tail Archives - Page 26 of 31

Camouflage

The water monitor is one of the most striking members of the Reptile family and is second in size only to the Nile crocodile. Including the tail, large adults can reach lengths of up to nearly 2.5 meters. Its body is adorned with beautiful yellow patterning, aiding it to be well camouflaged in its preferred habitat close to bodies of water and reed beds. Although usually found close to water, these monitors are not water dependent and will actively forage for food on land, travelling large distances from water if need be. They are also capable of climbing trees but are usually found basking on riverbanks.

16 March 2018Picture of the day, Wildlife

Uphill

The Burchell’s Zebra is the most common across the African continent and has been classified into seven sub-species across its range. The extinct Quagga is a sub-species of the Plain’s Zebra and biologists are attempting to bring it back from extinction through a programme using the DNA of selected Zebra. The programme has been very successful with a number of Quagga-looking individuals roaming the plains again.

14 March 2018Picture of the day, Wildlife

Solitary

Common warthogs are not territorial, but instead occupy a home range. Common warthogs live in groups called sounders. Females live in sounders with their young and with other females. Females tend to stay in their natal groups, while males leave, but stay within the home range. Sub-adult males associate in bachelor groups, but live alone when they become adults. Adult males only join sounders with estrous females.

13 March 2018Picture of the day, Wildlife