Platypus are also the only mammals known to have a sense of electroreception: they locate their prey in part by detecting electric fields generated by muscular contractions.

The platypus: proof that, if God exists, he has a weird sense of humor.

The duck's name is "Duck-Duck" and he is very tame - probably someone's released Easter present - and rather plump. Libby LOVED visiting with "Duck-Duck" (and of course her cousins too):

Hi friends,

I am writing to see whether you know anyone who is considering adopting a cat (or two). Many of you know that two cats currently live with me and have done for about four years since we adopted them from a no-kill agency in Utah. They are currently with me in Chicago. However, since I do an extensive amount of traveling they spend a lot of time alone in my apartment with just a sitter to check in on them. While I love seeing them when I'm in Chicago, it would be a much better situation for them if I can find them a better home. They would be great with kids or in any environment with people present more often, for instance with a senior.

They are just over four years old. Lynx is a grey female (spayed) tabby who specializes in lap-sitting and Samson is a black and white male (neutered) who does less lap-sitting, although he still considers it a hobby, but prefers to ask to be petted while walking back and forth. They are good together, but can be separated for a better home situation. They are both very friendly with all people they've encountered. However, Lynx is not a big fan of other animals. Samson would probably be fine with other animals, although it's hard to tell since Lynx is around to egg him on.

I'm happy to bring these little guys to their new home after everyone has met. I'd also be happy to help pay for expenses. I just really want to find them a home with people present more of the time.

Please feel free to forward to any friends who may be interested.

I hope you're doing well. Sincerely,

Josh

If you would like to get in touch with Josh please e-mail me: mike @ shannon and mike . net (remove the spaces in my e-mail address before sending).

Click on the thumbnail to biggerize. -->

1. Spray liberally
2. Avoid sad face

(via reddit)

The coconut crab is a derived species of hermit crab, though only juveniles carry around an abdominal cover (usually a seashell or coconut husk). Adults have a typical leg span of 3 feet and weigh 9 pounds. Larger specimens have been found spanning 6 feet and weighing 30 pounds.

The coconut crab is omnivorous, though it primarily dines on fleshy fruit, nuts, and seeds. The claws are as powerful as they are large - they can lift objects such as vegetation or rocks weighing up to 60 pounds (28kg) and use their massive claws to pry open all sorts of food (hence the origin of their name). Coconut crabs live alone in underground burrows, covering the entrance to keep the high humidity necessary for their lungs to function. While usually nocturnal they do occasionally venture out during the day if it's rainy or foggy.

(sources: arkive, wikipedia)

This picture is from a recent mom's group trip to a local therapy horse stable. Libby loved being around the horses, which likely means that we will need to eventually own a horse or send her to equestrian camp (I myself went for 3 years when I was growing up and loved the experience).