photogallery.malayalam.samayam.comInteresting photogallery from Malayalam Samayam en-us2015 Times Internet Limited.http://syndication.indiatimes.com/http://images.photogallery.indiatimes.com/photo.cms?msid=48053890http://photogallery.malayalam.samayam.comSun, 29 Jun 2025 17:10:51 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/114244474.cmsThe Australian bustard (Ardeotis australis) is one of Australia's most impressive and iconic birds. Known for its large size and majestic appearance, it can stand over a metre tall and weigh up to 14 kilograms, making it one of the country's heaviest flying birds. However, it's not just its size that captivates those who encounter it. The Australian bustard is also known for its deep, booming call, which some describe as a prehistoric roar, adding to its striking presence in the wild. This ground-dwelling bird is typically found in open grasslands, savannas, and agricultural lands across Australia. Its plumage is a mix of grey, brown, and white, providing excellent camouflage in the dry landscapes it frequents. Australian bustards are solitary or sometimes found in small groups, feeding on a variety of plants, seeds, insects, and small vertebrates. Despite its strong and capable flight, the Australian bustard prefers to walk great distances in search of food. Its booming calls are particularly prominent during the breeding season, when males perform elaborate displays to attract females. Unfortunately, habitat loss and hunting have reduced their numbers, making conservation efforts vital for their continued survival.Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:35:58 +0530BCCL - Non Copyrighthttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/114243248.cmsAnts are among the most fascinating creatures on Earth, exhibiting incredible behaviours and abilities that often go unnoticed. One of the most astounding facts is their strength – ants can lift objects up to 50 times their body weight! This makes them some of the strongest creatures in the animal kingdom relative to their size. In addition to their strength, ants are highly social insects. They live in large colonies, sometimes numbering in the millions, with each ant playing a specific role. Worker ants, soldiers, and the queen all contribute to the colony's success. Some species, like the Argentine ant, form “supercolonies,” where multiple colonies merge to create massive networks spanning hundreds of miles. Ants also communicate through chemical signals known as pheromones. These pheromones help them leave trails, alert others to danger, or guide fellow ants to food sources. Their navigation skills are extraordinary, allowing them to travel long distances and return to their nests with impressive accuracy. Some ants even engage in farming! Leafcutter ants cultivate fungus by feeding it leaves, creating their own sustainable food source. From their strength to their intelligence, ants prove that size doesn’t always determine greatness.Tue, 15 Oct 2024 13:58:23 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/113528299.cmsThe sandbox tree, also known as the dynamite tree, is one of the deadliest trees in the world due to its toxic sap and explosive seed pods. Native to the tropical regions of South America and parts of the Caribbean, it thrives in rainforests and is often found growing along riverbanks. The tree is easily recognizable by its large, thorny trunk, which is covered with spikes, giving it an intimidating appearance. The tree's sap contains toxins like curcin and phorbol, which cause severe skin irritation, blisters, and, if ingested, can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. Merely touching the sap can result in burns, and the fumes from burning its wood can cause blindness. The sandbox tree earned its nickname, dynamite tree, because of its unique method of seed dispersal. When the seed pods dry, they explode with a loud bang, sending seeds flying at speeds of up to 150 miles per hour—posing a serious risk to anyone nearby. Historically, the tree's sap was used by indigenous peoples to poison arrows for hunting, and it continues to be a lurking danger for those unaware of its toxic properties. The sandbox tree serves as a reminder that nature, though beautiful, can be incredibly hazardous.Fri, 20 Sep 2024 18:27:57 +0530BCCL - Non Copyrighthttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/113526341.cmsThe manchineel tree (Hippomane mancinella) is considered one of the most dangerous trees globally. Found in tropical regions, it grows along coastal areas in the Caribbean, Central America, northern South America, and southern Florida. It belongs to the spurge family and can reach heights of around 15 metres. This tree is infamous for its toxicity. Every part of the tree, including the bark, sap, leaves, and fruit, contains harmful toxins, especially phorbol. Even brief contact with its milky sap can cause severe skin burns and irritation. The sap is so potent that standing under the tree in the rain can result in painful skin reactions as the sap gets washed onto the skin. Its small, green fruits resemble apples but are dangerously poisonous if consumed, potentially leading to intense pain, vomiting, and sometimes even death. Despite its toxic properties, the manchineel tree plays a crucial ecological role. It helps prevent beach erosion by stabilising the sand along shorelines. The tree’s name comes from the Spanish word manzanilla, meaning “little apple,” reflecting its misleading fruit. Historically, indigenous peoples used the tree’s sap to poison their arrows. Today, warning signs are often placed near these trees to prevent accidental harm.Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:30:43 +0530BCCL - Non Copyrighthttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/113525965.cmsIn the deep, dark depths of the ocean, a creature lurks that resembles the popular comic character Venom. Known as the deep sea dragonfish, belonging to the Stomiidae family, this mysterious predator, with its dark, almost liquid-like body and sharp teeth, bears a striking resemblance to the iconic anti-hero. Often found in pitch-black waters thousands of meters below the surface, the dragonfish uses its unique appearance as a form of survival. One fascinating fact about the deep sea dragonfish is its bioluminescence. Many species in the deep ocean emit a natural glow, helping them attract prey or confuse predators. The dragonfish itself has light-producing organs, called photophores, which help it lure prey into the darkness. Another interesting aspect of the dragonfish is its ability to thrive under immense pressure. The deeper you go in the ocean, the more crushing the water pressure becomes, but these animals have evolved to survive in conditions that would instantly crush most surface-dwelling creatures. Moreover, the dragonfish exhibits unique predatory behaviour, often swallowing prey whole due to the scarcity of food. These adaptations, along with their eerie appearance, make the dragonfish a fascinating real-life version of Venom.Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:18:11 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/113315837.cmsThe mandrake (Mandragora officinarum) is a plant steeped in myth and folklore, primarily due to its unique root system that often resembles the human form. Found in the Mediterranean region, the mandrake root can split into a shape miming a person's body, with twisted limbs and a central stalk resembling a torso. This eerie likeness has made the plant a central figure in historical medicine, superstition and magic. In ancient times, the mandrake was believed to possess mystical properties. Its roots were used as a remedy for various ailments, including pain relief and fertility issues. However, harvesting the plant was considered dangerous, as folklore warned that it emitted a deadly scream when uprooted. To avoid this peril, people were said to tie a rope around the mandrake, attach it to a dog, and allow the animal to pull it free, sparing the harvester from the plant's curse. Though the mandrake has medicinal uses due to its alkaloid content, it is also highly toxic. Today, the plant is more associated with its place in history and literature, symbolizing both healing and danger with its peculiar, human-like appearance.Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:37:54 +0530BCCL - Non Copyrighthttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/113315040.cmsThis dragonfly, known for its blue and black colours and nearly transparent wings, can fly at speeds of up to 35 mph. Though often targeted by hummingbirds, its exceptional eyesight helps it escape predators.Fri, 13 Sep 2024 12:15:54 +0530BCCL - Non Copyrighthttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/109707811.cmsEvery year, people all across the world celebrate World Earth Day to promote environmental conservation. It urges people to band together for a healthier planet and a better tomorrow by serving as a reminder of the importance of protecting and maintaining our environment. This observance fosters a strong connection with nature by raising awareness and inspiring action. World Earth Day 2024, which falls on a Monday this year, is observed on April 22. The topic, ‘Planet vs. Plastics’, highlights the serious issue of plastic pollution and its deleterious impacts on the environment. Considering the fragility and beauty of our planet is more crucial than ever as we approach World Earth Day in 2024. These 10 motivational sayings from environmentalists and visionaries serve as powerful reminders of the urgent need to save and safeguard our planet.Tue, 23 Apr 2024 02:59:00 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/109271864.cmsExplore the enchanting world of nocturnal blooms, where fragrant flowers come to life under the cover of darkness. From the intoxicating scent of night-blooming jasmine to the mystical allure of moonflowers, these blossoms captivate with their beauty and fragrance, creating a magical atmosphere after sunset.Sat, 13 Apr 2024 17:27:52 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/109246869.cmsA total solar eclipse captivated skywatchers across the world as the rare celestial event graced skies across North America on April 8, 2024. Those within the path of totality, including millions of people in the United States, saw the eclipse in its full splendour. People outside the path were able to see a partial solar eclipse. A solar eclipse is a celestial phenomenon where the Moon passes between the Earth and the Sun and blocks the Sun's light either entirely or partially. When the completely covers the sun, it casts a shadow on planet Earth, forming what is called a 'path of totality.' In the path of totality, the Moon covers the Sun completely and the sky becomes dark, as if it were dawn or dusk. Although the total solar eclipse was not visible to skywatchers in India, these pictures captured the rare astronomical event. Fri, 12 Apr 2024 16:14:05 +0530APhttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/108940077.cmsDiscover 10 low-maintenance flowers perfect for summer. From vibrant marigolds and resilient hibiscus to the cheerful zinnias and drought-tolerant bougainvillea, these blooms thrive with minimal watering, ensuring your garden stays lush and vibrant all season long. Say hello to effortless beauty with these resilient floral delights!Mon, 01 Apr 2024 14:27:14 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/108677813.cmsSpring has arrived in different parts of the world and also brought with it the blooming of cherry blossoms or Sakura. These delicate flowers paint the landscape in shades of pink and white, creating a stunning view that attracts travellers. Best known for their magical sights in Japan, cherry blossoms are found across the world and their arrival is celebrated with springtime festivals and events. If you can't plan a spring trip, we bring you breathtaking pictures of cherry blossoms from around the world that will captivate you. Thu, 21 Mar 2024 15:54:57 +0530AFPhttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/108038661.cmsFebruary's full moon, the snow moon, graced the night sky on February 24, 2024. Skywatchers around the world gathered to catch the stunning view of the second full moon of 2024. The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) explained that heavy snowfall, making hunting difficult, led to it being called the 'snow moon.' In addition, the title 'hunger moon' reflects the scarcity of resources during this wintry period. The snow moon is the smallest full moon of 2024, with it appearing around ten percent smaller in the night sky due to the fact that the moon's orbit is a flattened circle. This means sometimes the moon is closer to Earth or the furthest away. Here are the pictures of February's full snow moon from around the world. Tue, 27 Feb 2024 14:13:00 +0530APhttp://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/107323327.cmsLocated in the US state of Wyoming, the Yellowstone National Park is widely considered to be the first national park in the world. Located in the northwest corner of Wyoming with parts spilling over into Montana and Idaho, it was established by the 42nd United States Congress with the Yellowstone National Park Protection Act signed into law by President Ulysses S. Grant on March 1, 1872. Yellowstone has five main sports - Grant Village, Lake Village, Old Faithful, Canyon Village and Mammoth Hot Springs. Each of them is linked to a unique geological or geographical phenomenon. If you are someone who loves to soak into nature, Yellowstone is a must-visit place. Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:05:24 +0530http://photogallery.indiatimes.com/articleshow/106860058.cmsThese low-maintenance houseplants are perfect for busy individuals or those new to plant care, as they can withstand periods of neglect and still thrive indoors throughout the year.Mon, 15 Jan 2024 13:52:59 +0530