Wednesday, 30 July 2025 International Friendship Day, officially recognized by the United Nations, is celebrated annually on 30 July to emphasize the importance of friendship in fostering peace, solidarity, and mutual understanding among peoples and cultures across the globe. The day encourages individuals, communities, and nations to build bridges of harmony, especially in times of rising tension, conflict, or division.
Cat-Eyed Snake (Leptodeira annulata): The Nocturnal Beauty with a Subtle Bite The cat-eyed snake (Leptodeira annulata) is a slender, graceful, and mildly venomous reptile native to the tropical regions of Central and South America. Its name comes from its striking vertical pupils, which resemble those of a cat and provide it with exceptional night vision. As a primarily nocturnal species, it hunts after dark, silently gliding through forests, grasslands, and shrublands in search of prey. Although not considered dangerous to humans, it possesses mild venom that helps subdue small animals like frogs and lizards. It is a fascinating creature, both beautiful and elusive, and plays an important role in the ecosystems where it resides. Appearance and Identification The cat-eyed snake is a medium-sized serpent, typically measuring between 50 to 100 centimeters (about 20 to 40 inches) in length, though some individuals may grow slightly longer. Its body is slender, and its scales are smooth a...