Have you ever heard of a Peacock Spider? These little arachnids are members of the 'Maratus' genus, and are not just your everyday spider. There are around 108 species known so far, but the vast majority have only recently been discovered and described in the last decade.The … [Read more...]
The Hercules Beetle – Titans of the Insect Kingdom
The Hercules Beetle, is one of the toughest creatures on the planet, relatively, when it comes to brute strength. Scientifically known as Dynastes hercules, this beetle, belonging to the rhinoceros beetle tribe (Dynastini) within the Dynastinae subfamily. There are over 1,500 … [Read more...]
Garter Snakes – From Gardens to Wetlands to Household Pets
Garter Snakes, are small snakes that make up the genus 'Thamnophis', in the subfamily Natricinae. Within the genus, there are around 37 species and over 50 subspecies. The most numerous is the common garter snake (Thamnophis sirtalis) which has 13 subspecies across their … [Read more...]
Box Jellyfish – Deadly Yet Delicate
Box Jellyfish, are marine creatures belong to the Cubozoa class and are renowned for their cube-shaped bells and potent venom. Unlike their other jellyfish cousins, box jellies have a distinct allure. With various species scattered across our oceans, each one has its unique charm … [Read more...]
Mayfly – A Glimpse Into Their Delicate Existence
Mayfly, scientifically known as the order 'Ephemeroptera' are incredible little insects, found in fresh water environments all over the world. These delicate creatures are like nature's fleeting artwork, here today and gone tomorrow. With species found worldwide (except … [Read more...]
The Tarantula Hawk – Powerful Stingers In The Sky
Tarantula Hawks, are scientifically recognized as members of the genera Pepsis and Hemipepsis, and they are not just any other insect. They are beautiful, formidable and scary in equal measure. There are over 350 species of these little insects across their two genera, which form … [Read more...]
The Yak – Gentle Giants Of High Altitudes
The Yak - also known as the Tartary Ox, in an animal well respected in its native lands. It is a symbol of life in the high-altitude regions of Asia, and an example of resilience in the harsh wild. Domestic Yaks are scientifically known as Bos grunniens. They are one of two … [Read more...]
Echidna
The echidna is best known for its amazing biology. Like the platypus, this unusual mammal lays eggs and suckles its young. There are four extant species of Echidna across 2 different genera, 'Tachyglossus' and 'Zaglossus'.The echidna and platypus are the only members of a … [Read more...]
Ferret
The ferret (Mustela furo) is a domesticated species, found all over the world. They belong to the family Mustelidae, which also includes the stoat, badger and mink. It is thought that they are most likely a domesticated form of the wild European ferret or polecat (Mustela … [Read more...]
Armadillo
Armadillos are mammals of the order Cingulata and family Dasypodidae, and are best known for having their very own protective, hard shell armor. With a natural defense system in place, the armadillo has been able to thrive for millions of years and can be found in the western … [Read more...]