Did you know LAX is more than just an airport. How does it function as an art gallery. What unique features can you find in the new Tom Bradley International Terminal. Where can you spot celebrities at LAX.
The Star-Studded Side of LAX: Celebrities and Canines
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is not just a hub for air travel, but also a place where stars and adorable dogs converge. The airport’s PUP (Pets Unstressing Passengers) program brings therapy dogs to terminals, creating heartwarming moments for travelers. In one memorable instance, actor Jeff Goldblum encountered Vegas, a therapy dog, resulting in a delightful photo opportunity that epitomizes the unique charm of LAX.
Celebrity sightings are commonplace at LAX, given its proximity to Hollywood. How often can you spot a famous face at the airport? While it’s not guaranteed, the chances are higher than at most other airports. Keep your eyes peeled in the exclusive lounges and first-class check-in areas for a glimpse of your favorite stars.
LAX’s Impressive Scale: A Global Aviation Powerhouse
LAX’s size and scope are truly staggering. As the fifth busiest airport globally and the second busiest in the United States, it handles an enormous volume of passengers and flights daily. Just how busy is LAX? The airport offers:
- 692 daily flights to 85 domestic cities
- 928 weekly nonstop flights to 67 cities in 34 countries
- Service from 59 passenger air carriers
These numbers underscore LAX’s significance as a major international gateway and its crucial role in connecting Los Angeles to the rest of the world.
The Artistic Soul of LAX: An Airport Turned Art Gallery
In a unique blend of aviation and artistry, LAX has transformed portions of its public spaces into vibrant art galleries. This initiative, part of the airport’s expansion and renovation efforts, showcases temporary exhibitions and installations throughout the terminals. Where can you find these artistic displays?
- Terminal 1
- Terminal 2
- Terminal 3
- Tom Bradley International Terminal
- Terminal 6
- Terminal 7
One notable exhibition featured oil paintings by Randall Von Bloomberg, titled “Tathata,” which offered travelers a visual journey through natural landscapes and urban environments. This commitment to art elevates the travel experience, turning mundane waiting areas into spaces of cultural enrichment and visual delight.
Tom Bradley International Terminal: A Shopper’s Paradise
The new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) at LAX has revolutionized the airport shopping experience. With nearly 70 new dining and retail outlets, it offers a diverse range of options for travelers. What can you expect to find in this terminal?
- Luxury brands like Hugo Boss and Tumi
- Duty-free shops with personalized shopping consultants
- Complimentary two-minute makeovers
- Free samplings of rare spirits and liqueurs
This expansion of retail options transforms layovers and pre-flight waits into opportunities for indulgence and luxury shopping. Whether you’re looking for a last-minute gift or treating yourself before a long flight, TBIT has something for every traveler.
Culinary Delights at LAX: From Fast Food to Fine Dining
LAX’s culinary scene has undergone a significant transformation, offering a wide array of dining options to satisfy every palate. The airport now boasts an impressive selection of restaurants, ranging from quick bites to gourmet experiences. What culinary gems can you discover at LAX?
One standout addition is the Petrossian Caviar and Champagne Bar in the Tom Bradley International Terminal. This upscale establishment offers travelers the chance to indulge in a luxurious pre-flight experience. Their “on-the-go” picnic basket sets, complete with caviar, champagne, and cheese, provide a taste of opulence at 33,000 feet.
Westfield’s development of 18 new dining and retail destinations in Terminal 6 further expands the culinary landscape of LAX. This project includes:
- 11 concepts from the Los Angeles area
- 13 concepts new to LAX
This focus on local flavors and new dining experiences ensures that travelers can enjoy a taste of Los Angeles even before leaving the airport.
The Iconic Theme Building: A Mid-Century Marvel
No discussion of LAX would be complete without mentioning its most recognizable landmark: the Theme Building. This architectural wonder stands as a testament to the Mid-Century Modern style, specifically the Googie architecture movement. But what makes the Theme Building so special?
- Opened in 1961
- Resembles a flying saucer
- Named a Los Angeles Historical-Cultural Monument in 1993
The Theme Building’s unique design, reminiscent of a spaceship, has made it an enduring symbol of both LAX and the futuristic optimism of the 1960s. Its presence serves as a visual anchor for the airport, instantly recognizable to travelers from around the world.
LAX’s Ongoing Evolution: Expansion and Improvement
LAX is in a constant state of growth and improvement, adapting to meet the ever-increasing demands of modern air travel. The expansion of the Tom Bradley International Terminal is a prime example of this ongoing evolution. What new features can travelers expect?
- 12 new boarding gates already operational
- 6 additional gates planned
- Half of the new gates designed to accommodate larger, next-generation aircraft
This expansion not only increases the airport’s capacity but also enhances its ability to handle the latest and largest aircraft, ensuring LAX remains at the forefront of international aviation.
Sustainable Initiatives at LAX
In line with global trends towards sustainability, LAX has implemented various eco-friendly initiatives. These efforts aim to reduce the airport’s environmental impact while improving operational efficiency. What sustainable practices has LAX adopted?
- Installation of solar panels on terminal rooftops
- Implementation of water conservation measures
- Use of electric vehicles for ground operations
- LED lighting upgrades throughout the airport
These initiatives not only contribute to reducing LAX’s carbon footprint but also set a standard for sustainable practices in the aviation industry.
The Economic Impact of LAX
LAX’s influence extends far beyond its role as a transportation hub. The airport serves as a significant economic engine for the Los Angeles region and Southern California as a whole. How does LAX contribute to the local economy?
- Creation of thousands of direct and indirect jobs
- Facilitation of international trade and commerce
- Support for the tourism industry
- Attraction of businesses to the Los Angeles area
The economic ripple effects of LAX’s operations touch virtually every sector of the local economy, from hospitality and retail to logistics and technology.
LAX’s Role in Emergency Response
Beyond its day-to-day operations, LAX plays a crucial role in emergency response and disaster relief efforts. The airport’s size, location, and capabilities make it an invaluable asset during crises. How does LAX contribute to emergency situations?
- Serving as a staging area for disaster relief supplies and personnel
- Facilitating medical evacuations
- Supporting law enforcement and military operations when needed
This lesser-known aspect of LAX’s operations underscores its importance not just as a travel hub, but as a critical infrastructure component for regional and national security.
The Future of LAX: Upcoming Projects and Innovations
As LAX continues to evolve, several exciting projects are on the horizon. These developments aim to enhance the passenger experience, improve efficiency, and prepare the airport for future challenges. What can we expect from LAX in the coming years?
- Implementation of advanced biometric screening technologies
- Construction of an automated people mover system
- Development of a consolidated rental car facility
- Expansion of electric vehicle charging infrastructure
These projects represent LAX’s commitment to innovation and its vision for becoming one of the world’s most modern and efficient airports.
LAX’s Contribution to Aviation History
Throughout its history, LAX has been witness to numerous significant moments in aviation. From the early days of commercial flight to the dawn of the jet age and beyond, the airport has played a pivotal role in the advancement of air travel. What are some of LAX’s contributions to aviation history?
- Hosting the first commercial jet flights on the West Coast
- Serving as a testing ground for new aircraft technologies
- Playing a crucial role in the development of trans-Pacific air routes
These historical milestones have cemented LAX’s place not just in the annals of Los Angeles history, but in the broader story of global aviation.
The Cultural Significance of LAX
Beyond its practical functions, LAX has ingrained itself into popular culture, becoming a symbol of Los Angeles and a recurring presence in films, television shows, and literature. How has LAX influenced popular culture?
- Appearing as a setting in numerous Hollywood films
- Serving as a backdrop for iconic photographs and artworks
- Inspiring music and literature about travel and Los Angeles life
This cultural significance extends LAX’s influence far beyond its physical boundaries, making it a part of the global imagination and a symbol of the allure and excitement of air travel.
LAX’s Unique Passenger Amenities
In addition to its retail and dining options, LAX offers a range of unique amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience. These features set LAX apart from other airports and reflect its commitment to passenger comfort and convenience. What special amenities can travelers find at LAX?
- Yoga rooms for stress relief and relaxation
- Pet relief areas for traveling animals
- Art installations and live performances
- Quiet zones for passengers seeking a peaceful environment
These amenities reflect LAX’s understanding that air travel can be stressful, and its efforts to create a more pleasant and accommodating environment for all passengers.
The Technology Behind LAX
LAX is at the forefront of implementing cutting-edge technologies to improve airport operations and passenger experiences. From check-in to security and beyond, technology plays a crucial role in keeping LAX running smoothly. What technological innovations are in use at LAX?
- Advanced baggage handling systems
- Automated passport control kiosks
- Real-time flight information displays
- Mobile apps for navigation and service updates
These technological advancements not only improve efficiency but also enhance security and reduce wait times, making the travel experience smoother for millions of passengers each year.
LAX’s Environmental Impact and Mitigation Efforts
As one of the busiest airports in the world, LAX faces significant environmental challenges. However, the airport has implemented numerous initiatives to mitigate its environmental impact and promote sustainability. How is LAX addressing environmental concerns?
- Implementation of noise reduction programs
- Air quality improvement measures
- Wildlife conservation efforts
- Waste reduction and recycling programs
These efforts demonstrate LAX’s commitment to being a responsible member of the Los Angeles community and a leader in sustainable airport operations.
The International Flavor of LAX
As a major international gateway, LAX serves as a melting pot of cultures and languages. This diversity is reflected in its staff, signage, and services, creating a truly global atmosphere within the airport. How does LAX cater to its international travelers?
- Multilingual signage and announcements
- Currency exchange services
- Cultural sensitivity training for staff
- International cuisine options
This international focus ensures that LAX provides a welcoming environment for travelers from all corners of the globe, reinforcing its status as a world-class airport.
LAX’s Role in Space Exploration
While primarily known for commercial air travel, LAX has also played a role in space exploration. The airport’s facilities and location have made it a valuable asset in various space-related activities. How has LAX contributed to space exploration efforts?
- Serving as a landing site for NASA’s Space Shuttle
- Supporting the transportation of space-related equipment
- Hosting events and exhibitions related to space exploration
This connection to space exploration adds another fascinating dimension to LAX’s rich history and ongoing significance in the field of aviation and beyond.
10 Things You Probably Didn’t Know About LAX
by
Discover Los Angeles
Mar 14, 2019
LAX Gateway | Photo courtesy of LAX, Facebook
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) is more than just an airport! Did you know these tidbits about LAX?
We can’t tell who is more star struck, LAX PUP Vegas or Actor Jeff Goldblum! Both had a PAWsome time visiting with each other before Jeff’s flight! Information on the LAX PUP program: http://www.lawa.org/welcome_LAX.aspx?id=7478. #LAXGems [PIC]: LAWA #LAXPups #LAX #FlyLAXAirport #Travel #Puppy #Dog #TherepyDog #JeffGoldblum #Cute #StrikeaPose
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Oct 27, 2014 at 10:46am PDT
Four new boarding gates are now open in the new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) for a total of 12 new gates! Six more new gates will be landing in new TBIT soon for a grand total of 18.
Half will accommodate larger, new generation aircraft. Stay tuned! LAWA #laxishappening #flyLAXairport #avgeek #aviation #travel #airport #losangeles #aircraft #airbus #boeing #ig #instahub #instalike #newtbit
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Jan 6, 2015 at 4:05pm PST
Half will accommodate larger, new generation aircraft. Stay tuned! LAWA #laxishappening #flyLAXairport #avgeek #aviation #travel #airport #losangeles #aircraft #airbus #boeing #ig #instahub #instalike #newtbit3. LAX is not an ordinary airport – it’s also an art gallery. The airport has transformed some of its public spaces into art spaces by featuring temporary art exhibitions and installations as part of its expansion and renovation. There are 11 exhibition sites located in Terminals 1, 2, 3, Tom Bradley International Terminal, 6, and 7.
Transcend through the natural landscapes and urban environment with Randall Von Bloomberg oil paintings “Tathata” in the Departures Level Connector between Terminals 7 and 8. On exhibit until Feb. 2016. [PIC] Panic Studio L.A. #artatlax #losangeles #flylaxairport #travel #art #artexhibit #culture #ig #artwork #artist
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Nov 18, 2015 at 8:14pm PST
4.
LAX’s new Tom Bradley International Terminal has almost 70 new dining and retail outlets. Live the life of luxury and shop at places like Hugo Boss, Tumi and more. Duty Free Shops in TBIT have shopping consultants ready to help travelers find the perfect gift, two minute complimentary makeovers for travelers, and complimentary samplings of rare spirits and liqueurs.
Another luxury retail collection has landed! Say hello to @tumitravel, featuring stylish yet ultra-functional travel bags, suitcases and accessories, where you’re sure to find the perfect travel companion! Find at Terminal 6. #LAXisHappening [PIC]: LAWA #tumi #Travel #LosAngeles #tbit #Instahub #instagood #ig #flyLAXairport #lax
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Jul 28, 2015 at 10:04pm PDT
5. LAX is the 5th busiest airport in the world and the 2nd busiest in the United States. LAX offers 692 daily flights to 85 domestic cities and 928 weekly nonstop flights to 67 cities in 34 countries on 59 passenger air carriers.
A beautiful Los Angeles sunset welcomes you! What are your waiting for? The City of Angels is waiting for you! Tag your amazing LAX airplane photos #TuesdayTakeOff for a chance to be in our galleries [PIC] @jamescarrollla #flyLAXAirport #Travel #Sunset #Beautiful #PlanePic #Airport #KLAX #Aviation #AvGeek #Runway #Instahub #LosAngeles #GoodAfternoon
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Apr 14, 2015 at 12:52pm PDT
6. Westfield is working on 18 new dining and retail destinations – including 11 L.A.-area concepts and 13 concepts new to LAX – that will come to Terminal 6. Now open at TBIT is Petrossian Caviar and Champagne Bar, where travelers can treat themselves to a fancy picnic at 33,000 feet with the on-the-go picnic basket set with caviar, champagne and cheese that will delight all palates!
Champagne with Royal Transmontanus Caviar with Toast Points from @petrossianwesthollywood at Tom Bradley International Terminal at @flyLAXairport.
A photo posted by #dineLA (@dinela) on Nov 20, 2015 at 12:02pm PST
The perfect way to kick off your flight! #petrossianwesthollywood #WestfieldLAX #LAX #dineLA | RG: @petrossianwesthollywood
7. The Theme Building is a landmark of the Mid-Century architecture style known as Googie. The Theme Building was named a Los Angeles Historical-Cultural Monument in 1993 and it opened in 1961.
The Theme Building is the most iconic symbol of @flylaxairport. The mid-century modern structure resembles a flying saucer and is a famous example of Googie architecture. What’s your #LAstory? Tag your photos #LAstory for a chance to be featured. Photo by @6foot7evan #discoverla #potd
A photo posted by #LAstory (@discoverla) on Jul 16, 2015 at 9:34am PDT
8. There are more than 85 places to eat throughout LAX – you’ll never go hungry!
Terminal 2 keeps getting better and better! @Slapfish Modern Seafood Shack and @SeaLegsWineBar are now open.
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on Jul 7, 2015 at 11:35am PDT
Feast on succulent fish tacos or indulge on delectable eats and luxury beverages. Bon appetit! [PIC] LAWA/TripAdvisor/Food Enthusiast Magazine #Yummy #Foodie #Liquor #Tasty #FishTaco #Wine #Food #flyLAXairport #Delish #Lunch #Dinner #AirportFood9. Eat a delicious In-N-Out burger while watching planes land. There’s so much to do near LAX! Discover 9 other things to do near the airport here.
LAX plane spotting with a side of an @innout Burger Double Double animal style is the perfect way to spend your day!. Share your cool LAX photos with #LAXPhotoWeek for a chance to be in our galleries! #regram @nickyoungphotos flyLAXairport #innout #LosAngeles #instafood #AvGeek #Aviation #travel #PlaneSpotting #doubledouble #NomNom
A photo posted by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on May 22, 2015 at 5:16pm PDT
10.
There are more than 40 hotels located close to the airport.
We’re making the airport hotel cool again.
A photo posted by Custom Hotel (@customhotellax) on Apr 23, 2014 at 7:51pm PDT
Woof! Say hello to Finley, a Peke-A-Poo boy from Marina del Rey and, one of the newest #LAXPUPs (Pets Unstressing Passengers)! At five-years old, Finley loves going anywhere with his mom. Look out for him in the terminals wearing his red “Pet Me” vest and you’ll be sure to get lots of hugs! Have you met any of the LAX PUPs yet? #LAXPUPlove [PIC] #flylax #therapydogs #woof #ig #instagood #dogsofinstagram #travel #airport #hugs #losangeles #destress
A post shared by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on
The LAX Pets Unstressing Passengers (PUP) program provides stress relief and comfort to LAX passengers.
You’ll see furry friends walking around the airport interacting with fliers! Therapy dogs and handlers roam the departure levels in the gate areas of every terminal.
Thank you to @airportrevenuenews for awarding LAX “Airport with The Best Overall Program” and “Best Program Design, Large Airport Division” for the dining and retail program design and passenger services in the new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) and Terminals 2 and 6. Enjoy the world-class experience on your next travels! [PIC] c: Westfield #flylax #lax #laxairport #losangeles #airport #celebrate #congrats #arn #dining #design #TBIT #laxishappening #progress #enjoy #instagood #ig
A post shared by LAX airport (@flylaxairport) on
The new Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) is part of the largest public works project in the history of Los Angeles.
It reopened in 2013 after a $1.9-billion renovation.
Words by
Discover Los Angeles
7 Things You Might Not Know About Los Angeles International (LAX)
Los Angeles International, commonly known as LAX, is one of the busiest airports in the world. Since its launch back in 1928, it has grown to be a crucial hub for all major US airlines, as well as many international carriers. If you’re an LAX regular, perhaps we can surprise you with some of these interesting facts…
1 It was originally called Mines Field
In 1926, Los Angeles began looking for a location for an airfield to support the fledgling aviation industry. A real estate agent called William Mines promoted a site south of Westchester, and the airport was born. It was called Mines Field after the agent.
It opened on October 1st, 1928, with a dirt runway and not much else.
In 1930, the dirt runway was upgraded to an oiled decomposed granite surface, capable of being used year-round, and it was renamed Los Angeles Municipal Airport.
Photo: Los Angeles World Airports
2 The X is meaningless
Before the 1930s, Los Angeles airport was known only by a two-letter designator – LA. As aviation grew, it became clear that, as two letters only allowed a few hundred combinations, more letters were needed.
IATA introduced the three-letter code in the 1960s, allowing for a massive 17,000+ combinations. As such, Los Angeles had the X added, but it doesn’t have any specific meaning.
3 It has an official song
“LA International Airport,” written by Leanne Scott, was first recorded by David Frizzell in 1970. It was later covered by country music legend Susan Raye, and became one of the biggest cross-over hits of the 70s. Raye performed the song in August 2003 to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the airport, and the City of Los Angeles presented a proclamation to make the hit the official song of LAX.
4 There is a hidden underground tunnel at LAX
According to Vanity Fair, there is a secret subterranean tunnel located somewhere on Century Boulevard, reserved for use by A-list celebrities. High-profile arrivals can book to be met on the tarmac by a Porsche hybrid to whisk them out of the airport with zero paparazzi intrusion.
5 It spends $9 million on banned item disposal each year
According to a report in Bloomberg, LAX security spends around $9 million each year on disposing of confiscated items. Things like water bottles, aerosols and cosmetics over the size limit need to be stored and then discarded safely. With gels, liquids and aerosols, the airport can’t take for granted that the contents are what it says on the label, so has to discard such items at a special hazardous waste site, leading to high costs.
Photo: London City Airport
6 It is home to a rare butterfly
The El Segundo blue butterfly only lives in three fragments of habitat, the largest of which is at LAX.
It originated in the El Segundo sand dunes, which historically covered just 4.5 square miles. However, loss of habitat through urbanization, as well as the loss of its hostplant, the seacliff buckwheat, have made this a very isolated and endangered species.
Photo: Los Angeles World Airports
At LAX, the habitat of the butterfly population is being actively managed, with steps being taken to increase hostplant numbers and protect the remaining habitat.
7 It is also home to the infamous ‘jetpack man’
Over the course of the past three years, there have been several sightings of a man in a jetpack flying close to LAX. In September 2020, multiple pilots reported seeing a jetpack man on approach to LAX, flying at around 3,000 feet. Six weeks later, China Airlines pilots also reported seeing a similar phenomenon at around 6,000 feet.
More sightings were reported in 2020, and again in the summer of 2021. Thoughts are that it could be a human-shaped drone, but nobody knows for sure.
There haven’t been any sightings reported in 2023, so hopefully, whatever it was has stopped its shenanigans.
Do you know any other interesting facts about LAX? Let us know in the comments!
Sources: Vanity Fair
Interesting facts about weasel | ZooBlog
Photo: www.countrylife.co.uk
Weasels are small, carnivorous, short-legged mammals from the weasel family. They are similar in shape to ermines, ferrets and minks. We bring to your attention some of the most amazing facts about these active and ferocious predators:
- Weasels have a thin, elongated body with a small, flat, triangular head. They have small, rounded ears, but large eyes and a pointed muzzle with long whiskers. Their back, top of the head, outer parts of the limbs, sides and tail are usually chestnut brown, gray or black, and the underparts are white or yellow.
Photo: www.northamericannature.com
- Weasel is the smallest representative of the Carnivora order (Predatory). The largest member of this order, the polar bear, can outweigh over 5,000 weasels combined! Usually the length of an adult is only 20-27 cm. Even the largest male is unlikely to weigh more than 250 grams, and a small female can weigh only 50 grams.
- A weasel’s head is the widest part of its body, and if it can fit its head into the hole, the rest of it won’t get stuck.
- They are often confused with the stoat, although the weasel is smaller and has a shorter tail without a thick black tip.
- Voles, jerboas, mice, shrews and lemmings are the main prey of the weasel. The small size allows the predator to follow the rodents into their underground burrows. The animal is also able to catch larger prey, such as a young hare or a mole. It also preys on insects, lizards, birds and their eggs.
Photo: www.robertefuller.com
- Weasels are always hungry due to their extremely high metabolism. They need to eat about a third of their weight daily.
- They perform a “hypnotic dance” after cornering a victim. Weasels circle and jump around their prey, distracting and confusing them.
- Weasels live alone and come together only for mating. Like ferrets, they sometimes build colonies.
- Weasels are found throughout the Northern Hemisphere. Large populations are found in Scandinavia, Great Britain, Russia, Canada, the USA and the countries of North Africa.
- Because of their broad diet, weasels can survive in most habitats provided there is plenty of prey and shelter from larger predators. Weasels are rarely out in the open for long periods of time, and spend most of their time hunting under the cover of tall grass, hedges, and other vegetation.
Photo: Ashley Buttle/Flickr
- Weasels are sometimes kept as pets, however, it should be remembered that they are not tame and can be very aggressive, although they are the closest relative of ferrets.
- Weasels are territorial and regularly patrol a personal area of about 8 hectares. Males and females live in different territories, although sometimes they overlap a little. Animals usually have several different lairs that they visit at different intervals.
- Weasels are mostly active at night. They are very agile climbers and excellent swimmers. In one night, the animal in search of prey is able to cover a distance of up to 2 km.
- Weasels kill their prey with a single bite to the back of the head. They often store surplus food in hiding places at the entrance of one of their burrows.
- Weasels tend to move on the ground in short, looping jumps of 25-30 cm, often stopping to stand on their hind legs and survey their surroundings.
- In populations living in high latitudes, many species of weasels molt in winter, becoming white with black fur at the tip of the tail.
Photo: Magalie St-Hialire Poulin
- You will hardly hear any sounds from petting. This is a very silent animal. Individuals hoot only during the mating season and when communicating with cubs. Sensing danger, weasel begins to hiss.
- Weasels reach sexual maturity at the age of 1-2 years. The female often organizes a breeding nest in the burrow of a previously eaten vole or mouse.
- Pregnancy (or gestation) lasts approximately 1 month, and the female usually raises one litter of 3-6 pups annually, although some raise two litters a year.
- Cubs are born naked, blind and deaf. Weaning occurs after three to four weeks. Hunting behavior is formed by eight weeks, and the offspring disperse after about 9-12 weeks.
- Some weasels reproduce by delayed implantation. Although mating occurs in early summer, the fertilized egg is not immediately implanted in the female’s uterus, but lingers in her body until the following spring, when the prey population increases.
- At the base of the weasel’s tail are glands that secrete a liquid substance with a rather unpleasant odor.
- They are hunted by foxes, owls, kestrels and cats. The threat is also posed by the traps that the huntsmen set for stoats, which pose a great danger to wild birds.
- The average lifespan of weasels in the wild is one year, although under favorable conditions they can live up to 5 years.
- In Greek culture, the weasel was considered an unhappy bride who was turned into a small animal, so finding her near the house was considered a sign of impending bad luck. In North America, Native Americans considered crossing the weasel path an ill omen, followed by misfortune or imminent death.
The largest member of this order, the polar bear, can outweigh over 5,000 weasels combined! Usually the length of an adult is only 20-27 cm. Even the largest male is unlikely to weigh more than 250 grams, and a small female can weigh only 50 grams.
Weasels circle and jump around their prey, distracting and confusing them.
Animals usually have several different lairs that they visit at different intervals.
The female often organizes a breeding nest in the burrow of a previously eaten vole or mouse.
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Weasel: interesting facts and misconceptions
wikimedia.org
There are two main misconceptions about the name of this animal.
The first is found among people unfamiliar with the nature of this little predator. They believe that the animal was named so because it is affectionate. The second is characteristic of many zoologists, who think that they called the little predator such a pleasant name for its ability to climb dexterously; hence the “laska”, which later turned into a “weasel”.
In fact, the word “ weasel ” is formed from the Russian (dialect) las – “gourmet”, bald – “delicious to something”, “eager”.
One amusing misconception of past years is connected with kindness. So, there was a belief that at night the horses standing in the stable were tormented by the brownie. Allegedly, he braids their manes, tickles, and sometimes brings them to white heat. It used to happen that the owner would enter the stable in the morning and see that the horse was all in “soap”. To combat the brownies in the villages, they used a tried and tested remedy – a goat, which allegedly all evil spirits are afraid of.
However, this did not help either. And then one day, the famous Russian zoologist Manteuffel caught this “brownie” on horseback. In the tangled mane of the animal was a weasel. So the “brownie” was rehabilitated.
Interesting fact!
When a weasel runs along the scruffs and backs of horses that are terribly afraid of her, they try to throw the animal off themselves and sweat a lot from this. Licking sweat, weasel receives the necessary mineral salts.
pixabay.com
And one more common opinion, which turned out to be not entirely accurate. It is widely believed among scientists that the weasel leads a solitary lifestyle. It is believed that since these predators are so closely related to rodents and eat so many of them, it means that they must compete with each other for food and cannot live side by side. In fact, although contacts between animals are not so frequent, nevertheless they exist, which is quite natural and necessary for the life of any species.
The most characteristic between caresses, especially unfamiliar, aggressive manifestations. Having met for the first time, the animals cling to each other’s necks with their teeth, kick with short legs and, squealing, roll on the ground with a ball . Such fights among weasels are often observed when studying their behavior in laboratories. In nature, they probably occur less often. After all, the animals living in some territory are familiar with each other and try to avoid collisions. This is also confirmed by experimental observations.
flickr.com
Where weasels live
They are found on all continents of the Northern Hemisphere: in Europe, North Asia and North America.
Weasel wool is expensive, as weasels are rare in Europe. But in Russia, the skins of weasels are of little value, since they live everywhere even in the north, with the exception of the northern, Kuril and Commander Islands.
Weasel lives in fields and forests, in mountainous and lowland areas, not avoiding populated areas.
It settles under stones, in hollows, in ruins, in burrows, barns, haystacks, etc. For breeding, it arranges a nest in the hole of some rodent. The nest is lined with dry grass, moss, chestnut and fern leaves.
flickr.com
About the appearance of weasels
Weasels are the smallest carnivores in the world . The body length of males does not exceed 25 cm, and their weight is no more than 250 g. The body length and weight of females are two times less.
The weasel moves in jumps 25–30 cm long. The body of the weasel is thin and long, with short paws armed with very sharp claws.
In summer fur the top of the head, back, sides, tail and outer sides of the paws are of the same color brownish brown . The throat, edge of the upper lip, chest, belly and inner surface of the legs are pure white. In autumn, the weasel, with the exception of some southern habitats, replaces summer brown attire with pure white winter fur .
The density of the fur is the same in summer and winter, but summer hair is shorter and thinner than winter.
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Lifestyle and nutrition of weasels
In the wild, weasels can live up to 5 years, but the average duration life does not exceed 1 year. Weasels often form colonies.
Weasel is a silent animal, and it makes sounds infrequently. During games, courtship, as well as in the case of calling cubs by mothers, the weasel hums – it emits a high tremolo. Being dissatisfied or being in danger, the weasel hisses, and when attacking, it chirps and chirps.
Weasel is very agile and agile, runs fast, climbs and swims well, is distinguished by great courage and aggressiveness and is a dangerous enemy for all small animals.
Interesting fact!
Weasel has one peculiarity – it cannot stop killing. Her predatory instincts can’t be turned off.
The fact is that the weasel has an accelerated metabolism, which is why she has to eat more than a third of her own weight every day – and this is up to 10 meals a day!
Its diet consists of house, field and forest mice, shrews, voles, rats, jerboas, moles, young rabbits, chickens, pigeons, as well as lizards, copperheads, snakes, even vipers, frogs, insects.
Despite its small size, the weasel is capable of killing a rabbit 5-10 times its own weight. Young rabbits become an important food source in the spring, when small rodents are scarce and rabbits are plentiful.
Interesting fact!
With an excess of food, the weasel often kills more than it can eat, making food reserves. Weasels can store up to 50 corpses of their victims!
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In places where it is not pursued, the weasel hunts day and night. By exterminating mice, it brings great benefits, which, in any case, outweigh the harm it sometimes brings to chicken coops.
Owners of chickens are familiar with the weasel – it can raid chicken coops, ruthlessly exterminating its inhabitants. This “cute” predator usually strangles the victim, but sometimes tears it to shreds. Weasel has very sharp teeth, which allows her to easily kill a chicken or a small goose.
After the appearance of affection in the poultry house, you can see several dozen killed chickens and chickens.
Weasel sometimes successfully fights off even relatively large birds of prey (for example, kites).
Interesting fact!
In ancient Rome and early medieval Europe, the weasel, along with the marten, was a domestic animal, as it hunted mice. However, due to the poor tameability of the weasel and, to a greater extent, the appearance in Europe of the gray rat, which was difficult for the weasel to cope with, other animals replaced it as a protector of stocks in this role – ferrets (ferret), cats and, for some period , also genets.
Weasel is the most bloodthirsty killer
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