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Thursday, 28 November 2013

Monday, 18 November 2013

Top 10 Most Dangerous Animals in the World

You may think that some of these animals are harmless, but these creatures may threaten your life when they are provoked. The following are the top 10 most dangerous animals in the world, and you will be surprised to know that size does not always affect a creature’s danger level.

10. Hippopotamus

Hippopotamus
In cartoons, these animals are presented as adorable animals, yet they can be life-threatening in some instances. The male and female species have their distinct reasons for attacking humans. For instance, the male hippo will always do its best to defend areas that are considered as his territories such as the banks of a lake or river. On the other hand, female hippos can be very aggressive when protecting her young. Either way, hippos have huge mouths that can kill anyone as though being pounded by a sledgehammer.

9. Australian Box Jellyfish

This type of jellyfish is located in the northern oceans of Australia, and is considered as the moist poisonous marine creature in the world. It has about 60 tentacles that are 15 feet long. Each of its tentacles are covered with a special part called the cnidocyst that contains tiny needles and loads of toxin.

8. Grizzly bear

These brown bears in North America can weigh up to 800 pounds and stand up to 8 feet tall. Moreover, this specie of bear can run at about 30 miles per hour. Common reasons why bears attack humans include defending their cubs or starvation.

7. Great White Shark

These sharks grow an average of 15 foot in length, and they have rows of 300 sharp teeth that resemble a saw. Inside their mouth are powerful jaws that measure 4 feet wide. It consumes a number of species, although humans do not belong to the list of creatures that it likes to eat. Great white sharks prefer sea lions and seals for its meals because of their meaty features. According to scientists, sharks tend to explore their environment using their mouth and “test bite” creatures. In fact, most attacks on humans are merely test bites. After a shark has bitten a creature, it will retreat immediately. Unfortunately, an initial bite is serious enough to kill humans.

6. Elephant

Known as the largest mammal that live on land, the Elephant is a native of Africa and a few parts of the Asian continent. While most people think of elephants as gentle giants, they can show unpredictable behavior and act in a way that can cost a person’s life. There have been news that talk about a captive elephant that has always been gentle to its keeper. However, without any notice, it will suddenly attack anyone it wants. With their massive weight and trunk, these creatures can crush and kill anything that crosses their path.

5. Crocodile

The crocodile is known as the largest reptile in the planet. Among the most dangerous species include the Nile and Saltwater crocodiles that have been reported to kill hundreds of humans a year. There are several parts of the world where crocodiles thrive such as the Americas, Australia, Asia and the tropics of Africa. As long as there are slow-moving lakes and rivers, crocodiles are bound to be nearby. It has a total length of 20 feet long, and its ears, nostrils and eyes are on top of its head, thus allowing it to hear and see its prey quickly.

4. Cape Buffalo

A native of Africa, the Cape Buffalo can be very unpredictable and aggressive, which makes it aptly called the “black death” by the locals. Bovine species of these animals are the toughest, and they weight up to 1800 pounds. They kill their prey by ramming them with their sharp and deadly horns.

3. Snake

Numerous snake species are life-threatening to creatures including humans. In fact, researchers have noted that 450 of these species contain venom, and 250 of them can kill humans. The Carpet Viper is a specie that causes the most number of deaths due to snakebite, and victims can bleed to death as its blood fails to coagulate.

2. African lion

This fierce creature is known for its sharp teeth and claws and amazing speed as it goes after its prey. It stalks and hunts its prey, and surprises the victim by instantly bursting out of nowhere. Females hunt for food, while males protect their pride. Based on statistics, more than a hundred fatalities are caused by lions.

1. Mosquito

Although these creatures are very small, they are quite fatal. More than one million people die each year because of life-threatening illnesses that it brings such as malaria, yellow fever, West Nile virus, elephantiasis and dengue fever. They can survive low or high temperatures, which make them difficult to control.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Birds in the World

You will be impressed by the unique features and astounding colors of these top 10 most beautiful birds in the world. With their striking beauty and enchanting whistles, it is impossible not to be drawn to these fascinating winged creatures.

10. Golden Pheasant

Golden-Pheasant
The Chinese Pheasant is known for its golden color that add to the spectacular charm of this bird specie. These gamebirds are native to China’s west coast, but they are also bred in the UK. When the male specie wants to attract his mate, he spreads his “cape” of deep orange shade that covering almost everything except his brilliant yellow eyes.

9. The Quetzal

Found in Central America, the Quetzal dwells in tropical forests and mountains in the region. They also feed on lizards, insects, fruit and several other small creatures in the wild. Unfortunately, this bird specie is endangered in some countries including Guatemala.

8. The Hoopoe

The-Hoopoe
This colorful winged animal is typically found in the Afro-Eurasia. The Hoopoe is famous for its remarkable arrangement of feathers on top of its head that resembles a crown. At present, the Hoopoe is the remaining extant specie in the Upupidae family of birds since the Giant Hoopoe in Saint Helena is already considered as extinct. The bird got its name from the Latin “upupa”, and the English name imitates the bird’s distinct cry.

7. The Bali Bird of Paradise

The-Bali-Bird-of-Paradise
A vast majority of bird species in the Birds of Paradise family is located on New Guinea, as well as its satellites. However, there are a few remaining species in the eastern coast of Australia and Moluccas. It is common to see these birds only on film since they usually dwell in dense and inaccessible rainforest habitats.

6. The Atlantic Puffin

This is a specie of pelagic bird that typically feeds on fish and other marine creatures such as crustaceans and squid. The most striking feature of the Atlantic Puffin during its breeding season is the brilliantly- colored bill. With the bird’s curious appearance, piebald plumage and large colorful bill, some people call the puffin as the “clown of the ocean”.

5. The Lear’s Macaw

The-Lears-Macaw
Popularly referred to as the Indigo Macaw, this large Brazilian parrot has an adorable blue color. The bird was first described and spotted in 1856 by Charles Lucien Bonaparte. Other features of the bird include a yellow patch of skin located at the base of its black bull and a tinge of green color with its metallic blue body.

4. Peacocks

Peacocks are known for their stunning colors on their tails that are usually green and blue. The tail feathers of these birds spread out like a fan, which makes up 60 perfect of its body’s total length. Its ends also have that unique colorful eye design markings of red, gold, and blue among other colors. The train is typically used in courtship displays and mating rituals.

3. The Northern Cardinal

Most people are drawn to the Northern Cardinal’s fiery red feathers that simply captivates any spectators’ attention. Females, on the other hand, have a brown body, yet it is common that there are warm red accents and a sharp crest. Since cardinals barely molt into a dull color during winter, they still appear breathtaking in the somber surroundings in the cold months.

2. The California Condor

Another attractive bird specie that is indeed a sight to behold is the California Condor. This lovely winged creature is considered as a “New World” vulture, and it is the largest land bird in North America. The bird inhabits southern Utah and northern Arizona, as well as the Zion National Park and the famous Grand Canyon area. In addition, it may be found in the coastal mountains of southern and central California, as well as the northern Baja California.

1. The African Crowned Crane

The African Crowned Crane is one of the most charming birds in the African savannah, which is it the southern part of the Sahara desert. However, the bird prefers to nest in wetter habitats to keep it cool and comfortable. These birds may also be found flying around the lakes, and some flatlands near rivers. It is also important to note that this bird does not migrate, so they usually stay where they are. With the outstanding and attractive features of this bird specie, it is no wonder why more people are drawn to them.

Top 10 Best Soccer Players in 2013

At present, two names dominate the world of soccer – Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, there are several other star players that are yet to become as famous and successful as these top soccer players. Get to know more about the finest soccer players in 2013 as you check out this top 10 list.

10. Mario Goetze (Borussia Dortmund/Moved to Bayern Munich in April)

Mario-Goetze
This 20-year old athlete has joined the ranks of renowned soccer players in the world in such as short time ever since he made his debut for the Borussia Dortmund. In fact, he has become one of the highest paid German players of all time as he earns £31million annually. His move to Dortmund was his best decision yet, since he has definitely garnered much popularity and success in the country’s most stellar football club. Thus, Goetze is bound to reach stardom for several years to come as he plays for this renowned team.Moreover, he is an excellent investment for the German football club because of his skilful moves and clever tactics that give him an edge over his opponents.

9. Robert Lewandowski (Borussia Dortmund)

Robert-Lewandowski
Lewandowski is considered as among the most important properties in soccer at the moment. Indeed, the Polish striker is an achiever in this sport, as he scored four goals against the Real Madrid during the Champions League semis. The team went against its domestic rivals, the Bayern Munich, in a game held at Wembley. After earning ten goals in the said tournament this season, it is not surprising that the world’s most reputable biggest clubs include Lewandowski in their list of the 10 best players.

8. Gareth Bale (Tottenham Hotspur)

Gareth-Bale
Bale’s impressive rise and fame over the last few years was certainly phenomenal. Although he started off as an unknown player for the club, he now ranks in the top 10 of the best soccer players in the wold. Most people think that this Welsh winger has a few tricks up his sleeves, as he creates excitement while playing in the field. He is well-known for his dribbling and other exceptional techniques such as free kicks and long-range shots. After he gained 21 goals in the Premiere League, he was recognized as Player of the Year by the Football Writers’ Association and the Professional Footballers’ Association.

7. Radamel Falcao (Atletico Madrid, Moved to AS Monaco in May)

Radamel-Falcao
Also coined as the king of Europa League, Falcao is undeniably one of the deadliest strikers in the world. He has been listed as part of the FIFA XI 2012 team, and he continues to score more goals from this current season. With 36 appearances and 32 goals in his football matches, Falcao is simply one of the finest. What’s more, his goal-to-game ratio is impressive, particularly since he has won the Europa League during his days with Porto. He also was considered as the top scorer in this match with a total of 17 goals in 14 soccer games during that season.

6. Franck Ribery (Bayern Munich)

Franck-Ribery
Perhaps the finest French soccer player of his generation, Ribery has become instrumental in giving Bayern Munich that push to achieve the Bundesliga title, as well as the last of the Champions League, which was held at Wembley this 2013. This star athlete is known for his superb pace, skill, precise passing and immense energy. Thus, it is not surprising that the renowned French winger is among the top-notch soccer players in the world.

5. Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)

It came as a surprise for some that Wayne Rooney will part company with Manchester United during the summer of 2013, immediately after the famous English striker has submitted a request to transfer at Old Trafford. This 27-year old soccer athlete has been a part of the club for nearly a decade, and is undeniably among the valuable English players since Beckham. As he moves onward to his career, Rooney earns nearly £28million a year and basks in his fame as a member of the world’s most respected football clubs.

4. Xavi (Barcelona)

Xavi
Xavi is known by many as the instrumental component to Barcelona’s and Spain’s recent success in the world of soccer. This brilliant athlete is considered as among the best midfielders in 2013, and even of all time. He is a skilful orchestrator, and he creates space that gives Messi the freedom to quickly score goals for the team. Xavi has also been chosen as part of the UEFA team of the year for 5 consecutive years in a row.

3. Neymar (Santos, Moved to Barcelona in June)

Neymar
While he may be one of the youngest soccer players in the world, the 21-year old Neymar has already reached a market value of about £44million. In fact, this Brazilian young athlete has gained remarkable reviews and feedbacks for his stellar performances for Santos ever since he made his debut a few years back. In a short amount of time, Neymar gained instant recognition globally, and he continues to earn the respect of veteran soccer players in his team. Additionally, Neymar is among the biggest prospects in soccer after his impressive solo goals in the Brazilian football league. With his top-notch skills, speed and energy, fans and critics have thought of him as somewhat similar to Lionel Messi.

2. Cristiano Ronaldo (Real Madrid)

Cristiano-Ronaldo
This renowned Portuguese winger may be a big name in soccer, yet he his relatively low earnings of £10million annually makes him somewhat undervalued. Nevertheless, his move to Real Madrid has made him a phenomenal athlete with his goal-scoring record of 201 goals in the 199 games he played for Madrid. Ronualdo just keeps getting more famous each year because of his consistent long range goals and free kicks that you cannot see in other players.

1. Lionel Messi (Barcelona)

Lionel-Messi
Messi now has a personal wealth of about £73million, which makes him the world’s popular and valuable football player. This 25-year old Argentine star player still has plenty of years left before retirement, and he has already reached worldwide fame from scoring numerous individual goals that help Barcelona win major games. In spite of his successes, a World Cup triumph with Argentina is perhaps the remaining thing that is missing from his impressive collection of recognitions and accomplishments, which would cement his position as the best soccer player of all time.

Top 10 Action Movies In 2013

Action movies never take a back seat no matter the year. There is some fatal attraction in these movies that makes teens and adults wish for more. If you too want a good dose of action this year, here is a list of the top 10 movies that you must not miss at any cost.

1. Man of Steel

Man of Steel
This is one movie that everyone has been waiting for. The movie is not supposed to be connected to any of Superman’s previous avatars in comic books or even in movies. This time, superman is a darker character and more emphasis is being paid on his internal emotional issues rather than a super villain.

2. Iron Man 3

Iron Man 3
This is one movie that will be awaited for the fantasy of its characters and the wonderful work done by Marvel. Robert Downey Jr. plays Tony Stark aka Iron Man and this time he has to fight Mandarin. This time the fight is a little too personal and this adds to the intensity of the movie and the gravity defying superhero mark action scenes.

3. Star Trek Into Darkness

Star Trek Into Darkness
The 12th movie of the franchise is coming after long pause and this time it is all about an independent timeline and rules will be broken for sure. Though there is not much news about the plot and there are only hush-hush rumor going around, the only thing that we can say about this film is that Kirk would be facing Gary Mitchell and this time over, the intensity of the drama has been heightened. If there is anything more to know, then wait for the official release in May 2013.

4. G. I. Joe Retaliation

G. I. Joe Retaliation
The film had been delayed due to many reasons but it is finally here. Dwayne Johnson, aka The Rock is portraying Roadblock while Bruce Willis plays the G.I. Joe. If the movie is anything more than action, then it certainly is ‘action’. There is no way out for viewers to get some comic timing as there are guns, killers and many revengeful plots being planted. Watch it for sure.

5. The Wolverine

The Wolverine
If you are a comic fan and have loved the X-men series to the core, then your favorite character must be the Wolverine. Played by Hugh Jackman, this movie is about the journey of Logan and how he became the Wolverine. There is never much said about the past life of this character in the X-Men movies, but this sixth installment of the franchise promises to reveal more. The enigma of the Wolverine will be broken finally, or will it be? Watch out in the 26 July release.

6. Thor: The Dark World

thor the dark world
A sequel to the original movie Thor, Chris Hemsworth plays the god of thunder and lightning who will have to face a new enemy who is said to be older than the world and mightier than Asgard. Thor now has to save the nine realms and also fight against another character, Malekith. The Avengers are now having separate movie sequel made for their own and this only brings good news to the viewers. See how Thor stops the world from going into complete darkness and resolves his relationship with Jane.

7. After Earth

After Earth
the plot is set in some time of the distant future where humans have abandoned the earth and it has been about 1000 years since that event. The planet is now ruled by many beasts and there are several species of plants that have evolved in the absence of humans. In this futuristic Jurassic Park, Will and Jaden Smith crash on the planet. Now it is up to the father and son to survive and look out for way to go back home.

8. Oblivion

Oblivion
this movie is a blend of action, science fiction, fantasy, aliens and conflicting emotions. Tom Cruise is on a mission against the aliens and is being questioned about his real knowledge about the world, the planet, the existence of the humans and the aliens and ultimately his own self.

9. Fast and Furious 6

Fast and Furious 6
we know how we cars, speed and some ultimate level of robberies have been presented to us in the last 5 installments of the movie and we loved it each time. In 2013, we would see new cars and some old characters who reunite to fight against a few mercenaries with a network in 12 countries. How dangerous would the stunts be? No one can predict but it is going to a good watch.

10. Elysium

Elysium
in a strangely capitalist world of 2154, there are super wealthy people who live in a luxurious space station, eating, drinking and making merry while the rest of the poor population is left as lower class people. Matt Demon is the hero who fights against the Elysium chief Jodie Foster.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Natural Lakes In The World

Nature is simply amazing and it never stops to surprise us – same applies to lakes, which are some of the most beautiful natural water formations on earth. While some of these formations are made by human hands, others are entirely shaped by nature. If you are passionate about bodies of water like ponds, seas, rivers or lakes and you want to visit the most beautiful ones, then you will surely like the following article as it will give you a deeper insight into the top 10 most beautiful natural lakes all around the world:

10. The Well-Known Plitvice Lakes In Croatia

Plitvice Lakes
The Plitvice Lakes are certainly amongst the top-rated tourist attractions in the country of Croatia. However, this is actually a formation of smaller lakes rather than one big lake – the formation is connected to a breath-taking waterfall that will surely draw your attention. The Plitvice Lakes are so beautiful that they have been voted as part of the UNESCO World Heritage. If you love lakes and you want to make a world tour of the most appreciated ones, or you are a professional photographer and you want to make the best out of what nature has to offer then you should definitely put the Plitvice Lakes on your list to visit.

9. The Yucatan Lake In Mexico

This is certainly a one-of-a-kind lake from many points of view – while it is true that there are numerous other beautiful cave lakes like Yucatan scattered all around the world, this one stands out from the rest due to its beauty. Did you know that this lake is million years old and the cave that surrounds it is made entirely of limestone? There are countless legends and myths that surround this entire area, and it is exactly this mysterious character that makes the Yucatan Lake such a popular destination these days.

8. The Popular Baikal Lake In Russia

The Baikal Lake in Russia is known as one of the oldest and the biggest freshwater lakes in the entire world, and nothing compares to its beauty during the cold summer months when it freezes and then it slowly starts to thaw. This is a natural wonder that is ten times older than the Yucatan Lake, and it is certainly worth your time.

7. The Reed Flute Lake In China

China is known for its natural and man-made tourist attractions, but when it comes to all-natural beauties, the Reed Flute Lake is undoubtedly one of the most appreciated ones. The name of the lake comes from the beautiful reed that surrounds this natural wonder.

6. The Peyto Lake Located In Canada

The Peyto Lake is popular all around the world not only for its beauty, but also for its unique colors that gradually change according to season. Just like the above-mentioned Plitvice Lakes in Croatia, the Peyto Lake is another popular destination especially amongst professional photographers who want to shoot some breath-taking, unique photos. If you are in Canada and you are anywhere near Alberta, make sure to visit the Peyto Lake as you will surely not regret it!

5. The Australia’s Pink Lake

Just like the name suggests, this particular lake is actually pink, due to a unique combination of chemicals found in the water and some bacteria, which apparently turns the water pink when they react. This is a salt lake located in the Western side of Australia, and its bizarre yet appealing color attracts tens of thousands of curious tourists from all around the world.

4. The Malawi Lake In Africa

This lake has become a natural reservation not too long ago, and it is considered one of the largest, deepest and most beautiful lakes in the entire Africa. As statistics reveal, the Malawi Lake is actually situated on the ninth place in the top 10 largest lakes in the world. What makes this lake unique is not only its outstanding appearance, but also the fact that it is the home of many different species of fish. This is why the lake is protected and cherished.

3. The Melissani Lake Located In Greece

Greece is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful countries in the entire world, given its outstanding tourist destinations, crystal clear waters and the numerous sandy beaches. However, there is another aspect that makes Greece popular nowadays, and that is the Melissani Lake. In a nutshell, this is basically a cave lake that is located in Kefalonia, and it is entirely surrounded by caves and forests. It is like a lost paradise located right in the middle of the nature.

2. The Tekapo Lake In New Zealand

Measuring no less than 32 square miles, the Tekapo Lake is one of the biggest and most visited lakes in New Zealand. Also, it is located approximately 2,300 feet above the sea level, and it is famous for its beauty and for the numerous resort hotels that surround it.

1. The Lake Tahoe In The United States

Located in the Sierra Nevada region of the United States, Lake Tahoe is also one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, along with the Lake Baikal from Russia. This is an outstanding alpine lake that is known as one of the most appreciated attraction spots in California/Nevada and as numerous historians suggest, it was formed during the ice ages. The purity of the water combined with the interesting location of the lake (this is an alpine lake that is surrounded by high mountains on all sides) certainly add to its overall beauty. Besides the outstanding lake itself, there are numerous other recreation opportunities, resorts for skiing as well as a wealth of other interesting tourist attractions that those who are passionate about winter sports can choose from – as a matter of fact, the entire region around the Lake Tahoe is developed around tourism.
In conclusion, these are only some of the most beautiful natural lakes in the entire world. Earth has a lot to offer to its inhabitants, and the best way to connect with nature is by enjoying all its natural wonders, starting with the beautiful lakes mentioned above.