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Biodiversity

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Biodiversity refers to the variety of life in the world or in a particular habitat or ecosystem. It is necessary for life to thrive on Earth.

Aldo Leopold, one of the great thinkers of conservation, observed more than half a century ago the importance of protecting species. "To keep every cog and wheel is the first precaution of intelligent tinkering," he wrote. Losing species is like throwing away one by one the engine parts of an airplane while flying.

Biodiversity is a major initiative of Conservation International.

Biodiversity conservation provides substantial benefits to meet immediate human needs, such as those for clean, consistent water flows; protection from floods and storms; and a stable climate. 

Curated by mokiethecat

Rare Footage of Mountain Lion Creating Tinder Profile
May 08, 2019

Male mountain lions create scrapes—mounds of dirt, urine, and scat—that serve as vital communication tools. These scrapes function like a dating profile; if a breeding-ready female encounters a male's pile, she may urinate on it, signaling her presence and willingness to mate.

Beyond mating signals, scrapes also mark the boundaries of a male cougar's territory. By advertising his dominance in a specific area, the male aims to limit confrontations with other males, effectively asserting his presence and control.