The Horny Toad, is quite a misleading name for an animal that, despite their appearance, is neither a toad, or even an amphibian. They are often mistaken for toads however, due to their flattened, rounded bodies. They are also known as the Horned Lizard, which is more accurate, … [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...]
Hognose Snakes – Theatrical Flair And A Distinctive Snout
Hognose snakes are snakes that are recognized for their distinct upturned snouts, and exist within two distinct families within the Serpentes suborder. These families are Colubridae and Pseudoxyrhophiidae. Not all snakes within these families are Hognose Snakes. In fact, of the … [Read more...]
Prairie Dogs – A Keystone Species of the American Plains
Prairie dogs, are an adorable sight in the grasslands of North America. With their curious eyes and bustling communities, they are full of character and charm. Contrary to their name, they aren't related to canids but are herbivorous burrowing rodents. They belong to the genus … [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...]
Iguana – Understanding The Species, Their Features And Habitats
These fascinating reptiles have captured the imagination of generations, with their dragon-like appearance and intriguing behaviours. Scientifically known as Iguana, they belong to the genus 'Iguana' within the larger 'Iguanidae' family. This family is a vast and varied group, … [Read more...]
Coati – The Lesser-Known Ring-Tailed Wanderers
The Coati, is a fascinating member of the animal kingdom, that often goes unnoticed amidst the vast biodiversity of the Americas. Scientifically classified under the genera Nasua and Nasuella, these animals are not just another raccoon, even though they share a family - … [Read more...]
Alligator Gar – A Keystone Species in America’s Freshwaters
The Alligator Gar (Atractosteus spatula) is not just any fish; it's a living testament to the wonders of evolution. This freshwater giant, with its lineage tracing back to the time of the dinosaurs, is a marvel of nature. It is one of three species of Gar in genus Atractosteus, … [Read more...]
American Kestrel
The American kestrel (Falco sparverius) is the smallest North American falcon. It is often called the sparrow hawk, not to be confused with the Eurasian Sparrowhawk (Accipiter nisus) which is a different bird of prey species entirely. It is found throughout most of the American … [Read more...]
Spectacled Owl Facts
The spectacled owl (Pulsatrix perspicillata) is a large owl found near to water in the tropical forests of Central and South America. The largest of the tropical owl species, this owl gets its name from “spectacles” of white feathers around their eyes and throat. Its other … [Read more...]