Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for those who want an active and beautiful pet fish. They're also a great starter fish for children.… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 2 months ago
Mandy Trotti is a writer at A-Z Animals where her primary focus is on pets and travel. Mandy has been writing professionally for three years and holds a Bachelor's Degree in English Literature from the University of South Florida, which she earned in 2022.
A resident of Florida, Mandy enjoys going on walks with her rescue beagle, visiting botanical gardens, and watching the sunset on the beach.
Betta fish, also known as Siamese fighting fish, are a popular choice for those who want an active and beautiful pet fish. They're also a great starter fish for children.… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 2 months ago
Earth’s northernmost forests, known as the taiga (pronounced TY-GUH), stretch across the Northern Hemisphere like a belt. Life here is challenging for the plants and animals. However, they have all… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 2 months ago
American black bears (Ursus americanus) are the only type of bears living in West Virginia. About 12,000 to 14,000 of them live in the state. In fact, black bears are present in all… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 3 months ago
The Ohio cryptids blur the line between fact and fiction. Some of these stories are unique to the Buckeye State, while others connect them to national urban legends. So, who are the… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 3 months ago
Black bears (Ursus americanus) are the only bears in Utah. Although it's one of the western states with the lowest black bear populations, thousands still inhabit the mountainous and densely… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 3 months ago
Yes, it snows in Boston, Massachusetts. Are you surprised? Probably not. Boston is known for its cold and snowy winters, often turning the city into a winter wonderland for days… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Black bears (Ursus americanus) are the only bears you'll find in New Mexico after the last grizzly bear was killed nearly a century ago. Spotting a black bear in its… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Visiting a spring might not be the first activity that comes to mind when visiting Ohio, but it should be. The expansive Ohio wilderness has hidden gems along many popular… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Choosing their name is one of the most exciting parts of bringing home a new bird. You want a name you love, whether it's a red cockatoo, parrot, macaw, or… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Yorkshire terriers originate from Yorkshire, England. The breed, created with a mix of dogs from Scotland, caught rats and other vermin that burrowed in crevices of factory walls. They helped… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Those in Georgia for the holidays wishing for a White Christmas are often disappointed. Although it snows at least a few days out of the year in many cities throughout… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Bald eagles call Oklahoma home year-round, with numbers in the hundreds. However, these numbers spike as eagles from Canada and the Upper Midwest fly over in search of food in… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
General James Oglethorpe founded the colony of Georgia and helped settle the Salzburgers in what would become the city of New Ebenezer and the location of the state's oldest church.… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Unlike in the Midwest, waking up to a fresh blanket of snow on Christmas in Ohio isn’t expected. But it's possible. Over a century ago, the record for the most… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 4 months ago
Heavy snowfall can isolate you in your home for days, leaving you with what's in your pantry. You may even lose power and water. However, preparing an emergency kit in… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Mount Greylock in Massachusetts has a long and rich history spanning centuries. It’s located in a geologically distinct area of New England and inspired generations of famous authors. But does… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Wisconsin is more than “America’s Dairyland.” Hiking trails throughout the state offer stunning views of natural waterfalls, expansive lakes, unique rock formations, eerie tunnels, and much more. So, put on… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Are you looking for the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit? If you live in Oregon, you have plenty of one-of-a-kind Christmas markets to choose from. Find handmade… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Turkey Run State Park is one of Indiana's top-rated state parks. In fact, it's Indiana's second official state park. With 2,382 acres, there's something for every nature lover and history… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
The Buckeye Trail traverses countless natural hidden gems in the Ohio landscape – from the farmland to the hills of Appalachia and the Black Hand Sandstone cliffs in Hocking Hills… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
New Jersey isn't nicknamed "The Garden State" for nothing. The outstanding agriculture and famous arboretums reflect the state's beauty and boldness. Visit the 10 best botanical gardens in New Jersey… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
If you’re in Sarasota, Florida, you need to spend at least a day at Myakka River State Park. The 81-year-old sprawling park is important to the state’s heritage and is… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Golden retrievers trace their roots to the Highlands of Scotland in the late 1800s. Dudley Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth, bred a yellow wavy-coated retriever with a tweed water… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
German shepherds are frequently seen working as members of the police and military, search-and-rescue teams, and as service dogs. But they also make loyal family dogs. Before bringing a German shepherd… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
After spending hours cleaning your yard, you probably want to find the quickest way to get rid of your leaves. You may be tempted to add them to your fire… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
The desert tortoise is one of the many animals hikers encounter along Mojave and Sonoran Desert trails. But you’re lucky if you come across one because they spend most of their lives underground, coming up… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Training your beagle doesn't have to be a nightmare. Understanding your dog's personality will help you meet your beagle's physical and mental needs while developing the right training strategies. Are… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 5 months ago
Mount LeConte is one of the most popular hiking destinations in the Smoky Mountains. The hiking trails to the top are strenuous. However, they're worth the challenge to enjoy the… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Pikes Peak is a National Historic Landmark that was carved by glaciers and provided a home for many Indigenous groups. Today, the beautiful scenery from the top of the impressive… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
The oldest church in North Carolina has survived more than 300 years and still holds weekly services in the original building. The historic parish was a cornerstone in the town that bloomed… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Want to share your love for your shih tzu? National Shih Tzu Day is the perfect day to honor the loyal and royal breed publicly. Keep reading to learn more… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Ohio is far from the biggest state. However, The Buckeye State has lake and mountain views that are out of this world. Lace up your hiking boots and discover the… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Thailand is a popular destination because of its natural beauty and tasty cuisine. But within the protected wilderness of the Phu Langka National Park near the famous Mekong River is an… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
North Carolina has some of the best scenic views, including the Outer Banks and the Great Smoky Mountains. As you get older, you want to continue exploring these spectacular areas.… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Wooly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers roamed the land that makes up the popular Ice Age Trail. Now, hikers and nature lovers from around the country visit Wisconsin to complete the… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
The Tennessee summer is the best time to check out some of the state's natural water features. But many of these picture-perfect locations are open year-round. Take a trip and Discover Cummins… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
The breathtaking scenery attracts visitors to the Grand Canyon from around the world. But the views aren't the only incredible sights to see. Keep reading to discover the 10 most incredible… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
The land in Indiana has more to offer beyond agriculture. In fact, the state has some of the most beautiful public botanical gardens in the Midwest. The lush vegetation, hearty… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Age doesn’t stop you from loving nature; it shouldn’t stop you from exploring. Older hikers may have a more challenging time moving for an extended period or require accommodations for… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
Want to brush up on your state history or learn a fun fact to tell all your friends? Then you've come to the right place. Get ready to learn 60… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) stretches 2,650 miles along the western coast from Mexico to Canada, spanning three states. One of these states is scenic and easy-going Oregon. Hikers test… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 6 months ago
South America is the fourth largest continent and is home to the world's longest river, the Amazon River. Tributaries and dense, forested land are connected to this extraordinary river in Brazil. But… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
Need an excuse to spoil your beagle? National Beagle Day gives you a reason to give your four-legged friend extra treats or a brand-new toy without judgment. It is an… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
The October Full Moon makes an appearance shortly before Halloween this year. It's bright and a little spooky. Don't forget your telescope or a set of binoculars because you don't… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
The Rocky Mountain National Park spans more than 256,000 acres across Colorado. There are countless trails to hike and places to see. But what are some of the best activities when… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
There are approximately 600 volcanic features scattered throughout Arizona. Two of the most popular active volcanic fields are San Fransisco and Uinkaret Fields. In fact, the tallest volcano in Arizona is… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
Beagles are loving companions and great family dogs. They're also one of the most popular dog breeds. If you own a beagle, you'll never be bored again. They run around wherever you go,… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
Bearded dragons (Pogona vitticeps), affectionately known as beardies, live in deserts and other dry corners in Australia. They're also one of the most popular reptile pets. All beardies share similar behaviors and… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
Oregon embodies a variety of natural habitats, contributing to the array of native wildlife in the state. Along with its natural beauty, Oregon is home to unique architecture influenced by… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago
New Mexico is known as the "Land of Enchantment." It's no surprise since the state is full of breathtaking natural views and a rich cultural history that spans centuries. But… Read More
By Mandy Trotti 7 months ago