The Mevlevi Order, Also Known As The Whirling Dervishes, Is A Sufi Order Famous For Its Unique Form Of

The Mevlevi Order, also known as the Whirling Dervishes, is a Sufi order famous for its unique form of ritual dance. The dance is a form of spiritual meditation and is recognized as an intangible cultural heritage by UNESCO.

Dwarfism in animals refers to a condition where individuals are notably smaller than the typical size for their species. This phenomenon can arise from various factors, including genetic mutations, selective breeding, environmental conditions, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies.

In dogs and cats, certain breeds are predisposed to dwarfism through selective breeding practices. Examples include the Dachshund with its characteristic short legs and the Munchkin cat, which has been bred for short limbs. Horses may experience dwarfism due to genetic mutations or pituitary gland malfunctions, while miniature horses are intentionally bred for their small size.

Francis was found by construction workers as a kitten in 2010 and was diagnosed dwarfism.

Pigs, such as teacup pigs, can exhibit dwarfism through selective breeding, and true dwarfism may occur due to genetic factors. Dwarf rabbit breeds, like the Netherland Dwarf, are naturally small due to selective breeding, but genetic or environmental factors can also lead to dwarfism. Birds, fish, and other animals may also experience dwarfism, influenced by genetic mutations, selective breeding, hormonal imbalances, or environmental conditions.

A one-year-old Chestnut (Agouti) Netherland Dwarf

Red-Headed Krait (Bungarus f. flaviceps), family Elapidae, Pahang, Malaysia

Venomous.

photograph by Luke O'Sullivan 

Anglo-Zanzibar War

The shortest war in history was between Britain and Zanzibar on August 27, 1896. The conflict lasted only 38 minutes! It was sparked by a succession dispute in Zanzibar after the death of the sultan. The British favored one candidate, while another, who was not to the liking of the British, declared himself the sultan. The British issued an ultimatum for him to step down, and when it was ignored, they bombarded the sultan's palace, effectively ending the war in less than an hour.

This is the fattest polar bear in Alaska. His name is Fat Albert and he lives in a village named Katovik. He weights over 1,000lbs! 

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🐞 Beneath ladybugs' charming spots and vibrant colors lie…killer instincts. They’re effective predators and sometimes agricultural allies in their hunger for plant pests like aphids. In the latest episode of Insectarium, join host and Museum Curator Jessica Ware to find out how the delicate dance of predator-prey interactions in the insect world could help protect our crops and gardens. Ware is joined by Penn State entomologist Sara Hermann, who is investigating how ladybugs’ “perfume”—the chemical cocktail that makes up their odor—might become a tool for sustainable agriculture.

The series is produced for PBS by the American Museum of Natural History.