Gastrointestinal Diseases from Animals

(Photo credit: Jackie Orsulak) This Saturday, March 4, from 9-11 am, let us do the driving while you look and listen. Our expert tram leader will share facts about the flora and fauna found on Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge. Many plant species have already begun to bloom. Turtles are out by the dozens. Many other wildlife species possible during the tour. Must make reservations. $10 for 13 years and older, 12 years and under ride free with an adult. Call 252-216-9464.

From his second-floor studio, painter Ezra Tucker gazes out onto the wilderness surrounding his Monument home. There are a pair of owls living in the trees, he says, and regular packs of mule deer, a bobcat, a mountain lion and other creatures that come strolling through. The external world matches the internal one, where his huge, gorgeous, hyper-realistic paintings of a tiger and buffalo hang on the walls, and another of a pack of coyotes observing a herd of buffalo with its calf leans up against his stuffed to overflowing shelves of historical and animal books.

Specialty

The world is filled with incredible wildlife. But, as we all know, many species are facing increased difficulties. Whether that means habitat loss due to climate change or battling against the animal trade, there are many reasons why animals are at risk of extinction. Many of them, like elephants, gorillas, and tigers, receive a lot of attention. While others, like spiders or small birds, may not be on most people's radar. But all of these animals are important to the Earth's biodiversity and that is why we are taking a look at some of the world's most endangered animals. Since 1964, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has compiled its Red List of Threatened Species. The list includes plants and animals at all levels of risk and today, the IUCN Red List has become an important tool for scientists and conservationists. We've selected 15 animals categorized as Critically Endangered on the Red List. The next step beyond this category is Extinct