Goldfish Memory Fiasco
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Goldfish, often dismissed as aquatic amnesiacs, are proving the skeptics wrong. Dr. Cait Newport's groundbreaking research at the University of Illinois rewired our perceptions. These little finned wonders can actually remember tasks for several months, showcasing a memory that puts short-term memory to shame. So, next time you marvel at your goldfish's routine, remember — they're not just swimming in circles; they're navigating the corridors of their own watery world.
Ostriches and Sand
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Ostriches might have a leg up on running, but they're not exactly the bury-your-head-in-the-sand kind of birds. The notion of these giants hiding from their fears below the surface is nothing more than a tall tale. Their survival strategy involves running or using their impressive eyesight to spot danger from a distance, not pretending the world is just a sandy daydream.
Bats Are Blind as a… Bat?
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Calling bats blind is like labeling a book by its cover — misleading. While some bats do rock the echolocation scene, others flaunt their peepers like a fashion statement. Fruit bats, for instance, have day-vision sharper than a detective's instincts. So, when you encounter a bat, remember that its eyes might be more eagle-eyed than you'd ever bat-lieve.
Lemmings' Cliffhanger
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Lemmings, those adorable rodents of the Arctic, have gotten a bad rap. Thanks to a Disney documentary, they've been pegged as plummeting daredevils. But let's set the record straight: these little adventurers might migrate en masse, but they're no suicidal snowballs. They simply travel in search of food and shelter, minus the melodrama of leaping off cliffs.
Camels' Water Supply
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Camels are nature's survival champs, but their humps aren't water tanks — they're fat reserves. The idea of a camel hydrating from its hump is as mythical as a desert mirage. Instead, camels have evolved to store water in their body tissues, allowing them to endure lengthy journeys through arid terrains. So, the next time you picture a camel oasis, make sure it's more of a mirage in your imagination.
Koalas and Alcohol
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Koalas, those cuddly eucalyptus aficionados, aren't getting tipsy on their leafy diet. While eucalyptus leaves contain toxins that would send us humans reeling, koalas have an ace up their sleeve — unique liver enzymes. These remarkable marsupials have evolved to break down the toxins, allowing them to indulge in their favorite snack without a hangover in sight.
Penguins' Monogamy
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Penguins might look like they've waddled straight out of a romance novel, but their love lives are a bit more complex than we'd imagine. While many penguin species do form strong pair bonds, don't be surprised if you catch some sneaky affairs happening on the icy sidelines. Survival in harsh environments sometimes requires a little extra flexibility in matters of the heart.
Snakes and Earlobes
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Snakes, often victims of a slimy smear campaign, are far from being the oozing villains of legend. In fact, their scales are smooth and cool to the touch, miles away from the sticky sensation of sliminess. And as for those dangling earrings, snakes are more interested in their own business than your fashion choices — earwigs have no place in their agenda either.
Tortoises' Speed
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While tortoises may not be breaking land speed records anytime soon, they're not the slowpokes we paint them to be. These armored adventurers have an impressive range of speeds at their disposal. So, the next time you see a tortoise casually meandering, remember that under that seemingly leisurely exterior, there's a creature with some surprising gears.
Bulls and Color Rage
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Matadors might have you believe that a red cape is like waving a flag of fury at a bull, but here's the real scoop: Bulls are color-blind to red. It's the choreography and fluttering fabric that ignites their charge, not the shade. So, the next time you encounter a bullfighting scene, just imagine the dance moves being the real trigger for the spectacle.
Ferrets' Thievery
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While ferrets have a knack for charming us with their antics, they're not the masked bandits of the animal kingdom. Sure, they might have a soft spot for shiny objects, but their playfulness isn't a front for elaborate heists. Instead, they're more like furry explorers, discovering the world through their curious paws rather than plotting grand larcenies.
Porcupine Projectile
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Contrary to quill-shooting fantasies, porcupines don't double as nature's archers. Their quills aren't aimed at targets like arrows; they're a last-resort defense mechanism. When a porcupine feels threatened, these detachable quills serve as a prickly deterrent, embedding themselves in would-be predators. So, no, you won't find porcupines hosting impromptu archery competitions anytime soon.
Earwig Invasion
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Don't be duped by the name — earwigs aren't orchestrating an ear-based coup. These nocturnal creatures are on a mission for cozy, damp nooks, and your auditory passages aren't their dream destination. Take comfort in the fact that earwigs are far more interested in shelter than eardrums. While they might trigger the heebie-jeebies, an ear infestation isn't on their to-do list.
Turkey's Sleep Habits
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Turkeys aren't tree-dwelling gymnasts evading predators. They opt for the high branches due to a survival-minded sleep strategy. Perching in trees offers a shield from terrestrial threats like foxes and raccoons, granting these feathered snoozers a night's rest free from surprise raids. So, if you spot a turkey up in a tree, it's not a performance, it's a clever sleep choice.
Daddy Longlegs' Venom
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The urban legend of venomous daddy longlegs with a delivery hiccup is a narrative spun from thin air. These delicate arachnids are venom-free, rendering their bite akin to a friendly tap on the shoulder. There's no venomous conspiracy here, just harmless creatures going about their eight-legged business. So, sleep tight knowing daddy longlegs aren't crafting a venomous thriller.
Chameleon Rainbow
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Chameleons aren't the camouflage chameleons you've been led to believe. While they can shift hues, it's not about blending in — it's a language of colors. Chameleons signal moods, territory claims, and even temperature regulation through their vibrant transformations. So, they're not just artistic masters of disguise; they're eloquent communicators in the colorful tapestry of chameleon society.
Spider Bites Myth
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Spiders might be nature's skillful insect wranglers, but they're not out to nibble on us. Most spider bites are less drama, more inconvenience — often harmless and comparable to a mosquito bite. The few venomous exceptions rarely attack unless provoked. So, rest assured, spiders aren't weaving plans for an eight-legged takeover of your personal space.
Rats and Sewers
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Rats might seem like they belong in the shadowy depths of sewers, but that's far from their dream home. Attics and cozy burrows are more their style. These adaptable creatures prefer spaces where they can build nests and raise their families in relative peace. So, while the sewer-dwelling rat is a captivating image, the real-life rat prefers a cozier, less damp abode.
Mice and Cheese
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Mice, those tiny adventurers of the animal kingdom, have a culinary preference that doesn't quite match the cartoons. While a cheese crumb might be a pleasant surprise, these nibblers are more drawn to grains and seeds than dairy delights. So, while they won't turn down a cheesy morsel, their real palate leans more towards the pantry than the cheese board.
Raccoon Washing Obsession
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Raccoons might seem like they're auditioning for a "cleanest critter" award with their paw-dipping antics, but their obsession with water isn't just about cleanliness. Their dexterous paws explore textures as they forage for food, and water happens to be a handy tool for enhancing their sensitivity. So, next time you catch a raccoon splish-splashing, know it's more about tactile exploration than a bubbly bath time.
Hyenas and Laughter
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Hyenas, often thought of as the stand-up comedians of the animal kingdom, aren't chuckling at their own jokes. Their distinctive vocalizations serve a more practical purpose, keeping their clan in sync. These whoops, growls, and calls are a communication symphony, conveying information about their location, hierarchy, and even emotional states. So, while hyenas might not be the comedians they're rumored to be, their vocal repertoire is a vital language of the savannah.
Sharks and the Sense of Smell
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Sharks have a nose for news, or rather, a sense of smell that's the envy of journalists. But they're not the bloodthirsty frenzy-seekers movies make them out to be. While they can detect tiny amounts of blood, they're discerning eaters, focusing on the scent of prey they're naturally drawn to. So, it's less about a blood-induced frenzy and more about a finely tuned olfactory radar.
Black Cats and Bad Luck
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If you're avoiding black cats like they're leaping ladders, you're missing out on feline magic. Black cats aren't harbingers of doom but rather enchanting companions. Adopting one won't curse your life; instead, it might fill it with purrs, playful antics, and the joy that only a loving pet can bring. So, take a chance on these ebony-coated charmers and let good luck follow you both.
Cows and Standing in Rain
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Cows aren't weather forecasters — when they lie down in the rain, it's not a strategy to stay dry. Instead, it's a bovine form of savoring life's simple pleasures. Much like we relish a lazy rainy day, cows take a moment to enjoy the refreshing sensation of raindrops on their skin. So, if you spot a cow lounging in a shower, know that it's all about embracing the gentle embrace of precipitation.
Squirrels' Memory Skills
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Squirrels, those agile acrobats of the treetops, are nature's little gardeners. Yet, their memory isn't airtight. While they diligently bury nuts for future feasts, they don't always remember each hiding spot. This forgetfulness leads to unexpected surprises — like tree seedlings sprouting from forgotten nut stashes. So, squirrels might be adorable and agile, but they're not flawless in the memory department.
Elephants' Fear of Mice
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Elephants, those gentle giants of the savannah, aren't losing sleep over tiny mice. The myth likely sprang from the startle elephants show at sudden movements, not an actual fear of rodents. Their size and strength render them indifferent to these tiny scurriers, making the idea of elephants fleeing from mice a comical exaggeration rather than an actual elephantine phobia.
Cats and Milk
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While the image of a cat sipping milk is charming, reality isn't always so idyllic. Many cats are lactose intolerant, lacking the enzyme to break down lactose in milk. Offering your feline friend milk might lead to an upset tummy rather than a content purr. If you're aiming to treat your cat, opt for water or specially formulated cat milk, ensuring their digestive harmony remains intact.
Hedgehog and Apples
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Hedgehogs aren't apple enthusiasts — when it comes to their diet, they're more insectivore than fruitarian. These spiky creatures have a palate attuned to creepy crawlies like insects, worms, and snails. While a hedgehog might nibble on an apple now and then, it's far from their dietary staple. So, if you're looking to cater to a hedgehog's taste, leave the apples for humans.
Crickets Thermometer
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Considering crickets as nature's thermometers might sound poetic, but it's not scientifically sound. The myth arose from associating cricket chirping with temperature, but it's a loose connection at best. Cricket chirping varies with multiple factors, from species to environmental conditions. So, before you set your outdoor plans based on cricket concerts, it might be wise to check a real thermometer.
Barking Up the Wrong Tree
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Dogs might be conversationalists in their own right, but they're not practicing their tree language skills when they bark at trunks. Barking at trees isn't a canine attempt at communication with flora; it's more about reacting to scents, rustling leaves, or just expressing good old excitement. So, when your pup's vocal talents are directed at a tree, rest assured, they're not trying to have a deep conversation.
Opossum hanging by their tail
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People often believe opossums hang from trees by their tail, and this myth started because of opossums being able to use their tails to hang onto branches as they climb. While a baby might be able to hang for a little bit, adult opossums are far too heavy!
That bird mamas will reject some of their babies
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Some people believe that if you find a baby bird that's fallen out of its nest, you can't try and return it because the mama will reject it after it's been handled by humans. This isn't actually the case- many baby birds out of the next might be learning to fly, so it's likely the myth started to stop people handling them.
Penguins fall backwards if they look up
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Penguins do have a reputation of falling over, and there has been one particular myth that if they look up at airplanes, they'll fall backwards. There was actually an experiment that proved penguins can look up without falling over, though airplanes can cause penguins to panic!
You'll get warts if you touch a frog/toad
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Warty frogs and toads have been villainised in many TV shows and films - usually the pet of an Evil Queen or two - and there has been a myth that you'll catch warts if you touch one. The bumps on frogs and toads aren't actually warts, and you can't catch warts just by touching them on a frog/toad!
Kinkajous have a 5 inch tongue
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Kinkajous are known for their very long tongue, and there's a myth it measures around 5 inches. Well, that's not exactly true, but it's very close! They do indeed have a surprisingly long tongue, but it measures more like 4 and a half inches rather than 5... close enough!
Crocodiles have really hard skin
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Crocodiles certainly look like they're made of rock armor, but while the skin on the top of their scales across their back is very hard - rock hard even - this is the only part that's this hard. The rest of their skin, like on the sides of the body, is more squishy than hard.
All spiders are aggressive
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Spiders move fast, some of them are extremely dangerous and some of them even jump - which can all lead to everyone thinking that all spiders are going to be aggressive in their own way. But some spiders - surprisingly, a lot of the bigger ones - are harmless and don't actively seek to scare humans!
And pretty much everyone is afraid of them
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Arachnophobia is a very real thing, and it's one of the most common phobias out there. It's likely that most people you know will have a very particular opinion of spiders (and it usually involves running from the room screaming). But as we know, some people not only aren't afraid of spiders, but even have them as pets!
Monkeys are dangerous to pets and children
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Monkeys can get very aggressive, some species more than others, and with their fists, high speeds and teeth, it's no surprise people think they're a danger to pets and animals. But like any animal out there, they're only really a danger if you provoke them - monkeys don't actively go after pets and kids!
Snakes are kinda slimy
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If you've never held or encountered a snake before, you'd be forgiven for thinking they might feel a little slimy, and a lot of this comes from the fact they look so shiny with a sheen on those scales. Actually, snakes aren't slimy at all - they've very dry to the touch.
Cats have 9 lives
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We don't really need to explain that you cat won't actually be able to survive death and come back to life 8 times, but the myth sort of got around and now it's something that everyone says! Cats are very agile and flexible which means they're more likely to deal with being dropped or falling in a better way than other animals, but they still only have one life!
And that cats are the lower maintenance pet option
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A lot of people choose cats over dogs because they think it will need less expense and attention, including the fact that cats don't need to be walked everyday. In reality, cats can be just as pampered as the pooches out there, and demand just as much attention - if not more!
Giraffes only sleep for half an hour a day
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This one is sort of true, but the myth suggests that giraffes only ever sleep for 30 minutes and no more - when, in actual fact, they only need 30 minutes a day of sleep (so they can function fine on that) but they have the option of sleeping for a lot longer, which most of them choose to do!
Owls can spin their head 360 degrees
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Owls are known for their unflinching stares and the fact they can eeriely spin their head right round - or can they? While it might look like an owl can completely turn its head 360 degress, it's actually more like 320 degrees - so it's still impressive enough, but not quite the whole way round!
Jack rabbits are real
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So there's a little bit of confusion when it comes to the jackrabbit. The jackrabbit is an animal found in certain parts of the United States, like Texas, but while the animal is called a jack rabbit, it's technically not a real rabbit - and that's because it's more a hare!
Turkeys and their gobbling
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Turkeys are very well known for their gobbling sound - and a very loud sound it is at that! - but some people think not every turkey gobbles or is capable of making that sound. But this strange myth isn't really true - every turkey is capable of gobbling, and all turkeys gobble!
Cats hate water
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It's sort of universally acknowledged that cats and water don't mix, and most cat parents will have trouble trying to give them a bath. But this isn't a firm fact because many cats don't mind water at all - in fact, some cats love the stuff! So it just depends on the cat, really.
All monkeys have opposable thumbs like people
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Monkeys and people share a lot of characteristics - and as we know, it's all part of the idea of evolution - and one of the biggest similarities is opposable thumbs. The myth that all monkeys have opposable thumbs though is false - some species of monkeys do definitely have thumbs, but some don't - like spider monkeys, which only have fingers!
Crocodiles are basically lizards
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Crocodiles and lizards do of course share a lot of similarities, and when it comes to those very small species of crocs, some people take them as pretty much the same as lizards. But although they're both reptilian and scary, they're not the same - lizards and crocodiles are different.
Turtles and tortoises are pretty much the same
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If you ask someone what the difference between a turtle and a tortoise is, they might not know or think that they're basically the same - but they're not. Turtles are aquatic animals that like the water, and tortoises you'll find on land. That might be hard to tell which is which just be looking at them, though!