Environment

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Australia's bush climate is particularly susceptible to wildfires, the worst of which have cumulatively killed no fewer than 326 people.

Largest Wildfires In The World

Typically more devastating for animals and forests, some wildfires have also taken swaths of human lives. These have been the worst in terms of human casualties.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Complete fossil fuel dependency in countries like India and Saudi Arabia might help them develop their economies, but at great ecological cost in a global perspective. Editorial credit: AzmanMD / Shutterstock.com.

Fossil Fuel Dependency By Country

With the impending threats of climate change, peak oil, and a global petroleum crisis on the horizon, many countries may need to rethink their energy policies.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Rankings in solar energy are measured in the cumulative energy production capacity of all photovoltaics-based energy sources, which usually take the form of solar panels/cells, hence the term PV capacity.

Solar Energy Production By State

California, Arizona, and other key states are playing a major role in the transformation of American energy towards renewable resources.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Oil-rich states and countries with low levels of economic development are among those using alternative and nuclear energy the least.

Which Country Uses the Least Alternative Energy?

This is a list of the lowest percentages of alternative energy use by country.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Originally native to North America, after European settlement and colonization of the New World muskrat fur became a commercially viable source of trade revenue.

Muskrat Facts - North American Animals

Not a true rat, this water-loving rodent has healthy populations, both in its native North America and abroad.

April 25, 2017 12:31

The short tails, ability to run on all fours and stand up, and omnivorous diets of the American Black Bear have often been likened to the abilities of humans.

Black Bear Facts: Animals of North America

This bear is a relatively populous, medium-sized bear species that is native to most of North America

April 25, 2017 12:31

Though seals are the primary food source for polar bears, smaller animals can also be hunted and eaten as needed.

Polar Bear Facts: Animals of North America

The largest carnivore on the North American continent, these bears have nonetheless become vulnerable by climate change.

April 25, 2017 12:31

The Anhinga name is derived from the Tupi language words for "snake bird", because of its snake-like appearance when swimming.

Anhinga Facts: Animals of North America

These North and Central American birds are adept swimmers with unique physical characteristics which help them hunt for fish.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Black-tailed prairie dogs are a thriving species today, easily distinguishable from other prairie dogs by the dark ends of their tails.

Black-Tailed Prairie Dog: Animals of North America

Thriving throughout much of the Great Plains region, these rodents build intricate networks of underground burrows.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Bottlenoses are the most common and well-known members of the dolphin family of aquatic mammals, Delphinidae.

Bottlenose Dolphin Facts: Animals of North America

These highly intelligent and adaptive mammals have a wide range of habitat spanning across three oceans.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Despite their small sizes and short lifespans, Cactus bees are integral components of many North American desert habitats.

Cactus Bee Facts: Animals of North America

California, Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico, and Colorado are the most popular homes for this American species of bee.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Despite its name, the Gray Wolf actually comes in a variety of colors, including brown, white, and black.

The Gray Wolf: Animals of North America

A remarkably adaptable species, the biggest threats to the gray wolf often come as a result of human activities.

April 25, 2017 12:31

The Calliope Hummingbird was named for one of the most famous muses in Greek mythology. The Genus name, Stellula, means "small star".

Calliope Hummingbird Facts: Animals of North America

These tiny creatures are the smallest birds on the continent, with an interesting array of behavioral patterns.

April 25, 2017 12:31

A Ferruginous Hawk sits upon its perch near Tuscon, Arizona. From such positions, the birds remain on the lookout for prey, ready to strike.

Ferruginous Hawk: Animals of North America

These birds of prey have surprisingly wide mouths that allow them to eat animals larger than you would expect.

April 25, 2017 12:31

These bovines once roamed the American Great Plains freely, but now exist almost entirely within the range and farm settings.

Bison Facts: Animals Of North America

Also known as the Bison, this large bovine species has many distinctive traits separating it from its Eurasian cousins.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Their small sizes and ability to blend into their natural environs have enabled members of the Jumping Spider family to have such a large diaspora and global range.

Jumping Spider Facts - Animals of North America

Also called the "Vampire Spider," these arachnids are known for their special ability to lunge toward their prey rather than relying on webs.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Wild Mustangs are descendants of domesticated horses that escaped from early New World settlers.

Mustang Facts: Animals of North America

The so-called "wild mustang" is actually a feral domesticated animal, with an interesting history behind its existence in North America.

April 25, 2017 12:31

Skilled fish catchers with a global diaspora, most North American Ospreys are found in the lower half of Canada, and the Alaskan, West, and Gulf Coasts of the US.

Osprey Facts: Animals of North America

These numerous birds of prey can build nests that are so large, they can even accommodate a human being.

April 25, 2017 12:31

With sharp talons and an ability to achieve diving speeds in excess of 200 miles per hour, prey of these birds have little hope for escape.

Peregrine Falcon Facts: Animals of North America

This predator hunts primarily other birds, and does so with incredible speed and accuracy.

April 25, 2017 12:31

The Worst Volcanic Eruptions In History

Apart from the fatal aspects of a volcanic eruption, these inflicted major economic damages as well.

April 25, 2017 12:31