Tag:Sir David Attenborough

Howler Monkey Costa Rica

Costa Rica’s Howler Monkey 

In Costa Rica’s lush and dense rainforests, amidst the vibrant tapestry of biodiversity, one creature stands out with its unmistakable roar that echoes through the canopy—Costa Rica’s Howler Monkey. These charismatic primates, with their impressive vocalisations and unique social structures, are not just inhabitants of the rainforest. They are its guardians, playing a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of this rich ecosystem. Habitat and Distribution Costa Rica’s howler monkeys are rainforest dwellers. They primarily inhabit the dense upper […]

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The Falkland Island Sea Lion Sea Lion Guardian of the sea

Falkland Islands Sea Lions: Guardians of the Southern Ocean

The Falkland Islands are home to a stunning array of wildlife. Among its most charismatic inhabitants are the sea lions. With their playful nature and graceful movements, these agile marine mammals are vital to the Southern Ocean’s ecosystem. The Falkland Islands provide one of the most important breeding grounds for South American sea lions, making the region critical for their conservation. South American Sea Lion The South American sea lion (Otaria flavescens), also known as the Patagonian sea lion, is […]

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White-faced capuchin monkey

White-faced Capuchin Monkeys: The Clever, Playful, and Curious Primates of the Jungle

The White-faced Capuchin monkeys (Cebus capucinus) are also known as white-headed monkeys. They are a New World Monkey, mainly in Central and South America. There are several species of capuchins, but they all share similar characteristics: a tuft of hair on their heads that resembles the hoods worn by Capuchin friars (hence the name), expressive faces, and a keen sense of curiosity. These monkeys are highly adaptable, and you can find them in various habitats, from dense rainforests to drier, open woodlands.  As […]

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Squirrel Monkey

Squirrel Monkeys: Tiny Treasures of the Jungle

Squirrel monkeys (Saimiri) are small primates native to the forests of Central and South America. They are among the most energetic and social monkey species. They are easily recognised by their bright, expressive faces and agile movements. Despite their small size, squirrel monkeys are packed with personality, making them fascinating subjects for scientists and nature enthusiasts.  Habitat and Distribution Squirrel monkeys are native to the tropical rainforest of  Central and South America, extending from the southern part of Costa Rica to […]

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The Unique Beauty of the New Zealand Pied Shag

New Zealand is renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife. Among the many avian inhabitants that grace the shores of this island nation, the New Zealand Pied Shag (kāruhiruhi), also known as a cormorant, stands out as a remarkable and enigmatic species. There are about 36 species of shags worldwide. There are twelve species of Pied Shags found in New Zealand. Eight of these species are endemic to New Zealand. Size The Plumage of New Zealand Pied […]

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Majestic Giants of the Southern Seas: Southern Elephant Seals

Southern Elephant Seals (Mirounga leonina) are an extraordinary marine mammal that captivates scientists and nature enthusiasts. Hence, with their enormous size, distinct features, and unique behaviours, these seals are true giants of the oceans. Found primarily in the Southern Hemisphere, these seals are the largest seals on Earth. In addition, they play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems.  Appearance Southern Elephant Seals are the largest seals on Earth.  Adult males reach lengths of up to 6 metres and […]

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Stromness  Harbour ~ the whaling station that saved Shackleton and his men.

Stromness Harbour’s history is intertwined with the remarkable expeditions of the early 20th century. It was established as a whaling station in 1912. In addition, the settlement was a vital hub for the British Antarctic Expedition led by Sir Ernest Shackleton. After an arduous journey across the treacherous Southern Ocean, Shackleton arrived at Stromness in 1916. Furthermore, the local people at the Stromness Harbour whaling station saved Shackleton and his men. This marked the end of Shackleton and his men’s […]

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The Apex Predators of Africa: Nature’s Most Formidable Hunters

The African continent is home to some of Earth’s most magnificent and awe-inspiring animals. In addition, the savannah is a land of contrasts, where the cycle of life and death plays out every day. The apex predators of Africa, a remarkable ecosystem, are essential to maintaining the delicate balance of nature. While they are often viewed as ruthless killers, they are also symbols of strength, adaptability, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the natural world. Protecting these top predators and their […]

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The Journey of Solitude: The Life of Male Leopards 

For the most part, nature has a unique way of shaping the lives of its inhabitants, and one such remarkable journey is the life of male leopards. As these majestic creatures mature, a pivotal moment arises when they must bid farewell to their mother and familiar surroundings and venture out into the wilderness on their own to face the challenges of the wild. In effect, this transition marks the beginning of a solitary existence of young male leopards, where they […]

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Termite Mounds in Africa: Nature’s Vantage Points for Lions, Leopards, and Cheetahs

Africa is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife, including the majestic big cats that roam its savannas and grasslands. Humble termite mounds is one interesting and unexpected asset the big cats utilise. Termite mounds appear throughout the savannahs and grasslands of Africa. In effect, termite mounds consist of intricate internal structures crafted by the dedicated labour of termites. Moreover, these architectural wonders can rise several meters high and contain elaborate networks of tunnels and chambers hidden beneath their exteriors. […]

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Survival Tactics: How Leopards Whiskers Enhance Their Adaptability.

Leopards (Panthera pardus) is one of nature’s most captivating animals with unparalleled beauty, graceful demeanour, and long, luxurious whiskers. The whiskers (vibrissae) are an intriguing feature that often goes unnoticed. With their graceful gait and distinctive rosette-spotted coats, leopards are truly fascinating animals. A leopard’s whiskers are part of their survival tactics and enhance their adaptability. In addition, whiskers are crucial to a leopard’s survival and prowess as an apex predator.  When observing leopards’ natural habitats, it becomes apparent how in […]

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A World Without Tigers? Reflecting on International Tiger Day 2023

July 29th is dedicated to the tiger, one of our planet’s most captivating and endangered animals. International Tiger Day, also known as Global Tiger Day, is a stark reminder of the critical importance of tiger conservation and the need to take collective action to protect these magnificent big cats. Given that time is running out to save the world’s tigers, we must act fast otherwise, we will have a world without tigers. In many cultures, the tiger (Panthera tigris) is considered a […]

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(c) Margaret Weiss 2020