February+JNS

2/5/15

My science discovery this month is on the Blue whale. The blue whale is a whale belonging to the Baleen whales. This whale is approximately 100 ft. long weighing an upwards of 200 tons! A blue whales tongue by itself can weigh as much as an elephant, and their hearts as much as a standard car. Can you believe that all a mammal like this feasts on is krill? Actually, about 4 tons of it per day! These massive creatures usually move over 5 mph, but be careful that you don't agitate them, they can accelerate to 20 mph! Baby blue whales come out after about a year in the mothers stomach weighing about 3 tons, and stretching at least 25 ft. long, drinking nothing but it's mothers milk it gains about 200 lbs. every day for the first year of it's life. A blue whale can live an average lifespan of 80 to 90 years of age. Blue whales are listed as an endangered species on the World Conservation Union Red List.

Jordan Shaffer information found: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/blue-whale/

2/5/15

My science discovery this month is on the Aye-aye. Aye-ayes can only be found on Madagascar Island. They are relatives of chimpanzees, apes, and even...are you ready for this? Humans! Aye-ayes are usually dark brown or black and are best known for their bushy tail that's bigger than their bodies. They have large eyes, sensitive ears, and very skinny fingers. These animals are nocturnal. During the day they are in there sphere shaped nest wedged into v-shaped branches. natives to Madagascar island consider the aye-aye an omen of ill luck. For this, they are frequently shot on the spot or hunted purposely. Because of this, they are diminishing in numbers, and today they are protected by law.

Jordan Shaffer information found: http://animals.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/aye-aye/