Cayla de Souza

I come from a small coastal town in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, near the renowned diving destination Aliwal Shoal, where my deep-seated passion for the ocean first took root. Family trips to the Kruger National Park are some of my favourite memories; there’s nothing quite like being surrounded by wildlife. These experiences inspired me to study the natural world and its creatures, a path I’ve been on for the past 5 years. I attained my undergraduate and honours degree in marine biology and recently completed my masters degree in applied ocean sciences, majoring in oceanography.

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The Power and Respect of Wild Elephants Elephants, known for their intelligence and strong family bonds, also command respect due to their size and strength. An encounter with a charging elephant is a potent reminder of the importance of respecting wild animals, and the invaluable experience game rangers bring. Elephants in South African game reserve …

Dive beneath the waves, and you might encounter a spectacle of nature that seems almost out of this world: the flying gurnard. This unique marine creature, with its expansive, wing-like pectoral fins and vibrant colors, is a sight to behold. The Habitat of a Flying Gurnard The flying gurnard, scientifically known as Dactylopterus volitans, is …

Bears dance in the forest’s core, where meadows emerge after the snow. They rub against trees, shedding their winter coats, and leave a unique scent marking their presence. The Dance Begins As summer approaches, the bears feel the warmth seeping into their thick winter coats. This signals the time to shed and refresh. While adults …

The vaquita, a small porpoise species, is on the brink of extinction. This marine mammal is the smallest of all living cetaceans, found exclusively in the northern end of the Gulf of California in Baja, California, Mexico. With a maximum body length of 150 cm for females and 140 cm for males, its size is …

From May to October, the southeastern U.S. coasts become a hub of marine activity. During this period, five turtle species, notably the loggerhead and Kemp’s ridley, embark on a significant journey. Drawn by instinct, they navigate vast ocean expanses to return to their birth beaches, using the cover of night to lay their eggs. In …

Nature’s stories are abundant with tales of survival, valor, and sacrifice. Recently, the expansive landscape of Thornybush Game Reserve in South Africa bore witness to a riveting saga. A buffalo mother’s unparalleled courage in the face of danger showcased the depths of a mother’s love. As reported by Hindustan Times, this tale is both heart-wrenching …

In the vast expanse of the ocean, there are few sights as awe-inspiring as a humpback whale breaching. Now imagine not one, but three of these majestic creatures launching themselves out of the water in flawless harmony. A recent video capturing this rare synchronization has left viewers spellbound. This isn’t just a visual treat; it’s …

For nearly two decades, the lake at Carbrook Golf Course has been an unlikely home for bull sharks. The floods in 1996 swept six young bull sharks into the lake. When the floodwaters receded, the bull sharks found themselves trapped in a rather unfamiliar setting. For almost two decades, they have sustained themselves on the …

Imagine this: a Sifaka lemur, with its strikingly large eyes and fluffy white fur, leaping sideways across the road with its arms raised, much like a ballerina. Such is a typical day in Madagascar’s remote Berenty Reserve life. Continue reading to find out how you can help save their dance. The Enchanting Sifaka Lemur These …

In a world covered in ice and snow, a heartwarming tale unfolds. An adorable baby emperor penguin, smaller than its peers, embarks on a journey to find friends. Watch the video linked below to witness his journey. The Little Penguin That Could Unlike his larger counterparts, our tiny hero faces unique challenges in his pursuit …

Coral reefs, the rainforests of the ocean, are facing an existential crisis. The vibrant colors and diverse life that once thrived within these underwater ecosystems are now threatened by phenomena like coral bleaching. As our planet grapples with changing climate conditions, scientists are stepping up with groundbreaking solutions to ensure the survival of these vital …

What drives humpback whales to defend other species against orca attacks? In the icy waters of Antarctica, humpback whales face off against killer whales (orcas) in a gripping drama, making daring attempts to intervene during hunts. Such complex interactions between humpback whales and orcas not only display their dynamic relationships but also prompt us to …