recursal/Fanatic-Fandom huggingface dataset:
Common Ringtail Possum

## Description

About the same size as a cat, the common ringtail possum is gray, with orange-brown tinges on its legs and tail, and white patches on its belly and behind the eyes, and a white tip to its tail. It uses its long prehensile tail as a fifth limb to enable it to climb and jump from branch to branch and between fences and powerlines. The gap between its second and third fingers on its forefeet means that it can hold onto branches securely.

## Distribution

Common ringtail possums are to be found along Australia’s eastern coastline, Western Australia’s southwestern corner and in Tasmania. They live in tropical or temperate areas, rarely in drier areas, usually in dense brush forests which are plentiful with eucalyptus.

## Behavior

Ringtail possums are territorial, marking their territory with scented secretions. The common ringtail possum is not solitary, unlike many other species of ringtail possum, and usually forms small groups, typically of one adult male with one to two adult females and their offspring from the last breeding season. Such family groups live in nests which they build, called dreys. These possums are nocturnal, so are most active during the night. They are well adapted to living in trees and are not often found on the ground. Common ringtail possums communicate by means of vocalizations.

## Diet

The common ringtail possum eats leaves of a variety of both introduced and native plants, and also fruits and flowers. It eats its own fecal pellets, thereby digesting its food twice and extracting the maximum nutritional value.

## Reproduction

Common ringtail possums, being monogamous, remain with one partner only. Both male and female build their drey together and will readily move to another one, along with their young. Breeding occurs from April to December. Males and females are both sexually mature by the mating season following their birth. Gestation lasts about 4 months and they usually have one or two litters each year, usually 2 babies, although 1 to 4 have been recorded. The newborn babies crawl into their mother’s pouch and stay attached to a nipple from 42 to 49 days, remaining in the pouch for another 4 months or so. Once they leave the pouch, they cling to their mother's back or stay in the nest until weaning occurs at about 6 months. Both parents often care for the young, the father carrying them around while the mother feeds.

## Population

### Threats

These animals have suffered loss of habitat from deforestation, due to the fact that they are almost exclusively arboreal. In built-up areas they are in danger of being struck by cars, and hunted by cats and dogs.

### Number

The common ringtail possum numbers have not been calculated, but populations seem to be stable and they are not threatened.

## References

https://animalia.bio/common-ringtail-possum
Evolution

Most races can evolve

„Mraz, could I ask you a few questions about evolution. I know that it makes any creature that attains it stronger, but how do you know when you can do it and what it will be."

Mrazivý seeing the confusion on Marcus' face found it a little odd since she had thought he had already evolved, since when they first met, he was not a great spirit.However, his becoming a great spirit was more of a complete transformation via the power given from Roxene's parents, than an evolution.

" Well, when you first unlock an evolution, you receive a notification from the system like when you level up. And you can choose to undergo it or disregard it. Oh, but any evolution you unlock you can go back at any time and choose so long as you have not chosen a different one already, or so I have heard. It is like if I try to recall them, I feel them in the back of my mind and know that I can pick one. As for the evolutions I can choose, right now I have three." Mrazivý said
Greater Cane Rat

## Description

The Greater cane rat is a species of African rodent. It has rounded ears, a short nose, and coarse bristly hair. Its forefeet are smaller than its hind feet and each has three toes. In Ghana, Nigeria, and other regions of West Africa, Greater cane rats are often called grasscutters for their habit to cut grass with the upper incisors which also creates a distinct tooth-chattering sound.

## Distribution

Greater cane rats are found in Sub-Saharan Africa ranging from Senegal and into eastern South Africa. They live by reed-beds, riverbanks, and near marshes and are also common in plantations and agricultural areas.

## Behavior

Greater cane rats are social animals. They live in small groups led by a single male. They are nocturnal and make nests from grasses or burrow underground. Greater cane rats are rarely found far from water and they are excellent swimmers and divers. If frightened, they either stomp their hind feet and grunt or run towards the water.

## Diet

Greater cane rats are herbivores (graminivores) and eat mainly grasses and cane. They may also supplement their diet with bark, fallen fruits, nuts, and various types of cultivated crops such as maize, wheat, sugar-cane, and cassava.

## Reproduction

Greater cane rats usually breed during the wet season. Females produce two litters per year consisting of 4 young. The gestation period typically lasts around 152 days. The pups are born well developed and become reproductively mature at about one year of age.

## Population

### Threats

There are no major threats to Greater cane rats at present. However, as humans expanded into their native habitats, the cane rats likewise expanded from their native reeds into the plantations, particularly the sugar cane plantations from which they derive their name. Their tendency to adopt plantations as habitat, where they feed on agricultural crops, often earns them the reputation of agricultural pest. Local people also use cane rats as a food source (as bushmeat), considering the meat a delicacy.

### Number

According to IUCN, the Greater cane rat is common throughout its range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.
Richardson's Ground Squirrel

## Description

Richardson's ground squirrels were named after the Scottish naturalist Sir John Richardson. They are dark brown on the upper side and tan underneath. Their tail is shorter and less bushy than in other ground squirrels, and the external ears are so short as to look more like holes in the animal's head. Their behavior is more like that of a prairie dog than a typical ground squirrel. The tail of these squirrels is constantly trembling, so they are sometimes called the "flickertails".

## DIstribution

Richardson's ground squirrels are found mainly in the northern states of the United States, such as North Dakota and Montana, and in western Canada, including central and southern Alberta and southern Saskatchewan. They inhabit short grass prairies and sometimes adapt to suburban environments. It is not unusual to find these squirrels digging tunnels under the sidewalks and patios of urban homes.

## Behavior

Richardson's ground squirrels are social and live communally. They organize their social structure around female kinship. Females will tolerate the presence of closely related females, but they are territorial towards other individuals. These squirrels are territorial around their nest sites. The burrows of Richardson's ground squirrels are grouped closely together in colonies, and individuals give audible alarm calls when possible predators approach. In some cases, ultrasonic alarm calls are given, and are responded to by other members of the colony. Richardson's ground squirrels use two audible alarm calls, a high-pitched whistle and a 'chirp' call. The whistle is given in response to terrestrial predators, while the chirp is given in response to aerial predators such as hawks. These ground squirrels may hibernate as early as July, though the young squirrels do not hibernate until September. The males emerge from hibernation in March, and establish territories before the females emerge a couple of weeks later.

## Diet

Richardson's ground squirrels are omnivores. They feed on seeds, nuts, grains, grasses and insects. In addition, they may consume the corpses of other ground squirrels.

## Reproduction

Richardson's ground squirrels are polygynous which means that males mate with more than one females during the breeding season. Mating begins 3-5 days after hibernation, between mid-March and mid-April. Females produce one litter per year. Litter size averages 6, though the maximum size recorded is 14. The gestation period lasts around 22 days. The young are born in April or May and remain underground in the burrow around 30 days where the mother nurses, grooms and warms them. Both males and females are ready to breed when they are 11 months of age.

## Population

### Threats

There are no major threats to Richardson's ground squirrels at present.

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources don’t provide the number of the Richardson's ground squirrel total population size. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.

## References

https://animalia.bio/richardsons-ground-squirrel
Long-Tailed Chinchilla

## Description

Long-tailed chinchillas have long hair, with gray, white, and black bands; it is silky, extremely soft, and firmly adhered to the skin. The general color of their upper parts is bluish or silvery gray; the underparts are yellowish-white. The tail has long, coarse, gray and black hairs on its dorsal surface. Domesticated animals are larger than wild ones, with females being larger than males.

## Distribution

Long-tailed chinchillas are found in the mountains of northern Chile. They occur in Aucó, near Illapel, IV Región, Chile, in Reserva Nacional Las Chinchillas and in La Higuera, north of Coquimbo. These chinchillas were reported from Talca, Chile, reaching north to Peru and eastward from Chilean coastal hills throughout low mountains. They inhabit barren, arid, and rugged areas of the mountain chains. Long-tailed chinchillas occur in rocky or sandy areas with a sparse cover of thorn shrubs, few herbs and forbs, and scattered cacti.

## Behavior

Long-tailed chinchillas are social animals. They live in colonies of more than 100 individuals. They are primarily nocturnal creatures but also can be seen on sunny days sitting in front of their hole, climbing and jumping on the rocks. Female in this species are dominant. They are very aggressive towards males and other females during the breeding time. When threatened Long-tailed chinchillas growl, chatter their teeth, and urinate.

## Diet

Long-tailed chinchillas are herbivores (folivores). Their diet includes different types of vegetation, but mostly grass and seeds. They also eat insects and bird eggs. Domesticated chinchillas eat wheat, hay, alfalfa, corn, oats, and food pellets.

## Reproduction

Female Long-tailed chinchillas are mostly monogamous. This means that they have only one mate during the breeding season. In the wild, they breed between October and December. Females usually have two litters per year, with 2-3 kits per litter. Gestation lasts around 111 days. Young are born well developed, fully furred, and have their eyes open. Females nurse their kits for 6-8 weeks. Long-tailed chinchillas become reproductively mature after 8 months of age.

## Population

### Threats

Long-tailed chinchillas have been threatened for years by poaching, pet trade, hunting, mining, and firewood extraction. They also suffer from predation by foxes and owls, and compete with grazers such as goats and cattle. Additionally, these animals may be threatened by El Niño events ( a climate cycle in the Pacific Ocean that has a global impact on weather patterns).

### Number

According to the IUCN Red List, the total population size of Long-tailed chinchillas is around 5,350 mature individuals. This species’ numbers are decreasing and it is currently classified as Endangered (EN) on the IUCN Red List.

## References

https://animalia.bio/long-tailed-chinchilla
Gayal

## Description

Gayal is a massive semi-domesticated bovine found in Southeast Asia. These animals are also known as ‘Cattle of Mountain”. Their head and body skin is blackish-brown, and the lower portion of the limbs are white or yellowish. Some domesticated gayals are parti-colored, while others are completely white. They have thick and massive horns with a blackish tint from base to tip. Females are much smaller than males and have smaller dewlap on the throat.

## Distribution

Gayals are found in Northeast India, Bangladesh, northern Myanmar and in Yunnan, China. They inhabit hill-forests. In India, semi-domesticated gayals are kept by several ethnic groups living in the hills of Tripura, Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Nagaland. They also occur in the Chittagong Hill Tracts. In northern Burma, they occur in the Kachin State, and in adjacent Yunnan are found only in the Trung and Salween River basins. These animals prefer cold and mild climate and are mainly found in the tropical rain forests.

## Behavior

Gayals are social animals and live in herds. From birth until the time of butchering or market, they remain in the herd and roam mostly freely throughout the forests. Females are usually aggressive when with calves, and there are instances known when people have been severely injured after being gored by one. Males are usually more docile. These animals are active during the day and prefer to rest in shades in the midday.

## Diet

Gayals are herbivorous animals that feed on tree fodders, shrubs, herbs, and other natural vegetations.

## Reproduction

Little is known about the mating system in gayals. These animals breed throughout the year. Females usually give birth to a single calf and the gestation period lasts around 270-290 days. Little information is also known about parental care and raising the young. Females become reproductively mature at 40-48 months of age, while males are ready to breed when they are 3-4 years old.

## Population

### Threats

The number of the gayal global population is not currently known.

### Number

There are no major threats to gayals at present. However, crossbreeding with the local cattle and hunting for meat can be threats for these animals in the near future.

## Domestication

Gayals have originated more than 8000 years ago and are thought to be descendent from wild gaur. These animals play an important role in the social, cultural and economic life of local people. To own a gayal is considered to be the sign of prosperity and wealth of the family. Farmers mainly rear these animals for meat. Besides this gayals are also used as a marriage gift and sacrificial animal for different social and cultural ceremonies.
Latmer

**Latmer** (ondyński: Lato) - w mitologii neoskiej uosobienie lata, patron szczęścia i odpoczynku. Utożsamiany z hestemidiańskimi bogami: Ilio i Chamogelosem.

## Charakterystka i Symbole

Święto na cześć Latmera "Latmersun" obchodzono w pierwszy dzień lata - 21 czerwca. Ludzie zasiadali w rodzinnych krągach przy swoich domach ogrzewając się w pierwszych promieniach letniego słońca, które jak wierzono, były strzałami, które Latmer zsyłał za pomocą swojego wspaniałego łuku. Ondynianie z Północy wywieszali przy swych oknach łapacze snów, które przy wschodzie pierwszego letniego słońca zostawiały cień, w którym jak wierzono przepowiadane było wydarzenie z niedalekiej przyszłości.

Latmera wyobrażono sobie jako przystojnego, jasnowłosego, młodego mężczyzne. Z powodu gorąca spowodowanego mieszkaniem na Słońcu, Latmer miał na sobie jedynie przepaskę na pasie.
Kit Fox

## Description

Kit foxes are the smallest foxes found in North America. They have large ears, that help them lower their body temperature and give them an exceptional hearing. Their coat is usually gray, with rusty tones, and a black tip to their tail. Their color ranges from yellowish to gray, and the back is usually darker than the majority of the coat; the belly and inner ears are usually lighter. Kit foxes have distinct dark patches around the nose. Males in this species are slightly larger than females.

## Distribution

Kit foxes are found in the Southwestern United States and northern and central Mexico. The northernmost part of their range is the arid interior of Oregon. The eastern limit is southwestern Colorado. Kit foxes can be found south through Nevada, Utah, southeastern California, Arizona, New Mexico, and into western Texas. They prefer arid climates, such as desert scrub, chaparral, and grasslands. They can also be found in urban and agricultural areas.

## Behavior

Kit foxes are mostly nocturnal but sometimes venture out of their den during the day. They usually go out to hunt shortly after sunset. Different Kit fox families can occupy the same hunting grounds but do not generally go hunting at the same time. These foxes prefer to live in underground burrows in pairs or small family groups.

## Diet

Kit foxes are primarily carnivorous and hunt on small animals such as kangaroo rats, Cottontail rabbits, Black-tailed jackrabbits, Meadow voles, hares, Prairie dogs, insects, lizards, snakes, fish, and ground-dwelling birds. They will scavenge carrion. If food is scarce, Kit foxes may eat tomatoes, cactus fruits, and other fruits.

## Reproduction

Kit foxes are monogamous forming pairs for life. These pairs mate during October and November. However, these animals can also be polygynous and pairs can change year to year. These mate from December to February, when they use larger family dens. Litters are born throughout March and April, usually containing 1 to 7 kits and average 4 kits. The gestation is 49 to 55 days. Kits do not leave the den until they are 4 weeks old. They are weaned after about 8 weeks and become independent at 5 to 6 months old. They become sexually mature at 10 months. Both parents take part in raising and protecting their young.

## Population

### Threats

The loss of habitat is the main threat to these animals. Their habitat is used for agriculture, fragmentation, and degradation due to industrial and urban development.

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources do not provide the Kit fox total population size. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List but its numbers today are decreasing.

### Ecological niche

Kit foxes play an important role as predators in the ecosystems they inhabit by controlling populations of small mammals, insects, birds, and reptiles. Due to their habit of moving from den to den when Kit foxes search for a mate and food, their old dens are taken over by other animals. As scavengers, these small foxes also play a very important role in biodegradation.
Nero

**Nero** (od greckiego **Neró, gr. Νερό - woda**) - w mitologii hestemidzkiej Bóg wód.

## Biografia

Nero jest drugim synem i trzecim dzieckiem Ilio i Gi, młodszym bratem Vasiliasa i Ntanty oraz starszym bratem Thany. Początkowo zamieszkiwał szczyt Pokeanos, ale dobrowolnie odszedł, aby zamieszkać w podwodnym królestwie Nerovathos, ktorego jest władcą. Kiedy jego matka zobaczyła co wyczyniła pod wpływem gniewu (Patrz *Mit o powstaniu ludzi*), płakała tak mocno, że na ziemii pojawiły się oceany, morza, jeziora i rzeki, którymi potem zajął się Nero. Z czasem jednak Oceany znalazły się pod kontrolą jego potomkini, Okeanii. Z romansu z Thaną narodziła mu się czwóka dzieci: Naftis, Ygeia i Ipsychia. Naftis był jego ulubieńcem, a żeby zachować go przy sobie Nero mianował go opiekunem i Bogiem marynarzy. Nosos i Ipsychia zostali Bogami odpowiednio lekarzy i psychiki. Nero stworzył Wodorosty nieśmiertelności, które pozwalają Bogom mieszkającym pod wodą utrzymać swoją nieśmiertelność. Każdy Bóg morski posiada jedno płuco i jedno skrzele, aby móc oddychać zarówno pod wodą jak i na lądzie.

### Symbole

Świętym zwierzęciem Nero jest delfin. Jego rydwan jest zaprzężony w cztery delfiny. Rydwanem tym przemierza wszelkie wody i je patroluje.
Ygeia

**Ygeia** (od greckiego **Ygeía, gr. Υγεία - zdrowie**) - w mitologii hestemidzkiej Bogini zdrowia.

## Biografia

Ygeia była najmłodszym z trójki dzieci oraz drugą córką Nero i Thany oraz młodszą siostrą Naftisa i Ipsychii. Zapoznała śmiertelników z medycyną oraz wyszkoliła pierwszych lekarzy. Na jej rozkaz wybudowano pierwsze przychodnie lekarskie oraz szpitale. Ygeia zawsze przy sobie nosiła złoty krzyż, którego jeden dotyk uzdrawiał nawet najgorzej chorującego śmiertelnika. Była też lekarką Bogów, jako że oni też chorowali. Wyszła za Atmosferosa, któremu urodziła dwóch synów: Eiriniosa i Oneirosa. Ygeia umie również zsyłać choroby, uczyniła to z Oioną, na którą zesłała wieczny katar.

### Symbole

Świętym zwierzęciem Ygeii jest wąż Eskulapa. Węże te informują ją o chorych śmiertelnikach oraz pilnują jej złotego krzyża.
Dr. Jeremy

**Dr. Jeremy Hughes** ( 15/9/1958 - (Aged 64) ) known professionally as **Dr. Hughes** or (more commonly) **Dr. Jeremy** , is a working family doctor at the Suddery National Hospital in Suddery, where he is one of the most experienced doctors in the field. He is well respected for his calmness and ability.

## History

Born in the London county of Brent (more specifically Wembley) to an upper-middle class family, Hughes' father ( **Dr. Andrew Jacob Hughes** ( 1929 - 2017 ) ) was a well respected doctor in his community, and a major reason why Hughes would later become a doctor himself.

He attended medical school straight out of college, where he would study for the next 6 years. Out of his residency in medical school he was eventually hired at a local hospital in the London Borough of Kensington & Chelsea. Starting his work in 1981. In his time at the hospital, he became infamous for his quick learning, quick thinking, and his ability to relate to his patients and follow co-wokers. During this time, he would also meet his future wife in 1984, ( **Anne Slater** (16/7/1959 - ) ) who he'd later get married to in 1989. He would win one award during his final year working in London in 2018, which he'd later frame and put up in his office.

By later 2018 however, the pressure of such a big city like London was starting to wear on Hughes, and with help from Anne, he eventually decided to move up north, with the two eventually deciding to move into Suddery, the capital of the island of Sodor. He would officially leave his stay in the London Hospital in April 2019, ending a 38 year long working stay at the hospital, and moved into a house in the south of Suddery with his wife later in May. He eventually joined the Suddery National Hospital in late May 2019. In his first few weeks at the hospital he would meet Dr. James Edwards, a still inexperienced doctor at the hospital, who would take under his wing. By 2022, he has worked 4 years in Suddery, and has once again made a name for himself with his attentive skills in medicine.

## Fun Facts

* His surname of "Hughes" is in reference to the locomotive engineer George Hughes.
	+ He is one of 5 characters who's surnames are in reference to locomotive related people. The other three are: Dr. James, Bill Kenny (and his family) , The Postman and The Commentator.
	+ He is one of two of these 5 to have their surnames referencing a locomotive desinger, the other being The Commentator
Sofias

**Sofias** (od greckiego **Sofía, gr. Σοφία - mądrość**) - w mitologii hestemidzkiej Bóg mądrości.

## Biografia

Sofias jest drugim dzieckiem Vasiliasa i Ntanty, młodszym bratem Gennisi oraz starszym bratem Zygosa. Razem z rodzicami i rodzeństwem jest klasyfikowany jako Bóg Główny oraz zamieszkuje Pokeanos. Jest żonaty z Neolaią, z którą ma dwie córki: Seirę i Stylitię.

### Symbole

Świętym zwierzęciem Sofiasa jest sowa. Na obrazach Hestemidian często przedstawiany jest w pobliżu ogromnej sowy. Hestemidianie uważają, że ptaki te to uczniowie Sofiasa, którzy z czasem przemienią się w lekarzy, prawników, sędziów i naukowców.
Pokeania

**Pokeania -** część Hestemidii leżącej na północnej półkuli. Jest to drugi kontynent, do którego dotarła ludzkość.

## Granice Pokeanii

Przebieg umownej granicy Pokeanii i Sucyrii jest oddzielany górami Fei.

## Geografia

Pokeania leży na północnej połkuli. Od północy kontynent ten oblewany jest przez Ocean Niczyich, od zachodu przez Ocean Zimny, a od wschodu Morze O.

### **Linia Brzegowa**

Pokeanię stanowią wyspy, a największe z nich to:

1. Krytia
2. Netun
3. Malaka
4. Jania
5. Ambaria

### **Geologia**

Kontynent stanowi wiele pasm górskich, do nich się zalicza:

* Góry Norskie
* Góry Nizinne
* Góry Wulkaniczne
* Góry Zachodnie
* Bijany
* Grzbiety
* Centary
* Opiekuny
* Góry Fei
* Porynia

Pokeania zawiera również jeden wulkan nazywany: Sermą

### **Wody**

W Pokeanii znajduje się najwięcej **rzek**, niż gdziekolwiek na innych kontynentach. Do największych zalicza się:

1. Skwer
2. Hajdal
3. Ladyna
4. Alicja
5. Prona
6. Grina
7. Krina

**Jeziora**

* Ilija
* Rina
Polynesian Rat

## Description

The Polynesian rat is the third most widespread species of rat in the world behind the Brown rat and Black rat. Polynesian rats have large, round ears, a pointed snout, black/brown hair with a lighter belly, and comparatively small feet. They have thin, long bodies. Polynesian rats are commonly distinguished by a dark upper edge of the hind foot near the ankle. The rest of the foot is pale.

## Distribution

Polynesian rats are widespread throughout the Pacific and Southeast Asia. Thye inhabit many environments, from grasslands to forests and may be found in agricultural areas.

## Behavior

Polynesian rats are social creatures. They are nocturnal like most rodents, and are adept climbers, often nesting in trees. When foraging Polynesian rats have been observed to often take pieces of food back to a safe place to properly shell a seed or otherwise prepare certain foods. This not only protects them from predators, but also from rain and other rats. These "husking stations" are often found among trees, near the roots, in fissures of the trunk, and even in the top branches.

## Diet

These rats are omnivorous. They feed on seeds, fruit, leaves, bark, insects, earthworms, spiders, lizards, and avian eggs and hatchlings.

## Reproduction

Little information is available about the mating system in Polynesian rats. They breed in spring and summer. Females give birth to 4 litters per year with and an average of 4 young per litter. The gestation period lasts 21-24 days and weaning takes around another month at 28 days. Young become reproductively mature at 8-12 months of age.

## Population

### Threats

There are no major threats to Polynesian rats at present.

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources do not provide the Polynesian rat total population size, but this animal is common and widespread throughout its known range. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
Paranoia

**Paranoia** (od greckiego **Paránoia, gr. Παράνοια - niepoczytalność**) - w mitologii hestemidzkiej Bogini szaleństwa.

## Biografia

Paranoia była córką Polemosa i Efii oraz siostrą przyrodnią Zilii i Fotiosa. Jak inni Źli Bogowie zamieszkiwała Spikolaidę. Posiadała moc władania ludzkim umysłem, potrafiła wywował u śmiertelników amok i obłęd. Jednak takie osoby trafiały do szpitali psychiatrycznych, które wybudowały Ygeia i Ipsychia. Pewnego razu próbowała wpędzić w obłęd całe miasteczko, jednak nie udało jej się to, ponieważ nie posiadała zbyt potężnej mocy. Umiała jednak przez bardzo krótki czas wywował obłęd u Bogów.

### Symbole

Świętym zwierzęciem Paranoi jest kruk. Śmiertelnicy wierzyli, że kruki to dusze osób zmarłych przez wywołany przez nią obłęd. W Hestemidii kruki były także symbolem destrukcji.
Śnieżynka z zapałkami

**Śnieżynka z zapałkami** (ondyński: Snichka i matczki) - legenda opowiadająca historię Śnieżynki. Czytano ją w lutym.

### Wersja przetłumaczona

W mroźny wieczór, ostatni dzień mijającego roku, mała sierota imieniem Śnieżynka wędruje boso ulicami miasta, nadaremno próbując sprzedać zapałki. Żaden z przechodniów nie jest zainteresowany zmarzniętą i głodną dziewczynką, każdy w natłoku ostatnich przygotowań do świętowania z rodzinami w pośpiechu udaje się do domu. Zrezygnowana i zniechęcona dalszą pracą, znajduje cichy kąt pomiędzy dwoma domami, gdzie siada, aby rozgrzać zziębnięte nogi. Rozmarzona myślą poczucia ciepła, rozpala kolejno po sobie cztery zapałki. Każda z nich jest symbolem jej pragnień, które przez kilka sekund widzi własnymi oczami. Jako pierwszy ukazuje się żelazny piec, przy którym mogłaby ogrzać zziębnięte skostniałe dłonie, następnie pieczona gęś, którą najadłaby się do syta, jak nigdy wcześniej w swoim życiu. Kolejno pojawia się jabłoń, oświetlona świeczkami, które ją ogrzewały. Zapałka zgasła, a kilka iskierek uniosło się w górę, ku niebu. Jedna z nich zaczęła spadać niczym gwiazda. Śnieżynka przypomniała sobie, jak jej babcia opowiadała, że to znak zapowiadający nadejście śmierci. Śnieżynka zapala następną zapałkę i pojawia się jej ukochana babcia. Bojąc się, że zniknie, od razu zapala całą paczkę zapałek. Razem unoszą się do chmur, a ich dusze zamieniają się w płatki śniegu.

### Wersja ondyńska

V koldni veter, ostatnij day mijacego roku, smol orfanka nejmt Snichka ide berfut stritami siti, trajin sellat matczki. None of prichidniov isn't interesant koldnetom i hungri devkom, kazdi speši sie z ostatnimi trajanami do Svijat Zimnych. Devka found silent kat between dvoma domostvami, where ona siti bi sie rozgrac. Snicka marzi o warm, lajtuje ctiri matczki. Kazda is symbolem jej drimov, ktore vidi przez several sekunt. Iako pirwši ukazuje se jej ajroni pet, pri ktorim ona kud sie rozgrac. Nastepna est piczina goose, ktora naeatnela se by do syta. Kolejna est applenka osvetlana svitkami. Matczka zgaslja, a several sparks fleu do gory, q skai. Yedna of nich began to fall iak szutinstar. Snichka rememberla sbe, iak jej marmar toldla iz to sign of smrti. Snichka lajtnela kolejnom matczke i jej marmar appirs. Skerd of, ze disapir, od razu lajtuje hol paczke matczke. Togeder fleu to klaudov, and ich duše turn to snechflejks.
Black Giant Squirrel

## Description

Black giant squirrels are large tree squirrels. Their back, ears and bushy tail are deep brown to black in color with a lighter buff-colored belly. Males in females in this species look alike.

## Distribution

Black giant squirrels are found in south, east and southeast Asia. They range from northern Bangladesh, northeast India, eastern Nepal, Bhutan, southern China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Malaysia, Cambodia, Vietnam, and western Indonesia. They can also be found in the Kaziranga National Park in the state of Assam, India.These squirrels inhabit tropical and subtropical coniferous and broadleaf forests, broadleaf evergreen and semi-evergreen forests.

## Behavior

Black giant squirrels are diurnal and arboreal, but sometimes climb down from the forest canopy to feed on the ground. They rarely enter plantations or settlements, preferring the wild forest. These squirrels are solitary creatures. However, they occasionally can be seen in small groups or pairs during the breeding season. They do not hibernate. Black giant squirrels communicate with each other with the help of vocal chirps and barks. When they see a predator they use alarm calls.

## Diet

Black giant squirrels are herbivores. Their diet consists of seeds, pine cones, fruits, and leaves.

## Reproduction

Little information is known about the mating system in Black giant squirrels. They breed from March to April or July to August. Females give birth to 1-2 young, which they raise in a drey (or nest), often located within a hollow space of a tree. The gestation period lasts around 28-35 days. Mothers nurse their young for approximately five weeks.

## Population

### Threats

One of the main threats to Black giant squirrels is the destruction of their habitat through human settlement, timber harvesting and agriculture. Furthermore, overhunting by human predation in parts of these squirrels' range, has resulted in a total loss of up to 30% of the population in the past ten years.

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources do not provide the Black giant squirrel total population size. Currently, this species is classified as Near Threatened (NT) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are decreasing.

### Ecological niche

Because Black giant squirrels consume fruit and nuts they disperse seeds of large-seeded tree species, thus benefiting the local ecosystem.

## References

https://animalia.bio/black-giant-squirrel
Bush Rat

## Description

Bush rats are small Australian animals. They have soft and dense fur which is grey-brown and red-brown with light grey-brown underparts. Tails of these animals are brown, grey or black and are always slightly shorter than the body. The feet can be white, pink, grey or brown and the hindfeet of Bush rats are often darker that the forefeet. Males in this species are larger than the females.

## Distribution

Bush rats are found primarily in the coastal regions of southwestern Australia. They mainly occur in the lowlands but can also be found in parts of the Australian Alps and on some offshore islands, including Kangaroo Island. Bush rats inhabit coastal scrub and heath, subalpine woodland, eucalypt forest, and tropical moist forest.

## Behavior

Bush rats are rarely seen because of their shy nature and nocturnal behaviour. They are not social animals and spend their life alone. Young rats leave their birthplace to find their own small territory for surviving the winter. During spring and summer time they usually travel great distances and males can cover up to a kilometre for one night. Bush rats are terrestrial and prefer areas with dense undergrowth. They construct a burrow that leads down into the nest chamber and is lined with grass and other vegetation. Bush rats tend to avoid areas impacted by humans. When threatened they defend themselves with boxing, threat-posture, clash or approach. In order to communicate with one another Bush rats produce sounds, use touch, odor, and visual identification.

## Diet

Bush rats are omnivorouse creatures. In the summer they consume primarily fruit, arthropods, and seeds, but in the winter their main source of food is from a particular cyperaceous species. When in the forest Bush rats consume primarily fungi and various fibrous plant material. They have been even observed feeding on nectar without damaging the blossoms.

## Reproduction

Little is known about the mating system in Bush rats. They begin breeding around November. The majority of individuals do not live to a second breeding cycle due to their short life span. Females can have several litters giving birth to 4-5 young per litter. The gestation period varies between 22 and 24 days. Females nurse their young in a burrow for 20-25 days after which pups become independent. They become reproductively mature at around 4 months of age.

## Population

### Threats

Some of the biggest threats to the Bush rat include Red foxes and feral cats, both introduced species. Evidence suggests that the incidence of fire can increase predation of Bush rats due to the removal of undergrowth in which they are usually able to hide

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources do not provide the Bush rat total population size, but this animal is common and widespread throughout its known range. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
Melon-Headed Whale

## Description

The Melon-headed whale belongs to the oceanic dolphin family. It is closely related to the Pygmy killer whale and Pilot whale. Collectively these dolphin species are known by the common name blackfish. Melon-headed whales have a rounded cone head which gives the animal its common name. The color of the body is light grey except for a dark grey face – sometimes called the "mask". The flippers are long and pointed. The dorsal fin is tall with a pointed tip.

## Distribution

Melon-headed whales are found beyond the continental shelf between 20°S and 20°N. Most commonly they occur in the Philippines Sea. Individuals have also been sighted off the southern coast of Ireland. Melon-headed whales live far from shore in all the world's tropical and subtropical oceans. At the northern fringes of their range, they may also be found in temperate waters.

## Behavior

Melon-headed whales are very social animals. They live in large groups numbering between 100 and 1,000. Within these large groups, they usually swim in smaller groups of 10-14. They have been seen swimming close to each other and touching flippers. Groups of the Melon-headed whales mix with groups of Fraser’s dolphins and socialize with them. They also associate with Humpback whales and Pilot whales. Melon-headed whales spend much of their daytime at the surface resting. When resting near the surface, they create large splashes when they break the water. Several of them rise vertically out of the water to observe their surroundings and then splash back down. This technique is known as spy hopping. These whales are capable of very fast swimming, particularly when startled. In flight, they often make short, low jumps clear of the sea surface, splashing lots of water.

## Diet

Melon-headed whales are carnivorous. They typically feed on squid and small fish.

## Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive behavior or breeding habits of Melon-headed whales. It is suggested that calves are born year round. Gestation period probably lasts about 12 months after which a single calf is born. At birth calf weighs 10–15 kg (22–33 lb) and is 1 m (3.3 ft) long. Calves are capable of swimming soon after birth. It is known that Melon-headed whales reach reproductive maturity at around 4 years of age.

## Population

### Threats

Melon-headed whales are not hunted specifically, however, they are accidentaly caught in fishing nets or occasionally hunted by fisheries in coastal Japan. This species, like other beaked whales, is likely to suffer from sounds, produced by navy sonar and seismic exploration equipment. Pollution and climate change are another threats to this species.

### Number

According to the IUCN Red List, the total population size of the Melon-headed whale is unknown. However, there are estimated populations of the species in the following areas: eastern tropical Pacific - 45,400 whales; Gulf of Mexico - 3,451 whales; Hawaii - 2,947 whales; eastern Sulu Sea (Philippines) - 921 whales. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List.
Common Minke Whale

## Description

Common minke whales are one of the smallest baleen whales (second smallest only to the Pygmy right whale). Females are larger than males. They have a dark gray back and clean white underbelly. The jaw is dark gray on both sides. Common minke whales have about 230-360 pairs of creamy white baleen plates with a fine white fringe. They possess 50-70 thin ventral pleats, which only extend about 47 percent of the body length. The tail of these whales extends into two long tips and the dorsal fin is high and curved back.

## Distribution

Common minke whales are found in all oceans and some adjoining seas. The migration patterns of these whales are poorly known. They occur in the North Atlantic, the North Pacific, and the Southern Hemisphere. Common minke whales prefer cooler regions. They occur in both coastal and offshore waters. They also often enter bays, estuaries, lagoons and fjords.

## Behavior

Common minke whales are usually seen singly or in small groups of 2-4 individuals; however, where food is abundant they can be seen in large aggregations. These whales are curious creatures. They often approach ships and wharfs which is not typical for whales of their family. They are also highly acrobatic. They can leap completely out of the water like dolphins. Common minke whales are fast swimmers. Some of their populations are migratory. Both southern and northern populations often spend winter in tropical waters, although at different times of the year. This happens because of seasonal differences in their homelands.

## Diet

Like all baleens, Common minke whales are carnivorous. They feed on krill and some small fish. Their diet also includes pelagic crustaceans and cephalopods and varies by region, season, and year.

## Reproduction

Little is known about the reproductive behavior of Common minke whales. Females are known to be promiscuous, suggesting that these minke whales exhibit polygynandrous (promiscuous) mating system. In the Atlantic, breeding takes place in December-May and in the Pacific, it lasts year round. Females have young every other year. Gestation period lasts 10 months after which a single calf is born. The calf is weaned after a period of 6 months. Common minke whales become reproductively mature at about 6-8 years of age for females and about 6-7 years for males.

## Population

### Threats

Scientific and commercial whaling are major threats for the Common minke whale. They are cought largely for their meat. It is now one of the primary targets of the whaling industry. Minke whales are occasionally caught in fishing gear of various types, including set nets, fish pots, gillnets, trap nets, trawls, longlines, and seines. Habitat shifting and alteration are another threats to these whales.

### Number

According to IUCN, there is no overall population estimate available for the Common minke whale. However, there are estimates of its populations in the following area: North Atlantic - about 182,000 individuals. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers remain stable.
Aba Roundleaf Bat

The Aba roundleaf bat, also known as the Aba leaf-nosed bat is a species of bat in the family Hipposideridae. It is found in west Africa along the southern coast from Nigeria to Senegal. Populations have also been noted in Sudan and Uganda. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, dry savanna, moist savanna, and caves.
Rock Cavy

## Description

Rock cavies are large rodents and like other species of cavies the tail in this species is absent. These animals have whitish throats, grey dorsum and light brown stomach. They have porcupine-like jaw muscles. Young Rock cavies look similar to adults.

## Distribution

Rock cavies are found in South America. They range from eastern Brazil, from eastern Piauí state to Minas Gerais state. These animals have been introduced to the oceanic island of Fernando de Noronha. Rock cavies inhabit dry, rocky areas with low, scrubby vegetation, and they like to reside close to stony mountains and hills.

## Behavior

Rock cavies are social and live in large groups. Each group has an alpha or dominant male and several females. The males are territorial and defend rock pile shelters against other adult males. These rock piles are built to impress the females. Once a female chooses a rock pile, she indirectly chooses the builder as her mate. Rock cavies are very good climbers and they are often seen foraging in treetops. These animals are active at day and night but mostly at dawn or dusk. They usually shelter in crevices. Rock cavies communicate through a variety of vocalizations, many of which show anxiety or fear. They also socialize through allogrooming and such agonistic interactions as head thrusts and chases.

## Diet

Rock cavies are herbivorous. They feed on seed and leaves of the scrubby vegetation that grows in their territories. Their diet also includes seeds and even occasional fruits.

## Reproduction

Rock cavies are polygynous, which means that males mate with more than one female during the breeding season. These animals breed year round. Females give birth to one or two young only, but several litters per year are common. The gestation period averages 75 days. Young are born well devloped and become weaned at 35 days. Both male and female Rock cavies care for their young. When both parents are present, the females spend more time with their young than the males do. When the males are absent, the females spend more time with their young than they do when the father is present. Females who raise young on their own are more aggressive than females that raise the young with a partner. Rock cavies reach reproductive maturity at around 133 days of age.

## Population

### Threats

Rock cavies are frequently hunted as food by local human populations. This resulted in 30% of the population decline in the last ten years. Their environment is also being destroyed due to deforestation. There are also efforts to breed Rock cavies in captivity as a potential food source.

### Number

According to IUCN, Rock cavies are locally common throughout their range but no overall population estimate is available. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red List and its numbers today are stable.
European Hamster

## Description

European hamsters have brown dorsal fur with white patches. Their chest and belly are black. The tail is short and furred. They have cheek pouches and much larger than the Syrian or dwarf hamsters, which are commonly kept as pets.

## Distribution

European hamsters are native to a large range in Eurasia. They are found from Belgium and Alsace (eastern France) in the west, to Russia in the east, and Bulgaria in the south. European hamsters inhabit low-lying farmland with soft loam or loess soils, although they may also occur in meadows, gardens or hedges.

## Behavior

European hamsters are usually solitary and crepuscular creatures. They live in a complex burrow system. Having elastic cheek pouches these hamsters transport their food to the food storage chambers. These may be quite large and may consist of a total of 65 kg of food including. European hamsters hibernate between October and March. During this time, they wake up every 5-7 days to feed from the storage chambers. These hamsters are good simmers. When a hamster needs to swim it inflates its cheek pouches with air for increased buoyancy. Sometimes during large population movements European hamsters can cross large rivers. These movements are usually caused by food shortages.

## Diet

European hamsters are omnivores. They eat seeds, legumes, root vegetables, grasses, and insects.

## Reproduction

Little is known about the mating system in European hamsters. They breed from early April to August. Females usually give birth to 2 litters per year and the size of the litter ranges from 3 to 15 young. The gestation period lasts 18-20 days. Young are weaned at 3 weeks of age and reach adult size at 8 weeks. Adult European hamsters reach reproductive maturity when they are about 43 days old.

## Population

### Threats

In western Europe, these hamsters suffered from persecution and agricultural intensification. They were trapped and poisoned to prevent damage to crops, and this practice still continues in some parts of their range. In eastern Europe, these animals are still trapped for their fur. Changing agricultural practices in eastern Europe may also become a threat in the future.

### Number

The IUCN Red List and other sources do not provide the European hamster total population size, but this animal is common and widespread throughout its known range. Currently, this species is classified as Least Concern (LC) on the IUCN Red Lis, however its numbers today are decreasing.

### Ecological niche

European hamsters act as seed dispersers due to feeding upon various seeds and grains that are occasionally lost while storing.