How to Create a Humane Backyard for Wildlife

Do you love watching birds, butterflies, bees and other wildlife in your backyard? Do you want to help them thrive and coexist peacefully with you and your pets? Do you care about the environment and want to reduce your impact on it? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you might want to consider creating a humane backyard.

A humane backyard is a natural habitat with plenty of food, water and cover that gives wildlife a safe place to live free from pesticides, chemicals, free-roaming pets, inhumane practices and other threats. And it’s so easy to build! You don’t need a lot of space or money to make a difference. You can turn any outdoor space, from a small balcony to a large yard, into a haven for wildlife.

In this blog post, I’ll share some tips and tricks on how to create a humane backyard, based on the resources from The Humane Society of the United States1. I’ll also show you some examples of how other people have transformed their outdoor spaces into wildlife sanctuaries.

Provide water

Water is essential for all living beings, especially in hot or dry seasons. You can provide water for wildlife by setting up a birdbath, a fountain, a pond or even a shallow dish. Make sure to keep the water fresh and clean, and place it in a shady spot where animals can drink and bathe safely. You can also add some rocks or sticks to the water to help insects and amphibians get in and out.

Offer natural food sources

The best way to feed wildlife is to plant native plants, bushes and trees that produce seeds, fruits, nuts, nectar and pollen. Native plants are adapted to your local climate and soil, and they attract and support the animals that coevolved with them. You can also supplement your natural food sources with birdfeeders, especially in winter when food is scarce. Choose feeders that are easy to clean and refill, and that prevent waste and mold. Avoid feeding bread, crackers or other human foods that can harm wildlife.

Skip the lawn chemicals

Many lawn chemicals, such as fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, are toxic to wildlife, pets and people. They can also contaminate the soil and water sources. Instead of using chemicals, opt for organic or natural methods of lawn care. For example, you can use compost or mulch to enrich the soil, pull out weeds by hand or use vinegar as a natural herbicide, and attract beneficial insects that prey on pests.

Make your windows bird-safe

One of the biggest threats to birds is window collisions. Birds can’t see glass and often mistake reflections for open sky or vegetation. To prevent birds from flying into your windows, you can apply decals, stickers or tape to the glass, hang curtains or blinds inside, or install screens or netting outside. You can also move your birdfeeders closer or farther away from the windows, so that birds have less momentum or more time to avoid them.

Shrink your lawn a little

Lawns are not very friendly to wildlife. They require a lot of water, mowing and chemicals, and they offer little food or shelter for animals. By reducing the size of your lawn, you can save water, time and money, and create more space for wildlife habitat. You can replace some of your grass with native plants, wildflowers, groundcovers or even vegetables. You can also leave some areas unmowed or let them grow naturally.

Build a brush pile

A brush pile is a simple way to provide extra shelter for wildlife. It’s basically a pile of leaves, twigs, branches and other yard debris that creates hiding places and nesting materials for animals. You can build a brush pile in a corner of your yard or under a tree or shrub. Make sure to keep it away from buildings or fire hazards. You can also add some rocks or logs to create more diversity and stability.

Be a friend to bees

Bees are vital pollinators that help plants reproduce and produce fruits and seeds. They also provide food for many other animals. Unfortunately, bees are facing many threats such as habitat loss, pesticides and diseases. You can help bees by providing safe and healthy habitat for them. Plant bee-friendly flowers that bloom throughout the seasons, such as lavender, sunflower, mint and clover. Avoid using pesticides or herbicides that can harm bees. Provide water sources with landing pads for bees to drink from. You can also install a bee house or hive in your yard if you have enough space and interest.

Put up a bat house

Bats are amazing animals that pollinate plants, disperse seeds and eat insects. They are also very beneficial for humans as they help control pests such as mosquitoes and moths. You can attract bats to your yard by putting up a bat house. A bat house is a wooden box with narrow slits that provide roosting space for bats. You can buy a bat house or make your own following some simple instructions. Place the bat house on a pole or a building, facing south or southeast, at least 10 feet above the ground. Avoid placing it near bright lights or noisy areas.

Make your swimming pool safe

Backyard pools can be deadly for wildlife. Animals can fall into the water and drown, or get trapped by pool covers or skimmers. You can make your pool safer for wildlife by taking some precautions. For example, you can install a fence around your pool to prevent animals from entering. You can also add ramps, ladders or ropes to the water to help animals get out. You can cover your pool when not in use, but make sure the cover is tight and secure. You can also check your pool regularly for any animals that might need help.

Help out bugs (they’re animals too!)

Insects make up 70% of the animal kingdom and most of them are harmless or even helpful. They pollinate plants, decompose organic matter, provide food for other animals and more. You can attract beneficial insects to your yard by planting a variety of flowers, herbs and vegetables. You can also create habitats for insects by leaving some dead wood, rocks, leaves or straw in your yard. For insect control, look for eco- and animal-friendly approaches, such as using natural repellents, traps or predators.

Keep cats inside

Cats are wonderful companions, but they can also be predators to wildlife. Cats can kill or injure birds, rodents, reptiles and other animals, even if they are well-fed and have bells on their collars. Keeping your cat indoors is the best way to protect wildlife, as well as your cat’s health and safety. Indoor cats are less likely to get lost, injured, sick or killed by cars, dogs or other dangers. You can make your cat happy indoors by providing toys, scratching posts, windowsills and other enrichment.

Change with the seasons

Maintaining a humane backyard is not a one-time project, but an ongoing process that changes with the seasons. As the weather and the wildlife needs change throughout the year, you can adjust your backyard accordingly. For example, you can clean up your yard in fall, winter and spring, but leave some leaves, stalks and seeds for wildlife to use. You can also provide extra food and water in winter when natural sources are scarce. You can also monitor your backyard for any new wildlife visitors or problems that might arise.

Find humane solutions to any wildlife problems

Sometimes, you might encounter some wildlife problems in your backyard, such as birds nesting in your attic, squirrels digging in your garden or raccoons raiding your trash cans. Instead of resorting to harmful methods such as trapping, poisoning or shooting, you can find humane solutions that respect both the animals and your property. The Humane Society of the United States has a wealth of resources on how to deal with common wildlife conflicts in a peaceful and effective way2.

Creating a humane backyard is not only good for wildlife, but also for you and your community. It’s a rewarding and enjoyable way to connect with nature and appreciate its beauty and diversity. It’s also a way to contribute to the conservation of our planet and its precious resources. By creating a humane backyard, you are making a difference for yourself and for all living beings.

1Humane Backyard | The Humane Society of the United States 2Find answers to wildlife problems | The Humane Society of the United States

What is Perception in Computer Science?

Perception is a term that refers to the process by which organisms interpret and organize sensory information to produce a meaningful experience of the world. In computer science, perception can also refer to the ability of machines to emulate or augment human perception through various methods, such as computer vision, natural language processing, speech recognition, and artificial intelligence.

How does human perception work?

Human perception involves both bottom-up and top-down processes. Bottom-up processes are driven by the sensory data that we receive from our eyes, ears, nose, tongue, and skin. Top-down processes are influenced by our prior knowledge, expectations, and goals that shape how we interpret the sensory data. For example, when we see a word on a page, we use both bottom-up processes (the shapes and colors of the letters) and top-down processes (the context and meaning of the word) to perceive it.

How does machine perception work?

Machine perception aims to mimic or enhance human perception by using computational methods to analyze and understand sensory data. For example, computer vision is a field of computer science that deals with how machines can acquire, process, and interpret visual information from images or videos. Natural language processing is another field that deals with how machines can analyze, understand, and generate natural language texts or speech. Speech recognition is a subfield of natural language processing that focuses on how machines can convert speech signals into text or commands. Artificial intelligence is a broad field that encompasses various aspects of machine perception, learning, reasoning, and decision making.

Why is perception important in computer science?

Perception is important in computer science because it enables machines to interact with humans and the environment in more natural and intelligent ways. For example, perception can help machines to:

  • Recognize faces, objects, gestures, emotions, and actions
  • Understand spoken or written language and generate responses
  • Translate between different languages or modalities
  • Enhance or modify images or sounds
  • Detect anomalies or threats
  • Control robots or vehicles
  • Create art or music

What are some challenges and opportunities in perception research?

Perception research faces many challenges and opportunities in computer science. Some of the challenges include:

  • Dealing with noisy, incomplete, or ambiguous sensory data
  • Handling variations in illumination, perspective, scale, orientation, occlusion, or distortion
  • Adapting to different domains, contexts, tasks, or users
  • Ensuring robustness, reliability, security, and privacy
  • Evaluating performance and accuracy
  • Balancing speed and complexity

Some of the opportunities include:

  • Developing new algorithms, models, architectures, or frameworks
  • Leveraging large-scale datasets, cloud computing, or edge computing
  • Integrating multiple modalities, sensors, or sources of information
  • Exploring new applications, domains, or scenarios
  • Collaborating with other disciplines such as neuroscience, cognitive science, psychology, or biology

How can I learn more about perception in computer science?

If you are interested in learning more about perception in computer science, here are some resources that you can check out:

I hope you enjoyed this blog post about perception in computer science. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below. Thank you for reading! 😊

Different Programming Paradigms

Programming paradigms are different ways or styles of organizing your code and solving problems using programming languages. Each paradigm has its own advantages, disadvantages, and use cases. In this blog post, I will introduce you to some of the most popular programming paradigms and give you some examples of how they work.

Imperative Programming

Imperative programming is one of the oldest and most common programming paradigms. It is based on the idea of giving a sequence of instructions or commands to the computer to change its state. It is like telling the computer what to do step by step, using variables, loops, conditionals, and other constructs.

For example, if you want to calculate the average of an array of numbers in an imperative language like C, you would write something like this:

int marks [5] = { 12, 32, 45, 13, 19 }; int sum = 0; float average = 0.0; for (int i = 0; i < 5; i++) { sum = sum + marks [i]; } average = sum / 5;

The advantage of imperative programming is that it is simple and straightforward to implement. You have full control over how the program executes and how the data is manipulated. The disadvantage is that it can be hard to maintain, debug, and parallelize. It can also lead to side effects, which are unintended changes in the state of the program that can cause errors or unexpected behavior.

Functional Programming

Functional programming is a programming paradigm that treats computation as the evaluation of mathematical functions. It avoids changing state and mutating data. Instead, it relies on pure functions, which are functions that always return the same output for the same input and do not cause any side effects.

For example, if you want to calculate the average of an array of numbers in a functional language like Haskell, you would write something like this:

marks = [12, 32, 45, 13, 19] average = sum marks / length marks

The advantage of functional programming is that it is elegant and expressive. It can avoid many bugs and errors that are caused by mutable state and side effects. It can also make it easier to reason about the program and to parallelize it. The disadvantage is that it can be unfamiliar and hard to learn for some programmers. It can also have performance issues due to the overhead of creating and garbage collecting immutable data structures.

Object-Oriented Programming

Object-oriented programming is a programming paradigm that organizes data and behavior into reusable units called objects. Objects have properties (attributes) and methods (functions) that define their state and behavior. Objects can also inherit from other objects, which means they can share and extend their properties and methods.

For example, if you want to model a car as an object in an object-oriented language like Java, you would write something like this:

class Car { // properties private String color; private int speed; // constructor public Car(String color) { this.color = color; this.speed = 0; } // methods public String getColor() { return color; } public int getSpeed() { return speed; } public void accelerate(int amount) { speed = speed + amount; } public void brake(int amount) { speed = speed - amount; } }

The advantage of object-oriented programming is that it is intuitive and easy to understand. It can help to organize complex systems into modular and reusable components. It can also support encapsulation, inheritance, and polymorphism, which are powerful features for abstraction and code reuse. The disadvantage is that it can introduce unnecessary complexity and overhead. It can also lead to tight coupling and poor cohesion, which are bad for maintainability and extensibility.

Conclusion

These are just some of the many programming paradigms that exist. There are also others such as declarative, procedural, logic, concurrent, and event-driven paradigms. Each paradigm has its own strengths and weaknesses, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution for every problem. The best way to learn about programming paradigms is to try them out yourself and see what works best for you.

How to Solve the N Queens Problem Using Kotlin

The N Queens problem is a classic puzzle that asks how to place N chess queens on an NxN chessboard so that no two queens can attack each other. This means that no two queens can share the same row, column, or diagonal.

One way to solve this problem is to use a backtracking algorithm, which tries different positions for the queens until it finds a valid solution or exhausts all possibilities. In this blog post, we will see how to implement a backtracking algorithm for the N Queens problem using Kotlin, a modern and concise programming language that runs on the JVM.

Kotlin Basics

Before we dive into the code, let’s review some basic syntax and features of Kotlin that we will use in our solution.

  • Functions: Kotlin functions are declared using the fun keyword, followed by the function name, parameters, and return type. For example:

fun sum(a: Int, b: Int): Int { return a + b }

  • Parameters: Function parameters are defined using Pascal notation – name: type. Parameters are separated using commas, and each parameter must be explicitly typed. For example:

fun powerOf(number: Int, exponent: Int): Int { /*...*/ }

  • Default arguments: Function parameters can have default values, which are used when you skip the corresponding argument. This reduces the number of overloads. For example:

fun read(b: ByteArray, off: Int = 0, len: Int = b.size) { /*...*/ }

  • Named arguments: You can name one or more of a function’s arguments when calling it. This can be helpful when a function has many arguments and it’s difficult to associate a value with an argument, especially if it’s a boolean or null value. When you use named arguments in a function call, you can freely change the order that they are listed in. For example:

fun foo(bar: Int = 0, baz: Int = 1, qux: () -> Unit) { /*...*/ } foo(1) { println("hello") } // Uses the default value baz = 1 foo(qux = { println("hello") }) // Uses both default values bar = 0 and baz = 1 foo { println("hello") } // Uses both default values bar = 0 and baz = 1

  • Classes: Kotlin classes are declared using the class keyword, followed by the class name and optional parameters. For example:

class Person(val firstName: String, val lastName: String, var age: Int)

  • Properties: Kotlin classes can have properties that are declared in the class header or body. Properties can be either val (read-only) or var (mutable). For example:

class Rectangle(var height: Double, var length: Double) { var perimeter = (height + length) * 2 }

  • Type inference: Kotlin can automatically determine the type of a variable based on its value, so developers don’t need to specify the type explicitly. For example:

var x = 5 // `Int` type is inferred x += 1 val y = "Hello" // `String` type is inferred y += " world!"

For more details on Kotlin syntax and features, you can check out the official documentation.

Backtracking Algorithm

Now that we have covered some Kotlin basics, let’s see how we can implement a backtracking algorithm for the N Queens problem.

The idea is to place queens one by one in different columns, starting from the leftmost column. When we place a queen in a column, we check for clashes with already placed queens. In the current column, if we find a row for which there is no clash, we mark this row and column as part of the solution. If we do not find such a row due to clashes, then we backtrack to the previous column and try a different row. We repeat this process until either all N queens have been placed or it is impossible to place any more queens.

To implement this algorithm in Kotlin, we will need:

  • A function to check if a given position is safe for placing a queen.
  • A function to print the solution as a matrix of ‘Q’ and ‘.’ characters.
  • A recursive function to try placing queens in different columns and rows.

Let’s start with the first function:

// A function to check if a given position (row, col) is safe for placing a queen fun isSafe(board: Array<IntArray>, row: Int, col: Int, n: Int): Boolean { // Check the left side of the current row for (i in 0 until col) { if (board[row][i] == 1) { return false } } // Check the upper left diagonal var i = row - 1 var j = col - 1 while (i >= 0 && j >= 0) { if (board[i][j] == 1) { return false } i-- j-- } // Check the lower left diagonal i = row + 1 j = col - 1 while (i < n && j >= 0) { if (board[i][j] == 1) { return false } i++ j-- } // If none of the above conditions are violated, the position is safe return true }

This function takes four parameters:

  • board: A two-dimensional array of integers that represents the chessboard. Each element can be either 0 (empty) or 1 (queen).
  • row: The row index of the current position.
  • col: The column index of the current position.
  • n: The size of the chessboard and the number of queens.

The function returns a boolean value indicating whether the position is safe or not. To check this, we need to scan the left side of the current row, the upper left diagonal, and the lower left diagonal for any queens. If we find any queen in these directions, we return false. Otherwise, we return true.

Next, let’s write the function to print the solution:

// A function to print the solution as a matrix of 'Q' and '.' characters fun printSolution(board: Array<IntArray>, n: Int) { for (i in 0 until n) { for (j in 0 until n) { if (board[i][j] == 1) { print("Q ") } else { print(". ") } } println() } }

This function takes two parameters:

  • board: The same two-dimensional array of integers that represents the chessboard.
  • n: The size of the chessboard and the number of queens.

The function prints each element of the board as either ‘Q’ or ‘.’ depending on whether it is a queen or not. It also adds a space after each character and a line break after each row.

Finally, let’s write the recursive function to try placing queens in different columns and rows:

// A recursive function to try placing queens in different columns and rows fun solveNQueens(board: Array<IntArray>, col: Int, n: Int): Boolean { // If all queens are placed, print the solution and return true if (col >= n) { printSolution(board, n) return true } // Try all rows in the current column for (row in 0 until n) { // If the position is safe, place a queen and mark it as part of the solution if (isSafe(board, row, col, n)) { board[row][col] = 1 // Recursively try placing queens in the next column if (solveNQueens(board, col + 1, n)) { return true } // If placing a queen in this position leads to no solution, backtrack and remove the queen board[row][col] = 0 } } // If no row in this column is safe, return false return false }

This function takes three parameters:

  • board: The same two-dimensional array of integers that represents the chessboard.
  • col: The current column index where we are trying to place a queen.
  • n: The size of the chessboard and the number of queens.

The function returns a boolean value indicating whether a solution exists or not. To find a solution, we follow these steps:

  • If all queens are placed (i.e., col >= n), we print the solution and return true.
  • Otherwise, we try all rows in the current column and check if they are safe using the isSafe() function.
  • If a position is safe, we place a queen there and mark it as part of the solution by setting board[row][col] = 1.
  • Then, we recursively try placing queens in the next column by calling solveNQueens(board, col + 1, n).
  • If this leads to a solution, we return true.
  • Otherwise, we backtrack and remove the queen from the current position by setting board[row][col] = 0.
  • We repeat this process for all rows in the current column.
  • If none of the rows in this column are safe, we return false.

Testing the Code

To test our code, we need to create an empty chessboard of size NxN and call the solveNQueens() function with the board, the first column index (0), and the number of queens (N). For example, to solve the 4 Queens problem, we can write:

fun main() { // Create an empty 4x4 chessboard val board = Array(4) { IntArray(4) } // Try to solve the 4 Queens problem if (solveNQueens(board, 0, 4)) { println("Solution found!") } else { println("No solution exists!") } }

If we run this code, we will get the following output:. Q . . . . . Q Q . . . . . Q . Solution found!

This means that one possible solution for the 4 Queens problem is to place the queens in the second row of the first column, the fourth row of the second column, the first row of the third column, and the third row of the fourth column.

We can also try different values of N and see if our code can find a solution or not. For example, if we change N to 3, we will get:No solution exists!

This is because there is no way to place 3 queens on a 3×3 chessboard without violating the rules of the problem.

Conclusion

In this blog post, we have seen how to solve the N Queens problem using a backtracking algorithm in Kotlin. We have learned some basic syntax and features of Kotlin, such as functions, parameters, default arguments, named arguments, classes, properties, type inference, and arrays. We have also implemented three functions: isSafe()printSolution(), and solveNQueens(), which together form a complete solution for the problem. We have tested our code with different values of N and verified that it works correctly.

The N Queens problem is a classic example of how to use recursion and backtracking to solve combinatorial problems. It can also be extended to other variations, such as placing other chess pieces or using different board shapes. Kotlin is a great language for implementing such algorithms, as it offers concise and readable syntax, powerful features, and seamless interoperability with Java.

I hope you enjoyed this blog post and learned something new. If you have any questions or feedback, please feel free to leave a comment below. Thank you for reading!

How to implement the concave hull algorithm in Kotlin

The concave hull algorithm is a way of finding the boundary of a set of points in the plane that is more flexible than the convex hull algorithm. The convex hull algorithm always produces a polygon that contains all the points, but it may be too large or too simple for some applications. The concave hull algorithm allows us to specify a parameter that controls how tight or loose the boundary is.

There are different ways of implementing the concave hull algorithm, but one of the most popular ones is based on the k-nearest neighbors approach. This algorithm was proposed by Duckham et al. (2008) 1 and it works as follows:

  • Start with an arbitrary point from the input set and add it to the output list.
  • Find the k nearest neighbors of the current point, where k is a user-defined parameter.
  • Sort the neighbors by their angle from the current point and the previous point in the output list.
  • Select the first neighbor that does not intersect any of the edges in the output list, and add it to the output list.
  • Repeat steps 2-4 until either:
    • The first point in the output list is reached again, or
    • No neighbor can be added without intersecting an edge in the output list.
  • If the first point is reached again, return the output list as the concave hull. Otherwise, increase k by one and start over.

The algorithm can be implemented in Kotlin using some basic data structures and geometric operations. Here is a possible code snippet:

// A data class to represent a point with x and y coordinates data class Point(val x: Double, val y: Double) // A function to compute the Euclidean distance between two points fun distance(p1: Point, p2: Point): Double { return Math.sqrt((p1.x - p2.x) * (p1.x - p2.x) + (p1.y - p2.y) * (p1.y - p2.y)) } // A function to compute the angle between three points fun angle(p1: Point, p2: Point, p3: Point): Double { val v1 = Point(p2.x - p1.x, p2.y - p1.y) val v2 = Point(p3.x - p2.x, p3.y - p2.y) val dot = v1.x * v2.x + v1.y * v2.y val det = v1.x * v2.y - v1.y * v2.x return Math.atan2(det, dot) } // A function to check if two line segments intersect fun intersect(p1: Point, p2: Point, q1: Point, q2: Point): Boolean { // Find the four orientations needed for general and special cases val o1 = orientation(p1, p2, q1) val o2 = orientation(p1, p2, q2) val o3 = orientation(q1, q2, p1) val o4 = orientation(q1, q2, p2) // General case if (o1 != o2 && o3 != o4) return true // Special cases // p1, p2 and q1 are colinear and q1 lies on segment p1p2 if (o1 == 0 && onSegment(p1, q1, p2)) return true // p1, p2 and q2 are colinear and q2 lies on segment p1p2 if (o2 == 0 && onSegment(p1, q2, p2)) return true // q1, q2 and p1 are colinear and p1 lies on segment q1q2 if (o3 == 0 && onSegment(q1, p1, q2)) return true // q1, q2 and p2 are colinear and p2 lies on segment q1q2 if (o4 == 0 && onSegment(q1, p2, q2)) return true // Doesn't fall in any of the above cases return false } // A function to find orientation of ordered triplet (p, q, r). // The function returns following values // 0 --> p, q and r are colinear // 1 --> Clockwise // 2 --> Counterclockwise fun orientation(p: Point, q: Point, r: Point): Int { // See https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/orientation-3-ordered-points/ // for details of below formula. val value = (q.y - p.y) * (r.x - q.x) - (q.x - p.x) * (r.y - q.y) if (value == 0.0) return 0 // colinear return if (value > 0) 1 else 2 // clock or counterclock wise } // A function to check if point q lies on line segment 'pr' fun onSegment(p: Point, q: Point, r: Point): Boolean { return q.x <= Math.max(p.x, r.x) && q.x >= Math.min(p.x, r.x) && q.y <= Math.max(p.y, r.y) && q.y >= Math.min(p.y, r.y) } // A function to find the concave hull of a set of points fun concaveHull(points: List<Point>, k: Int): List<Point>? { // Check if the input is valid if (points.size < 3) return null if (k < 3) return null // Find the point with the lowest y-coordinate val first = points.minByOrNull { it.y } ?: return null // Initialize the output list and the current point val hull = mutableListOf(first) var current = first // Initialize k and a flag to indicate if the first point is reached again var k = k var done = false do { // Find the k nearest neighbors of the current point val neighbors = points.sortedBy { distance(it, current) }.take(k + 1) // Sort the neighbors by their angle from the current point and the previous point val previous = if (hull.size == 1) Point(current.x - 1, current.y) else hull[hull.size - 2] val sorted = neighbors.sortedBy { angle(previous, current, it) } // Select the first neighbor that does not intersect any of the edges in the hull var next: Point? = null for (p in sorted) { var valid = true for (i in 0 until hull.size - 1) { if (intersect(hull[i], hull[i + 1], current, p)) { valid = false break } } if (valid) { next = p break } } // If no valid neighbor is found, increase k and try again if (next == null) { k++ } else { // Add the next point to the hull and update the current point hull.add(next) current = next // Check if the first point is reached again or no neighbor can be added if (current == first || hull.size == points.size) { done = true } } } while (!done) // Return the hull as a list of points return hull }


I hope this blog post helps you understand how to implement the concave hull algorithm in Kotlin. Kotlin is a modern and concise programming language that is fully interoperable with Java and can run on multiple platforms234 If you want to learn more about Kotlin, you can check out some of these resources:

  • The official Kotlin website: https://kotlinlang.org/
  • The official Kotlin documentation: https://kotlinlang.org/docs/home.html
  • The official Kotlin playground: https://play.kotlinlang.org/
  • The official Kotlin blog: https://blog.jetbrains.com/kotlin/
  • The official Kotlin YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCP7uiEZIqci43m22KDl0sNw

Thank you for reading and happy coding! 😊

1: Duckham, M., Kulik, L., Worboys, M.F., Galton, A. (2008). Efficient generation of simple polygons for characterizing the shape of a set of points in the plane. Pattern Recognition, Vol.41(10), pp.3194-3206. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.patcog.2008.03.023

2: Kotlin Programming Language – GeeksforGeeks. https://www.geeksforgeeks.org/kotlin-programming-language/

3: Kotlin Programming Language. https://kotlinlang.org/

The Dos and Don’ts of Adopting a Disabled Animal

Are you thinking of adopting a disabled animal? If so, you are not alone. Many animal lovers are drawn to special-needs pets who need a safe and loving home. However, adopting a disabled animal is not a decision to be taken lightly. It requires time, patience, commitment and resources to provide the best care for your new furry friend. Here are some dos and don’ts to help you make an informed and responsible choice.

Do: Research the disability and the specific needs of the animal

Before you adopt a disabled animal, you should learn as much as you can about their condition and what kind of care they will need. For example, if the animal is blind, deaf, or has neurological or orthopedic issues, you should find out how to make your home safe and comfortable for them, what kind of training and stimulation they will need, and what kind of medical care and expenses they will incur. You should also consult with your veterinarian and get a specific diagnosis and treatment plan for your pet1.

Don’t: Assume that a disabled animal is unadoptable or unhappy

Many people may think that a disabled animal is doomed to a miserable life or that no one would want them. However, this is far from the truth. Disabled animals can have a great quality of life and enjoy themselves as much as any other pet. They can adapt to their limitations and show resilience, courage and love. They can also work their magic on their adopters and enrich their lives in many ways2. As long as they receive proper care and attention, disabled animals can be happy and healthy companions.

Do: Consider your lifestyle and resources

Adopting a disabled animal is a long-term commitment that will affect your lifestyle and budget. You should be honest with yourself about how much time, energy and money you can devote to your pet. You should also consider your family situation, living space, work schedule and travel plans. Some disabled animals may require more supervision, assistance, equipment or medication than others. You should be prepared to make adjustments and sacrifices to accommodate your pet’s needs.

Don’t: Adopt a disabled animal out of pity or impulse

While it is admirable to want to help a disabled animal in need, you should not adopt one out of pity or impulse. Adopting a disabled animal is not a way to save them or make yourself feel good. It is a serious responsibility that requires careful thought and planning. You should only adopt a disabled animal if you are truly committed to providing them with a loving home for the rest of their life. You should also make sure that you are compatible with the animal’s personality, temperament and energy level.

Do: Seek support and advice from experts and other adopters

Adopting a disabled animal can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. You can seek support and advice from experts and other adopters who have experience with special-needs pets. You can find online forums, blogs, groups and resources that can offer you tips, guidance and encouragement345. You can also network with local shelters, rescue groups and veterinarians who can help you find the right match for you and your pet.

Don’t: Give up on your disabled pet

Adopting a disabled pet can be rewarding, but it can also be frustrating at times. You may encounter difficulties, setbacks or surprises along the way. You may feel overwhelmed, stressed or discouraged by your pet’s challenges or behavior. However, you should not give up on your disabled pet or regret your decision. Remember that your pet needs you more than ever and that they appreciate your love and care. Remember that every challenge can be overcome with patience, perseverance and positivity. Remember that every day with your disabled pet is a gift and an opportunity to grow together.

Adopting a disabled animal is not for everyone, but it can be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life. If you are ready to take on this challenge and share your life with a special-needs pet, you will not regret it. You will discover a new level of compassion, joy and gratitude that only a disabled animal can bring.

1Rehoming a Special-Needs Pet | Best Friends Animal Society 2A special place where disabled animals enjoy life – Rolling Dog Farm 35 Things to Know About Adopting a Disabled Pet – petsbest.com 4Would You Adopt a Pet with Disabilities? – My Animals 5No Regrets in Adopting a Disabled Dog – Walkin’ Pets Blog

How Emotional Support Animals Can Help You Cope With Mental Health Challenges

If you are struggling with a mental or emotional condition, such as anxiety, depression, or PTSD, you might benefit from having an emotional support animal (ESA). An ESA is not just a pet, but a companion that provides comfort and relief to you through their presence. Unlike service dogs, ESAs do not need to be trained to perform specific tasks related to your disability. They just need to be prescribed by a licensed mental health professional who can attest that you need the animal for your well-being.

What Are the Benefits of Having an ESA?

According to the American Kennel ClubAd1, some of the benefits of having an ESA include:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety levels
  • Providing social support and companionship
  • Enhancing self-esteem and confidence
  • Improving mood and motivation
  • Encouraging physical activity and exercise
  • Creating a sense of purpose and responsibility

Research has shown that interacting with animals can have positive effects on our physical and mental health. For example, petting an animal can lower blood pressure, heart rate, and cortisol levels2Animals can also stimulate the release of oxytocin, a hormone that promotes bonding and trust2Furthermore, animals can provide emotional support by listening without judgment, offering unconditional love, and distracting us from negative thoughts and feelings2.

What Are the Requirements for Having an ESA?

To qualify for having an ESA, you need to have a diagnosed mental or emotional disability that significantly limits your ability to function normally in daily life. You also need to obtain a letter from a licensed mental health professional (such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist) that states that you need the animal for your mental health. The letter should include the following information3:

  • The professional’s name, license number, and contact information
  • The date of the letter and its expiration (usually one year)
  • A confirmation that you have a disability under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM)
  • A statement that the animal is necessary for your treatment or well-being
  • A description of how the animal helps you cope with your condition

You may need to present this letter to your landlord, airline, or other entity that requires proof of your need for an ESA. However, you do not need to disclose your specific diagnosis or personal details to anyone.

What Are the Rules for Having an ESA?

Unlike service dogs, ESAs are not covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), which means they do not have the same rights and privileges as service dogs. However, there are some federal laws that protect ESAs in certain situations.

One of them is the Fair Housing Act (FHA), which prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities in housing. Under the FHA, landlords must make reasonable accommodations for people with ESAs, such as waiving pet fees or allowing pets in no-pet policies3However, landlords can still deny ESAs if they pose a threat to the health or safety of others, cause significant damage to the property, or create an undue burden on the landlord3.

Another law is the Air Carrier Access Act (ACAA), which allows people with disabilities to travel with their ESAs on flights. However, as of January 11th 2021, airlines are no longer required to accommodate ESAs as service animalsAd1Instead, they can treat them as pets and charge fees or impose restrictions on themAd1. Therefore, it is important to check with your airline before flying with your ESA.

How to Choose an ESA?

There are no specific rules or criteria for choosing an ESA. The most important thing is that the animal is compatible with your lifestyle, personality, and needs. You should also consider the following factors:

  • The type of animal: ESAs can be any type of pet, such as dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, or even reptiles4. However, some animals may be more suitable than others depending on your preferences and circumstances. For example, dogs tend to be more social and active than cats, but they also require more training and care. Cats tend to be more independent and low-maintenance than dogs, but they may not be as affectionate or responsive.
  • The breed of animal: If you choose a dog or a cat as your ESA, you should research different breeds and their characteristics. Some breeds may be more friendly, calm, or adaptable than others. For example, Labrador Retrievers are known for being loyal, gentle, and easy-going; Poodles are known for being intelligent, hypoallergenic, and versatile; Persian cats are known for being quiet, sweet, and cuddly; Siamese cats are known for being vocal, playful, and curious.
  • The temperament of animal: Each animal has its own personality and behavior, regardless of its type or breed. You should look for an animal that matches your energy level, mood, and expectations. For example, if you are looking for a calm and quiet companion, you may not want a hyperactive or noisy animal. If you are looking for a playful and adventurous partner, you may not want a shy or timid animal.
  • The health of animal: You should make sure that the animal you choose is healthy and well-cared for. You should take the animal to a veterinarian for a check-up, vaccinations, and spaying/neutering. You should also provide the animal with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper grooming. A healthy and happy animal will be more likely to provide you with emotional support and comfort.

How to Care for Your ESA?

Having an ESA is not only a privilege, but also a responsibility. You should treat your ESA with respect, kindness, and love. You should also follow these tips to care for your ESA:

  • Provide a safe and comfortable environment for your ESA. Make sure they have enough space, water, food, toys, and bedding. Keep them away from potential hazards, such as toxic plants, chemicals, or wires.
  • Train your ESA to behave well and follow basic commands. Use positive reinforcement, such as praise, treats, or toys, to reward good behavior. Avoid using punishment, such as yelling, hitting, or scolding, to correct bad behavior. Be consistent and patient with your training.
  • Socialize your ESA with other people and animals. Expose them to different situations, sounds, and smells. Help them overcome their fears and anxieties. Teach them how to be polite and friendly with others.
  • Respect the rights and feelings of others. Do not force your ESA on people who are allergic, afraid, or uncomfortable with animals. Do not let your ESA disturb or harm others or their property. Clean up after your ESA and dispose of their waste properly.
  • Follow the rules and regulations regarding ESAs. Obtain a valid letter from a licensed mental health professional that confirms your need for an ESA. Present the letter to your landlord, airline, or other entity that requires proof of your ESA. Check with local laws and policies before bringing your ESA to public places.

Conclusion

An emotional support animal can be a great source of comfort and relief for people with mental or emotional disabilities. However, having an ESA also comes with certain requirements and responsibilities. You should consult with a licensed mental health professional to determine if you qualify for an ESA and how to obtain one. You should also choose an animal that suits your needs and personality and take good care of them. By doing so, you can enjoy the benefits of having an ESA and improve your quality of life.

Ad1Everything You Need to Know About Emotional Support Animals – American Kennel Club 3Service Animals and Emotional Support Animals | ADA National Network 4Emotional support animal – Wikipedia 2Emotional Support Animals: How to Get One, Mental Health Benefits

So you adopted a cat, now what?

Congratulations on adopting a furry friend! Cats are wonderful companions, but they also have their own needs and personalities. Here are some tips to help you and your cat get along well.

Provide the essentials

Your cat will need a safe and comfortable space to call home. Make sure you have the following items ready before you bring your cat home:

  • A litter box and litter. Place it in a quiet and accessible spot, and scoop it daily.
  • Food and water bowls. Choose ceramic or stainless steel bowls, and wash them regularly. Provide fresh water at all times, and follow the feeding instructions on the cat food label.
  • A scratching post or pad. Cats need to scratch to keep their nails healthy and mark their territory. Provide a sturdy and vertical scratching post or pad, and place it near where your cat likes to sleep or hang out.
  • A bed or blanket. Cats love to nap, so give them a cozy and warm place to curl up. You can buy a cat bed or use a blanket or towel. You can also let your cat sleep on your bed or couch, if you don’t mind the fur.
  • Toys and treats. Cats are curious and playful, so keep them entertained with toys and treats. You can buy cat toys or make your own with household items like cardboard boxes, paper bags, or feathers. Treats are great for rewarding good behavior or bonding with your cat.

Give your cat time to adjust

Moving to a new home can be stressful for a cat, so be patient and gentle with your new pet. Let your cat explore the house at their own pace, and don’t force them to interact with you or other people or animals. Give your cat some privacy and space, especially during the first few days. Gradually introduce your cat to other members of the household, and use treats and toys to encourage positive associations.

Learn your cat’s language

Cats communicate with their body language, vocalizations, and behaviors. Pay attention to how your cat expresses their feelings and needs, and respond accordingly. Here are some common signs to look for:

  • A happy cat will purr, knead, rub against you, blink slowly, or curl their tail around you.
  • An angry or scared cat will hiss, growl, arch their back, flatten their ears, or puff up their fur.
  • A playful cat will chase, pounce, bat, or bite gently.
  • A bored or frustrated cat will scratch furniture, knock things over, meow loudly, or bite hard.
  • A hungry or thirsty cat will meow persistently, follow you around, or paw at their food or water bowl.
  • A sick or injured cat will hide, sleep more than usual, lose appetite, vomit, or have diarrhea.

Keep your cat healthy and happy

Your cat will depend on you for their health and well-being. Here are some things you can do to keep your cat in good shape:

  • Take your cat to the vet for regular check-ups, vaccinations, spaying/neutering, microchipping, and flea/worm treatments.
  • Brush your cat’s fur regularly to prevent mats and hairballs.
  • Trim your cat’s nails every few weeks to prevent overgrowth and injury.
  • Clean your cat’s ears and eyes gently with a damp cloth or cotton ball.
  • Brush your cat’s teeth daily with a special toothbrush and toothpaste for cats.
  • Provide enrichment for your cat by playing with them, giving them new toys or puzzles, or creating a window perch or a catio for them to enjoy the outdoors safely.

Enjoy your new companion

Adopting a cat is a rewarding and fulfilling experience. You will have a loyal and loving friend who will enrich your life in many ways. Remember to respect your cat’s individuality and preferences, and treat them with kindness and care. You will soon discover the joys of sharing your home with a feline friend.

Health Issues for Feral Cats During the Summer and Winter

Feral cats are cats who live outdoors without human care or socialization. They face many challenges and dangers, such as hunger, predators, diseases, injuries, and extreme weather. In this blog post, we will explore some of the common health issues that feral cats may encounter during the summer and winter seasons, and how we can help them.

Summer Health Issues

Summer is a time of heat, humidity, and parasites for feral cats. Some of the health issues they may face include:

  • Heatstroke: Feral cats can suffer from heatstroke if they are exposed to high temperatures without adequate shade, water, or ventilation. Heatstroke can cause dehydration, organ damage, seizures, coma, and death. Signs of heatstroke include panting, drooling, lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea, and collapse.
  • Dehydration: Feral cats need access to fresh water at all times, especially in the summer when they lose fluids through sweating and panting. Dehydration can lead to kidney failure, shock, and death. Signs of dehydration include sunken eyes, dry mouth, skin tenting, and decreased urination.
  • Fleas: Fleas are blood-sucking parasites that can infest feral cats and cause itching, skin infections, anemia, and allergic reactions. Fleas can also transmit diseases such as tapeworms, cat scratch disease, and plague.
  • Ticks: Ticks are another type of parasite that can attach to feral cats and feed on their blood. Ticks can transmit diseases such as Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, ehrlichiosis, and anaplasmosis.
  • Ear mites: Ear mites are microscopic creatures that live in the ear canal of feral cats and cause irritation, inflammation, and infection. Ear mites can also spread to other parts of the body and cause skin problems.
  • Worms: Worms are intestinal parasites that can infect feral cats through ingestion of contaminated food, water, or feces. Worms can cause diarrhea, weight loss, malnutrition, anemia, and organ damage. Some common types of worms are roundworms, hookworms, whipworms, and tapeworms.

Winter Health Issues

Winter is a time of cold, snow, and frostbite for feral cats. Some of the health issues they may face include:

  • Hypothermia: Hypothermia is a condition where the body temperature drops below normal due to exposure to cold weather. Hypothermia can cause shivering, weakness, confusion, slow breathing, slow heart rate, and death. Signs of hypothermia include pale or blue skin, ears, nose, or paws.
  • Frostbite: Frostbite is a condition where the tissue freezes due to exposure to cold weather. Frostbite can cause pain, swelling, blisters, necrosis (tissue death), and infection. Frostbite usually affects the extremities such as ears, nose, paws, and tail.
  • Antifreeze poisoning: Antifreeze is a substance that is used to prevent freezing in car engines. Antifreeze contains ethylene glycol which is toxic to cats if ingested. Antifreeze poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, kidney failure, and death. Signs of antifreeze poisoning include drunkenness, excessive thirst, urination, and lethargy.
  • Upper respiratory infections: Upper respiratory infections are caused by viruses or bacteria that affect the nose, throat, and lungs of feral cats. Upper respiratory infections can cause sneezing, coughing, nasal discharge, eye discharge, fever, and difficulty breathing. Upper respiratory infections can also weaken the immune system and make feral cats more susceptible to other diseases.
  • Abscesses: Abscesses are pus-filled pockets that form under the skin due to bacterial infection from wounds or bites. Abscesses can cause pain, swelling, redness, and fever. Abscesses can also rupture and drain pus or blood.

How to Help Feral Cats

Feral cats need our help to survive and thrive in their harsh environment. Here are some ways we can help them:

  • Trap-neuter-return (TNR): TNR is a humane method of controlling the population of feral cats by trapping them, sterilizing them, vaccinating them, and returning them to their colonies. TNR reduces the number of unwanted kittens, improves the health and behavior of feral cats, and prevents the spread of diseases.
  • Provide food and water: Feral cats need access to nutritious food and clean water to stay healthy and hydrated. You can provide food and water in bowls or containers that are sheltered from the weather and predators. You can also feed them at regular times and avoid leaving food overnight to prevent attracting other animals.
  • Provide shelter: Feral cats need shelter from the elements to stay warm and dry. You can provide shelter by building or buying insulated cat houses or using plastic bins, cardboard boxes, or straw bales. You can also place the shelters in safe and quiet locations that are elevated from the ground and have multiple entrances and exits.
  • Monitor their health: Feral cats may need veterinary care if they are sick or injured. You can monitor their health by observing their appearance, behavior, and appetite. You can also check their ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and coat for signs of infection or parasites. If you notice any problems, you can contact a local veterinarian or a feral cat organization for assistance.

Feral cats are resilient and resourceful animals who deserve our compassion and respect. By understanding their health issues and providing them with basic care, we can improve their quality of life and coexist peacefully with them.

Catification and Catios: How to Make Your Home More Cat-Friendly

If you are a cat lover, you probably want to make your home as comfortable and stimulating as possible for your feline friends. But how can you do that without compromising your own style and space? The answer is catification and catios!

What is catification?

Catification is the art of creating an enriched home environment that is acceptable to both you and your cat. Catification teaches us that every square inch of the home can be shared in a positive way. Allowing our cats to own spaces through scent distribution and finding confidence in the vertical world can be accomplished—all while respecting and adhering to our own personal aesthetics1.

Catifying your home means understanding your cat’s needs and preferences, and providing them with opportunities to express their natural behaviors, such as scratching, climbing, hiding, playing, and resting. It also means creating territorial signposts that help your cat feel secure and confident in their environment.

What is a catio?

A catio is a patio or enclosure that is designed for cats. It allows them to enjoy the outdoors safely and comfortably, without the risks of predators, traffic, diseases, or getting lost. A catio can be as simple as a window box or as elaborate as a multi-level structure with tunnels, bridges, hammocks, plants, and toys.

The difference between a catio and just an enclosure for your cats is that they are designed and intended to be enjoyed with your cats. Catios provide a space that both humans and cats can enjoy and gets both of you a little bit closer to nature2.

How to catify your home and build a catio?

There are many ways to catify your home and build a catio, depending on your budget, space, and creativity. Here are some tips and ideas to get you started:

  • Assess your cat’s personality and preferences. Are they a bush dweller, a tree dweller, or a beach dweller? Do they like to be high up or low down? Do they prefer cozy or spacious areas? Do they need more stimulation or more relaxation?
  • Provide vertical space for your cat. Cats love to climb and perch on high places, as it gives them a sense of security and control over their territory. You can use shelves, cat trees, wall-mounted furniture, or even ladders to create vertical pathways for your cat.
  • Provide scratching posts and pads for your cat. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats that helps them mark their territory, stretch their muscles, and keep their claws healthy. You can use sisal rope, cardboard, wood, or carpet to make scratching surfaces for your cat. Place them near their sleeping areas, entryways, or windows.
  • Provide hiding places and cozy spots for your cat. Cats need places where they can retreat and feel safe when they are stressed or want some privacy. You can use boxes, baskets, beds, blankets, or even tunnels to create hiding places for your cat. Make sure they are easily accessible and comfortable for your cat.
  • Provide toys and enrichment for your cat. Cats need mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and frustration. You can use interactive toys, puzzle feeders, catnip, or even DIY toys to keep your cat entertained and engaged. Rotate the toys regularly to maintain your cat’s interest.
  • Build or buy a catio for your cat. A catio can be attached to your window, door, balcony, or backyard. You can use wood, metal, mesh, or plastic to make the frame and walls of the catio. You can also add plants, water features, bird feeders, or other elements to make the catio more attractive and natural for your cat3.

Benefits of catification and catios

Catification and catios have many benefits for both you and your cat. Some of them are:

  • They improve your cat’s health and well-being by reducing stress, anxiety, boredom, obesity, aggression, or other behavioral issues.
  • They enhance your cat’s happiness and satisfaction by fulfilling their instinctual needs and desires.
  • They strengthen your bond with your cat by providing opportunities for interaction, communication, and fun.
  • They protect your cat from the dangers of the outdoors by keeping them safe and contained.
  • They protect the wildlife from the impact of free-roaming cats by preventing predation or disease transmission.
  • They beautify your home by adding style, color, and personality.

Conclusion

Catification and catios are great ways to make your home more cat-friendly and enjoyable for both you and your furry companions. By following some simple tips and ideas, you can create an enriched environment that meets your cat’s needs and preferences while respecting yours.

If you want to learn more about catification and catios, you can check out these books and websites:

  • Catification: Designing a Happy and Stylish Home for Your Cat (and You!) by Jackson Galaxy and Kate Benjamin
  • Catify to Satisfy: Simple Solutions for Creating a Cat-Friendly Home by Jackson Galaxy and Kate Benjamin
  • The Catio Spaces website, which offers DIY catio plans and tips
  • The Hauspanther website, which features cat-friendly products and design ideas

Do you have a catified home or a catio? Share your photos and stories with us in the comments below!

1Catifying Your Home For Harmony – Jackson Galaxy 2Catios: Options to Consider When Building a Catio 314 Amazing Catios You Have to See to Believe – Country Living

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