Did you know that bees and butterflies can see colours that we cannot see? Their range of colour vision actually extends into the ultraviolet. The colours of flowers and the patterns of colour on the wings of the butterfly appear much different to them. Another interesting aspect is that the leaves of the flowers they pollinate have special ultraviolet patterns which guide them deep into the flower. Isn't this fascinating?

Humans use three cones – red, blue and green to see in full colour. However, were you aware that cats and dogs only have blue and green cones, meaning they have a much more muted perception of colour akin to colour blindness in humans? As cats and dogs are not sensitive to red light, they find it difficult distinguishing few of the colours. For example, behavioural tests in dogs have claimed that they can distinguish red from blue, but often confuse red and green. Interesting, isn't it?

The Arctic hare (Lepus arcticus) turns from brown or greyish to stark white in the winter. Isn't that fascinating? According to studies, this transition is associated with the photoperiod, which is the light received during the day. As the days get shorter, the hare's brain stimulates the transition from brown to white. The colour change takes up to 10 weeks usually to complete!

Whenever you stop using the paint brush while painting the walls, remember to stand the brush instead of laying it across the top. This will help keep the paint from drying in the bristles and making it tougher to use and clean. Also, take note that a separate paint pail will make the work easier than painting from the original container of paint. Pour over into the pail just a portion of the paint at a time.

It is a good idea to use the buddy system when climbing an extension ladder. In this approach, one person goes up the ladder while the buddy stays on the ground, standing at the base of the ladder holding it in place so as to prevent it from sliding back. If you intend to work on a slippery surface such as hardwood floors, you need to place a non-skid pad under the ladder to help prevent slippage, but the buddy should stay behind the ladder for more safety.

When your brush is loaded with paint, it is easy to create runs by applying too much paint in corners or along the trim. In order to avoid that, start brushing about 1/2 inch away from the cut-in area to apply the paint. As the brush unloads, you need to move over and slowly drag the brush along the trim or corner. Let the bristles gently push the paint against the cut-in area where the walls meet. You may have to do this a few times to get total coverage, but this way you will be able to avoid excess paint along woodwork and in corners.