Carp Fly Fishing Gear

Marabou Feathers

Chickabou Asst. Feathers Fly Tying Material Marabou P $0.99

Grizzly Marabou Chickabou Feathers Fly Tying Material P $3.00

Birds Worth Watching In The Serengeti

The Serengeti is famous mostly for animals that are large in size, weight or herds – predators like the regal lion, large animals like the majestic elephant, or amazing natural phenomena like the migration of the wildebeest.

For bird-watching enthusiasts, however, a Serengeti National Park safari is an exciting opportunity to grab binoculars and cameras, and head out into the wilderness. There are a few birds to be found here that are not easy to find elsewhere in the world, especially in their natural habitats.

Some of these birds are:

1. The ostrich. The tallest, largest and among the most majestic of birds, the ostrich is found to roam free and solitary on the grasslands of the Serengeti. Standing at nearly 6 feet high and weighing nearly 150 kilograms, this flightless bird is prized in the wild for its beauty, and in domestic areas for its meat, feathers and leather. The male ostriches usually have black plumage, with white (vestigial) flight feathers and Tail Feathers. Females and males that are yet to attain maturity have grayish-brown plumage.

2. The marabou stork. This bird, found in swamps as well as deserts, is also called the “undertaker bird” for its cloaked-skeleton appearance and perhaps for its scavenging habits. Nearly 5 feet tall and weighing 9 kilograms, the bird also has the joint largest wingspan of any land bird – a staggering 3.2 meters. The appearance of the marabou stork is distinctive, with dark plumage on wings and back, soft white chest feathers and a bald head. The bird also has bald legs, and a huge bill with a neck ruff and pink gular sack beneath it. You may also picture the marabou in flight, with its neck tucked into its body and legs folded beneath it.

3. The secretary bird. If you picture an eagle on stilts, you will have a fairly accurate description of what this bird looks like. Standing in at about 4 feet tall, the secretary bird has an eagle’s head – with quill-like crest feathers – with rounded wings and a crane’s legs. Adult specimens of this bird of prey have a red featherless face, black outer feathers, and inner feathers that are grey or occasionally white. The bird’s elongated legs, long tail and 2 meter wingspan make it the longest, tallest daytime bird of prey in the world.

4. The Kori bustard. Along with the Great Bustard, the Kori bustard is the heaviest flying bird in the world. Found in large numbers throughout Africa, this bird has grey feathers that enable it to camouflage almost perfectly in the grasslands, with black crest feathers and yellow legs. Standing at 60-90 cm high and over 100 cm long, the male Kori Bustard is indeed a magnificent specimen. Females are usually lighter than males – averaging 5.7 kilograms as opposed to 12.4 – as well as about 20cm shorter. The sight of the Kori Bustard with a bee-eater (another small bird) wandering on its back is a rather cute example of symbiosis, with the smaller bird thriving on the various insects that fall onto the bustard’s back during its voyage across the grasslands.

So arm yourself with a quality pair of binoculars, an SLR and a few hours in the dawn. The thrill of seeing these birds as they move about in full ownership of the Serengeti is one that you will not get anywhere else.

About the Author

Wild Things Tanzania Safaris Design your own Tanzania Safari to suit your interests and budget. Specialists for Selous, Ruaha, Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro and cultural safaris.

Unique Wedding Decoration Ideas For An Unforgettable Event

Take care of planning the wedding decoration, taking into account even the smallest detail

You should decide which colors will be used, then you can try various combinations, funny or romantic, classical, modern or games of color that create a dynamic atmosphere, full of energy.

We offer you some unique wedding decoration ideas for your most important event in your life!

If you want your wedding to have an Asian theme, you must know that the most popular choices for the color palette of an Asian-style wedding are red and black with accents of gold and pink or green and gold.

Red and black are suitable for a formal wedding, while shades of pink and green suit both casual and formal weddings. For a wedding with red and black, opt for red chrysanthemums and small pots with bamboo.

Most couples decided to choose butteflies for their wedding decoration. There are plenty of wedding theme styles you can choose.

Butterflies can be used to create unique floral arrangements; you can choose them for the bride’s bouquet or put them on the wedding cake.

Objects in the shape of butterflies can be found in flower shops and in decorations or accessories shops for women.

If you want the wedding to have a contemporary note, add some butterflies made of marabou feathers. A saving idea is, choose butterflies made of textile material or paper.

Polka dots help you to create a vintage look. Use dots of different sizes to create focal points and try to opt for a single color.

Small squares are suitable for rustic weddings, being used in combinations of red and white. The place will seem brighter if you choose white and yellow squares.

If the wedding theme is inspired from the sea or beach, choose a model with blue and white squares.

There’s nothing more beautiful to a wedding than to have plenty of flowers. To decorate the tables, you can place petals and floating candles in transparent bowls.

If the wedding location has a terrace, you could spread flower petals on the ground or create a path of flowers. Also, dried flower petals are a good idea for decorating the wedding cake or to create eco wedding invitations.

Medieval style wedding can represent a statement of style and independence of the future bride and groom.

Wedding invitations must be made of old-looking paper and sent in envelopes sealed with wax. Chandeliers, marble and candles are distinctive elements of this style.

The best option is to use following colors: red, blue, black, green, purple and two types of silver and gold metallic colors.

About the Author

Paul Easton welcomes you to visit http://www.101UniqueWeddingideas.com/ which was created while planning his own wedding. Pick up the F-R-E-E Wedding Planning Checklist plus Great Unique Wedding Ideas and Money saving ideas, vouchers and much more. All F-R-E-E

Chickabou Asst. Feathers Fly Tying Material Marabou P $0.99

Grizzly Marabou Chickabou Feathers Fly Tying Material P $3.00

SHAD GRAY MINI MARABOU FEATHERS $2.00

200+”TINY” TURKEY MARABOU FEATHERS * BLUE DUNN * 1″- 4″ $3.99

200+”MINATURE” TURKEY MARABOU FEATHERS*PEACH *1″-4″LONG $3.99

Marabou Assortment Fly Tying Materials Feathers R $5.75

Marabou Assortment Fly Tying Materials Feathers Q $4.00

Marabou Assortment Fly Tying Materials Feathers P $7.25

Small Wild Turkey Marabou Feathers Fly Tying Crafts $0.99

Fly Tying Strung Marabou Feathers Fl. Blue On Sale $1.79

Wading Staff

NEW Fulcrum Sports 48″ Folding Fly Fishing Wading Staff $29.99

Hammers Bungee Collapsible Wading Staff Fishing Pole $0.99

How To Fish Safely

Pete had been fishing with the new bass lure he had seen advertised on television. It was a good looking plug, and it cost a pretty penny.

When he met total resistance on his fifth cast, he was sure he had landed a trophy fish. A minute later, he knew he had snagged a log. He fought to free the expensive lure, but it wouldn’t budge.

For added leverage, he stood in his boat and yanked with all his strength. When the lure broke free, it rocketed from the water and he lost his balance. The plug lodged in his cheek as he toppled backward into the lake.

A doctor had to remove the treble hooks from his face. Knowing he had narrowly escaped being blinded and drowned, Pete called it a day and headed for the golf course, where there would be no talk of the one that got away.

Annually, over 60,000 fishing injuries require emergency room treatment. Eye injuries from fishing are the No. 1 sports-related eye injury.

Most fishing injuries are caused by fishing hooks, while most fatalities are the result of drowning. To fish safely:

In A Boat

* Always wear a Coast Guard approved lifejacket.

* Never overload your boat.

* Load the boat properly, keeping the heaviest items in the middle and bottom of the boat.

* Before taking out any boat, make sure it is equipped with an extra oar or paddle, a bailing can, an anchor and line, and if motorized, a full gas can.

* Change positions only on shore or in shallow water.

* In a storm, lie low in the boat. To avoid being tipped, point the bow of the boat into the waves.

* Exercise special caution around dams. The falling water creates a back current that can pull a small boat into its turbulence and cause it to capsize.

* At night, slow down and use running and marker lights.

* If the boat capsizes, stay with it until help arrives. Do not remove your clothing or boots. They will keep you afloat by holding air, and they will keep you warm.

* Avoid alcohol use.

In A Stream

* Never wade alone, and wear your lifejacket.

* Wear cleated or felt-soled waders or boots that will provide maximum traction on the slippery rocks underfoot.

* Unseen holes or drop-offs are a dangerous hazard. Test each step carefully in advance by taking a tentative shuffle. Better yet, use a wading staff to measure the depth of the water before each step.

In Any Event

* Carry a radio for weather information, and a cell phone for emergencies.

* Dress with the weather in mind, preferably in layers. Pack a wind-and waterproof outer shell.

* Wear properly fitted eye protection that covers the eye socket to guard against hooks and glare. Polycarbonate lenses are recommended for their strength and protective capabilities.

* Do not cast over a companion’s head. Always look around before making a cast.

* Carry sharp pliers and disinfectant in your first aid kit.

* When landing a fish, work from the rear of the boat. Use a net.

* Ease a fish out of the water. Yanking it into the boat can release the fish and create a dangerous sling shot effect.

* To remove the hook, wait until the fish is exhausted. Use a special gripping glove, and know the techniques for each species.

* Be especially careful dislodging lures and hooks from submerged branches or roots. Invest in a lure retriever to do the work.

* If you are snagged by your own hook, do not try to back it out. Instead, push it through the skin until the point and the barb are exposed.
Snip them off; also snip off the eyelet. Now pull the smooth hook through your skin following its natural arc. Cleanse the wound and apply disinfectant. Watch for infection.

* Look out for overhead electrical lines, especially around the dock and in an unfamiliar stretch of water.

* Carry your rod parallel to the ground whenever possible.

* Don’t fish from railroad trestles. You’re the one who may be caught.

About the Author

John Myre is the author of the award-winning book, Live Safely in a Dangerous World, and the publisher of the Safety Times Reproducible Articles..

Why We Kayak Fish

    Why We Kayak Fish

By Capt. Pat Horrigan

When you think about fishing you realize that there are many forms of the sport. Sight fishing is by far the most challenging approach to be taken. In order to be successful in sight fishing, you Must Have a stealthy approach or you will do nothing more than spook your quarry. Wade fishing has its’ place for sure but it can be a long walk and as you tire, you are naturally noisier by default. Using a flats boat is very popular and always will be and kayak fishing may not be for everyone as it requires patience. To achieve the most in stealth a quality kayak makes the difference between a long walk and a very expensive flats boat. There are many different fishing kayaks on the market today and that’s great. I looked for a long time for the right kayak to sponsor the Kayak Fishing ClassicS national tournament series. The Freedom Hawk 12 by Freedom Hawk Kayaks packs everything a kayak fisherman needs into a very slick, quiet unit.  The biggest advantage yielding feature of the Freedom 12 is the easily deployable outriggers. This feature truly makes it the Stand -Up Kayak Fishing standard on the market. Why is that important? When seated low in a kayak it is difficult to sight fish. Great sunglasses like the Ocean Waves  Sunglasses really help however having the ability to stand on a mobile, stable platform is invaluable. The sunglasses are still a must have item and Ocean Waves Sunglasses are the best ,in my opinion.

So now you have a stealthy, stand- up fishing kayak to make the experience better and you can see thru the water like a hawk. That still doesn’t answer why we kayak fish. Before I do that, lets’ add another stealthy approach to the fastest growing water sport in North America. Fly Fishing! Talk about stealth. Fly fishing is so quiet and natural. Light Tackle fishing can be very stealthy as well if done correctly and both are popular ways to fish from a kayak. Albright Fishing Products is the maker of some very fine fly rods and conventional rods. To touch on their fly rods for a moment, we feel that they are the best fly rod on the market today for what we do. That is saying a great deal considering some of the other brands. Tom Brokaw once said “ if fishing is a religion, then fly fishing is high mass.” Fly fishing is a subject for another conversation. Now you are ready to sneak up on the fish. Simply put, Kayak Fishing is extremely challenging and incredibly beautiful. You are on the water surrounded by nature. The fish don’t even know you are there. You lay out a fly and a huge snook charges and takes. If you do that just once, the question will answer itself for you. Many kayak fishermen, and in that I include women of course, also enjoy wade fishing. There’s nothing like a good stretch after a good paddle to your favorite fishing spot. Lets’ talk about that for a minute;

Have you ever heard someone say ‘you have to think like a fish’? To me what that means is what am I doing that triggers a fishes strike or fear responses? I want the fish to strike or take my presentation so how do I trigger the strike response? Or what did I just do that spooked the fish or triggered its’ fear response? One huge factor often overlooked is Visual Quietness. Just what is that? Have you ever been in a swimming pool, underwater and looked up at someone walking around the pool? If not, try it sometime and it will make a believer out of you in what I am about to share with you. In order to better understand Visual Quietness you need to understand Visual Noise. Everything in nature is a blend of many things in nature surrounding it. Wait,..What? For example a bright color on a bird is muted by surrounding dull colors. There are very few birds of a solid, bright color and those that are have developed that for a specific reason in nature. If you look up at someone walking around the swimming pool wearing a bright white shirt you’ll realize just how much that stands out. Or a bright green shirt or black or any solid color just jumps out against the background. If you are in your kayak or doing some wade fishing and you are wearing solid colors, regardless of the color itself, you may as well just go home because every fish in casting distance can see you. Remember, the bigger the fish, the smarter or more experienced the fish is. I never wake up in the morning and say to myself, I think I will go out and catch a small fish today. We fish for big fish because they are more of a challenge and more fun to catch. So why make it harder on yourself. Wearing camouflage clothing that matches the background of where you are fishing makes a lot of sense to me. Let’s take it up a notch. Let’s wear camouflage clothing that matches the background the way a fish see it. Remember how that bright white shirt looked when you looked up form underwater in the pool? It was also distorted and wavy.  Here’s the notch; AQUA DESIGN has come up with a camouflage that mimics how the background looks to a fish. That is huge when you think about it.

When you put all of the gear together with a little practice, you have a very Visually Quiet, Stealthy, Stand-Up Kayak Fishing package. In my pursuit of putting together a World Class national kayak fishing tournament series, I searched many equipment manufactures to provide product and expertise for our fishermen. It quickly became evident who made the best gear and why they made it the way that they do. I then pursued those companies as series sponsors. The sponsors that you see involved in the Kayak Fishing ClassicS are not just sponsors. They are the best at what they do and the most qualified in the world to call themselves sponsors of the Kayak Fishing ClassicS. If you take the time to learn about these fantastic people and the products that they make you will walk away with more knowledge of how and why the game is played the way it is. The book is being written on kayak fishing and we want you to be a part of it. Please visit  us at http://www.KayakFishingClassicS.com to be a part of it.    FishGreen        

About the Author

Kayak Fishing ClassicS utilizes college journalism students as staff journalist. Each article will begin with the authors’ name.

NEW Fulcrum Sports 48″ Folding Fly Fishing Wading Staff $29.99

Hammers Bungee Collapsible Wading Staff Fishing Pole $0.99

Folstaf Wading Staff for fly fishing $14.95

Wooden Wading Staff $23.00

Rod & Fly Guides Wading Staff $63.09

Hammers Bungee Collapsible Wading Staff Fishing Pole $0.99

Hammers Collapsible Wading Staff FP2, Shock Corded $29.80

Hammers Bungee Collapsible Wading Staff Fishing Pole $15.50

Fly Fishing Gear Keeper Wading Staff Tether NEW GREAT $22.00

Hammers Collapsible Wading Staff FP2, Shock Corded $29.80

Polar Plus

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Fluoro Pink $2.39

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Pink $2.99

Polarized Light Microscope: The Great Eye In Fact And Fiction

Let there be light to uncover grisly secrets! If you do not know it yet, the microscope that gets frequent camera exposure in the CSI series is a polarized light microscope and what secrets this has unlocked. Creative writers dabbling in forensic science know this.

The Real Star in Forensics

The real star of the CSI franchise are the polarized light microscope; in Toronto microscopy shops though, the microscope is the not the star; fact is, little is known about this exciting microscope and its role in forensic research.

Forensic research is the ultimate tool in forensic science. The science is employed in law enforcement communities and is a broad filed that covers forensic anthropology and surprisingly forensic veterinary science.

The results of forensic research are scientifically analyzed to proved facts that can be used during the investigation process and subsequent prosecution or in the defense of the accused. Many lives were saved from execution or were executed because of the polarized light microscope; in Toronto, microscopy dealers have polarized light microscopes with different configurations and add-ons that enhance forensic research and investigation.

Just ask for a demo of the unit to have an actual encounter with tissues samples that show impurities. In forensic lab, the samples are investigated for presence of blood, hair, semen and other human or animal secretions. Even soil stuck unto the soles of shoes is examined to determine the soil type which could lead to more clues or leads.

The Use of Forensics in Fiction

If you are writer, you don’t need to get a degree in forensic research to be able to be convincing with your facts. A good read on forensic research and the polarized light microscopes can expand your knowledge of this field. Interviews with forensic investigators and dealers of the polarized light microscope in Toronto can give you additional interesting facts on the subject, which you can creative use to spin mystery thrillers.

There is no secret that forensic science cannot unveil but it takes a degree in forensic science plus an expertise with the polarized light microscope to understand what the tissues are revealing – if the hairs found on samples are human or animal, or if the victim was strangled poisoned before drowning, or if a suicide was for real. The significance of fingerprints or tears in fabrics is explained in detail to reconstruct the events of the crime, which can lead to the capture and later prosecution of suspect/s.

To add to your stock of knowledge of forensic science, make use of the local library or subscribe to magazines that provide interesting and informative articles on crime investigation. Do not miss the opportunity to inspect up close a polarized light microscope in Toronto shops and online.

In microscopy, polarization is converging two different light wave directions into one direction by the polarizer that is located under the stage. When the illumination turned on, light travels upwards and the polarizer directs the light to travel in one direction.

Models of the polarized light microscope in Toronto shops can polarize two different directions of light waves and can be pushed in a North-South position; as a mystery thriller writer, take note of this little detail because polarized light microscopes are already polarized to shift in East-West position already. But fact or fiction your crime lab scenes are based on scientific facts.

CanScope – complete solution for all your microscopy needs.

Contact: 1-877-56SCOPE(72673) or info@CanScope.ca

About the Author

For high-powered magnification for your research, check the polarized light microscope in Toronto, Metallurgical microscope in Toronto, and fluorescent microscope in Toronto. Visit CanScope.ca today for your microscopy needs, parts, and accessories

Polar Bear Habitat

Initially I was disappointed. After paying $42 CA, no bears were to be seen. There were several people in the viewing area. The Habitat has two areas separating the one male from the two females. Each of the areas is quite large, big enough for a medium sized home with enough space for grass to mow! Outside the entrance to the viewing area and adjacent to the bears’ swimming area is a swimming pool where people can “swim with a polar bear.” Separating the people from the bears is Plexiglas. In one of their brochures are six people “swimming” with a bear that has a carrot trying to share with them. It is difficult to tell that there is a separation! Had it been warmer today, my wife would have been the one taking the pictures.

Finally a bear came from the bear holding area into the fenced area. She (we later learned) stopped about half way looking at the fence and moving her jaw as if she was distressed. I took a few pictures through the glass which is as close as we were allowed to go. As she wasn’t coming any closer we decided to see Heritage Village which is included in the price.

The first building we went into housed old tractor equipment. All had metal wheels. One was from 1922. A general store that had displays of very old merchandise which was sold during that era. The doctor’s office had a barber’s chair, an old operating table, a place to sterilize their equipment, and several old stethoscopes. The place was a person’s home with a wood stove, old ice box serving as a refrigerator, a nice living room, a “bathroom” area, which had a metal tub and a chair with a hole cut out including a pot with a lid on top of the chair. It also had two bedrooms and some old clothes hanging up.

I liked the old one room school house with desks and books. The trapper cabin was one room with a bed, a place for a wash bowl (I wouldn’t call it a table), and some food storage items. The outhouse was almost real.

When we reached the gas station a man who knew about its history shared his knowledge with us.. There was a 1932 Plymouth which will be driven and displayed in town, on Sunday, Canada’s birthday. He told us all the oil containers were original and full. The cash register had $2.99 rang up like this: 2 90 9. That is as high as the cash register could go because fuel back then was so cheap.

Oh, somewhere we saw a turn of the century milking machine but I could not determine what powered it. The displays were behind a wooden fence barrier, so we couldn’t touch anything. The Heritage Village certainly transported us back in time. There were old tractors and snowmobiles too.

Back to the bear visitor’s area we went. An employee, who works with the bears, was talking to some people and I saw one bear out. Then I saw the other female laying down by the fence. The girls are 600 plus pounds and the male weighs 800 to 1000 pounds. The girls are twins and had been orphaned, as had the male.

Now we were the only ones in the visitors’ center. The girl that was lying down started playing with a plastic barrel they have. Once it went into the pool she jumped in and came up with a huge carrot; two or three inches in diameter! She had a great feast. By this time I was inside snapping pictures.

Outside, a tall fence surrounds the perimeter of the bear’s pen. A second, 3 or 4 foot high fence kept me from getting too close. I am hoping I was able to get a couple of good pictures of her face. Her sister was back by the fence that separates the two areas, which also has a 10 or more foot area between the two pens. Even though the male and female were separated they sit and talk to each other. Last year, with all three together, one girl lost her hair down to her black skin causing people to think she was a black bear. However tests showed that all are normal and healthy. This year they are separated. We spent and hour or so in the visitors viewing area talking to a young lady who works there for the summer and to answer questions. She will begin her high school senior year this August. We learned a lot from her.

In the final analysis I am glad we took the time to see the Polar Bears.

You have my permission to reprint and distribute this article as long as it is distributed in its entirety, including all links and copyright information. © Lloyd Mize 2007

About the Author

Lloyd Mize has retired from a full time JOB!
Currently, he spends his time as the webmaster for Christian Article Bank, A Biblically Based Collection of Articles.
As you can tell, he enjoys traveling and seeing wildlife. Thanks to Ann Stewart for editing this article. Please visit Express Your Thoughts

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Fluoro Pink $2.39

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Pink $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Royal Blue $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Sea Blue $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Black $2.39

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Chartreuse $2.39

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Lemon $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Electric Yellow $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Dark Green $2.99

H2O synthetic fiber POLAR PLUS – Camel $2.39

Ice Fur

ICE FUR (choose color & quanity at checkout) $3.29

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Camel Tan $2.31

More Than Just A Block Of Ice In Alaska

Alaska. Talk about a place that’s gotten a bum rap. Half the world thinks it’s part of Canada and the other half thinks it’s just a big block of ice. Well, hold on to your fur coats because there is more to see and do in Alaska than you know.

For starters there’s Kenai Fords National Park. Here you can go on a sightseeing cruise to visit some glaciers and see some marine wildlife. The ship sails out of Seward. The park is just 130 miles south of Anchorage. It is made of a range of coastal mountains which slowly sink into the ocean, transforming its former glacial valleys into long fjords with rocky and steep walls. Photos just don’t do it justice. You have to see it in person.

While we’re on the subject of parks, there’s also Denali National Park & Preserve. It features North America’s highest mountain, 20,320-foot tall Mount McKinley. The park is more than 6 million acres. Now THAT is a huge park. It comes complete with a sub arctic ecosystem featuring such animals as grizzly bears, wolves, Dall sheep, and moose.

Then there’s the Alaska Sealife Center. It’s a non profit marine science facility dedicated to understanding and maintaining the integrity of the marine ecosystem. In other words, they’re doing everything they can to see that the fish don’t end up belly up.

Speaking of fish, if you’re into that sort of thing, there’s the Homer Spit Fishing Hole. Here you can fish for kings and silvers right off the bank of the Homer Spit.

Then there’s the Ididaride Dog Sled Tours in Seward, Alaska. Here you’ll find three generations of top-20 Iditarod racers and fourteen generations of champion sled dogs. It was founded by Dan Seavey Sr. in 1965. His oldest son Mitch took over the racing program in 1982.

For those looking to get a bit of an education there’s the UAF Institute of Marine Science Seward Marine Center which is a unit in the University of Alaska Fairbanks School of Fisheries and Ocean Sciences. Yes, there is a lot of education in Alaska about Marine life. Considering fishing is one of their main industries it certainly makes sense. The park was established as Mt. McKinley National Park on 26 February, 1917. The original park was designated a wilderness area and incorporated into Denali National Park and Preserve in 1980. The Park was designated an international biosphere reserve in 1976.

Believe it or not, people DO have fun in Alaska. It’s not just all ice and snow. There is a nightlife that would give any city a run for it’s money.

One of the hottest spots in Alaska is “Club Oasis” located on Seward Highway. Here you’ll find live music, great drinks and no cover charge. This is where those wild Alaskans really let their hair down.

Then there’s Chilkoot Charlie’s in Anchorage, Alaska where you’ll find the famous Bird House Bar, great drinks, music, wild women and non stop fun. You can even cater private parties here.

Yes, Alaska certainly is more than just a chunk of frozen wasteland. When you’re in the neighborhood stop on by. You may not want to leave.

About the Author

Find tips about cheerleading facts and famous duos at the Knowledge Galaxy website.

Polar Bears Adaptation to the Cold and Unforgiving Arctic Climate

Polar Bear adaptation to the wintery and bitter Northern climate is one of nature’s marvels. The shifting sea ice, where polar bear live, is one of the unkindest and most relentless climates on planet earth.

It’s only in modern evolutionary time that bears adjusted to arctic sea life. It commenced during the Ice Age, in the northern seas, when the seals needed to breathe and mate near the water’s surface. By doing this, the seals placed a rich year-round food source near a population of brown bears, who then began to inhabit the ice, developing into something similar to the polar bear of today, around 100,000 years ago.

Weighing about 330 to 1,760 pounds, the length of the polar bear’s body is approximately 6.6 to 10 feet. The male body is usually bigger than the female. The polar bear, akin to the brown bear, is heavy and heavyset. It has an drawn out neck and small head. Its fur, normally white, occasionally appears yellow, due to oxidation.

A polar bear has black skin, which assists it’s adjustment to the Arctic temperature, absorbing and holding heat from the sunlight. It is unquestionably well attired for the weather with a layer of fat more than 4 inches thick, allowing for efficient insulation. The dense fur on its feet (its foot is about 9 inches wide and 12 inches long) allows for warmth and traction. Since each foot is so big, it acts as a practical snowshoe.

It adjusts well to swimming with its wide front paws that serve as paddles and when swimming underwater it lays the small ears flat for protection, and its nostrils close under water. It paddles at about 6 and one-half miles per hour –forepaws only, hind paws trailing–and can remain under water for about 2 minutes. The hairs of its waterproof coat are hollow which is an effective insulator and increases the bear’s buoyancy while swimming.

A polar bear has a keen sense of smell, sensing prey at a distance of about 20 miles. Although little is known about its sense of touch (its eyesight and hearing is acute), a polar bear is able to manipulate varied objects with great dexterity.

With canine teeth larger and malariform teeth sharper than those of different bears, the polar bear is the most carnivorous North American bear.

A polar bear inhabits Arctic islands, sea ice, and water and continental coastlines. It favors the sea ice habitat, with water channels or cracks through the ice, next to continental coastlines or islands. Some polar bears spend part of the year on land, although in warmer climates a bear could become stranded. Most pregnant females spend the autumn and winter on land in maternity dens.

A polar bear journeys throughout the year within single home ranges, which are inclined to be larger than for other mammal species because of the alterations in sea ice from year to year and even season to season. Small home ranges (19,000 to 23,000 miles) can be found near Canadian Arctic Islands, while larger home ranges can be found in the Bering or Chukchi Sea areas. The polar bear remains in the general area during the same time of year. A polar bear walks 19 miles or more per day for several days, although some are capable of much more than that. One can only hope that polar bear adaptation will continue, as their habitat area shrinks and the pressures of civilization continue to encroach on the the natural homes where the polar bear calls home.

About the Author

For more information, check out my blog Polar Bear News. You can also find information at Are You Polar Bear Aware? and Polar Bear Video Showcase

ICE FUR (choose color & quanity at checkout) $3.29

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Camel Tan $2.31

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Purple $2.31

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Lt. Minnow Blue $2.31

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Yellow $2.31

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Silver Tan Super Gotcha $2.60

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Brown $2.89

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Black $2.31

Hareline Dubbin Ice Fur – Tan $2.31

Ice Fur, Silver Gray, 1 Pack $2.50

Rio Tarpon

Rio Tarpon Fly Line WF10F…New…Free Shipping $74.95

RIO Tarpon WF10F/I Fly Line Sea Grass/9.5ft Clear Tip $0.99

Kayaking in Trinidad and Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are islands in the Caribbean Sea so there are myriad opportunities for kayaking. However for those who do not want to contend with large waves, ocean swells and ocean currents, Trinidad and Tobago offers a choice of sheltered saltwater and freshwater kayaking opportunities. In this article we will explore some of these kayaking areas.

Nariva River, Manzanilla, Trinidad

Nariva, on the east coast of Trinidad, is Trinidad and Tobago’s largest wetland with some 32 square miles of fresh-water herbaceous swamp. It combines four major wetland types (mangrove swamp forest, palm forest, swamp wood and freshwater marsh) and has been formally designated a Wetland of International Importance under the Ramsar Convention. The bulk of the water from the area drains into the Atlantic through the short tidal Nariva River.

The Nariva River provides a year round opportunity for kayaking and empties into the sea at Manzanilla Bay. There are two easily accessible entry points; at the river mouth and at the bridge along the Manzanilla/Mayaro Road that spans the river. When entering or exiting the river at the river mouth during low tide care should be exercised to ensure that you are not swept out to sea, as the flow out of the river can be quite strong. Along the river it is possible to see basking caimans, while tarpon (known locally as grande ecaille) are sometimes seen near the surface of the water.

The Nariva Swamp is home to an incredibly diverse range of reptiles, mammals and birds, some of which are rare and endangered. There are over 171 species of birds in Nariva, including manakins, tanagers, antbirds, caracara and woodcreepers. There are 5 species of Parrots (including Macaws), 2 species of owls, 2 species of trogons, 11 species of hummingbirds, potoos, toucans and limpkins. It is within Nariva that the blue and gold macaws have been reintroduced to Trinidad. There are 59 species of mammals that can be found in Nariva including red howler and capuchin ( Cebus albifrons) monkeys, deer, porcupine, three-toed and silky anteaters and opossums. Trinidad’s last surviving colony of the West Indian Manatee are located within Nariva. Also to be found in Nariva are various reptiles that include giant anaconda, the fer-de-lance snake and caiman.

Ortoire River, Trinidad

At the southern end of Manzanilla Bay, the Ortoire River empties into the sea and it is also provides a year round opportunity for kayaking. Apart from the entry point at the river mouth, another easy entry point to the Ortoire River is alongside the bridge that spans the Rio Claro/Mayaro Road on the outskirts of Mayaro.

Godineau River, Trinidad

The Godineau river is also known as the South Oropouche River. Kayaking in the Godineau area takes you through a variety of habitats, from saltwater mangrove swamp to fresh water marshland to partially cultivated areas. A variety of birdlife can be seen on these kayak trips including Scarlet Ibis, Southern Lapwing, Osprey, Savannah Hawk, Wattled Jacana, Cattle Egret, Yellow-hooded Blackbird, Lesser Yellowlegs, Black-bellied Whistling Duck and a variety of migrating ducks (during the northern winter).

The Godineau River is one of the rivers in Trinidad that provides a year round kayaking opportunity as the water level is always sufficient. This kayak trip can be started either from the sea along the area known as the Mosquito Creek or inland from the Woodland area.

Marianne River, Blanchissuesse, Trinidad

The Marianne River empties into the sea at Blanchisseuse and it is easiest to begin your paddle from the river mouth. This is not an extended kayak trip for most kayakers as upriver there is an area known as Three Pools that results in a somewhat difficult portage. Kayaking in this area is best towards the end of the rainy season as the water level is high enough to allow paddling for the entire trip. During the dry season there are parts of the river where the low water level requires walking the kayaks.

At the river mouth freshwater marsh vegetation exists along the banks of the river while freshwater swamp forest exists further inland with towering stands of bamboo. As you kayak along the river a variety of bird life can be seen including spotted sandpipers, kingfishers, gray kingbirds and striated herons.

At the river mouth, kayaks are available for rental every day, all year.

Fullarton, Cedros, Trinidad

The entire Cedros peninsula is a bird watching experience. The Fullarton Swamp is ideal for the armchair birdwatcher. The road from Fullarton Village to Icacos Village runs through the center of the Swamp and so it is possible to literally view the birds without leaving your vehicle. Greater enjoyment however comes from parking the vehicle and entering the water, allowing you to see many of the smaller birds that may be perched in the mangrove. The presence of the roadway makes entering and exiting the water very easy. In this area among the birds that can be seen are Greater Egret, Scarlet Ibis, Black Skimmer, Black-necked Stilt, Black-bellied Whistling Duck, Yellow Hooded Blackbird, American Pygmy Kingfisher, Yellow Chinned Spine tail, Common Moorhen, Snowy Egret.

Chagaramas, Trinidad

Williams Bay, Chagaramas provides kayaking opportunities in relatively sheltered ocean waters. In the bays on the coastline opposite the Military museum it is sometimes possible to see marine iguanas on the rocks and in the sea and capuchin monkeys in the trees.

Kayak Rentals are available every day all year from the Kayak Center.

Another kayaking opportunity in the Chagaramas area begins in the area of the Almoorings Fishing Depot/Crews Inn Marina. From this starting point it is possible to kayak along the coast to the Bocas or turn south and paddle to Centipede island and then across the channel to Gasparee island.

When paddling in this area one should be alert to the various power boats that are entering and departing from the various marinas, particularly on weekends.

Charlotteville, Tobago

Charlotteville is located at the end of the Windward road in Tobago, this small quaint village lies in a bay with Tobago’s best deep water harbor. It is bordered by the lush greenery of high mountains on one side and the sparkling blue waters of Man-O-War bay on the other. This wide deep bay was once an anchorage for English fighting ships, as the name implies. Today it is used as a sheltered anchorage by visiting yachts. The northern part of the bay is called Pirates Bay, which gives an indication of its past. Several fringing reefs are found in this bay providing the sheltered anchorage. Kayaks are available for rental at the bay.

This bay is a turtle nesting site.

Buccoo Bay, Tobago

The azure waters of Buccoo Bay and the Bon Accord Lagoon are sheltered by the offshore Buccoo reef, providing a kayaking area with only gentle swells. Kayak rentals are available at the nearby Storebay and also at Pigeon Point. The fringing Mangrove swamps of the Bon Accord Lagoon provide a scenic contrast to the white sand beaches along Pigeon Point and at the center of Buccoo bay. The offshoots of the reef also shelter the adjacent Milford Bay, allowing one to kayak to the south-east from Bon Accord Lagoon around Pigeon Point and into Milford Bay or vice-versa.

When next you are considering your vacation activities, consider the kayaking opportunities in Trinidad and Tobago.

About the Author

Brian Ramsey operates the web site, Outdoors Trinidad and is the author of the CD, Discovering the Birds of Trinidad and Tobago.

Things To See On Your Holidays In Belize

Bounties of treasures await the visitors of Belize. It is well said by those who have gone there that Belize is an adventurer’s paradise. It is on the Caribbean coast and just two hours away from 3 major U.S. gateways. It has rich wildlife, majestic mountains, mysterious Maya temples, and diving and fishing experiences.

One of the many attractions of Belize includes the Cays. Cays are islands that are located between the mainland and the barrier reef perimeters of the offshore atolls. The mangrove cays serve as a shelter of the many birds, fish shellfish, and marine organisms. The island cays, on the other hand, have provided the foundation for the development of many fine resorts to cater for the water sports enthusiasts and the marine naturalists.

One of the popular cays includes the famous CAE Caulker, second-most popular to the Ambergris CAE- the La Isla Bonita from Madonna’s song. It is located on the Caribbean coast of Belize in Central America. It is considered as a magnet for mid range travellers looking to detach themselves from the world.

Belize is also a haven for those who love fishing. All kinds of fishing can be experienced there. The estuaries, inlets and mouths to the many rivers are known for their tarpon, snook and jack. The lagoons and flats are known for the bone fish, permit and barracuda.

The coral reefs support grouper, snapper, jack and barracuda while the deeper waters off the drop off are home to sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano. Belize also has 20 major river systems and smaller streams that provide outdoor adventures for the kayak and canoe lovers. It is also an excellent way to bird watch and view wildlife.

There are also many caves in Belize. It is an ideal location for the formation of caves because caves are a common feature in the landscape of Belize. The caves include the Che Chem Ha Cave, Rio Frio Cave, St Herman Cave, Barton Creek Cave, Ben Loman Cave and the Actun Tunichi Muknal Cave.

Though there are thousands of caves in Belize for some reason, one of which includes the protection of the caves archaeological significance many of the caves are closed to public exploration.

Golf courses are also abundant in Belize. Not to mention the Cave Chapel Island Resort Golf Course, it is located just off shore from Belize City on a cave that was developed for the very purpose of golfing and relaxation.

The Maskall Golf course Lodge, located in the Belize District, has a nine-hole jungle setting.
As a country whose history is rooted from the Mayan civilization, Belize is also known from its place Cayo. It is a 1500 square mile district that encompasses a good portion of the Maya Mountains and has more than its fair share of ancient Maya sites.

About the Author

Andrew Gibson is MD of Direct Holiday Bookings. It has holiday villas and self catering holiday apartments to rent on line as a holiday home rental. To see an example of a Villa Holiday in Belize have a look at Villa Holidays

Rio Tarpon Fly Line WF10F…New…Free Shipping $74.95

RIO Tarpon WF10F/I Fly Line Sea Grass/9.5ft Clear Tip $0.99

RIO TARPON FLY LINE WF11F – TAN $30.00

RIO Tarpon Fly Line WF11F $74.95

RIO TARPON Floating Fly Line WF-12-F, SEA GRASS $55.00

RIO TARPON Floating Fly Line WF-11-F, SEA GRASS $55.00

RIO Tarpon Leader 3 Pack 20lb Class / 100lb Shock $31.95

RIO Tarpon Leader 3 Pack 80lb Class / 80lb Shock $25.95

RIO Tarpon Leader 3 Pack 100lb Class / 100lb Shock $25.95

RIO Tarpon Leader 3 Pack 20lb Class / 60lb Shock $25.95