Dolphins

Dolphins are very intelligent marine animals who use echo-location (a series of high frequencey clicks) to locate their food in the ocean. They belong to the same family as Orcas and Whales. Dolphins are carnivores and eat mainly fish and squid. Many of them live in tropical oceans while a small number live in rivers. These animals are famous for their playful behaviour making them a favourite with people. Many species "sky-hop" (jump out of the water) or swim alongside ships or boats. The mating season is throughout the year but depending on the species it may be higher in spring/autumn. Generally gestation is 9-17 months when the female is reasdy to give birth she will detach herself from the pod and go nearer the surface. They usually only have one calf and twins are unlikely. As soon as the birth takes place the female mustmust quickly take it to the surface so it can take its first breath. The calf will nurse from 11 months to 2 years, and after it is done nursing it will still stay with its mother until it is between 3 and 8 years old.

Horses

Horses have been with man for thousands of years. They have helped us both with military work and farming. Hores have also made star appearences in films and books. The most famous horse novel is Black Beauty written by Anna Sewel. This book was written to highlight the working conditions of horses in 18th century London. Greek mythology tales also featured horses such as the winged stallion Pegasus. Today horse are used mainly for leisure but they are also used in parades and by the police ; to control large crowds at football matches.







Riding has become a very enjoyable pastime for people of all ages. Horses are also able to provide therapy for people who suffer from various problems. Organizations like the Horse World Welfare run schemes throughout the school term and holidays in order to help people become more confident and show leadership; all through learning to handle horses.  But why horses? Horses are used because they are prey animals and so like to feel safe. They become afraid quickly if the handeler is too rough or demanding.

Riding gear does not need to be expensive but it should be clean and fit well. All riders must wear a hat , jodphurs and long-sleeved top. Gloves are optional but can prevent rubbing and blisters.
When mounting a horse we mainly do it from the nearside or the left. To mount from the ground take hold of the reins in your right hand and place your left hand on the pommel of the saddle. Place your left foot in the stirrup iron bounce three times then swing ypurself over and land gently in the saddle.

To give your horse the signal to walk on , gently squeeze with your leg and maintain correct rein hol and posture. A rider should be sitting straight and tall at all times. Their hands should be gentle and relaxed. There are two types of trotting : rising and sitting. To ask youor horse to trot shorten the reins hold onto the saddle strap and squeeze with your leg. During the rising trot the rider moves up and down in the saddle however in sitting trot the rider must sit firmly in the saddle.

In order to turn , for example turning left : squeeze on your left rein and kick with your right leg . The same applies for the other side. To halt a horse pull back on both reins. Take both feet out of the stirrups and take the reins in your right handle . Swing your left leg over avoiding the horse's back and land gently. Go to the horse's head and hold the reins under the chin.

Birds

Birds are very interesting animals to study and a lot of pleasure can be derived from listening to the various bird calls. I am going to name you two of our most easily recognized British birds.
The Robin (Erithacus rubecula) is probably one of our most popular birds. it has an orange-red breast and face. Juveniles do not have red on them: there throats and breast have ocher spots and darker parts. The upper parts are also spotted ocher. Robins are highly territorial and will fight to the death in some cases. They can be found in gardens , woods and parks .They often come to feeding tables and may nest in boxes or in garages.
Another familiar bird is the black bird. It is a large thrush and has a long full tail. Males are black and adult birds have narrow yellow eye-rings and orange yellow bill. Females are sooty brown with a paler throat and brownish breast that is rarely streaked darker. This bird can be seen in gardens , parks ,woods and areas of vegetation.