eye Archives - Page 26 of 80

Regal

The lion’s mane is the most recognizable feature of the species. It starts growing when lions are about a year old. Mane colour varies and darkens with age; research shows its colour and size are influenced by environmental factors such as average ambient temperature. Mane length apparently signals fighting success in male-male relationships; darker-maned individuals may have longer reproductive lives and higher offspring survival, although they suffer in the hottest months of the year. The presence, absence, colour and size of the mane are associated with genetic precondition, sexual maturity, climate and testosterone production; the rule of thumb is that a darker, fuller mane indicates a healthier animal. The main purpose of the mane is thought to be the protection of the neck and throat in territorial fights with rivals.
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Info source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lion

7 March 2019Picture of the day, Wildlife

Fuzzy

The waterbuck is the largest of the kob antelopes. It is known for its trademark white ring around the hindquarters which they use as a ‘follow me’ sign. If one of the group spots a predator and runs, the rest will follow to avoid becoming prey. Only the males have horns which are handsome, long and prominently ringed, sweeping backwards and up. The eyes and nose of the Waterbuck have beautiful white markings and it has a noticeable white collar under the throat line. Waterbuck have a brownish–grey shaggy coat with a lot of hair around their necks. This neck hair is hollow which allows for extra buoyancy when swimming, helping them to keep their heads above water. Waterbuck give off a strong scent that can be smelt even by humans, which is believed to deter certain predators. Waterbuck prefer an open, dry countryside with savanna grassland, bushveld and even hilly areas as long as it is close to water, like rivers or dams. They are often found in reed beds near rivers and also on floodplains. They never live far from permanent water sources.

22 February 2019Picture of the day, Wildlife

Innocent

The glossy coat of the Impala shows two-tone colouration – the reddish-brown back and the tan flanks; these are in sharp contrast to the white underbelly. Facial features include white rings around the eyes and a light chin and snout. The ears are tipped with black. Black streaks run from the buttocks to the upper hind legs. The bushy white tail features a solid black stripe along the mid-line. The Impala has scent glands covered by a black tuft of hair on the hind legs. Sebaceous glands concentrated on the forehead and dispersed on the torso of dominant males are most active during the mating season, while those of females are only partially developed and do not undergo seasonal changes. There are four nipples.
Info source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Impala

20 February 2019Picture of the day, Wildlife