It’s lucky they had the world’s tallest man on call to lend a hand. Or rather, an extremely long arm. In a late, but very strong contender, for the title of most curious animal story of 2006, two dolphins in a Chinese aquarium have been saved thanks to the personal attentions of Bao Xishun, all 7 ft 8.95 inches of him.

As the China Daily (and others) reported excitedly today, the drama began when the dolphins swallowed pieces of plastic from the edge of their aquarium pool in the north-eastern city of Fushun. Attempts to remove the plastic using surgical instruments failed because the dolphins’ stomachs contracted in response. (more…)

The RSPB is a great charity to support, especially this time of year when you’re thinking of what to buy your loved ones. Not only will you help support wild birds and the environment, but you will give the gift that keeps on giving. With environmental issues becoming more important to people this is the perfect gift, lasting the whole year and giving you the chance to give something that really makes a difference. All money raised goes toward helping to protect the environment and the natural wildlife that depends on it. Gift Memberships are extremely popular gifts, so place your order today!

Orders must be placed by 13th December 2006 for Christmas!

Plus customers get 15 months for the price of 12 when they pay by Direct Debit.

RSPB membership for adults gives:

• FREE entry to more than 100 RSPB nature reserves around the UK 
• a choice of a great free gift 
• the acclaimed BIRDS magazine, four times a year
• a welcome pack explaining how to make the most of RSPB membership, including getting the most from RSPB affiliations, such as RSPB Energy and RSPB Leisure
• children in Family memberships also receive everything listed below.

A junior membership - RSPB Wildlife Explorers - gives:

• an exciting membership pack (1 per household), including posters, stickers, a Rook snapper and Wildlife Explorers membership card 
• a choice of either a wildlife stationery set or a wildlife organiser 
• Wild Times magazine for under eights or Bird Life for eights and over six times a year - plus an extra magazine for teenagers, Wingbeat 
• the chance to enter competitions and take part in projects, activities and even wild life holidays 
• FREE entry to more than 100 RSPB nature reserves plus FREE entry to Wildfowl & Wetland Trust centres when accompanied by a fee-paying adult.

>> Join here from just £2.50 per month