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18 Massive Animals That Actually Exist!

When we first stop to consider ‘massive’ animals, our minds might wander to giraffes and whales. Today, we are going to blow the lid off of your conventional way of thinking by highlighting 18 animals that are too massive to be real. While it may be hard to believe, each and every animal you are about to see is as real as the cat or puppy in your house. Let’s begin!

1.  Colossal Squid

Imagine that you are floating in the ocean, right off of the deck of your boat. The sun is shining and the water is warm and, wait, what’s that? Did something just brush your foot? The ocean is home to all manner of wonder, but none more incredible than the Colossal Squid. The Colossal Squid can grow up to 90-feet long. For comparison, your average school bus is roughly 45 feet long.

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2. Field Marshall the Bull

We know that bulls can get pretty large all on their own, but this bull is pushing the limit. Named Field Marshall, this 3,682-pound bull became famous in 2009.  The Bull stands over 6’5 feet tall and consumes more than 17 lbs of food per day. The best part about Field Marshall is that he gets to live out a happy retirement.

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3. Moose the Horse

Ignore the silly name and stare in wonder at Moose, the massive horse that has the world talking. Moose stands over 19 feet tall and looks fit to jump over a mountain if he so pleased. Moose comes from a line of horse that was originally bred for the purposes of war.

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4. African Giant Snail

We don’t typically think of ‘massive’ and ‘snail’ in the same sentence unless we’re being sarcastic of course. However, the Giant African Snail is definitely big enough to raise a few eyebrows. This massive creature is the largest land-snail in existence. The Giant African Land Snail reaches heights of 8 inches and widths of 4 inches. You’ll end up tripping over one of these things if you aren’t careful.

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5. Giant Freshwater Stingrays

Unfortunately, these majestic creatures are endangered and that means we’ll likely be seeing them less and less as time goes on. Giant Freshwater Stingrays look like massive creatures ripped right out of the latest ‘Alien’ movie. These stingrays can get up to 16.5 feet long while weighing in at over 1,300 lbs.

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6. Big Cow Chilli

If stingrays and bulls freak you out, how about meeting Big Cow Chilli? A gentle giant above all, this 6’6 cow weighs over a ton and loves scratches on the nose and long walks in the pasture. For comparison’s sake, you should know that Chilli is roughly the size of a small elephant.

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7. Eastern Gorilla

There’s nothing abnormal about the Eastern Gorilla except, perhaps, the fact that they are endangered. Found in a small segment of Africa, the Eastern Gorilla weighs in at nearly 330 lbs. while reaching heights of around 5’6. Incredibly strong and intelligent, it’s a shame to see these creatures slowly wiped off of the planet.

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8. Giant Mekong Catfish

The next time you cast your fishing line, you might want to hesitate when you feel a big tug. In 2005, fishermen from Northern Thailand managed to reel in one of the biggest fish that we have ever seen. The Giant Mekong Catfish ended up weighing in at 646 pounds while reaching a length of nine feet. For a comparison, this fish was as large as a grizzly bear.

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9. Bismarck Flying Fox

Found in New Guinea, the Bismarck Flying Fox looks like something pulled straight out of a Disney cartoon. Also known as the Megabat, the Bismarck Flying Fox was only three pounds but it measured out at nearly five feet. Can you imagine this thing swooping down at you?

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10. Goliath Birdeater

Have you ever wondered what the largest spider in the world looked like? Well, you’ve just found out. The Goliath Birdeater is one foot in length while weighing in at 6 oz. If you’re looking at the raw numbers before deciding to be freaked out, you’re doing it wrong. This spider is as large as a dinner plate and capable of eating birds. Found in the rainforest, you’d be well-served to keep your distance.

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11. Hogzilla

Allegedly, this massive hog threatened to attack 11-year-old child Jamison Stone and his father while they were out hunting. The Stone’s managed to kill the creature with a gun before posing with this picture. Allegedly, the hog was nine-feet long and weighed in at over 1,000 lbs. While the veracity of this specific pig is in question, scientists have unearthed similarly sized hog fossils.

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12. Coconut Crabs

Do you have a crushing fear of giant insects? Oh, good because the Coconut Crab is technically an anthropoid. Found throughout islands in the Indian Ocean, Coconut Crabs look like something pulled out of a Lovecraft novel. These crabs can weigh up to 9 pounds while growing in size comparable to a darn garbage can.

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13. Gibson the Great Dane

We figured that you needed some real eye-bleach, so here is Gibson the Great Dane. The tallest dog on the planet, Gibson is as tall as Shaquille O’Neal. Gibson only weighs 170 pounds so his thin frame is slightly less menacing. Cruella Deville probably wouldn’t want to mess with this pup.

guinnessworldrecords.com

14. Nomura’s Jellyfish

We’re starting to think that the ocean should be off limits. The Nomura Jellyfish can be found in the Pacific Ocean, near Japan. Nomura’s Jellyfish is the largest cnidarian in the world and is edible, though we wouldn’t suggest trying to wrangle one up yourself. These jellyfish are 6’6 feet long and weigh in at over 450 lbs.

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15. Saltwater Crocodile

Sharks are apex predators, they have no natural enemies. Saltwater Crocodiles have been found to eat sharks. That’s the way the world works. Saltwater Crocodiles can weigh up to 2,000 pounds while growing up to 18 feet in length. This is probably the most terrifying animal on our list.

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16. Cinereous Vulture

Nevermind, the Cinereous Vulture is pretty terrifying. This magnificent bird weighs over 30 lbs and sports a wingspan of nearly 10 feet. We probably wouldn’t let the dogs out when this bird is flying overhead.

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17. Titan Longhorn Beetle

Don’t like bugs? Too bad. The Titan Longhorn Beetle is over half of a foot long and it sports mandibles that can cut pencils straight in half. These creatures hiss and bite and are generally not the kind of bugs we’d want to find in our kitchen.

ourplnt.com

18. Japanese Spider Crabs

Did we mention that crabs look like aliens? The Japanese Spider Crab looks too terrifying to be real, but we’re sure that they taste good. We don’t want to go near one of these with a bowl of butter, however, as their massive pinching claws can do some serious damage. Japanese Spider Crabs can reach lengths of up to 12 feet.

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Highway Adventure: Escaped Sulcata Tortoise’s Journey Halted by Arizona Rescuers

Shannon Jackson

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An unexpected traveler caused a stir on an Arizona interstate near Picacho when a large sulcata tortoise was discovered attempting to cross the highway. The tortoise, it was later revealed, had embarked on a remarkable journey after escaping from an ostrich ranch located approximately three miles away.

Sulcata tortoises, also known as African spurred tortoises, are native to the southern edge of the Sahara desert. These impressive reptiles are the third-largest species of tortoise in the world and the largest mainland tortoise. Known for their hardy nature and long lifespans, sulcata tortoises can live for over 70 years and reach weights of up to 200 pounds when fully grown.

The rescued tortoise’s adventure highlights the species’ surprising mobility and endurance. Despite their slow-moving reputation, sulcata tortoises are capable of covering significant distances, especially when seeking food or a mate. Their strong legs and sharp claws, evolved for digging in their native arid habitats, allow them to traverse challenging terrain – though perhaps not as safely as they might on the African plains.

Local authorities and wildlife experts were quick to respond to the unusual sight of this desert dweller on the interstate. The rescue operation not only ensured the tortoise’s safety but also prevented potential traffic hazards on the busy highway.

This incident serves as a reminder of the responsibilities that come with keeping exotic pets. Sulcata tortoises, while popular in the pet trade due to their docile nature and impressive size, require specialized care and secure enclosures to prevent escapes like this one.

The tortoise’s safe retrieval and its journey from an ostrich ranch to a major highway underscore the importance of proper animal husbandry and the unexpected challenges that can arise when managing diverse species in captivity. As the sulcata tortoise returns to more familiar surroundings, its brief highway adventure stands as a testament to the species’ resilience and the community’s quick action in wildlife preservation.

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Dinner Cruise Turns Heroic: Lost Dog Rescued Miles from Florida Shore

Renee Yates

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An evening boat ride became an unexpected rescue mission when passengers and crew aboard the Sanibel Harbor Princess spotted a dog swimming alone in Florida’s waters. The canine, later identified as Ellie, was found over a mile from Fort Myers Beach on July 28, prompting a swift rescue operation.

Captain Terry Johns, a veteran of the Coast Guard, recounts the moment of discovery. Midway through the cruise, commotion erupted among guests as they noticed a small head bobbing in the water. Quick action was necessary, as Ellie was dangerously close to the boat’s rear.

With skilled maneuvering, the yacht’s crew positioned the vessel to safely retrieve Ellie. Once aboard, the exhausted but friendly dog was provided with food and water. The crew’s training proved invaluable in executing the rescue efficiently.

Post-rescue, Ellie was taken to a veterinarian for examination. Despite having a microchip, identification proved challenging due to malfunction. A crew member volunteered to care for Ellie temporarily while efforts to locate her owners continued.

The rescue story, broadcast by local news outlet WINK News, caught the attention of Ben and Kathleen Baker, Ellie’s distraught owners. The couple had lost sight of their pet during an afternoon boat outing and had spent hours searching to no avail.

Overcome with emotion, 72-year-old Ben Baker expressed his relief at seeing Ellie safe on the news. A few phone calls later, and the Bakers were reunited with their beloved pet, turning a potential tragedy into a heartwarming tale of community effort and canine resilience.

This incident highlights the importance of pet safety on boats and the impact of quick thinking and compassion in emergency situations.

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Eight Puppies Rescued from Texas Heat Will Soon Be Ready for Adoption

Kevin Wells

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Eight puppies left in the scorching Texas heat have been rescued and are now safe, thanks to some quick-thinking deputies and animal control officers.

The puppies were abandoned in a carrier on a field in Tarrant County, Texas, where temperatures reached over 100 degrees. The Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office shared this on their Facebook page.

A kind person found the puppies without any water and alerted the authorities. Unfortunately, since there were no cameras in the area, it’s unlikely they will find out who left the puppies behind.

Deputies Collin Stephenson and Haley Drew from the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office, along with the Fort Worth Animal Care and Control team, rescued the puppies.

Fort Worth Animal Care and Control shared an update on Facebook, including photos of the puppies, saying, “The puppies that were rescued from a carrier in 100-degree weather by Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office are doing much better.”

The puppies, about six weeks old, are now at the Chuck & Brenda Silcox Animal Care and Adoption Center. They are believed to be shepherd mixes and have been given names after popular chip brands: Cheetos, Fritos, Ruffles, Lays Potato, Cheese Itz, Doritos, and Pringles.

Deputy Stephenson told Fort Worth Animal Care and Control that he plans to adopt one of the puppies.

The animal shelter is looking for people to foster or adopt the puppies, who should be ready for adoption next week.

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe in the Heat

  1. Provide Plenty of Water: Always make sure your pets have access to fresh, cool water.
  2. Avoid Midday Heat: Walk your pets early in the morning or late in the evening when it’s cooler.
  3. Never Leave Pets in Cars: Cars can quickly become dangerously hot, even with windows cracked.
  4. Shade and Shelter: Ensure your pets have a shady place to rest if they’re outside.
  5. Watch for Signs of Overheating: Signs include excessive panting, drooling, and weakness. If you notice these, get your pet to a cool place and offer water.
  6. Limit Exercise: On very hot days, reduce the amount of exercise your pets get.

By following these tips, you can help keep your pets safe and healthy during the hot summer months.

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Diver Makes Stunning Ancient Find Off Florida Coast: ‘Very Rare’

Renee Yates

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A diver in Florida recently made an incredible discovery while exploring the waters off the state’s coast.

Kyle Lundberg, who studied marine biology at the University of South Florida, was diving off Manasota Key, about 90 miles south of Tampa, when he stumbled upon an ancient mastodon tusk. He found this remarkable relic back in April while searching for fossils.

The tusk, which hasn’t been dated yet, could be millions of years old. Although he’s only 29 years old, Lundberg has been scuba diving for 12 years and has been hunting for fossils since he was “old enough to walk.”

“My dad would take us out to construction sites all the time to look for fossils as a kid,” Lundberg shared. He mentioned that while finding small pieces and chunks of tusk is common, discovering one as large and well-preserved as this is very rare. Tusks found in Florida are usually very delicate and often crumble apart.

According to the National Park Service (NPS), American mastodons went extinct around 10,500 years ago. Their fossils have been discovered across North America and Central America, from Alaska to Mexico. Despite what some people might think, mastodons are not the same as mammoths, though they are related and share a common ancestor with mammoths and elephants. Mastodons could grow as tall as 10 feet.

The NPS explains that while mastodons have been around since 4 to 3 million years ago, mammoths didn’t arrive in North America until much later, during the Pleistocene ice ages, which spanned from 2.6 million years ago to 11,700 years ago. Mastodons did live alongside mammoths in many areas, but all of these large creatures went extinct by about 10,500 years ago.

Lundberg has some advice for aspiring fossil hunters: remember to get a fossil permit. In Florida, these permits only cost five dollars each. “My best tip is to get out and explore and keep your head down,” he said. “This stuff is out there and all over the state.”

As for what will happen to the ancient mastodon tusk, Lundberg plans to keep it unless experts decide it is important enough to donate. “I plan on keeping it, but I do have to report it at the end of the year to the Florida Museum of Natural History,” he said. “If they deem it scientifically important, I have to donate it, but that is very unlikely.”

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Daring Rescue: Duluth Firefighters Save Dog from Frigid Lake Superior

Kevin Wells

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In a heart-pounding rescue mission on the shores of Duluth, Minnesota, a brave dog found himself in a perilous situation after leaping into the icy waters of Lake Superior. The daring rescue unfolded amidst eight-foot waves that crashed against the shore, creating a challenging environment for both man and canine.

The intense situation began when the adventurous dog managed to slip out of his leash, enticed by the allure of a chilly swim. Unbeknownst to the canine, Lake Superior’s vast expanse presented a danger he hadn’t anticipated. The situation quickly escalated, prompting the owner to dial emergency services.

To pinpoint the distressed dog’s location, dispatchers utilized cameras on a life bridge, offering a bird’s-eye view of the unfolding drama. The dog, buffeted by the relentless waves, struggled to stay afloat as firefighters donned specialized ice suits to brave the frigid waters.

These ice suits, designed for extreme cold-water rescues, provide a crucial barrier between the icy environment and the rescuers. Comprising layers of insulated materials, these suits not only keep firefighters warm but also offer buoyancy and protection against the harsh elements.

As the brave firefighters plunged into the turbulent waters, the dog faced the dual challenges of the waves and the numbing cold. Despite the difficult conditions, the rescue team, guided by the worried owner who remained on the shore, managed to locate the struggling canine.

The dog, large and frightened, repeatedly disappeared beneath the waves, making the rescue a daunting task. Through effective communication between the owner and the firefighters, the team successfully secured the dog by the collar, preventing him from slipping away.

Once the dog was safely in their grasp, both the firefighters and the canine were brought to safety aboard a waiting boat. The dog, now shivering and scared, received prompt medical attention. After warming up, the resilient pup even leaped happily into his owner’s car, a heartwarming conclusion to a potentially tragic event.

The Duluth Fire Department, often questioned about responding to animal-related emergencies, emphasized the significance of such actions in a Facebook post. They highlighted the deep bond between pets and their families, explaining that in their experience, if emergency responders did not intervene, well-meaning bystanders might take unnecessary risks.

The post also revealed a chilling detail: one of the dog’s owners had considered jumping into the treacherous waters. The fire department strongly discouraged such actions, emphasizing the importance of leaving water rescues to trained professionals equipped with the necessary gear.

“The Duluth Fire Department wants to stress to the public the importance of not putting yourself into a situation you are neither trained nor equipped to handle,” the post warned. “Given the wave and temperature conditions in the canal last night, anyone entering the water without the proper training and equipment would most likely have ended in tragedy.”

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