Mossy's World of Animals...my guide to endangered species and how to stop the extinctions.

Teacher in Alaska Attacked by Wolves

2010-03-20T23:05:00.010-04:00

Hey, it is Moss again!

Sorry I have not posted in a while. I just have not had the chance to get back on but I will be posting more now. Anyway as you probably may know a teacher in Alaska was attacked by wolves! This is very uncommon. For wolves very rarely kill people. She herself had a blog, which you can see here.

She was indeed very cautious, as I read it. But the attack was probably all out of instinct. She was only 32 when she died. So sorry for her friends, family, and students.

I moved!

2009-11-22T18:07:00.002-05:00

Remember my post about me moving?Well I finally did!Yes it is nice up here though rainy a lot.My dog and cat also like it.We also are getting a lot of deer in my yard.It is nice and I live on the island of Bainbridge off the coast of Seattle.If you are wondering what it looks like here is a map of it.

I am moving to seattle

2009-03-12T13:28:00.003-04:00

Goodbye South Carolina. I am moving to Seattle! I am not sure when exactly because we are still trying to sell the house. I hear lots about the Seattle zoo and I also hear about Orca whales in Puget Sound. Another thing I heard is that there are grizzly bears in Washington state

New zoos, aquariums, national parks. I cant wait to go to Seattle soon!

News about Endangered Species

2009-03-12T11:14:00.003-04:00

Well this is a good start. President Obama has changed back a few of the rules for endangered species, so that's good news.

Speaking of endangered animals, the San Francisco Zoo has a new baby Western lowland gorilla.
His name is Hasani. I've been to the San Francisco Zoo. It's very nice.

I keep meaning to do more posts but I don't get as much computer time as before.

He Won, He Won, He Won

2008-11-05T19:25:00.003-05:00

Well we were all waiting and Barack Obama finally won. He is the first African American president ever which is very exciting. He is the first president I ever met.

I feel it is a very good day for kids, the earth and all the animals.

About giraffes

2008-11-05T19:22:00.001-05:00

It's really funny...

Hummingbirds

2008-09-21T18:53:00.004-04:00

You don't have to go to zoos or national parks to find nature or interesting animals. These are hummingbirds right in my backyard that visit our feeder everyday in the summer. They stay around here until November.

Did you know that they are the smallest birds and their wings beat about 50 times a second? They live about three or four years. They are carnivores. They are eating this nectar for energy to catch the bugs. In the Winter they migrate South to Mexico and Central America. They fly alone, not in flocks. You should get a feeder and find some hummingbirds in your yard soon. Watch my video:

Please Stop Hunting Wolves

2008-09-12T21:01:00.006-04:00

Everybody who reads my blog knows I like Barack Obama and met him one time. I want a president who likes animals and will protect the earth.

I received an email about Sarah Palin with this video. This video is called Brutal for a good reason. I don NOT agree with her.

Sarah Palin, if you are reading this, stop hunting wolves or you will lose!

Ricki Van Gough

2008-09-12T20:37:00.005-04:00

Ricki the Rockhopper Penguin is now a famous artist. He lives at Riverbanks Zoo. You can buy his artwork here!
Wow, not bad!!

Rocky the Beagle

2008-09-06T16:24:00.005-04:00

I have a Beagle named Rocky I got about a year ago. He's a very friendly dog. He loves everyone. Even our Maine Coon Cat Fanny. (But Fanny does not want to be friends with him). We adopted Rocky from a dog shelter. He was born to a breeder who bred mini-Beagles. The first owners moved and couldn't keep him. Rocky loves to play, run around, chase squirrels, howl at other dogs, and get patted.

A video is coming soon about Rocky.

What's happening to Endangered Species?

2008-08-12T21:01:00.013-04:00

I heard they might make some changes that will put endangered species at risk. Can this be right? This story says it will be bad for endangered species.

Here's an update on endangered species.

I think we need to do better to protect the earth and endangered animals. What do you think? You can send a message here-- click on this. Tell them to do more to help endangered animals. Not less.

Could Tapirs be coming to Riverbanks Zoo?

2008-08-05T19:37:00.004-04:00

I heard that since Monte the Hippo died at Riverbanks, they probably won't get another hippo. But I have recently learned they are looking for tapirs for that exhibit. Here's a picture of a tapir:

I think getting tapirs would be great. They haven't been at Riverbanks for ten years. And hardly anyone has seen a tapir. Click here for some interesting facts about tapirs.

There are four species of tapirs. All are endangered. They are pig-like in shape, but related to rhinos. They have little trunks called a probiscus.

I've seen tapirs at San Francisco Zoo, Animal Kingdom, and National Zoo. I really hope they do get tapirs.

My Tribute to Montgomery

2008-07-20T10:55:00.007-04:00

I was sad to learn that Montgomery the Hippo died last week. Here is some video I took of him over the past few years.

Montgomery was born at the Memphis Zoo in 1972 but had been at Riverbanks since 1974. Most of the time when I saw him he was under the water. So it was always a nice surprise when he was out of the water.

Looking at this video you would never know hippos are the most dangerous animals in Africa. They've killed more humans than any other animal in Africa. They have been known to drown lions or bite crocodiles in half. Its skin in mostly bullet proof. But Montgomery wasn't born in the wild and was taken good care of.

Check out Montgomery's teeth. Did you know George Washington's false teeth were made from hippo ivory? (And walrus ivory).

Hippos were once thought to be related to pigs. But they are more closely related to whales.

It won't be the same without Monty. I hope Riverbanks will get some new hippos soon.

Cloning Extinct Animals

2008-05-25T16:22:00.004-04:00

I read on Yahoo News that they're trying to bring the Thylacine back to life.

I also heard that they are trying to bring back the Pyrenean Ibex...

and the Huia.

I really hope they do bring them back. The first step was they put Thylacine DNA in a mouse. It will take many years. Who knows what will happen?

Should they try to bring back the dinosaurs? Saber tooth tigers? Maybe even the Do Do?

Saving the Polar Bear

2008-05-14T21:01:00.007-04:00

I just heard that the polar bear will be put on the Endangered Species list. I had written posts asking you to write and help save the polar bear. If you did it made a difference. It is listed as threatened. This is a very good thing. But we still have a lot to do to stop global warming and help the environment.

Global warming is melting the polar bear's habitat and hunting grounds. Being hunted is also a big problem for the polar bear. Let's hope this helps.

I'm back...and so is the Bali Mynah, Black-footed Cat

2008-05-11T17:53:00.006-04:00

Sorry I haven't done a posting in a while. OK, make that a long while. I've been busy visiting zoos and seeing wildlife. I'll tell you about it soon.

You know the Bali Mynah, one of the rarest birds on earth? Well, one was eaten by a wild snake at the Riverbanks Zoo one time. I was looking at animal x-rays during a zoo tour, and it said that a wild snake ate a Bali Mynah. Wow. This was simply shocking to me. But Riverbanks has done a lot to help conservation efforts of the Bali Mynah.

Another conservation effort at Riverbanks is for the black-footed cat. A black-footed kitten was born in March. It's native to South Africa, and it is the smallest cat species in the wild.

Riverbanks is helping endangered animals. I'll do postings more regularly this Summer. Thanks for visiting. Bye.

Happy Easter from the Volcano Rabbit

2008-03-23T13:59:00.007-04:00

Since today is Easter we shall do a special posting on the Volcano Rabbit, the Easter Bunny's cousin.

The Volcano Rabbit lives in the mountains of Mexico. It lives on the slopes of old volcanoes and is the second smallest rabbit. They are critically endangered mostly because their habitat is disappearing and they are hunted as pests. There are different breeding programs for them like Jersey Zoo in the UK and the Chalpultepec Zoo in Mexico City. They feed on green leaves in Zacaton grasses. (Zacaton is connected sinkholes in Mexico.)

Are you amazed at all the animals in the world? Are you surprised by how many are endangered?

People of the Forest

2008-03-15T19:44:00.006-04:00

We recently went to the Greenville Zoo, and took this video of Bob, the baby Bornean Orangutan. Orangutans are our closest relatives with 97 percent of the same DNA! Orangutan means people of the forest.

The Bornean Orangatan is highly endangered and the Sumatran Orangutan is critically endangered. Logging and mining is wiping out their habitats. It's hard to believe but poaching baby orangutans is also a big problem. Some scientists think they'll be extinct in five or ten years!!!

Some people are trying to save them like this Orangutan Conservancy. Do what you can.

Gray Wolves Making a Comeback

2008-02-24T15:24:00.006-05:00

Gray Wolves were endangered for a long time in the U.S. and it's great they aren't anymore. So the good news is that they are coming back. And it's always nice to have some good news. But the bad news is they can be hunted now and its probably to soon for that. Here's a story from England and one from Wyoming. What do you think?

There are other wolves that are still in danger, like the Florida Red Wolf, which was thought to be extinct but was recently rediscovered. But it's probably too late for the Red Wolf.

Oz

2008-02-16T14:41:00.000-05:00

Last Saturday I saw the baby koala at Riverbanks Zoo. The baby koala, named Oz, was resting by its mom, just looking around. Koalas are marsupials from Australia, not bears. They are considered endangered, and some people think they could be extinct in the wild in ten years. It's good to know there's a breeding program helping. Be sure to go by and say hi to Oz. Or if you live too far away, you can watch the koalas on Riverbanks Zoo View webcam.

Obama wins!

2008-01-27T21:39:00.000-05:00

I met Barack Obama on Saturday!!! He was very nice and stopped to talk for a little while. I told him he'd make the best president for the environment. So I was happy he won!!!! I hope you will tell everyone you know in all the other states to vote for Barack Obama.

Global Warming in South Carolina

2008-01-17T20:58:00.000-05:00

Did you know that scientists think global warming will cause the sea level to rise almost 19 inches in my lifetime? That will cause a lot of beach erosion and a big change to the environment and animal life. Read here how it might change South Carolina.

They say many ducks could disappear from SC. It could also hurt brook trout, woodpeckers, pelicans, loggerhead sea turtles, and lots more.

I hope you'll think about what you can do to help stop global warming. And don't vote for anyone until you know if they will help or hurt the environment.

Teaching evolution in the schools?

2008-01-11T13:51:00.000-05:00

Why not? Species on earth have changed over time. Here's an educational video that covers everything you need to know about evolution.

I read about Charles Darwin and his Voyage of the Beagle. A cool adventure.

Will We Save the Polar Bear?

2008-01-07T20:42:00.000-05:00

The US government can't decide whether it wants to save the polar bear or not.
Scientists say polar bears will be extinct by 2050, mainly because of global warming. We can't wait. They should put it on the endangered species list now.
Click here and read about it.

The polar bear is the largest land carnivore on earth. You can follow polar bears being tracked by World Wildlife Fund by clicking here.

Vote for Barack Obama or John McCain

2008-01-06T16:00:00.000-05:00

I was born in Iowa, so I was happy to see Iowa support Barack Obama. In another posting I wrote why he would be the best president for the environment and endangered animals.

Barack Obama scored a 100 on the League of Conservation Voters Scorecard. We really need a president who cares about the earth and all the animals.

I hope everyone who cares about the environment and endangered animals will vote for Barack Obama. And it's not just because I shook his hand at the Oprah event, which you can see here.

If you're a Republican, you should know John McCain is the only candidate who says ANYTHING about the environment on his web site, so you should go for him.

Just don't vote for anyone until you know where they stand on global warming and endangered animals. OK?

Aquarium-Reptile Complex at Riverbanks Zoo

2008-01-01T17:24:00.000-05:00

Here are a few of the animals at the Aquarium Reptile Complex at Riverbanks Zoo. It was built in 1989 and has many rare and endangered species.

Watch my video-- check out the diver in the Pacific Coral Reef tank. See the false gharial crocodile's sharp teeth. And the Moon Jellies are amazing. And look at the Shortnose Sturgeon. They are native to South Carolina and are endangered.

Meet the Animals at NC Zoo

2007-12-28T13:26:00.001-05:00

Last summer I visited the North Carolina Zoo in Asheboro. It's huge-- more than 500 acres. It took us six hours to see everything.

The habitats are really nice. It has an Africa exhibit and a North America exhibit.

Like many good zoos it is helping endangered animals and plants. The NC Zoo has been reintroducing the endangered Red Wolf to parts of North Carolina, and other conservation projects.

If you can't visit or want a quick tour, here's my video. I hope you like it.

Merry Christmas!

2007-12-24T12:41:00.000-05:00

And a Happy New Year from Mossy's Animals!

I hope Santa is good to you!

How to Save Endangered Species

2007-12-24T12:32:00.000-05:00

This email was sent to me from San Diego about how President Bush is not helping endangered animals at all. A lot of people are mad because George Bush is making it more difficult to save endangered plants and animals.

The story starts like this: Environmental groups filed a raft of lawsuits yesterday against the Bush administration, alleging that it fails to protect 13 imperiled species because of political meddling and other problems.

I hope the next president is a person who cares about the environment and endangered animals.

Meeting Barack Obama and Oprah Winfrey

2007-12-14T21:05:00.000-05:00

I was very excited to shake Barack Obama's hand when he came to Columbia last Sunday. It was also exciting to meet Oprah. Here's the video. Watch me get crushed by the crowd when Oprah comes over!

It was a very interesting experience to be at the football stadium with about 29,000 people. I think Barack Obama would be the best president for the environment. We need a president who really cares about the earth and all the animals. He says some good things on his web site about global warming. What do you think?

Key to Saving the Key Deer

2007-12-01T11:04:00.000-05:00

Have you ever seen a deer that's only 3 feet tall? If you have, you've probably seen the Florida Key Deer. Florida Key Deers are one of the smallest deer in North America. They are endangered because they get hit by cars while eating trash on the side of the road. They are not endangered because of over hunting, since they are protected. People should not litter there, or the Florida key deer will go extinct. It's always important to pick up your trash.

In South America, the smallest deer in the world is the pudu. It is so small it can hide in grass!

Alerts for Birds, Endangered Animals , and CNN!

2007-12-01T09:41:00.000-05:00

My Google alerts had more warnings about our environment today. I've posted before about how birds are disappearing. Here is what the newspaper and Audubon are saying. You can listen to some of the endangered birds here. The California Condor and Whooping Crane could be the next dodo bird.

The Endangered Species Program is going back to look at some mistakes it made. Click here and check it out. I hope the next president cares about the earth and all the animals.

Speaking of that, I did a Youtube question about the environment for the CNN debate. Did you notice that CNN had 34 Youtube questions. But not even ONE had to do with the environment, global warming or endangered animals? I didn't watch it, but saw the list. I wonder why?

Rhinos, bats and candidates

2007-11-25T21:05:00.000-05:00

Some endangered black rhinos were killed by poachers recently. That's sad because scientists say the black rhino will probably be extinct soon. Read about it here.

That was in Zimbabwe. In the US, some kids killed about 100 tiny Indiana Bats for no reason. Those bats are also very endangered.

It seems like we all need to spread the word about taking better care of the earth and endangered animals. That's why I sent in another question to Youtube today for the CNN debate. You can check it out here. I got on CNN last summer, but they didn't answer me, so maybe this time.

Endangered orangutan baby born

2007-11-22T08:15:00.000-05:00

Zoos do a lot of good work trying to save endangered species.
A orangutan named Nyaru was born recently at the zoo in Perth Australia. That's really good news because orangutans are critically endangered. These beautiful primates are being wiped out because of poaching and habitat loss. Click here to read about Perth Zoo and what they are doing.

Orangutans are one of our closest relatives. They have almost the same DNA as people. And they have the intelligence of a six year old. They are the largest tree living mammals in the world. It seems unbelievable that they are being wiped out.

Tell other people about saving endangered animals. There are lots of places you can send money to help, like Perth Zoo and this Orangutan Conservancy. And please vote for people who care about the earth and all the animals.

Invasion of the Naked Mole Rats

2007-11-18T17:00:00.000-05:00

Riverbanks Zoo has a dozen new residents. Twelve naked mole rats from the Roger Williams Zoo in Rhode Island. I've seen Naked Mole Rats at the National Zoo in Washington before, and they were running fast through the tunnels in the small mammal house.

These are very strange looking rodent-mammals that are found in the sub-Sahara of Africa (that's the part of Africa that's south of the Sahara Desert).

Mole Rats have been made popular bythe show Kim Possible. That's on Disney Channel. Click here to watch a video of the Naked Mole Rat Rap.

And guess what? Nature is doing a program tonight all about ugly animals like the naked mole rat. Watch a video here.

Naked Mole Rats are very famous now! Stop by Riverbanks and check out them out. Let me know what you think-- cute or funny looking?

Koala Knockabout

2007-11-10T17:39:00.000-05:00

I was trekking through the jungles of Australia when I came face to face with a koala, an emerald tree boa, and a wallaby. I got it all on video-- watch it here...

OK, actually it was at the Koala Knockabout exhibit at Riverbanks Zoo. This exhibit teaches many things about Australian animals. There are also fish and lorikeets at the exhibit.

Some say koalas could be extinct in the wild in a decade if we don't do more to save them. I'd like to see one in he wild someday. And is that a cool snake, or what?

Meet Gilbert, the Rockhopper Penguin

2007-10-22T20:22:00.000-04:00

Gilbert is a Rockhopper at Riverbanks Zoo. My sister and I had the chance to meet him at Zoo Adventures. It was a very interesting experience, touching a rockhopper penguin. It felt very soft when it was wet, but it felt VERY soft when it was dry.

Rockhoppers are small and aggressive, and live in the sub-Antarctic islands. They feed mostly on krill, fish and squid. Rockhoppers aren't endangered, but some penguins are in danger due to global warming and habitat loss. Here's some video-- watch the way he walks down the stairs!

I've had the chance to touch many exotic animals in my life so far-- tiger, gibbon, chimp, elephant, giraffe, macaw, zebu, yak, oryx, boa, zebra-- and now Gilbert. When I meet animals so close, it makes me want to help animals even more.

The Right Way to Save Right Whales?

2007-10-20T17:00:00.000-04:00

Right whales got their names because they were the "right whales" to catch since they have lots of fat and oil, and because they floated after they were harpooned. They are very intelligent mammals. They can be found off the coast of South Carolina especially in the winter and spring.

But unfortunately, the right whale could become extinct very soon. Some say less than 400 are left in the whole world. Fishing nets are killing them. Speeding ships are too--here's a picture of one killed this year by a big ship.

This story about right whales showed up in my e-mail. It says they are not even sure how to save the right whale now. The laws are too weak. Click here to listen to a save the whale song.

These beautiful animals swim right off our coast. Do you think we should try to save the right whale from extinction?

Wild Encounter with a Parrot

2007-10-16T21:04:00.000-04:00

A wild parrot landed on my mom's shoulder last week. We were in Irmo, when suddenly, it just flew through the door of the ice rink and said "hello, hello." Then it jumped on her head. My mother asked people to get it off her, but they were too scared. It was on her for 45 minutes, until someone called a "bird guy", who owned 150 birds. He took it home.

It reminded me of a show I saw called The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill, where wild parrots lived in the middle of a big city.

It also made me think of the Carolina Parakeet. Huge flocks of these colorful birds were once everywhere in South Carolina, until they were hunted into extinction in 1918. Here's what John Audubon wrote about the Carolina Parrot.

Wouldn't it be nice to look out your window and see wild colorful parakeets in the trees?

Would you be surprised if a parrot landed on your shoulder?

Hoooooowwlll! Wolf Awareness Week

2007-10-12T20:46:00.000-04:00

Did you know October 9 to 14 is Wolf Awareness Week? I think it's great to stop and think about any endangered animals. Especially an animal so misunderstood like the gray wolf.

Native Americans admired gray wolves, and tried to copy their cleverness and hunting ability. But in the 20th Century, we hunted wolves almost to extinction in the U.S. That's because farmers were worried about their livestock. And fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood taught people to fear the wolf, even though there is no recorded killing of a human by a wolf.

But some people tried to save the gray wolf from extinction. They became listed as endangered animals. Now the Yellowstone wolves are a great success story. You can read about it here.

But this Time article says there might be trouble ahead for the gray wolf again. If you want to help the gray wolf, click here and send a letter.

I've never heard the howl of a wolf in the wild, but I hope I can someday.

Congratulations to Satch Krantz!

2007-09-28T21:00:00.000-04:00

Palmer "Satch" Krantz is the boss at Riverbanks Zoo, and I just found out he was made the chairman of the whole AZA!!! That's Association of Zoos and Aquariums. All the best zoos and aquariums in the country are members of the AZA. It was founded in 1924. In South Carolina, Riverbanks Zoo is a member. So is the South Carolina Aquarium in Charleston.

Satch gave me a tour of the entire zoo when I was four-- behind the scenes, the vet's offices, the aquarium tanks...

...and inside the elephant house. I was the first kid to see Tumpy, the new elephant.

Here is a message I got from Satch the other day to help me celebrate my 50th blog:

Let me first congratulate you on the 50^th blog posting on mossyanimals. Believe it or not, we have been following your wonderful blog for the past year or so, since it always contains such interesting and informative postings about Riverbanks Zoo. I am not at all surprised that you have had 40,000 hits.

Riverbanks is proud to be counted among your five favorite zoos. This is particularly noteworthy given your incredible knowledge about zoos and wildlife. The other four zoos on your “top 5” list are wonderful facilities. I am personally fond of the NC State Zoo and the Bronx Zoo.

I am delighted that you are still considering a career in zoos. I know you will find this a highly rewarding experience and look forward to having you join our profession. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to assist you in this exciting endeavor.

Again, congratulations. Keep on posting!

Satch Krantz
Executive Director
Riverbanks Zoo and Garden

Welcome to My 50th Post!

2007-09-22T19:10:00.000-04:00

Today I'm celebrating my 50th post with

one of my favorite subjects: zoos!!!

I've been to some really nice zoos. The first zoo I ever went to was the National Zoo in Washington, D.C. My favorite animals were the elephants and the cheetahs.

Next, I went to a smaller zoo, the Natural Bridge Zoo. They had lots of farm animals and llamas and alpacas roaming around. But truthfully, the habitats could have been better.

Next, I went to the Virginia Zoo in Norfolk Virginia. I remember the elephant demonstration the most.

Riverbanks Zoo is the zoo I live closest to, and the one I've been to the most. I have some videos of it posted on this blog. I've met the director and top zookeeper, Satch Krantz, who has worked there since the opening in 1974. He's done a great job adding new animals and exhibits. We're lucky to have Riverbanks in South Carolina. Everyone should visit it and join.

Recently I visited the North Carolina Zoo. It was very huge, and I like the buffalo and the chimps. They are getting ready to open"Watani," a huge new elephant and rhino exhibit.

And while I was on a trip to New York City, we stopped at the Central Park Zoo. It was small, but it had red pandas, and it was in a really cool setting surrounded by tall buildings.

Zoos are great. They are fun to visit. They teach us about nature and animals and help save endangered animals. Help me celebrate my 50th post by going to the zoo. What zoos have you been to?

Endangered List Gets Longer

2007-09-16T21:09:00.000-04:00

Scientists are reporting that life on earth is "disappearing." They say one in four mammals, one in eight birds, and one in three reptiles are in serious trouble.

The decline of the great apes is the worst and they are our closest relatives! The Western Lowland gorilla is close to extinct in the wild, and it is still being hunted for bushmeat!!!

Orangutans are also critically endangered because their habitats are being wiped out!!

Stopping the extinctions is important for all animals-- including human beings! Will you do something to help?

First, spread the word that it is a real problem. Next, support good zoos and aquariums in your area that help animals. Send some money to places that help animals, like World Wildlife Fund or others. Don't pollute, and save energy. Make your yard bird and animal friendly. Vote for people who think saving endangered animals is important. Will you do it?!

Benjamin-- The Last Thylacine

2007-09-11T20:49:00.000-04:00

Benjamin was the last known thylacine. He died on September 1936 at Hobart Zoo in Tasmania. Have you ever heard of a thylacine?

Thylacines were carnivorous marsupials, also know as Tasmanian tigers-- but they were not real tigers. They were not wolves either. They were most likely related to kangaroos and other marsupials, and found mostly in Australia and Tasmania.

The same year Benjamin died, thylacines became protected species, but it was too late. They are believed to have gone extinct.

This part is sad. Benjamin died of neglect. It was too hot during the day, and he had no shelter during cold nights. (Hobart's Bengal tiger died the same way, the same year). When Hobart Zoo closed in 1937, no buyers wanted their lions. It was the Great Depression, and there wasn't money for animals. And so, the lions were shot. Very sad, isn't it? That is what I read in a book about Hobart Zoo. That's why I really appreciate the good zoos I've seen-- zoos that do a really good job of caring for their animals.

The thylacine was a beautiful and mysterious animal. And now it's gone forever because of hunting and ignorance. I hope we can do better for today's endangered animals.

Here is a video of Benjamin, the last thylacine.

A New Noah's Ark for Aardvarks to Zorrillas

2007-09-04T19:01:00.000-04:00

Scientists in Texas are storing DNA of endangered species to plan for their future if they go extinct. They say they are on a mission to save the world's endangered species from extinction. They are storing frozen eggs and DNA of animals that are dangerously close to disappearing. Years from now scientists could use the DNA to reintroduce the animals. China is also trying to clone Pandas, which are very endangered and could become extinct within 25 years.

And there's this story about the Natural History Museum in London working hard to save upDNA and every single fact about all life on earth.

Even if it's too late for the Dodo Bird, the thylacine and so may other beautiful animals, it's a good idea.But wouldn't it be better if we just took better care of the earth and stopped the extinctions?

Go Binturongs, go!

2007-08-25T10:17:00.000-04:00

My dad was reading the newspaper and saw a team called the Bearcats . So many teams are named for animals we know well-- tigers, eagles, falcons, bulldogs-- but my dad was curious to know what exactly what a bearcat was. A bear? A cat? Niether! It is known as a binturong, and here is what it looks like:

They live in Asia, and can be vicious if cornered. One interesting fact is they smell like buttered popcorn! They are "vulnerable" due to habitat destruction and poaching. I think I saw one at the Virgina Zoo a long time ago around 2000. They are related to the civet. Here is what a civet looks like:

Coming Attractions

2007-08-18T08:03:00.000-04:00

I don't usually put commercials on my page, but this movie looks pretty good. It was sent to me in an e-mail. What do you think? I'm for anything that helps people think about animals and the environment. I will watch it when it comes to South Carolina. I hope you will too.

Hi ,

My name is Cory O’Brien, and I am the outreach manager for Guerilla PR. Currently, we are working with The 11th Hour to help promote their film, and I thought that you might be interested in this campaign for Mossy's Animals.

As you may know, The 11th Hour is Leonardo DiCaprio’s new environmental film, and includes visionary and practical solutions for restoring the planet’s ecosystems, as well as insight gathered from over 70 scientists, designers, historians and thinkers.

If I Ran the Zoo

2007-08-12T19:15:00.000-04:00

Zoos have been around since ancient Egypt in 1500 BC. I really like zoos because they protect threatened and endangered species. And they give you a chance to see many different animals from all over the world.

Zoos also help scientists study animals up close. And when people see the animals at the zoo, they can't help but care more about them. And if they care about them, they'll do more to help save the animals.

Here's some video from my recent trip to Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, South Carolina.

What zoos have you been to? What are your favorite animals?

Hello up there! It's feeding time!

2007-08-09T11:07:00.000-04:00

Feeding the giraffes at Riverbanks Zoo is a very interesting experience. This video is from a few weeks ago. It's very exciting when the giraffe walks over to get the food. It's so big, but it's so gentle.

When its tongue grabs the food, it feels very sticky. Their slimy saliva protects them from thorns or twigs they might eat. Their tongues are almost 18 inches long and dark purple. They need their long necks and long tongues to reach leaves high up in the trees.

Giraffes are found in the savanna of Africa, and can grow up to 18 feet tall. They are related to the Okapi. I've seen pictures of its relatives during the Ice Age, like this one, and they look like deer or elk.

They can run almost 30 mph, and have a deadly kick if they need to. Uganda Giraffes are endangered, but most species of giraffes aren't endangered right now. But if habitat loss continues, they will be.

Goodbye Forever, Aldabra Snail

2007-08-08T19:00:00.000-04:00

Driving in the car today, I heard on the radio about the latest extinction. They said this small purplish snail was the first extinction officially due to global warming.

When I got home I looked it up. The Aldabra snail may not be the most popular animal. I couldn't find a picture of it. But it made it onto this postage stamp. That's pretty good.

Scientists say this is just the beginning. Global warming threatens a million species!
Polar bears are now threatened because of global warming.

Some penguins are threatened now too.

Click here for some EASY things you can do to stop global warming and help the animals.

Lemurs of Madagascar

2007-08-04T19:57:00.000-04:00

Lemurs are fun animals to watch. How much do you know about them? Lemurs live only on the island of Madagascar. That's off the coast of Africa. They eat primarily fruit and nuts. They are hunted by fossa, but their real threat is habitat loss.

Lemurs are primates in a family called prosimians, which include bush babies and slow lorises. Several species of the lemur are endangered due to the habitat loss and hunting. The most endangered of the lemurs would be the aye aye.

We have ring-tailed lemurs and red-ruffed lemurs at Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia, SC. I've posted a short video I took of them recently.

It's good to know that people are working to save the lemur. Check out this site, the Madagascar Fauna Group. And here's another interesting video about Madagascar with "nearly headless Nick."

Chimpanzees-- So Like Us

2007-07-31T07:18:00.000-04:00

Seeing the chimpanzees was one of my favorite things at the North Carolina Zoo. They are our closest relatives. They make tools, have close families, and even fight wars. Here's some video for you to check out (we're still learning to post video here).

I read Jane Goodall's book, The Chimpanzees I Love. She has an amazing story to tell. She started studying chimps in Tanzania in 1960 and taught us all about them. Here also is a film clip that shows how chimps have been so misunderstood.

Chimps are endangered, and could be extinct in the wild within 15 years! What are we doing to our planet? Do you think chimpanzees are worth saving? Please spread the word and do something to help.

Candidates, zoos and travels

2007-07-28T11:18:00.000-04:00

It's been a busy few weeks...I visited the North Carolina Zoo. It was HUGE! Great habitats for the animals. They have chimps, rhinos and polar bears. When I have time I'll post some video I took.

And I went to the Central Park Zoo in New York City! The zoo was small, but nice. Central Park was huge, and New York City was colossal!

And my You Tube question was on CNN during the debate last week. Maybe you saw it. They showed it in the very beginning. The candidates didn't answer it, but the guy on TV said he liked my enthusiasm. But I wished they answered it so more people could understand about endangered animals. Maybe I'll try the next debate.

My favorite animals at the Central Park Zoo were the red pandas! They are related to raccoons, not to the giant panda. Red Pandas are endangered-- only 2,500 left in the world!

Help Save the Gray Wolf

2007-07-14T08:39:00.000-04:00

This story about the killing of an endangered Mexican Gray Wolf was in my e-mail. It's upsetting that the government shot a female wolf with pups.

And another e-mail says that they will start killing even more wolves in Idaho and Wyoming.

We're supposed to help endangered animals recover, not kill them.Will you take some action? It's so easy-- just sign here. Let me know!

I was on CNN!

2007-07-08T08:59:00.000-04:00

It was quick, but I was on CNN! The video posted below was used in a story about the You Tube debates in Charleston. We were getting ready to go to the beach when we saw it on CNN. Check it out! I'm working on more videos about lemurs, meerkats, and the oceans.

More good news. When we were at the beach we saw a Piping Plover. They are endangered, and we have to do everything we can to protect their habitats.

My Question on You Tube for the Next President

2007-06-30T09:40:00.000-04:00

Well this is my first try at You Tube. I decided to post a question to the presidential candiates for when they come to Charleston. I don't think endangered animals and the environment get enough attention so I hope they will use my question.

The original video was much better. I haven't figured You Tube out yet. Let me know if you know how to get better quality. And my parents made me cut my full name.

Will you vote for a president who cares about animals and the environment? I hope you will.

My tiger encounter

2007-06-21T19:43:00.000-04:00

This isn't something you get to do every day...bottle feed a rare Golden Tabby Tiger!!!

I was very excited to hold a real tiger at Preservation Station at Myrtle Beach this week. My eyes grew wide when I saw them bringing the tiger out. I've seen tigers on TV and in zoos, but this was the first time I got to hold one.

Here I am holding the tiger with my sister. It is also kown as a Golden Bengal, and there are only about 24 of this kind of tiger left in the world.

A tiger's fur feels soft, but rough at the same time. It was amazing to look into its light green eyes. The only sound it made was slurping on its bottle. The whole thing only lasted a minute or two, but it was cool.

I love tigers. At Riverbanks Zoo in Columbia they have Siberian tigers. They are also endangered with only about 500 left in the world. Learn more about how to help save the tiger.

Animal Jokes

2007-06-17T19:19:00.000-04:00

What has antlers and sucks blood?
A moose-quito.

What do Alexander the Great and Winnie the Pooh have in common?
They both have 'the' as their middle names.

What do you get if you cross a centipede and a parrot?
A walkie talkie.

Why are pigs bad drivers?
They HOG the road.

What do you call an elephant in the North Pole?
Lost.

Is this elephant lost...?

Manatee Alert!!!

2007-06-11T19:55:00.000-04:00

There is a news alert for boaters to be extra careful of manatees!
Manatees are endangered. There are only about 3,200 left. They are mostly found near Florida and Georgia, but there have been some sightings near South Carolina. Their greatest dangers are motor boats and people net fishing. There are groups dedicated to saving the manatee. But for some reason President Bush doesn't seem to like manatees very much.

Manatees are very shy and slow moving mammals also known as sea cows. They are related to the elephant, and the extinct steller sea cow. I'll do a post on that soon.
I like watching manatees, and would love to see one in the wild. This newspaper says they are smarter than they look. But I don't know. Watch this video and tell me what you think!

Stop the Rhino Poaching!

2007-06-09T10:29:00.000-04:00

Gangs of poachers are still killing lots of rhinos for their horns. That report from Traffic says that's how most rhinos die-- poachers in Zimbabwe and Congo hunting them down. Many scientists think the rhino will be extinct in the wild in about ten years if we don't do something!

Rhinos are so interesting because they look almost prehistoric. They were found in North America and Europe during the Ice Age. But the Wooly Rhino was hunted into extinction. Now there are only five species left in Asia and Africa. The Western Black Rhino went extinct summer 2006. The Sumatran Rhino is probably next for extinction since there are less than 300 left in the wild!

The World Wildlife Fund and Traffic and some other groups are working hard to save the rhino. They need your help. What will you think if rhinos go extinct because of poaching? Let me know what you will do to help.

Global Mourning

2007-06-05T20:39:00.000-04:00

Global warming is bad for the environment, bad for habitats and animals everywhere, and bad for South Carolina.

So what are we doing about it in South Carolina? Well, we might be making global warming worse! How? By making a new electricity plant that uses coal.

And more pollution and global warming will make more animals go extinct-- like polar bears and walruses. And it will hurt the earth and the environment. And that's why I called this post global mourning. Many people think there are better choices.

You should give your opinion . What do you think?

To Bee or Not to Bee

2007-06-04T20:04:00.000-04:00

I heard that Albert Einstein said, "If the bee disappeared off the surface of the globe, then man would only have four years of life left."

My dad said Einstein probably never really said that. Anyone know? But it's still interesting to think about how important bees are.

This story says bees are declining worldwide. Bees are disappearing from Montana and other states. And this story from England about disappearing bee colonies.

Take the Mossy Challenge

2007-05-28T19:29:00.000-04:00

If we want to save the animals, we have to help the climate and the earth. It's not as hard as you think.

First, I challenge 50 people reading this to change to better light bulbs, like we did at our house. (These are some examples.) The kind we have are swirly, but just as good as the old ones.

And it would be great if 50 people could plant a tree in their yard.

And can 50 people send some money to World Wildlife Fund, Sierra Club, or Nature Conservancy? We're members of those, but there are lots of good ones.

And I KNOW you recycle, right?!!!! And NEVER EVER litter!!!!

E-mail this to your friends. Spread the word. Then tell me some things you will do. The animals will thank you! And I will thank you in a future posting.

Giant Panda

2007-05-25T18:54:00.000-04:00

Everyone loves pandas. The zoos in the U.S. with pandas are National Zoo in Washington D.C., Zoo Atlanta, San Diego, Memphis Zoo. I've seen the pandas at the National Zoo and Zoo Atlanta-- they were very cool. You can hear what one sounds like here, or check out a panda cam and videos here.

Pandas are very endangered. There are only about 1,600 in the wild, all in China. About 150 are in zoos-- mostly in China. They eat bamboo. In Chinese they are called "Giant Bear Cats." Aren't they amazing?

The Animal Riddle-- Are You Ready for 5th Grade?

2007-05-22T20:30:00.000-04:00

This is just for fun. Tomorrow is my last day of fourth grade, so to celebrate, let's see how smart YOU are.

1. How do you put a giraffe into a refrigerator?

Correct answer: Open the refrigerator, put in the giraffe and close the door. This question tests whether or not you are doing simple things in a complicated way.

2. How do you put an elephant into a refrigerator?

Incorrect answer: Open the refrigerator, put in the elephant and shut the refrigerator.
Correct answer: Open the refrigerator, take out the giraffe, put in the elephant and close the door. This question tests your foresight.

3. The Lion King is hosting an animal conference. All the animals attend except one. Which animal does not attend?

Correct answer: The elephant. The elephant is in the refrigerator! This tests if you are capable of comprehensive thinking.

OK, if you did not answer the last three questions correctly, this one may be your last chance to test your readiness to be a fifth grader.

4. There is a river filled with crocodiles. How do you cross it?

Correct Answer: Simply swim through it. All the crocodiles are attending the animal meeting!

Endangered Snail Kite in South Carolina

2007-05-22T19:20:00.000-04:00

Hey, the very rare, endangered snail kite was spotted in South Carolina.
You can read the story here.

What is your animal personality?

2007-05-21T18:04:00.000-04:00

What is your animal personality?

My power animal is the eagle,

and I was a whale in a past life.

What about you? Try it below. Let me know!
http://www.blogthings.com/theanimalpersonalitytest/

Baghdad Zoo Hero-- Exclusive Interview!

2007-05-19T21:05:00.000-04:00

In an earlier post I wrote about the Baghdad Zoo. I also did a post about a book on the rescue of its animals, and then a post on how it might be made into a movie.

Well, I just did an e-mail interview with the hero who saved Baghdad Zoo, Lawrence Anthony. He's the guy on the left. Here it is:

I live in Columbia South Carolina USA. I have a blog about animals and wrote about you on it twice.
Thanks for your letter and your support on your blog. It is much appreciated.

You must be very brave! What was the scariest part of saving the zoo?

The scariest part about being in Baghdad was the war going on around us, especially in the beginning before the end of “major hostilities.”

When will the movie come out?

As regards to the movie, I believe it is a slow process but from what I have been told it is now under way. You could follow the progress like I do with a Google alert for “Good luck Mr Anthony.”

Have you seen any Rhinos where you live at Thula Thula (South Africa)?

We have Rhino on Thula Thula which I see regularly when I am out in the reserve.

Have any animals ever wandered into your house?

We often have animals wander into our garden, and on occasion we take in abandoned or injured animals and release them once they have recovered.

Congratulations on your book and movie.
Thank you. Please let me know what you think of the book if you read it.

Happy Endangered Species Day

2007-05-18T21:10:00.000-04:00

May 18 is endangered species day! Some animals considered endangered?

Elephants!

Rhinos!

Polar Bears!
Some of the endangered animals in South Carolina are the Piping Plover, Loggerhead Turtle, Eastern cougar, manatee, and whales like the right, finback, blue and humpback.

Many scientists think almost half of all animals on earth will become extinct in the next 50 years! Stop pollution, stop poachers, stop habitat destruction! Do your part.

Loggerhead Sea Turtles

2007-05-16T20:28:00.000-04:00

Bon voyage Lighthouse! Who is Lighthouse?

Lighthouse is a loggerhead turtle who the South Carolina Aquarium is releasing this Saturday the 19th. You should check it out!

Did you know it is the state reptile for South Carolina? It is endangered worldwide. Man is its greatest threat because of fishing and habitat destruction. On many beaches, house lights can confuse baby loggerheads, so turn off your lights from May to October. Only 1 in a thousand hatchlings live to be adults. We're lucky to live in a place where we can help them if we want. Here's more information on sea turtles.

The Lorax in South Carolina

2007-05-15T19:38:00.000-04:00

There is a forest and wetlands near South Carolina's coast where all the trees might get chopped down for new houses. You can read the newspaper story about it.

This is another story about fishermen off the coast of North Carolina who are using nets and lights that can kill the loggerhead turtle. The loggerhead is endangered.

Here's a story where home builders might be destroying bird habitats in South Carolina. Birds are very important to our environment. And here's another one about how South Carolina power could make global warming worse. This says our state already pollutes too much.

These remind me of the story of The Lorax, which you can click and watch. What do you think? You can leave a comment.

Koala Twins!!!

2007-05-14T16:11:00.000-04:00

Meet Little Michelle and Little Amanda. These koala twins were born in China! It is very rare for koalas to have twins. 祝你生日小无尾熊 (Happy birthday to you, koalas!)

Baghdad Zoo the Movie

2007-05-13T06:08:00.000-04:00

I wrote about the rescue of the Baghdad Zoo animals in an earlier post. I was very happy to get two comments from people who have been to that zoo! Read their comments if you would like to know what they saw at the Iraq zoo. And guess what? I just found out Disney might make a movie about it!

Lawrence Anthony is brave, and he did a good thing. The rescue of the zoo is a really interesting story that should make a good movie. But I think it will have sad parts because of the war, and this tiger who got shot by a drunken soldier.

Click on comments and tell me what you think about the Iraq zoo and the upcoming movie.

Riverbanks Helps Endangered Koalas

2007-05-12T05:10:00.000-04:00

I wrote about koalas in an earlier post. They are not bears, remember? They are marsupials , and they sleep 18 hours a day! And unfortunately they are very endangered. At the Riverbanks Zoo, they are trying to save the koala. South Carolina has a special friendship with Queensland Australia where koalas come from. This is where our koalas Lottie and Killarney come from.

Why don't you visit the koalas at Riverbanks Zoo? If you can't go, you might be able to see them on this webcam. Now you should do something to help nature and wildlife. What will you do to help?

Meerkats and gorillas and grizzly bears, oh my!

2007-05-04T20:51:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of the Riverbanks Zoo? I've mentioned it in some of my postings.

When I first visited five years ago, I thought it was a really good zoo. There have been lots of changes since then. The polar bear is gone, and that's probably good since it's so hot in South Carolina, and he's at a colder place now. And the rhino is gone too. But Riverbanks keeps getting better, with the grizzly bears, the koala, the gorillas, the elephants and the bird house.

I once had a private tour of the elephant house from zoo director Palmer Satch Krantz II, and met Tumpy the Elephant. And I also met a diver as he dove into the fish tank.

I like the way the grizzlies walk around. The meerkats always seem hard at work. I like to see the hippo come up for air.

You can see animals at Riverbanks you might never get a chance to see. It's educational. And when people see them, I think they'll like animals more, and feel like they want to save them. Why do you like zoos?

Saving the Baghdad Zoo

2007-05-02T23:22:00.000-04:00

We were driving in our car and heard this amazing story on the radio about the zoo in Iraq. Listen to it if you can. It made me feel sad for the animals in the Iraq zoo. Lots of animals must have died. I thought the man who saved the animals was very brave. It reminded me of all the crazy things going on over there. If he and the American soldiers worked to save animals way over in Iraq, we should try to do more to save animals here!

Here are two lion cubs found in Iraq. What are your comments?

A Letter to the President

2007-05-01T17:09:00.000-04:00

Dear President Bush:

My name is Mossy from South Carolina. Would you like to know what I think of your idea to change the endangered species act? I really don't like it. It stinks. Seriously!

Why won't you do more to help endangered animals? I don't get it. Is it true that the law might get changed in a way that HURTS endangered animals? Is this story true?

This is the American Bald Eagle. It was endangered once.

I hope you will change your mind. Thank you.

P.S.-- Stop the Iraq War.

Ivory-Billed Woodpecker Really Extinct?

2007-05-01T00:06:00.000-04:00

I've seen a pileated woodpecker up close a few times at Congaree National Park. Once I was so close in my kayak, it was amazing! But I REALLY wanted to see or hear an Ivory-Billed Woodpecker. Many people are afraid they are extinct . My dad showed me this article in The State newspaper about the search for them in South Carolina.

I'm disappointed they didn't find any Ivory Billed Woodpeckers, but I still think they are out there! Listen to one at this site so you'll know if you hear it! What do you think?

Flocks of Carolina Parakeets

2007-04-30T21:08:00.001-04:00

The Carolina Parakeet used to be all over the South. But like the passenger pigeon, they were all shot down. Extinct! The last Carolina Parakeet died at the Cincinnati Zoo in 1918, the same spot the last passenger pigeon died in 1914! I wrote about the passenger pigeon a few weeks ago.

The Carolina Parakeet was the only North American Parrot. They filled the skies in South Carolina. There were more of them than Robins. I wish I could look up and see those colorful birds flying around today. Can you imagine flocks of wild parakeets in your yard?

There are so many birds today in danger of extinction. Click here for ways to help! You should stop using poisons and pesticides in your yard, and protect the water. Check out these important bird areas.
What do you think? Click "comment" and let me know.

Koalas Future in Doubt

2007-04-24T21:02:00.000-04:00

Have you ever seen or heard of a koala? They may go extinct within a decade!
But it doesn't mean they will. We can save them and help them stay alive for generations and generations.
We have koalas at the Riverbanks Zoo here in Columbia. Koalas are not bears. They are actually marsupials, related to the kangaroo. They live n Australia.

You can help save the koala by taking care of the earth and environment in your town. And tell people it's important. And stop by and see them at the zoo. Tell them Mossy sent you! How could let anything happen to the koala? Tell me what you think by clicking "comment."

Good Earth Day!

2007-04-22T19:36:00.000-04:00

I had a good earth day. We went hiking at Harbison State Park where we saw a beaver by the river! It's the first time I've seen a beaver in the wild.

Then we went to Riverbanks Zoo and looked at everything. We watched elephants spray water on themselves. We saw some cute wallabee joeys. They also have many endangered species like the VERY rare bali mynah, grizzly bear, Siberian tiger, and the Western lowland gorilla.

My mom and sister planted wildflowers and worked in the garden. What did you do? Click on "comments" and tell me.

Happy Earth Day

2007-04-21T21:04:00.000-04:00

Earth Day is a special day when we think about the earth. But every day should be Earth Day.

Many people litter and waste energy. You might think it's just Ok to litter or waste energy, but it harms the environment and hurts wildlife.

There are so many things you can do. Don't drive so much-- walk or ride your bike. Recycle (organizing the recycling is one of my chores). And take some time to enjoy nature and outside!

If you want to celebrate, go to Party for the Planet at the South Carolina Aquarium or the Riverbanks Zoo. Maybe we'll see you there!

Belugas in Danger!

2007-04-20T21:26:00.000-04:00

In Spring 2006 I visited the Georgia Aquarium. My most favorite animals there were the belugas. I could watch them all day! But when I found out they are in danger of extinction, I felt sad. This video is from Storyteller.

You can help the beluga whale here, or write to the government here and say that we should take care of the belugas!

Thylacine really extinct?

2007-04-20T21:03:00.000-04:00

Someone from Colorado wrote to me and asked me about thylacine sightings. Many have been recorded, but sadly, none are confirmed. But that doesn't mean they couldn't be alive.

This video was taken in 1973. It's one of the three videos I have seen of a thylacine sighting. My opinion is it gives me some hope they could be alive.

What do you think? If you'd like to let me know, please post a comment.

From billions to zero

2007-04-18T19:54:00.000-04:00

One out of every four bird species in the USA is in trouble! Two out of three species in the world are declining! Hard to beleive?

Once there were billions of passenger pigeons. It was the most numerous bird on the planet. They were colorful and could fly 70 miles an hour! They were hunted like crazy, and a hunter even said "Don't worry. There are so many, we can't kill them all." But at the Cincinnati Zoo, the very last passenger pigeon died in September 1914. Extinct!

I've seen two stuffed passenger pigeons. One at the Museum of Science in Boston last summer, and one this March at the Natural History Museum in Washington D.C. But I'll never get to see a real one.

Will we let more birds go extinct? What can you do about it? Learn more about the birds in your yard and neighborhood. You can plant wild flowers and trees for the birds and butterflies. Build a birdfeeder so birds will use it during the winter. The Audubon says write letters. Talk to your parents about things your family can do at home. Any other suggstions?

What will you do to help the birds in your town? Let me know!

The Sad Story of the Thylacine

2007-04-17T15:26:00.000-04:00

Have you ever heard of the Tasmanian Devil? How about its long lost relative, the Tasmanian Tiger, or Thylacine? If you think tasmanian tiger is related to a tiger, you're wrong. It's not a tiger.

The thylacine lived in Tasmania and Austrailia long ago. When dingoes appeared, most thylacines in Australia disapperaed. But in Tasmania, where there weren't dingoes, they survived until settlers arrived.

Settlers and farmers killed the thylacines because they looked even scarier than wolves, and they thought they would kill their livestock. Unfortuatley, they were nearly wiped out. They lived for a while in zoos in London, Bronx Zoo New York, Washington D.C., and Hobart in Tasmania. Hobart Zoo was where the last thylacine died in 1936.

We're pretty sure they're extinct, but there have been unconfirmed sightings. If there was a confirmed sighting I would feel really, really happy. I saw a mounted thylacine at the Natural History Museum in Washington, DC, but I would love to see a real one. For more information, check out the Thylacine Museum. Below is the last known video of a thylacine.

Have we learned anything from the thylacine? Can we stop the extinctions?

Videos of the last thylacine...

2007-04-17T01:05:00.000-04:00

Could this be the most recent extinction?

2007-04-15T19:00:00.000-04:00

Probably the most recent extinction would be the yangtze river dolphin. This makes me feel sad because more of earth's species are dying. Did you even hear about it? It was hardly in the news except for this clip I found. There are thousands of other species so close to extinction. Can you name any?

What can you do?

2007-04-15T18:35:00.000-04:00

People wonder how they're supposed to help. On this blog I'm going to tell you some things you can do to help.

First, don't litter! We all see litter along the side of the roads, but this is more than just ugly. It can be poison to animals, and it can hurt the environment. So the first thing is don't litter! And recycle.

I'm a member of the World Wildlife Fund, because I like what they do.

I'm also a member of National Wildlife Federation, and a few others. Just pick your favorite, and send them some money.

See? You're doing something to help already!

Congaree Swamp

2007-04-15T16:58:00.000-04:00

If you like nature and wildlife, you can't beat the Congaree National Swamp. Even if you don't, it's a great place to visit and learn about our environment. It's the first and only national park in South Carolina.

This is a great place to walk, paddle, and see all kinds of wildlife.

I've seen deer, river otters, snakes, turtles, hawks, owls and many other birds.

Congaree has a great boardwalk, but my favorite way to see wildlife there is in my kayak with my dad.

Welcome to Mossy's World of Animals

2007-04-15T16:16:00.000-04:00

Welcome people of the world! This is the first day of my new blog I did on Spring break, dedicated to educating people about animals...extinct animals, endangered animals, threatened animals, vulnerable animals, and animals right in your own backyard.

It's important so that people can be more careful-- it's up to us to take care of nature and habitats and all living creatures.

I'm a fourth grader in the Midlands of South Carolina, and ever since I can remember, I have always liked animals-- animal toys, movies, books, and zoos. A few years ago I was amazed to learn about all the extinct animals I'd never get to see, and all the endangered animals people in the future may not get to see.

If you are curious, or want to help, check in with this blog and let me know what you think.

I'll try to provide interesting information, tips on how you can help the environment, and other cool stuff about animals.