Humans are the only species that seek to keep their potential predators alive.

What are your thoughts?

A lesser Panda? I don't think so...

The Red Panda is on the brink of extinction. So why is this tiny, adorable Panda given so little attention? I was not aware of its existence until a couple of years ago when I watched a documentary about it on cable. It is a harmless, beautiful, little animal whose habitat is threatened by deforestation and to a lesser degree, hunters. And, according to the Smithsonian National Zoological Park website, there many be fewer than 2500 adult Red Pandas left in the wild.
For more information about the Red Panda and to see pictures, you can go to (on the first two sites, you can even adopt /sponsor one!):
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
The Red Panda Network
National Geographic

Survival of the sleepiest…

Sleep: 20 hours; Eat, play, mate: 4 hours
This may sound like an average day in the life of an American college student. However, this relaxing and somewhat loungy schedule describes the life of the koala bear; unfortunately, it is out of necessity that these creatures sleep their lives away. An article featured on CNN.com today describes the fragile existance of this endangered species, and how our actions are impacting the survival of the koala.
It is true that Earth Day took place last month, but given the state of the environment, I have to ask - is devoting one day out of three-hundred sixty-five to the earth enough? It is disheartening to read about the state of the environment, and the effect that our daily way of life is having on the world. The negative impact that we are having is not something that will happen in the indefinite future; the effect can readily be seen today.
To me, it seems like there is not much any one person can do without drastically changing one’s way of life. However, I have found several “green guides” which have proven me wrong. There are indeed simple ways that any of us can reduce our negative impact on the environment without making major changes. And keep in mind that many of these green tips will also save you money!

Yahoo! Green

The Green Guide by National Geographic

Pygmy Pachyderm

National Geographic is my favorite site on the internet. There is always new and interesting information being presented on a variety of subjects, ranging from space exploration to wildlife to archaeology and cultural history. Beautiful photographs act as visual aids to many of the articles, and sometimes are the stories themselves. In addition, the site offers great links to lots of other informative sites where you can further explore whatever interests you. I peruse the National Geographic daily for enticing bits of information which open my mind to new possibilities and sometimes even inspire a story idea or two.
Today I read an article about the re-discovery of the pygmy elephant, previously thought to be extinct.
Is it true that John McCain is trying to soften his image by getting this pygmy pachyderm to attend the Republican Convention?