10 Questions
What does the idiom 'to bury your head in the sand' mean?
To ignore a problem in the hope that it will go away
What is the supposed behavior of ostriches that the idiom is based on?
Hiding their head in a hole
Who is credited with popularizing the myth about ostrich behavior?
Pliny the Elder
What is a notable feature of ostriches?
Their powerful kick
What would ostriches be more likely to do when faced with a threat?
Run away using their speed
What is a common myth about the memory of fish?
They have a memory that lasts for seconds
What is a highly developed sense that sharks possess?
Smell
How much water is required for some shark species to detect a single drop of blood?
50 litres
Why is the myth about sharks being able to detect a single drop of blood in the water from miles around disappointing?
Because it would be bad news for fish and other prey
What is an often solitary habit of sharks?
Hunting alone
Study Notes
Idiom "Bury Your Head in the Sand"
- Means to ignore a problem in the hope that it will go away
Ostrich Behavior
- Common myth: ostriches hide their heads in holes to escape enemies
- This behavior is not actually normal for ostriches
- Origin of myth: based on writings of Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist
- Pliny suggested ostriches believe their whole body is concealed when they hide their head and neck in a bush
Ostrich Characteristics
- Fastest creatures on two legs
- Kick powerful enough to kick a lion
- More likely to run or fight than try to hide
Common Myths about Marine Creatures
- The myth that fish, especially goldfish, have a memory of just a few seconds is incorrect.
- Experiments show that fish have a much better memory, lasting months rather than seconds.
- The myth about sharks detecting a single drop of blood in the water from miles around is partially true.
Shark's Senses
- Sharks have poor eyesight.
- They have a highly developed sense of smell, able to detect a single drop of blood in about 50 litres of water.
- However, their sense of smell is not as sensitive as generally believed when it comes to blood.
Discover the fascinating story behind the idiom 'to bury your head in the sand' and how it relates to ostriches.
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