The Washington Post on Instagram: "When scientists in Canada came across a female polar bear with two cubs in the fall, they made an unusual discovery: One of the young was not her own offspring but instead a rare documented example of an adopted cub. The mother, who is believed to be around five years old, was seen with one cub this spring, according to Polar Bears International, a nonprofit organization dedicated to polar bear conservation. But when scientists caught up with her again in the f

Explaining on Instagram: "Snapping turtles are some of the most ancient and intimidating reptiles in North America. 🐢😳 They have powerful jaws, lightning fast reflexes, and a bite strong enough to crush bone, which is why they rely on defense rather than speed when threatened. Despite their aggressive reputation on land, snapping turtles are surprisingly calm and skilled swimmers in the water. 🌊🦷 They can stay submerged for long periods by absorbing oxygen through