images as thoughts
A Killdeer foraging for ephydrid flies in the warm thermal pools on what became a windy afternoon. The warm thermal pools allow the flies to thrive even in winter and provide birds like this Killdeer a tasty early winter meal on a blustery afternoon.
Our world is vast and much is still to be discovered and described by science.
A recent article published in Science Daily reports on the discovery of 71 new species by researchers at the California Academy of Sciences in 2019. The article provides a nice overview of the species discovered and includes the following quote remaining us that there is much work to do to identify what we have on this wonderful planet. A nice short read if you can find the time.
“Despite decades of tirelessly scouring some of the most familiar and remote places on Earth,” says Shannon Bennett, PhD, and Academy Chief of Science, “biodiversity scientists estimate that more than 90% of nature’s species remain unknown. A rich diversity of plants and animals is what allows life on our planet to thrive: the interconnectedness of all living systems provides collective resilience in the face of our climate crisis. Each newly discovered species serves as an important reminder of the critical role we play in better understanding and preserving these precious ecosystems.”
References:
1.California Academy of Sciences. (2019, December 5). Scientists at the California Academy of Sciences describe 71 new species in 2019. ScienceDaily. Retrieved December 10, 2019 from http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/12/191205155818.htm
And just for fun a smattering of those species we already know.
A quiet morning where the river meets the sea. All is good. The grass is green, the rain has stoped and life in many forms hauled up on the beech to spend a quiet day.
One of our favorites and a constant companion through the season is the diminutive Red Breasted Nuthatch weighing in at about 10 grams yet feisty as all can get out and with a song to match.
Just think how different and special it must be to have the ability to view the world upside down like this little nuthatch can.
Looking like it just finished a meal this Red tailed Hawk was right back at it. Watching the fields intently for a mouse to stir and trying to make the most of the short days this time of year.
An American Goldfinch was working over these thistle plant pretty good for an afternoon meal and from the looks of it this chubby guy is well versed at extracting thistle seeds.
A mule deer buck with nose to the wind taking in his surroundings with all his senses.
Wishing you a great weekend and a little time outside to take in yours.
