How did the alligator get its name?

The word “alligator” comes from the early Spanish name “El Lagarto.” Meaning “The Lizard.” Alligator are large retiles related to the crocodile.  They resemble lizards in their shape. The early Spanish explorers, mistaking the reptile for a large lizard called it “el lagarto,” meaning “the lizard.”  The name changed in time to our modern word [...]

What is a Barracuda Fish?

Barracuda are pikelike saltwater fish.  They are sometimes called “tiger of the sea” because of their pierce nature. One of the fiercest of fishes is the barracuda.  These slender, pikelike fishes with jutting jaws and razorlike teeth live in the warmer waters of the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. There are several kinds of barracudas.  The [...]

Why is the owl considered wise?

The owl’s big staring eyes and thoughtful appearance have given it for reputation for wisdom but it is really no smarter than many other birds. Owls are said to be very wise.  This old belief is probably due to the Owl’s appearance – and not because it is wiser than other animals. The owl’s large, [...]

Why is a horse mounted from the left side?

The custom of mounting a horse from the left probably started when men more long swords that hung doesn’t  the left leg.  Mounting from the left kept the sword from getting in the way as the rider mounted. Many people enjoy riding horseback for fun and sport.  One of the first things a rider learns [...]

How does a snail move?

The common snail is slowly inched forward by wavelike motions of its muscular foot. Almost everyone is familiar with the common garden snail.  Snails are small animals that usually carry their shells on their backs and leave stick trails of goo behind as they creep along.  A snail moves around by creeping on a part [...]