Claire Wilson
Author for A-Z Animals

Though they may look like simple creatures, earthworms are anything but. In fact, Charles Darwin spent 40 years observing worms and conducting experiments with them. Worms are crucial for breaking… Read More

By Claire Wilson 11 months ago

Because of their large size, mastiffs have historically been kept as guard dogs, war dogs, or hunting dogs. And, while the origin of the name "mastiff" is unclear, some historians… Read More

By Claire Wilson 11 months ago

Resting at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this man-made reservoir in South Carolina encompasses 18,500 acres of water. Initially created by Duke Energy to provide for the area's… Read More

By Claire Wilson 11 months ago

Brought to the U.S. from China in the nineteenth century, the American Pekin is one of the most popular breeds of domestic duck. Although many people raise them for egg… Read More

By Claire Wilson 12 months ago

Found throughout the United States, silverfish are wingless insects that inhabit high-moisture areas such as gardens, leaf piles, or caves. When outdoors, silverfish help decompose plant matter and are essential… Read More

By Claire Wilson 12 months ago

Carpet beetles can be terrible pests in your home. Causing damage to carpets and other fabrics, they incite more destruction than clothes moths. Carpet beetles are attracted to cloths such… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Discover the Town Proudly Known as the 'Catfish Capital of the World` While a couple of towns claim the title of “Catfish Capital of the World,” this town in Louisiana… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

There are many benefits to keeping backyard chickens. First, happy and vibrant chickens provide fresh eggs that are healthier to consume than commercial ones. Also, you'll save money on food… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Yes, dogs do have belly buttons! However, a dog's belly button looks a little different from a human's. The best time to spot a dog's belly button is during puppyhood.… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Unfortunately, there is no “season” for termites. They can infest your home any time of year, so termites are a particularly insidious threat to your home. Even compared to carpenter… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Originally bred as working dogs, huskies are known for their incredible sled-pulling skills. Loyal, friendly, and a tad mischievous, huskies make fantastic family dogs. However, there are subtle differences between… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

In 1806, a Spanish explorer, Gabriel Moraga, and his group of colonists arrived on the south bank of the Merced River low on supplies and extremely thirsty. Stumbling upon the… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Found in tropical regions, goatfish thrive in shallow ocean waters with coral reefs. As they spend their time nosing around the sand or reefs for invertebrates to eat, their unique… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

While there are over 45 species of termites in the United States, they fall into three main categories: subterranean, drywood, and dampwood. Most of these termites plague the South and… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Nicknamed “white ants,” termites look similar to ants save for their pale coloring. However, unlike ants, termites pose a massive threat to your home. Compared to carpenter ants, termites produce… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

As the most common vector-borne disease in the United States, about 476,000 people are infected by Lyme disease annually. Typically caused by the bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi and, on occasion, Borrelia… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

American ginseng, or Panax quinquefolius, is an herb that is endemic to North America. A popular natural remedy, it's believed to boost the immune system, relieve stress, and soothe upper… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Australian shepherds are very amiable and intelligent dogs. Bred initially as medium-sized working dogs, Aussies have a strong drive to complete tasks. They thrive on praise and affection for a… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Controlled deer hunting can be beneficial to the regional deer population as well as native vegetation. Preventing the deer population from growing too large ensures enough food for the deer.… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Giant trees like redwoods and manna gum trees are crucial to our forest ecosystems. These huge trees store large amounts of carbon, reduce air pollution, and prevent water runoff. Vital… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Bighead carp are plankton eaters and are devastating competition for native creatures. Because bighead carp grow to such large sizes and are so prolific, they can threaten other fish species… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

The Brazos River is the third longest river in Texas and flows almost entirely in the state. Early Spanish explorers called this river “Río de los Brazos de Dios,” which… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

While black crappies originated from the eastern United States, this game fish was so popular that people began stocking lakes, ponds, and rivers across the country. Easy to catch and… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Before the eighteenth century, black bears were prevalent in Georgia. However, because of habitat loss and unrestricted hunting, Georgia's black bear population dropped significantly. That is why Georgia has focused… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Inhabiting the southeastern United States and eastern China, the alligator is one of the largest reptiles in the world. Because of this, they are the apex predators wherever they dwell… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

On May 15, 1980, the largest brook trout was caught in Raven Fork River weighing seven pounds and seven ounces. Native to eastern North America, brook trout may be found… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

There is a wide variety of protein choices outside what is available in the grocery store. One efficient protein option you should consider is bear meat. Lean, high in protein,… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Many anglers enjoy the challenge that flathead catfish are to hook. Plus, these freshwater fish make for delicious eating. However, the flathead catfish’s popularity among anglers makes it hard for… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Summersville Lake is the largest lake in West Virginia. Because of its incredible water quality and gorgeous sandstone cliffs, Summersville Lake is a favored destination for outdoor fun. From boating… Read More

By Claire Wilson 1 year ago

Some may hesitate about trying pheasant, as it’s not a common meat you see in the grocery store. However, it is very nutritious, and there are many reasons why you… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

As the largest North American species in the suckerfish family, Buffalo fish have started to become more popular among anglers. In the past, many sports fishermen overlooked the Buffalo fish.… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Quick Answer Alligators are not native to Hawaii, and the only way you’ll see a gator in the Aloha State is in the zoo, such as the Honolulu Zoo. Hawaii… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Smallmouth bass are one of North America's most popular species for sport or recreational fishing. They have abundant populations that expand across the United States, and because smallmouth bass are… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Key Points Lake Texoma is on the border of both Oklahoma and Texas. There are several types of snakes in and around the lake, including venomous snakes. Practice safety measures… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Barracudas are efficient predators with very few enemies. Because of their speed, size, and spectacular teeth, not many creatures would like to face off with a barracuda. However, fishermen love… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

South Carolina possesses about 683 square miles of lakes and 370,000 acres of reservoirs, both prime habitats for alligators. As semi-aquatic reptiles, sources of calm water attract alligators. About 100,000… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Of the three types of venomous snakes in Pennsylvania, the copperhead is the most common. Copperheads live in wooded areas or rocky landscapes, which are plentiful in Pennsylvania. These snakes… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Although Georgia has alligators, you only find them in the southern part of the state. From Columbus through Macon to Augusta is what is called the “fall line.” North of… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Georgia has between 200,000-250,000 alligators. The hot and humid climate and the wetlands across the state make it an excellent home for alligators. The Okefenokee Swamp in the state's southeast… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago

Over 90 percent of flowering plants on our planet require pollination, and that’s where bees come in. Without a bee’s super pollination power, the food available for people and wildlife… Read More

By Claire Wilson 2 years ago