One of the most common questions asked to herp aficionados is, “Is that snake poisonous?” This is also one of the more frustrating questions, and the terminology “poisonous snake” is used all the time. With a few exceptions, the answer is emphatically NO. BUT – there are a number of venomous snakes! So, what’s the difference? VENOMOUS: It injects toxins … [Read more...]
Examining the Many Breeds of Dogs
Take a look around and you will quickly notice dogs come in a wide variety of physical and behavioral characteristics. The wolf may be their ancestor, but many dogs look very different from their wild origins. That is because humans have carefully crafted each breed to fit a specific need or interest. As a result, there are hundreds of breeds across the world. There are … [Read more...]
Llamas and Alpacas – Getting to Know Your Animal
Are llamas and alpacas the same? What’s the difference? Where did they come from? What do I do with one after I buy it? And will it spit at me? These are commonly asked about llamas and alpacas. This post will attempt to answer these questions and more by referencing the Rutgers Cooperative Extension Fact Sheet (FS917) titled Llamas and Alpacas. It is a common … [Read more...]