Australia

Did you know that the name Australia comes from the Latin word Terra Australis, meaning southern land? Australia is one of the world's major mining countries. Nearly all the world's high-quality Opals are mined there. It is also a leading producer of coal, copper, gold, iron ore, manganese, nickel, silver, tin, titanium, tungsten, zinc, and zircon. Plus much more, that is incredible! Did you know that the platypus is only found in Australia? It is the only mammal in the world that hatches it young from eggs.  Kangaroos as we know are the symbol of Australia to people throughout the world. Kangaroos are impressive jumpers, they can reach the top speed of about 40 miles (65 kilometers) per hour. Each jump covers an average distance of about 13 feet (4 meters). Thant is impressive. Now you know a little about Australia, one of the places on my list to travel and see. Pictured below is the duck billed platypus, very interesting critter.