tetras, three or more armoured catfish, six or more rasboras, five or more guppies, and the best algae eaters like bristlenose catfish, need tanks of a decent size.
Aquariums with a volume of 54 litres and a length of 60 cm or more are best suited for novices who manage a community of 15-20 small tropical fish or a few small coldwater fish.
If you choose an aquarium with a volume of 180 litres or more and a length of 90 cm or more, your fish selection expands significantly. It includes popular species such as angelfish and rainbowfish and a community of 30 or more small to medium-sized fish that are diverse in size, hue, and bustle, and they want to use every floor of their new house.
Cabinet for an Aquarium
All aquariums must be put on aquarium-specific cabinetry, and if a heavy, water-filled aquarium is placed on unsuitable house furniture, the manufacturer’s warranty may be voided.
In the worst-case situation, the furniture may fall beneath it. Instead, select the appropriate cabinet for your make and model, specifically constructed to support the aquarium’s weight.
Cabinets are also helpful for aquariums in other ways, such as giving a hidden location for external power filters, which are the best filtration choice for a tropical or cold-water freshwater aquarium, as well as food pots, test kits, and all those plugs and cords.
Aquarium Heater
If you live in the UK, you will need a heater to keep tropical fish.
Tropical fish are native to tropical regions such as South America, Southeast Asia, and Africa, where it is hot all year, and water temperatures rarely fall below 24 degrees Celsius.
A heater includes a thermostat that can be adjusted to 24 degrees Celsius and maintained at that temperature day and night all year, allowing your fish to become accustomed to tropical conditions.
Some modern heaters may display the temperature of the aquarium water and indicate whether it is too hot or too cold. Still, every aquarium owner should have a thermometer to check the temperature quickly.
If you need to figure out what size heater you need, go with one with the same or greater wattage as your aquarium.
A 100-watt heater is therefore required for a 100-gallon tank. For example, a 200-watt heater for a 200-litre tank.
For example, if you had a 180-litre tank, you would select the next higher heater type at 200 watts because heaters are only available in a few sizes, typically up to 300 watts.
A large 500-litre aquarium will require two heaters, one 200-watt and one 300-watt.
Filter for aquariums
A filter is essential in every aquarium because it serves as the fish’s life support system. Filtration systems are essential to any aquarium setup and should run nonstop.
Filters, like aquariums, come in various forms and sizes to accommodate each aquarium, and their prices and performance can vary.
Internal filters are famous for beginners because they are simple to install and install and produce good results.
If you are starting with a large aquarium and want the best for your fish, an external flow filter is a way to go.
Models are recommended for various tank lengths or water quantities when selecting the filter you need for your tank. So, if your tank holds between 100 and 200 gallons, choose “2” for a two-foot-long tank or a filter for a 200-gallon tank.
If your tank is an intermediate size, such as 180 gallons, choose the next size up, as with heaters.
If you wish to keep cichlids or goldfish, you may need twice as much filter material, which may imply two units.
Aquarium illumination
Consider an aquarium full of tropical fish, full of movement and colour, with lights to help bring it all to life.
Many aquariums already have integrated lighting, but you can typically swap out the bulbs for better plant growth or fish colour or replace them entirely with brighter illumination.
Separate lighting and tank mounts are required for open tanks, and some lights can also be operated by a separate controller or an app on a smartphone or tablet.
Plants require a consistent lighting schedule of 8-10 hours a day. However, fish can turn their lights off when they are not visible.
If the illumination cannot be controlled, a simple timer should be used, as leaving the aquarium lighting on for 12 hours or longer every day will result in the nuisance of algae.
For saltwater aquariums, use unique marine lights.
Aquaculture air pumps
When building up a tropical aquarium, air pumps are an optional feature with a significant benefit.
Air pumps use an airline and an air stone to blow air into the water, where the bubbles distribute oxygen, which is essential for fish.
Filters that spin the water surface also produce oxygen, but air pumps do it more precisely, which is especially beneficial in crowded tanks and with large fish.
If you run an air pump and a separate filter, the fish will still have access to oxygen if the filter fails, preserving their lives in the short term until you notice and address the filter problem.
When pharmaceuticals are taken, ammonia and nitrite are present in the water, and helpful filter bacteria are aerobic, consuming and utilising oxygen. Aeration is recommended.
Air bubbles rising through the aquarium water can be soothing, and specific decorations can be air-powered, which animates them and makes them enjoyable for children. The fish aren’t bothered either!
A check valve is a fundamental component of all air pumps.
During a power outage, air pumps in a cabinet beneath the aquarium can pull in aquarium water instead of pumping out air. A check valve prevents this, as well as puddling and air pump damage.
Aquarium ornamentation
Decoration makes fish feel more at ease in their bare glass enclosures while also letting the owner be creative.
After the aquarium, the first item to add to a new tank is gravel.
To anchor plastic plants or natural root plants, make the gravel layer 5 inches deep in the front and 7.5 inches deep in the back.
Gravel is available in natural or vivid artificial hues and grades ranging from coarse to fine sand.
Before adding gravel to the tank, it should be carefully rinsed by hand in a clean bucket.
Stones, decorations, and bogwood are popular decorating objects. However, ensure the wood you use is aquarium-safe, as some float and can leak compounds harmful to fish into the tank water.
After being placed in the aquarium for the first several months, bog wood will leak brown tannins into the water.
This is a natural occurrence. In the Amazon, many tropical fish, such as cardinal tetras, dwell in tea-coloured “black water” and benefit from tannin-coloured water.
If you don’t like this and want crystal clear water, add activated carbon to the filter and replace it regularly. Add stones, wood, and embellishments after the gravel.
How do you fill an aquarium?
Tropical aquariums can be filled with tap water at first, but there are a few steps you must take to ensure the water is healthy for tropical fish.
The first and most crucial component is a de-chlorinator. This simple liquid disinfects tap water and filters microorganisms by neutralising chlorine.
If you’re unsure, choose a de-chlorinator that neutralises both, and use it anytime you fill the tank with tap water or add tap water during a water change.
Once the pool has been filled with water for the first time, use the dechlorinator as indicated, connect the heater and filter, and wait.
Beneficial microorganisms can be added after dechlorination. New biological filters should be activated to convert dangerous fish waste into less poisonous compounds.
Within 24 hours, your aquarium should be at the right temperature.
Dechlorinators work immediately, but to avoid “New Tank Syndrome,” a new tank should be supplied carefully with a few hardy fish for the first few days and weeks.
Aquarium testing kits
If you keep fish in an aquarium, you’ll require test kits.
Aquarium water can be beautifully clear but lethal, and test kits are the only way to determine if it is safe to keep fish in.
A new aquarium requires four test kits: pH, ammonia, nitrite, and nitrate.
These enable you to monitor water quality in new and mature aquariums and set up an early warning system if water quality worsens.
Test daily as the tank grows to see hazardous ammonia and nitrite levels spike and then begin to fall, and monthly testing is recommended once the tank is completely grown.
Other essentials for the aquarium
Every aquarium owner should have a fish net on hand since you never know when you’ll need one.
The net should be wider than the largest fish, and difficult-to-catch species, such as fast-swimming magnificent carp, are best taken with two nets, one in front and one behind them.
You’ll also need an algae pad or magnet to regularly remove green algae growth from the front glass and a syphon tube to extract water for water changes.
A syphon tube paired with a gravel vacuum is the most useful.
These simple but effective tubes allow you to suck dirt out of the gravel while eliminating water.
Prepare a variety of dry and frozen food for the fish, which swim at different levels and have varying nutritional requirements.
-
Where Ringtail Lemurs Dwell, And Why They Are Endangered
Where Ringtail Lemurs Dwell, And Why They’re Endangered
Where Ringtail Lemurs Dwell, And Why They Are Endangered: Ring-tailed lemurs are among the most unique and easily identified lemur species. Learn more about this critically endangered species from the Lemur Conservation Network’s professional guide.
Ring-tailed lemurs, like all lemur species, are native to Madagascar, an island off the coast of East Africa.
Lemurs are the world’s most endangered group of mammals; indeed, they are the world’s most endangered group of vertebrates.
New information from the 2020 IUCN Red List, 98% of lemur species are threatened with extinction, and 31% are endangered, which means they are at risk of extinction in the wild.
The IUCN Red List classifies ring-tailed lemurs as vulnerable.
ahm articles What exactly is a ring-tailed lemur?
Ring-tailed lemurs are medium-sized primates around the size of a domestic cat. Ring-tailed lemurs weigh between 3 and 3.5 kilogrammes as adults.
Ring-tailed lemurs can live for up to 20 years in the wild. They are the most frequent lemur species found in zoos, where they can live for up to a decade longer.
What is the ring-tailed lemur’s scientific name?
The ring-tailed lemur is referred to as Lemur catta in scholarly literature.
Ring-tailed lemurs are strepsirrhine primates. Lemurs, lorises, and galagos are all members of this group. They are also referred to as “wet-nosed” primates.
Lemurs are also part of the prosimian group, including all strepsirrhines and tarsiers.
Where can you find ring-tailed lemurs?
Madagascar, the world’s fourth biggest island, is home to all kinds of lemurs. Ring-tailed lemurs are found in Madagascar’s southern and southwestern areas. In this region, summers are warm and humid, winters are cool and dry, and rainfall is unpredictable.
Ring-tailed lemurs are an ecologically “adaptable” primate. This implies they can be found in many habitats, including rocky forests, gallery forests, deciduous forests, spiny forests, and human-influenced open savannas.
Some ring-tailed lemurs have been observed using caves to escape the heat and cliff walls to avoid predators.
The prickly forest is possibly their most harsh habitat. Temperatures are high, and supplies are frequently scarce. The Malagasy spiny forest is scarce, as similar woodlands do not exist anywhere else.
It has minimal shade and is dominated by prickly plants and short trees. Ring-tailed lemurs feed on the sticky, fat-rich sap produced by the cactus-like plants.
These lemurs have learned to navigate the region’s spiky plants over many generations.
What makes ring-tailed lemurs unique?
Ring-tailed lemurs flirt with their tails!
The most noticeable feature of ring-tailed lemurs is their 60-inch-long black and white striped tail.
Ring-tailed lemurs have “antebrachial” glands on their wrists that secrete pheromones (a form of chemical signal) that they rub on their tails and toss into the air. This is known as “stink flirting.”
Horn spurs cover these glands in males. They use them to mark their territory, including leaves, sticks, and even tree trunks!
Ring-tailed lemurs have a strong sense of smell!
Ring-tailed lemurs, like all strepsirrhines, exhibit rudimentary skull characteristics, including a tiny brain for a primate.
They also have a long nose with an acute sense of smell. Strepsirrhines are also unusual because they have the same reflecting “eye shine” as many other mammals at night, including deer and foxes.
Ring-tailed lemurs have distinctive teeth!
Like other lemur species, ring-tailed lemurs have a “dental ridge.” The lower incisors and canines are tightly squeezed in this unusual dental adaption.
Lemurs groom themselves and other group members with their oral comb. Except for the second toe, they have nails on their hands and feet.
This “toilet claw” is used for personal hygiene.
When do lemurs go out, and how do they move?
Ring-tailed lemurs are diurnal, which means they spend most of their time active during the day. They are the most terrestrial lemur species and spend much time feeding, travelling, and sleeping in trees.
Lemurs can be found both on the ground and in the trees; these lemurs mostly move quadrupedally (on all four limbs). They are also excellent jumpers!
Ring-tailed lemurs are frequently observed sunbathing in the sun with their arms spread during the day. This is commonly known as “sun worship.”
To remain warm while sleeping, the group forms “lemur balls.”
Ring-tailed lemurs eat what?
Ring-tailed lemurs are either frugivores/folivores or omnivores. They occasionally eat fruits, flowers, leaves, bark, plant sap, insects, and mineral-rich soil.
Their nutrition is primarily determined by their habitat and the time of year (wet or dry season).
Ring-tailed lemurs play a vital role in seed dispersal as well. When lemurs consume fruit, they eat the seeds as well.
The seeds are not broken down by the lemurs’ digestive tract and end up back in the forest with their excreta. Many of these seeds will eventually sprout into new trees!
A group of ring-tailed lemurs is known as what?
Ring-tailed lemurs live in big social groups called “troops” comprising three to thirty individuals.
Males form separate groupings after reaching sexual maturation. Females are born into the same group as males.
Females predominate in ring-tailed lemur society. Female lemurs demonstrate preference in grooming and feeding, including first access to high-value foods like fruit.
Troops control regions; each soldier is responsible for defending their territory when others enter. Females lead these struggles, and their offspring must hold on fast.
Why are they in danger? What threats do they face?
Predators in the wild
The feline fossa is the most common natural predator of the ring-tailed lemur (also called; Cryptoprocta ferox).
This predator can be found across Madagascar and frequently hunts lemurs in trees. Large birds of prey, such as the Madagascar harrier, hunt lemurs (particularly youngsters).
To protect themselves from predators, ring-tailed lemurs use various methods, including keeping a lookout and employing alarm cries to warn each other.
On the other hand, the natural predator-prey dynamic is critical in any ecosystem. It is not a severe issue for the survival of lemurs in Madagascar.
Loss of habitat
The most severe threat to ring-tailed lemurs in the wild is habitat loss. Madagascar has been designated as a biodiversity hotspot.
Slash-and-burn agriculture is widespread in southern Madagascar, where ring-tailed lemurs live. This can cause wildfires to spread into protected areas such as national parks and reserves.
When habitat is lost, lemur forests become fragmented and spotty. This makes it harder for men to join other units, reducing genetic diversity.
Animals require genetic diversity to adapt to changing environmental conditions and diseases, which is essential for species survival.
-
What Characteristics Distinguish a Good Family Dog?
What Characteristics Distinguish A Good Family Dog?
What Characteristics Distinguish a Good Family Dog?: Dr Holly Putnam, a veterinarian and past board member of the Association of Shelter Veterinarians, recommends evaluating the size of the dog, as well as your family’s lifestyle and the energy level that is best matched.
These three qualities can help you choose a suitable family dog, whether it’s a purebred or a mixed breed:
Temperament: This is the dog’s personality. Selecting someone with a good attitude will help. A calm dog, for example, can build tight ties with your children and be a lovely friend.
Size: A dog’s size does not indicate whether or not it is good with youngsters. Size should be examined with temperament and energy level. Some larger dogs are more gentle, while others are more energetic. “For example, if you have a family with small children, a large, hyperactive dog may knock the children over,” Dr Putnam explains.
What energy level your family chooses to live at is entirely up to you. Be realistic about the lifestyle you can offer a dog who requires more exercise than the typical. If you cannot address a dog’s demands, his extra energy may result in later behavioural issues. “If you’re an avid runner seeking a dog as a companion, a docile Basset Hound may not be the ideal choice,” says Dr Putnam.
ahm articles Setting up a Meet and Greet
Meet potential new pets to understand their temperament and energy level before deciding.
Keep an eye on the dog’s interactions with the kids, the elderly, and the senile, Dr Putnam says.
Dr Putnam also suggests observing the dog’s body language:
Some dogs grow enamoured with what they think to be theirs. This can create a hazardous situation when tiny toddlers pick up anything, even the dog’s toy or food bowl.
5 Questions to Ask Before Getting a Family Dog
Along with getting to know the dog, you should speak with shelter or rescue employees to learn more about it and its likes and dislikes. Here are five sample questions to ask prospective family dogs:
Does everyone in the house feel comfortable around the dog? Some canines get along with everyone in the family, while others favour only adults or one gender.
What is the energy level of the dog? You may want a dog to accompany you and your family on long walks or one you can carry most of the time in your arms.
What kind of continuous care will the dog require? Is it a long-haired dog that will require regular grooming or an elderly dog who may require more frequent vet visits?
What age range do you prefer? Do you want a puppy that will require a lot of training but will get along with everyone, or do you want an older dog that is toilet trained but maybe or maybe just a little reserved and need some time to adjust to your routine at home?
The best family dogs are listed here.
Remember that, while these dogs have characteristics that make them excellent family dogs, you will still need to regularly work on their training and socialisation to ensure they become good canine citizens.
1. Mixed breeds are my first pick!
Don’t dismiss mixed breeds even if your family is primarily interested in purebred dogs. Mixed breeds frequently blend the most significant characteristics of two (or more!) great breeds into a single dog.
Because the employees at the shelter or sanctuary care for the dogs all day, they can tell you more about the dog’s personality and habits.
2. Golden Retrieving Dog
The Golden Retriever is a self-assured, clever, friendly, and loyal dog. The Golden Retriever is neither aggressive nor fearful but rather incredibly patient, making it an ideal companion for children.
The breed does require a lot of exercises, but it enjoys playing (fetch games are its favourite activity, for example, your Golden might enjoy playing with Frisbees).
The Golden Retriever is frequently kind and obedient, which means your children will fall in love with it right away.
Brushing their beautiful golden coat twice a week is required for proper upkeep.
3. Labrador Retriever
There is a solid reason why Labrador Retrievers have grown so popular: it is playful, patient, loving, protective, and dependable. Another advantage is that Labradors are highly intelligent and may be well-trained.
They require a lot of activity (and they enjoy swimming! ), so make sure your family is up for the task. Make sure kids have enough space to run and play.
Black Labs, Chocolate Labs, and Yellow Labs excel at endurance, strength, and obedience, which is why they are such a popular breed.
These gentle canines get along with other animals and almost everyone they meet. Because of their short coats, they need to be combed once a week to stay clean and healthy. However, Labradors shed, so be prepared to remove their hair frequently.
4 Poodle
This dignified and elegant dog breed is kind, loyal, and rarely irritated or dull.
Poodles are available in miniature and regular sizes, allowing you to select the size that best suits your living situation. Because they lose so little hair, they are ideal for children with allergies.
Each breed has its own set of preferences. The Standard Poodle, for example, is very obedient, intelligent, lively, and adventurous. Despite their shyness around strangers, they get along well with people and children they know.
On the other hand, Miniature Poodles are loyal to one person yet get along well with other dogs and children. They are wise, responsive, obedient, and amusing.
However, regardless of the breed, poodle coats must be groomed regularly.
5 Irish Setter
The Irish Setter, distinguished by its red coat, is a cheerful and energetic dog who enjoys being around people and playing with youngsters.
This breed enjoys being with its family so much that it avoids being alone and performs best when surrounded by loved ones. (Here are some simple methods for preventing separation anxiety in your dog.)
The Irish Setter is an intelligent and trainable companion that is ideal for people who have a yard and enjoys greeting visitors.
Because Irish Setters have longer coats, they must be combed and brushed regularly to avoid hair mats.
6 Vizsla
While this dog breed is not for everyone, owing to its demand for regular activity. It’s one of the most incredible dog types for active households with teenagers or adults.
The breed is also loyal, self-assured, and bright. Vizslas build tight ties with family members and can quickly learn new tricks.
Newfoundland and Labrador
The Newfoundland, sometimes known as “nature’s babysitter,” is one of the world’s most intelligent dog breeds, loving and protecting children.
This breed is almost as gentle, compassionate, and patient as Mother Teresa. This vast, adorable dog will soon win over younger and older family members.
The Newfoundland is ideally suited to a family with vast, open spaces, and despite their tendency to drool and shed profusely, they should not be left outside in the garden (no dog should). Their long coat necessitates frequent brushing and upkeep as well.
The Newfoundland is an excellent swimmer and has rescued people from difficult situations. They are quickly trained and task-oriented, so don’t hesitate to provide them incentives that necessitate a little extra effort.
Because they have short coats, they require less upkeep.
8 Bull Terrier
Despite its unfortunate reputation as an aggressive animal, the Bull Terrier was designed to be a dog that gets along well with everyone, from older people to younger ones.
Remember that your Bull Terrier is prone to mischief, particularly with other small animals and dogs. Keep your pet mentally and physically busy every day to avoid complications.
The short, flat coat of a Bull Terrier is little maintenance, and the breed is most content when it has access to a yard to play in.
9. Beagle
Because of its small size (it can be carried easily!) and peaceful disposition, the Beagle is an excellent choice for families.
Beagles were initially kept as hunting dogs, and because of their strong frame, they are never too tired to play. This breed is perfect for active families with youngsters who love to go on hikes and explore the outdoors.
The Beagle is intelligent, amiable, cheerful, and gets along well with other pets (aside from a bit of hunting here and there). Because they shed their hair, they must be brushed and bathed regularly.
10 Bulldog
The Bulldog is a durable, kid-friendly option. It will not, however, win any accolades for “most energetic dog.”
The Bulldog may live in both large and small homes.
Most Bulldogs are also friendly with guests outside and get along well with other pets, making them an ideal addition to a busy, social family. Because of their compact size, they are appropriate for both large homes and tiny apartments.
If you want to get a bulldog, remember that their clamped jaws necessitate extra care while brushing their teeth and that panting, snoring, and some drooling are frequent.
Wipe the folds around their tails and facial creases to prevent dirt buildup. Their fur, on the other hand, requires virtually little care.
Knowing more about what makes a dog kid-friendly will make selecting a new dog for your family much more straightforward.
-
Paradise Birds
Paradise Birds
Paradise Birds: Paradisaeidae, also known as birds of paradise, contains around three dozen species.
Colourful characteristics
Most species have spectacular colours and colourful plumage in yellows, blues, scarlets, and greens. These hues characterise them as some of the world’s most spectacular and appealing birds.
Males wear brilliant ruffs or greatly extended feathers, known as wires or streamers.
Some species have massive head feathers or distinguishing features like breast shields or head fans.
ahm articles Mating customs
When males court females, they employ bright colours and distinctive accessories. Their complex dances, stances, and other rituals enhance their appearance and put on a spectacular show for the female birds and any close humans.
Such displays can run for hours and consume a significant portion of the males’ attention in many species.
Facts about the Bird of Paradise
Insects, fruits, seeds, and berries are the primary prey.
Male birds of paradise execute complex dances to attract a partner.
Males do an intricate dance while wearing brightly coloured feathers.
7.8 to 47.2 inch wingspan (20 to 120 cm)
Incubation time: 16 to 22 days
Canopies of tropical forests
Omnivorous Diet
Solitary way of life
Insects are the preferred food.
Bird species
There are approximately 50 different species!
Nesting location – tree forks
Molt’s age ranges from a few months to seven years.
Physical characteristics of the Paradise Birds – Color
Brown
Gray
Yellow
Red
Blue
Black
White
Green
Feathers are the skin kind.
Life expectancy is between 5 and 8 years.
Weight varies between 50g and 430g (1.8oz – 15.2oz)
15cm – 110cm in height (6in – 43in)
Range
Paradise birds can be found in New Guinea and the adjacent islands. Manucodes and Riflebirds are also indigenous to Australia.
Birds of Paradise are so appealing that they were previously a target for fur trappers, who destroyed several species.
These birds are also the inspiration for a vibrant flower. The banana family includes the South African bird of paradise (Strelitzia reginae). It has a lovely blossom that is believed to look like a soaring bird of paradise.
Amazing Facts About the Bird of Paradise
Males take their time maturing. Adulthood might take as long as seven years to reach.
As seed suppliers, these birds are vital to their habitat. They cannot break down the seeds found in the fruits they consume.
When specimens were first transported to Europe in the 1500s, some mistook the bird of paradise for the legendary phoenix.
They were known as “Birds of God” in their original tongue, from which the term “Bird of Paradise” was derived.
Where to Look for the Bird of Paradise
These birds are primarily found in Australia and New Guinea. Some species can also be found on surrounding islands. Riflebirds and manucodes are popular names for Australian species. They are found in deep forests and jungles.
In the wild, these birds are difficult to capture and identify. Visitors are also discouraged from visiting areas within their range.
Port Moresby Nature Park and Adventure Park PNG in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, on the other hand, are conveniently accessible zoos with beautiful collections of many species.
Each park has a walk-through aviary where you can get up close and personal with the animals as they munch on fruit and fly through their rainforest habitat.
Nesting birds of paradise
Females construct nests of ferns, leaves, and lianas, which are frequently put in a tree’s fork. Males are ineffective.
-
Characteristics and Actions of Owls
Characteristics and Actions of Owls
Characteristics and Actions of Owls: Consider the ability to turn your head a complete 270 degrees. Due to this range of motion and other unique physical traits and physiological adaptations, owls have survived and thrived in the wild for years.
Owls have adapted to nearly every environment on the planet. They are highly specialised predators with hunting-specific eyes and ears and unusual plumage that allows them to fly practically silently.
ahmarticles.com Owls spend the night hunting in abandoned areas such as cemeteries, run-down farms, and other open areas. Many owls feed primarily on rodents and other small animals.
Prey is usually eaten whole, but it is not digested. The owl’s digestive tract compresses undigested prey pieces like fur and bone into a compact pellet that the owl coughs up and excretes out its mouth.
Instead of building their nests, owls take over other birds’ abandoned nests. Barn owls frequently live in structures like barns, belfries, and abandoned buildings. During the winter, they also nest in rock crevices, hollow trees, and dense evergreen trees.
Human encroachment on owl territories has resulted in the reduction of wild owl populations. Many owl species cannot adjust to changes in their surroundings brought about by people. As a result, many owls, including the well-known barn owl, face extinction.
Due to urban development, barred owls are threatened in the southwestern United States.
Spotted owls are endangered in the United States due to deforestation in the Pacific Northwest. Because of habitat destruction and low reproduction rates, their long-term survival is in doubt.
Owl classification and evolution
Owls are members of the taxonomic class Aves. The more than 200 owl species are classified into two groups. Barn owls are classified into 17 families, with the remaining species belonging to the Strigidae family.
The earliest known owl fossils are from the Miocene epoch, which lasted 38 to 54 million years.
According to the fossils, these ancient owls evolved into the two owl families we know today. The oldest barn owl fossils discovered so far are thought to be at least 24 million years old.
According to fossil evidence, enormous barn owls lived in the Caribbean and Mediterranean 10,000 to 30,000 years ago. These Ornimegalonyx-like creatures were twice the size of present barn owls and twice the size of modern long-eared owls.
Ornimegalonyx is likely to have preyed on species as large as a giant sloth and enormous rodents as large as a capybara.
There are 134 recognised owl species worldwide, with the eagle owl being the largest and the scops owl being the smallest.
Although owls share many traits, there are also noticeable behavioural differences between species. Most owl species are nocturnal, with the remaining third being diurnal.
Characteristics of the body
Size
Unlike other bird species, male and female owls of a given species look similar. Males and females are frequently the same sizes as the smaller owl species.
This is not the case with larger species like the Northern Hawk Owl. Female long-eared owls can be up to 25% bigger than males. Some ideas help the eggs incubate.
However, the females are likely larger to guard their nests against aggressive male owls.
Of course, owls vary in size and shape depending on the species. These characteristics help owls pursue their chosen prey and quickly navigate their habitat.
Sight
Owls are thought to have the best night vision in the animal kingdom. Owls have big pupils and corneas that catch a lot of light.
The only other animal that comes close to the owl’s night vision ability is the cat.
Owl eyes can see in direct sunlight as well. However, owls are not known to be capable of seeing and interpreting an extensive range of colours.
Owls’ eyes are enormous in comparison to the size of their heads. Some larger species, such as the great grey owl, have more enormous eyes than most people.
Although owl eyes are well adapted for excellent visual acuity, one disadvantage exists. Unlike most animals’ eyes, owl eyes are flat rather than spherical.
Owls have lost the ability to shift their eyes due to this adaptation. A bony structure called a scleral ring holds their eyes in place.
As a result, individuals must turn their heads to move their eyes. On the other hand, owls can tilt their heads far enough to gaze directly behind them.
Most owl species can rotate their heads 270 degrees.
Hearing
Owls’ ears are susceptible. Some owls are thought to hear up to ten times better than humans.
Owls require this ability to locate prey that their acute eyes cannot see. Even under deep snow, owls can hear little rodents running about on the ground.
The owls’ unique hearing system allows them to locate even the most inaudible sounds. Unlike most animals, their ears are not symmetrically positioned.
Because their ears are not uniformly separated, the owl can pinpoint the source of a sound.
When an owl hears something piques its interest, it moves its head left and right and up and down until the sound is detected.
The faces of owls are elliptical, like a satellite dish. This face shape, which is especially prominent in the barn and grey owls, as well as their facial feathers, enables owls to transmit sounds directly to their ears.
An owl’s oval face and offset ears produce a sensitive and accurate auditory system.
Owl Observation
Many birders are enthralled with owl watching. Some even purchase infrared equipment for nighttime viewing. Owls are easily spooked by humans and will abandon their nests and young if they come too close. Owl sounds have the potential to scare the birds and lead them to depart their territory.
Listening to owl sounds rather than trying to see them up close is an excellent method to watch them without disturbing them. Owl sounds are quite species unique. Therefore this technique can be used to identify owl species accurately. Zoos and aviaries are the finest places to see owls up close.
Houses for owls
Because some owl species are declining, conservationists are attempting to create nesting and roosting areas.
Barn owls enjoy using owl boxes. Other owl species, particularly larger ones, are warier but have been documented rearing babies in constructed nests.
Barn owls are popular among farms because they help control rodent populations. Some barns are even built with owl entrance entrances and nesting places.
Owls’ distinct qualities and skills provide fascinating insights into predator-prey dynamics, food chains, physiological adaptations, human impact, and other topics.
Studying this remarkable bird may captivate your pupils and bring crucial science concepts to life.
Owls provide fascinating insights into predator-prey dynamics, food chains, physiological adaptations, human influence, and more due to their unique qualities and talents.
Studying this unique bird may engage your pupils and bring crucial scientific concepts to life.
To begin, dissect owl pellets.
-
Pet’s Safety in the Heat
Pet’s Safety in the Heat
Pet’s Safety in the Heat: A guide on keeping your pet cool in the heat.
Summer may be uncomfortable, if not deadly, for humans and animals.
Temperature rises are difficult enough without having to deal with high humidity. However, it becomes extremely challenging in communities hit twice by extreme heat and storm-related power disruptions, which can have tragic effects.
This summer, we can assist you in keeping your dogs safe and relaxed. Follow our advice to keep everyone in your family healthy during the summer.
Precautions for Summer Safety
NEVER LEAVE YOUR PETS IN A GARAGE.
Not even for a second! Not even while the engine is running and the air conditioner is turned on. Temperatures in a vehicle can quickly reach deadly levels on a hot day.
On an 85-degree day, a car with open windows can reach 102 degrees in 10 minutes.
The temperature had increased to 120 degrees after 30 minutes. Your pet could sustain irreparable organ damage or perhaps die.
Keep an eye on the humidity.
“It’s important to remember that not only ambient temperature but also humidity can affect your pet,” says Dr Barry Kellogg, VMD of the Humane Society Veterinary Medical Association.
“Animals pant to expel moisture from their lungs, which takes heat from their bodies.” When the humidity is too high, they can’t cool down, and their temperature quickly increases to deadly levels.
On hot days, limit your physical activity.
When exercising your pet, use caution. Adapt your exercise intensity and duration to the temperature.
Limit exercise to the early morning or late evening hours on sweltering days. Be especially cautious of pets with white ears, which are more prone to skin cancer, and short-nosed pets, who often have difficulty breathing.Asphalt gets quite hot and might burn your pet’s paws, so if possible, walk your dog on grass. The consumption of water is critical to the maintenance of your companion dog’s overall health and wellbeing.
Heat affects pets differently than it does people. The feet of dogs are the primary route by which they perspire. And fans do not successfully chill pets as they do people.
Provide enough shelter and water.
If your pet spends time outside, ensure they are shaded from the sun and have access to plenty of fresh, cool water. If feasible, add ice to the water during heat waves.
Because they do not obstruct air circulation, shade trees and tarps are great. A doghouse will not assist with the heat; it will exacerbate it.
Keep your pet cool both inside and out.
Quickly make homemade doggie sundaes. Also, whether your pets are indoors or outside, always give water.
Use a cooling body wrap, vest, or mat to keep your pet cool indoors or out. Soak these items in chilly water for up to three days to keep them cool (typically dry).
Whether your dog does not dislike baths, see if he prefers a cold bath.
Check for indicators of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness or coma.
Extreme temperatures can lead to heat stroke. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms of heat stroke, you’re in danger of suffering a heat-related illness.
Heat stroke is extremely dangerous in animals who are very old, young, overweight, not acclimated to continuous exercise, or have heart or respiratory illness.
Heat can be particularly tough for short-muzzled breeds such as Boxers and Shih Tzus, as well as other dogs and cats with narrow faces.
Here’s how to care for a pet suffering from heat exhaustion.
Take your pet outside or into an air-conditioned environment. Apply ice packs or cold towels to the pet’s head, neck, and chest, or run cool (not frigid) water over the animal.
Have it on hand. Take tiny sips of chilled water or lick ice cubes. Take them to a veterinarian right away.
-
Should Exotic Animals Be Banned
Should Exotic Animals Be Banned?
Should Exotic Animals Be Banned: According to a new Born Free survey, approximately 4,000 dangerous wild animals are maintained privately and under licence in the UK.
We are urging the UK government to reconsider the law urgently and end the keeping of some of the world’s most amazing but often lethal creatures as pets in inhumane conditions.
Article Created By AHM Articles We studied the number of Dangerous Wild Animals Act
(DWA) licences issued by local authorities as part of our studies in England, Scotland, and Wales, as well as a variety of species, are kept privately.
364 of the 371 municipal administrations we contacted responded. According to the data, 210 DWA permits were awarded in 2020 for the keeping of 3,951 individual wild animals, which included:
320 feral cats (including 61 big cats – 11 lions, eight tigers, 11 leopards, 18 pumas, ten cheetahs, two ligers, and one jaguar)
There are 274 primates (including over 150 lemurs)
There are 158 crocodiles.
There are 508 deadly snakes (including 57 diamondback rattlesnakes)
There are 332 scorpions.
106 venomous lizards
There are two elephants.
Zebras, camels, fossas (a type of civet cat), hyenas, sun bears, wolves, and otters are among the other animals on the DWA list that are kept as pets or in private collections in the United Kingdom.
“Born Free has been collecting and evaluating DWA data for over 20 years,” stated Dr Mark Jones a veterinarian and the Head of Policy at Born Free.
Since the millennium’s turn, there has been a remarkable increase in the number of exotic pets in private hands, including a 94 per cent increase in venomous snakes, a 57 per cent increase in feral cats, a 198 per cent increase in crocodiles, and a more than 2,000 per cent increase in scorpions.
However, these figures are most certainly merely the tip of the iceberg. They only capture animals that are legally kept and registered with the DWA. Born Free is based on the assumption that many more dangerous wild animals are kept without a licence.
Anyone in the UK can currently retain a hazardous wild animal under the Dangerous Wild Animals Act of 1976, provided they receive a licence from their local authorities.
The applicant must demonstrate that their animals are appropriately gated to prevent escape and protect the public as part of the licencing process. However, this does little to enhance the well-being of the animals or safeguard the owner or other visitors.
While the list has been updated, the statute has not been significantly amended in over 40 years.
Komodo dragons and other large monitor lizard species are included in this category. and huge constrictor snakes have not been added to the list, even though if they escaped, they may constitute a significant threat to their owners and the public.
Furthermore, there has long been concern that widespread violation of the law exists, particularly regarding dangerous reptiles and invertebrates.
“It is remarkable that so many deadly species, including big cats, giant primates, crocodiles, and venomous snakes, remain in private hands in the UK today,” Dr Jones remarked.
Owners and the general public risk harm or sickness as they desire all species of wildlife as exotic pets grow. It also causes considerable animal suffering, and increased demand further strains many wildlife populations, which are already threatened.
A savannah hybrid cat escaped in Hampstead, London, just last year, while a six-foot boa constrictor appeared in a yard on the Isle of Sheppey and then turned on its saviour, It bit his hand and wrapped around his wrist.
Other horrific stories included a woman being bitten in the eye by a python at a Mayfair club and nearly blinded and a guy in Hampshire being killed by his eight-foot African rock python. These incidents have only been documented on a tiny number of occasions.
RSPCA records show its exceptionally trained exotic animal officers rescued over 4,000 animals in 2018. Because of the nature of the animals, most owners do not disclose escapes or assaults for fear of having the animal removed or their licence cancelled.
“The UK likes to pretend to be at the forefront of attempts to protect wildlife and enhance animal welfare,” Jones continued, “but our legislation on the keeping and trade of exotic pets is hopelessly out of date.”
While the government’s recent plan to prohibit the keeping and trafficking of primates as pets is a positive starting step, many other species must be safeguarded from this exploitation.
The Dangerous Wild Animals Act should be changed immediately to prohibit the private holding and trading of these species, which do not belong in people’s homes.
Born Free and the RSPCA have joined forces to launch a petition asking the government to review and revise the laws governing private ownership of hazardous wild animals as part of their campaign on the subject.
Exotic pets like reptiles and other exotic creatures have the same demands as those found in the wild. As a result, adequate maintenance for them can be complex.
Please do your homework before getting an exotic pet because their requirements can be more complex than those of your standard pet.
Consider these considerations before purchasing an unusual pet.
In some circumstances, exotic animals should not be kept as pets.
We oppose the brutal trade in wild-caught animals. As a result, please make sure that your exotic pet has not been stolen from its natural habitat. We also reject keeping unusual species as pets, such as primates, because they have extraordinarily complex demands that cannot be addressed in a domestic environment.
What to think about before purchasing an exotic pet
If you are considering getting an exotic pet, you should research the animal’s requirements and determine whether it is a feasible pet. Consider the following before purchasing a reptile.
Environment Many exotic pets require a carefully supervised habitat. For example, they require particular heating and lighting to avoid being ill.
Their environment must be conducive to natural behaviours such as digging, climbing, and sunbathing. Some reptiles can grow to be huge, so you may need to reconsider the size of your habitat or buy a new one if they do.
Average Life Expectancy Reptiles can live much longer than you think, so be sure you have enough space for them.
Diet They will most likely require exceptional food, which might be costly depending on how much they consume.
Companionship Determine whether the animal should be maintained alone or with others.
Social animals should not be left alone because it harms their health and well-being.
Lifestyle Is the animal’s conduct appropriate for your lifestyle? They could be active at night or throughout the day.
Care from a specialist Is there a veterinarian that specialises in this species nearby who can treat the animal if it becomes ill?
Paperwork Some exotic pets require a permit or legal documentation, which you should check before purchasing.
Born Free and the RSPCA have joined forces to launch a petition asking the government to review and revise the laws governing private ownership of hazardous wild animals as part of their campaign on the subject.
As part of its campaign on this issue Born Free, in collaboration with the RSPCA, has launched a petition calling on the Government to review and reform laws on the private keeping of Dangerous Wild Animals.
-
The Dos and Don’ts of Indoor Catnip Cultivation
The Dos and Don’ts of Indoor Catnip Cultivation
The Dos and Don’ts of Indoor Catnip Cultivation: Do you want to find out how to grow catnip (Nepeta cataria)? Why wouldn’t you be? Millions of videos of beautiful kitties freaking out about the green gunk can be found on Instagram.
Catnip, on the other hand, isn’t just for cat owners; it’s also a terrific addition to any window herb garden and may be enjoyed by humans. Catnip tea can help with both stress and digestion.
Learn how to grow this lovely herb here.
Catnip propagation is an easy way to grow this lovely herb. There are four choices. Each is described in greater detail below:
Seeds
Catnip seedlings develop faster when they are layered. A 12- to 24-hour soak increases germination. Many gardeners recommend freezing seeds for an hour or two before putting them in water. This is something more you could try. After stratifying, sow the seeds 1/4 inch deep in a seed mix. They germinate in about 5 to 20 days.
Instead of planting catnip from seed, get a few transplants from a nearby nursery.
Cuttings
Planting 4 to 6 cm long stems below the leaf node in rich, damp potting soil is a rapid technique to replicate catnip during the growth season. To increase the chances of success, spray rooting hormone on the cut ends.
Layering
Layering flexible and immature catmint stems allows you to quickly produce new plants. The hidden stem nodes will allow the roots to grow quickly. Use permeable potting soil and keep the plant in a well-lit, warm location. This method works nicely in the spring and fall. Check out this article from the University of Florida to have a better understanding of the subject.
Division
Catmint can be reproduced by division if it is lush and established. Excess dirt can be removed from the soil by removing the plant. Using a sharp tool, cut the root ball into one or two neat sections. Place the multiplied plants in different pots.
Choose a container with a depth and width of at least 8 inches. This will allow the plant to thrive and grow. When the plant outgrows its current pot, repot it into a one to two size larger container (10 to 12 inches). Divide the root ball in two and place them in separate pots before repotting to acquire extra catmints.
Quick tips
When growing this herb for your pet, use a larger container and put numerous plants together.
Planters made of brittle materials, like clay pots, should be avoided.
Catnip can be grown alongside other plants.
Catnip can be cultivated in conjunction with other herbs that have similar growing requirements, such as hyssop, mint, sorrel, and nasturtium. Catmint roots, on the other hand, spread quickly and choke out neighbouring plants.
The Dos and Don’ts of Growing Catnip
Allow as much sunshine as possible to reach your plant. Too little sunshine makes the plant limp and hinders the formation of new growth.
Place the plant in well-draining soil to avoid root rot. If the soil retains too much moisture, problems will arise.
Fertilize once a month.
Distribute your catnip. Who doesn’t want some more catnip? Place a snip in a pot filled with new dirt. If you give the cutting enough light and water, it will sprout again.
Collect the leaves for your feline pal. Use them immediately or hang them to dry.
Allow your plants some breathing space. Make sure there is enough room between the pots for the catnip to breathe.
Plant catnip in your garden. Catnip grows well on a balcony or in a garden.
What not to do when cultivating catnip
Bring home a bug-infested plant. Before you bring your new baby home, meticulously inspect the catnip you intend to buy at the nursery for pests.
Allow your catnip to mature. Remove any budding stems to encourage the plant to thrive.
Allow unrestricted access to your feline companion. Cats will destroy your plant by rubbing up against it or sitting on it, but they will not overdose on it. Consider growing it in a hanging pot.
Float the catnip. Make sure your content has drainage holes! Standing water at the bottom of a closed container might be fatal to your plant.
Allow moisture to build up on the leaves. This encourages the growth of pests and mould. Concentrate on the soil rather than the foliage when watering.
Don’t worry if you forget to water. Catmint heals well when given plenty of water.
Potting soil is recyclable. If you have lost a plant to a fungus or bug, it is possible that it is still living in the soil. Before using the pot again, remove the infected mixture and thoroughly clean it with hot soap and water.
Catnip does not bother cats as long as the leaves are not crushed. Crushing the leaves releases the essential oil’s aroma, which attracts cats, forcing them to brush up against and nibble on the plant.
Keep catnip out of reach of your cat if you grow it for culinary purposes.
According to numerous research, catnip has a euphoric effect on 70 to 80 per cent of cats.
Did you realise that? Catnip cannot cause addiction in cats. When they’ve had enough of the plant, they turn away from it and refuse to eat or play with it.
-
Pleco Care Instructions – the Giant Armored Catfish
Pleco Care Instructions – the Giant Armored Catfish
Pleco Care Instructions The Giant Armored Catfish: Do you want a sucker catfish to help keep your aquarium clean? Many people automatically choose plecostomus catfish (or plecos) because they believe they will magically suck up all the fish droppings and detritus in the aquarium.
Let’s speak about these beautiful animals, their care requirements, and whether plecos are the correct fish for you before acquiring them.
What exactly are plecos?
Plecostomus is the common name for the Loricariidae family of armored sucker catfishes native to Central and South America. The common Pleco (Hypostomus plecostomus) is a cheap cleaning fish frequently offered in pet stores.
However, this 3-inch newborn grows to be over 2 feet tall with an extreme appetite over time (and a corresponding amount of waste).
We strongly advise avoiding purchasing giant fish unless you want to maintain them for their entire lives, as releasing them is highly impossible.
You should also not release your beautiful carp into the wild because it is a highly invasive species that can cause significant environmental damage.
There are, thankfully, considerably smaller plecos that are more suited to the standard home aquarium. Beautiful catfish that grow 4 to 6 inches long include bristlenose, rubber-lipped, and clown plecos.
They are slightly more expensive than typical plecos, but their smaller size and lower food requirements more than compensate.
Are plecos easy to care for?
Their water parameters are generally comparable to those of other tropical fish. They love a heated aquarium with temperatures ranging from 74 to 80 °F (23 to 27 °C) and may live in a pH range ranging from 6.5 to 7.8.
Because most plecos are nocturnal, they like hiding spots or covers that keep them out of the sun.
You will also need to maintain the tank regularly to keep nitrate levels at 40 ppm or lower.
The abovementioned 4- to 6-inch plecos can be housed in tanks containing 20 to 29 gallons of water or more. On the other hand, the common Pleco should probably start in a 75-gallon tank and work their way up to 180 or even 500 gallons.
These massive aquariums are out of reach for the typical fishkeeper. Thus we strongly advise sticking to smaller species.
What do pleco fish consume?
Despite their reputation as cleaner fish, scavengers, and algae eaters, plecos require regular feedings of good quality fish food.
Consider it like owning a pet dog. Yes, the dog will eat scraps falling to the bottom, but it should still get a daily meal of natural dog food.
Catfish, too, require actual food that fits their nutritional requirements. Most people feed them algal wafers. However, most plecos prefer balanced meals with various items, such as frozen bloodworms and Repashy gel food.
Learn about your specific species because not all pleco fish eat the same stuff. Some eat on algae and plants, others enjoy rasping on driftwood, and others require more protein. (While many plleißefish are innocuous to plants, plleißefish have been observed nibbling on sword plants occasionally.)
Because most splice fish are nocturnal, it is best to feed them after the lights are turned out so they may feed while the other fish are less busy.
We frequently hear one issue from new Pleco owners: “I’m not sure why my fish died. Every night, I fed him an algal waffle “. Let’s return to our dog analogy.
If you feed your puppy one cup of food daily, he will most likely require more than one cup as an adult. Similarly, your adult Pleco will require more food than a juvenile to sustain its larger physique. Aim for a round stomach as a general guideline.
Increase the amount of food if the belly is sunken and the fish is underweight.
If the abdomen is too enlarged, the fish may be overeating or suffering from constipation due to too many food residues in the tank. If you notice a lot of long, stringy pleco excrement, nitrates may be building in hazardous quantities, so vacuum the substrate and change the water.
Do plecos consume fish feces?
As previously stated, plecos have different feeding preferences, but none of them eat only on fish feces. While they will eat some when digging in the substrate, fish feces does not contain enough food to keep them alive.
Remember that plecos are live animals that require proper feed, not just cleaners.
What fish can get along with plecos?
Plecos get along with nearly any peaceful fish that isn’t big enough to eat them. Also, do not place fish that are small enough to fit in the mouth of the Pleco.
These catfish usually are scavengers and will not devour other animals unless they have already died. There have been reports of plecos sucking on the mucus layer of other fish. However, this appears to be more common in larger pleco fish that are malnourished.
Keep a smaller pleco and feed it well; you should be fine.
Can you keep two or more plecos in the same tank?
It all depends. Some species (particularly males) can be aggressive toward their kind or other bottom dwellers. To investigate their behavior and inquire about other aquarists’ experiences.
Smaller species, such as the Bristle Tail Catfish, can be kept in groups as long as there are more females than males and enough tunnels and hiding places for everyone to choose their favorite.
Bottom line: select a Pleco that will fit your aquarium when fully grown. Learn about their care and nutrition requirements by reading internet publications and joining social media groups.