The Mouse Deer, also known as Chevrotain, is a really peculiar little ungulate. Captivating and elusive in equal measure. They belong to two genera 'Tragulus' and 'Moschiola', which are members of the 'Tragulidae' family. This is the only family in the infraorder 'Tragulina', … [Read more...]
Fishing Cat – The Asian Wetlands Feline
The Fishing Cat is a beautiful and familiar looking cat, with some amazing features that make it an expert in and around water. Known scientifically as 'Prionailurus viverrinus', this intriguing feline is the sole member of its species, and sits within the taxonomical genus of … [Read more...]
Bandicoots – Small Marsupials With Big Snouts
Ever heard of the Bandicoot? You might have heard of the infamous 'Crash Bandicoot' that was centre stage to a host of PlayStation games. But do you know much about the incredible little marsupials on which that character is very loosely based?These fascinating marsupials, … [Read more...]
Pufferfish – Why They Inflate And Other Facts
The Pufferfish, are a large family of fish scientifically known as Tetraodontidae. Within this family are 28 different genera, and around 193 unique species. Across the range, they are some of the ocean's and freshwater's most intriguing creatures.With the ability to inflate … [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...]
The Chameleon – Masters Of Adaption
Chameleons are truly one of the finer examples of the wonder of nature. All chameleons belong within the lineage of the family Chamaeleonidae, and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colours.Within this family there is one subfamily Brookesiinae and between them both … [Read more...]
Stick Bugs – Nature’s Masters of Disguise
Stick Bugs, also known as Stick insects or walking sticks, are one of the insect worlds masters of disguise. Often referred to as 'nature's camouflage experts,' they are truly a wonder in the insect world.These insects are both numerous and diverse. With approximately 3,000 … [Read more...]
Banana Spiders – An Exploration of The Golden Silk Orb-Weaver
There are a few different arachnids that go by the name 'Banana Spider'. I will mention the other pretenders at the end of this post, but for clarity, this post is about the magnificent Golden Silk Orb-Weavers.The golden silk orb-weavers (scientifically known as the genus … [Read more...]