View allAll Photos Tagged Adaptability
The masked lapwing (Vanellus miles), also known as the masked plover and often called the spur-winged plover or just plover in its native range, is a large, common and conspicuous bird native to Australia, particularly the northern and eastern parts of the continent, New Zealand and New Guinea. It spends most of its time on the ground searching for food such as insects and worms and has several distinctive calls. There are two subspecies; the southern novaehollandiae has distinctive black markings on the shoulder and side of the chest, and is sometimes recognized as a separate species, the black-shouldered lapwing (Vanellus novaehollandiae). These brown-black, white and yellow plovers are common in Australian fields and open land. The masked lapwing is the largest representative of the family Charadriidae. It measures from 30 to 37 cm in length and has a wingspan of 75–85 cm. The nominate subspecies (V. m. miles) weighs 191–300 g, while the southern race (V. m. novaehollandiae) is larger and weighs 296–412 g. The birds have a wide range of calls which can be heard at any time of the day or night: the warning call, a loud defending call, courtship calls, calls to its young, and others. Since this bird lives on the ground it is always alert and even though it rests it never sleeps properly. Masked lapwings are most common around the edges of wetlands and in other moist, open environments, but are adaptable and can often be found in surprisingly arid areas. They can also be found on beaches and coastlines. 54518
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
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The cormorant is a family of medium-to-large aquatic birds found worldwide that are expert fishers known for their characteristic posture of standing with wings outstretched to dry.
Appearance:
Cormorants are generally large, dark-plumaged birds with a long, thick, and flexible neck, giving them a somewhat "prehistoric" or "reptilian" appearance. They have a long, thin bill that ends in a sharp hook, perfectly suited for catching fish. Most species have webbed feet with all four toes joined.
Size:
Size varies by species, but the Great Cormorant, a widespread species, typically measures 80-100 cm (31-39 in) in length with a wingspan of 130-160 cm (51-63 in).
Habitat and Distribution: They are highly adaptable and found in a wide variety of aquatic environments, including ocean coasts, estuaries, large rivers, and freshwater lakes and reservoirs across the world, except for the central Pacific islands.
Diet and Hunting: Cormorants are carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish, but also amphibians, crustaceans, and eels. They hunt by diving from the water's surface and propelling themselves underwater using their powerful webbed feet. They can dive to impressive depths, sometimes up to 45 meters (150 feet), and use their hooked bills to seize prey.
Unique Behaviors and Facts
Wing-Drying Posture:
One of the most recognizable cormorant behaviors is perching with their wings spread wide in the sun. This is because their feathers are not fully waterproof (which helps them reduce buoyancy for diving more efficiently), so they need to dry them afterwards.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The magpie is an intelligent bird belonging to the Corvidae family, which also includes crows, jays, and ravens. Known for its distinct black-and-white plumage, noisy chattering, and long tail, it is the subject of much folklore and superstition in many parts of the world.
Appearance
Distinctive features:
The magpie has a black head, chest, and back, a white belly and white patches on its wings and shoulders.
Iridescent sheen:
When seen up close, the black feathers have an iridescent sheen of blue, green, and purple.
Long tail:
The tail can make up to a third of its body length and also has an iridescent gloss.
Intelligence and behavior
Highly intelligent:
Magpies are considered one of the most intelligent of all bird species. The Eurasian magpie is one of the few non-mammalian species that can recognize itself in a mirror.
Tool use and games:
They can use tools, imitate human speech, play games, and work in teams.
Hoarding:
Magpies often hoard food to eat later, hiding it in the ground and covering it with grass or leaves.
Social:
Outside of breeding season, non-breeding magpies often gather in small flocks.
Nesting:
They build large, domed nests out of sticks and mud, often high in trees or hedges.
Habitat and diet
Widespread habitat:
Magpies are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats across Europe, Asia, and western North America. This includes woodlands, farmland, gardens, and urban areas.
Omnivorous diet:
As omnivores and scavengers, they eat insects, seeds, fruit, carrion, and small vertebrates. In gardens, they'll also eat human food scraps.
Folklore and superstition:
"One for sorrow...": A famous nursery rhyme suggests that the number of magpies you see can predict your fortune.
Bad luck:
In European folklore, a single magpie is often considered an omen of bad luck, while a group of them is seen as good fortune. In some myths, the bird was cursed for not properly mourning Jesus's crucifixion.
Good luck:
In some cultures, such as Korea, the magpie is a symbol of good luck and good news.
"Thieving Magpie" myth:
The idea that magpies compulsively steal shiny objects is largely a myth. Studies show they are generally neophobic (fearful of new things) and will avoid shiny objects.
Please, no invitations to award groups or to those with large/animated comment codes.
Brown hawk-like owl with large, unsettling yellow eyes. Note solid brown back, patchily brown-spotted white breast, and pale triangle above the bill. Adaptable, found in a wide range of forested habitats from primary rainforest to orchards and gardens. Most active at night and dusk; often hunts from an exposed perch. Gives a series of rising hoots: “woo-wuh! woo-wuh! woo-wuh!” (eBird)
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This owl had found himself a very dark corner of the forest to have his daytime nap. It's hard to tell, but his eyes are very slightly open, just to check out the noise of the many visitors to this park.
Hindhede Nature Park, Singapore. March 2024.
Birding Singapore.
Discovered at sunset on the cliff along the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk, in Sydney.
Welcome to Bondi's 'Sculptures By The Sea' for 2025.
See the videos:
sculpturebythesea.com/sculpture-sea-bondi-2025-exhibition...
sculpturebythesea.com/sculpture-sea-bondi-2025-exhibition...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVJbwsWK2i0
This is 'Rustle' (Sculpture 32) by the artist Andrew Cullen. It is a Water Dragon crafted from reclaimed timber.
The Water Dragon embodies adaptability in the face of changing waters. Its poised stance mirrors nature's resilience, urging us to reflect on our uncertain future.
Photographed on Friday, 24th October, 2025.
My Canon EOS 5D Mk IV with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens.
Processed in Adobe Lightroom.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is the most familiar and widespread species of dabbling duck, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are highly adaptable and a common sight in urban parks, ponds, rivers, and various wetland habitats.
Size:
They are large, heavy-looking ducks, typically 50-62 cm (20-24 inches) in length with a wingspan of 81-98 cm (32-39 inches).
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males (drakes) and females (hens) have very different appearances, so much so that they were once thought to be different species.
Male (Drake):
Has a striking, iridescent green head and neck, a bright yellow bill, a white neck ring, a chestnut-brown breast, and grey body plumage. They also have a distinctive curled black feather just above the tail.
Female (Hen):
Has a more muted, mottled brown and tan plumage for camouflage during nesting, with an orange and brown bill.
Both:
Both sexes have a distinctive, white-bordered, iridescent blue or purple patch on their wings called a speculum, which is visible in flight.
Vocalization:
Only the female makes the loud, characteristic "quack" sound commonly associated with ducks. Males have a much quieter, raspier, one or two-note call.
The distinctive red-brown fur and long bushy tail of the fox are a familiar sight almost everywhere in the British Isles. Foxes are intelligent, adaptable mammals, opportunistic, with unfussy palates, and they make use of a wide range of habitats, including those of towns and cities. They are social animals, living in family groups of a breeding pair, together with cubs in the spring, and sometimes other subordinate juveniles and adults. The latter are usually young born the previous year and help with the rearing of cubs, feeding, grooming and playing with them. Each group occupies a territory, which is marked with urine and scats. Dens (called ‘earths’) may be dug in banks or make use of (disused or occupied) badger setts or old rabbit burrows. In urban areas, favoured sites for dens are under buildings or sheds, and in overgrown gardens and cemeteries.
Foxes hunt and scavenge with keen senses of smell and hearing, and probably use the latter to locate earthworms, which can make up a large part of their diet.
Thanks for viewing my photos and for any favourites and comments, it’s much appreciated.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is the most familiar and widespread species of dabbling duck, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are highly adaptable and a common sight in urban parks, ponds, rivers, and various wetland habitats.
Size:
They are large, heavy-looking ducks, typically 50-62 cm (20-24 inches) in length with a wingspan of 81-98 cm (32-39 inches).
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males (drakes) and females (hens) have very different appearances, so much so that they were once thought to be different species.
Male (Drake): Has a striking, iridescent green head and neck, a bright yellow bill, a white neck ring, a chestnut-brown breast, and grey body plumage. They also have a distinctive curled black feather just above the tail.
Female (Hen):
Has a more muted, mottled brown and tan plumage for camouflage during nesting, with an orange and brown bill.
Both:
Both sexes have a distinctive, white-bordered, iridescent blue or purple patch on their wings called a speculum, which is visible in flight.
Vocalization:
Only the female makes the loud, characteristic "quack" sound commonly associated with ducks. Males have a much quieter, raspier, one or two-note call.
Great Blue Heron in flight on a light blue sky.
From Cornell: In flight, the Great Blue Heron curls its neck into a tight “S” shape; its wings are broad and rounded and its legs trail well beyond the tail.
From Audubon: Often seen standing silently along inland rivers or lakeshores, or flying high overhead, with slow wingbeats, its head hunched back onto its shoulders. Highly adaptable, it thrives around all kinds of waters from subtropical mangrove swamps to desert rivers to the coastline of southern Alaska. With its variable diet it is able to spend the winter farther north than most herons, even in areas where most waters freeze.
This guy showed up in our field behind the house. He was feasting on a dead lamb. We don't know where the lamb came from. This is the first time we have seen him around here and he was just incredible.
From Wikipedia:
The crested caracara (Caracara plancus), also known as the Mexican eagle, is a bird of prey (raptor) in the falcon family, Falconidae. It was formerly placed in the genus Polyborus before being given in its own genus, Caracara. It is native to and found in the southern and southeastern United States, Mexico (where it is present in every state) and the majority of mainland Latin America, as well as some Caribbean islands. The crested caracara is quite adaptable and hardy, for a species found predominantly in the neotropics; it can be found in a range of environments and ecosystems, including semi-arid and desert climates, maritime or coastal areas, subtropical and tropical forests, temperate regions, plains, swamps, and even in urban areas. Documented, albeit rare, sightings have occurred as far north as Minnesota and the Canadian provinces of Ontario and Prince Edward Island. The southern extent of the crested caracara's distribution can reach as far as Tierra del Fuego and Magallanes Region, Chile.
Seen in San Felipe, Baja - Mexico on the Sea of Cortez.
Tiny but tough, Verdins are adaptable little birds of hot desert regions. They are usually seen singly or in pairs, flitting about actively in the brush, sometimes giving sharp callnotes. > www.audubon.org/field-guide/bird/verdin
The great horned owl, also known as the tiger owl or the hoot owl, is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an extremely adaptable bird with a vast range and is the most widely distributed true owl in the Americas. Wikipedia
Scientific name: Bubo virginianus
What are 5 interesting facts about great horned owls?
The oldest wild great horned owl lived to be 28 years old, but they have been known to live to be 50 years old in captivity.
A great horned owl can fly up to 40 MPH in level flight.
Females are larger than males, but males have a deeper sounding voice.
These raptors have giant cat-like yellow eyes that do not move.
Thanks to everyone that views and comments on my images - very much appreciated.
© ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. On all my images, Use without permission is illegal. rjdm
In some cultures the Steller’s Jay symbolizes adaptability and fearlessness-this one symbolized begging for food as it seems to be without fear of my presence and more curious about what I was eating (sorry Jay you can’t have a piece of my ham sandwich).
Garter snakes are present throughout most of North America. They have a wide distribution due to their varied diets and adaptability to different habitats, with varying proximity to water; however, in the western part of North America, these snakes are more aquatic than in the eastern portion. Garter snakes populate a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, fields, grasslands, and lawns, but never far away from some form of water, often an adjacent wetland, stream, or pond. This reflects the fact that amphibians are a large part of their diet. Garter snakes are often found near small ponds with tall weeds.
Cambacica (Coereba flaveola)
The cambacica is one of the most common birds in Brazil. Due to its adaptability, it can be found in various types of environments, including forests, urban areas, and gardens, where it is frequently seen visiting flowers and feeders in search of nectar, fruits, or insects.
Characteristics
It is a small bird, about 10 to 11 cm long. Its coloration is quite striking: the back is dark olive, the underparts are yellow, and it has a distinctive white eyebrow (supercilium). The beak is slightly curved, adapted for feeding on nectar.
Behavior
The cambacica is very active and fast-moving, constantly flying from flower to flower or chasing insects. It is known for its curious and bold behavior, often not fearing human presence. It is also very vocal, with a series of high-pitched and sharp calls.
Feeding
Its diet is primarily composed of nectar, fruits, and insects. Because of this, it is often found in gardens and places with flowering plants or feeders offering sugary water or fruit.
The Red Squirrel used to be a common sight in the UK. However it has now disappeared from large areas of Britain and its place has been taken by the grey squirrel. The larger grey squirrel was introduced to this country in the mid-19th century. Research has shown that grey squirrels put on a lot more body fat than red squirrels which gives them a better chance of surviving. The larger, more robust grey wins in the competition for food and space and it is now widespread in England and Wales. It is more adaptable than the red squirrel and lives happily in hedgerow trees, parks and gardens as well as large woods and forests. Grey squirrels also carry the squirrelpox virus, to which they are immune, but which is deadly to red squirrels.
We are asked to report any sightings of Red Squirrels in Scotland in an effort to protect them.
I really appreciate any Views, Faves and Comments and I will try to visit your sites in due course. Thank you so much.
WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
What3Words
///trailers.ripen.grownup
The cormorant is a family of medium-to-large aquatic birds found worldwide that are expert fishers known for their characteristic posture of standing with wings outstretched to dry.
Appearance: Cormorants are generally large, dark-plumaged birds with a long, thick, and flexible neck, giving them a somewhat "prehistoric" or "reptilian" appearance. They have a long, thin bill that ends in a sharp hook, perfectly suited for catching fish. Most species have webbed feet with all four toes joined.
Size: Size varies by species, but the Great Cormorant, a widespread species, typically measures 80-100 cm (31-39 in) in length with a wingspan of 130-160 cm (51-63 in).
Habitat and Distribution: They are highly adaptable and found in a wide variety of aquatic environments, including ocean coasts, estuaries, large rivers, and freshwater lakes and reservoirs across the world, except for the central Pacific islands.
Diet and Hunting: Cormorants are carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish, but also amphibians, crustaceans, and eels. They hunt by diving from the water's surface and propelling themselves underwater using their powerful webbed feet. They can dive to impressive depths, sometimes up to 45 meters (150 feet), and use their hooked bills to seize prey.
Unique Behaviors and Facts
Wing-Drying Posture: One of the most recognizable cormorant behaviors is perching with their wings spread wide in the sun. This is because their feathers are not fully waterproof (which helps them reduce buoyancy for diving more efficiently), so they need to dry them afterwards.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is the most familiar and widespread species of dabbling duck, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are highly adaptable and a common sight in urban parks, ponds, rivers, and various wetland habitats.
Size:
They are large, heavy-looking ducks, typically 50-62 cm (20-24 inches) in length with a wingspan of 81-98 cm (32-39 inches).
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males (drakes) and females (hens) have very different appearances, so much so that they were once thought to be different species.
Male (Drake):
Has a striking, iridescent green head and neck, a bright yellow bill, a white neck ring, a chestnut-brown breast, and grey body plumage. They also have a distinctive curled black feather just above the tail.
Female (Hen):
Has a more muted, mottled brown and tan plumage for camouflage during nesting, with an orange and brown bill.
Both:
Both sexes have a distinctive, white-bordered, iridescent blue or purple patch on their wings called a speculum, which is visible in flight.
Vocalization:
Only the female makes the loud, characteristic "quack" sound commonly associated with ducks. Males have a much quieter, raspier, one or two-note call.
WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
What3Words
///trailers.ripen.grownup
The Grey Crowned Crane (Balearica regulorum) is an elegant, large bird native to Sub-Saharan Africa, instantly recognizable by its unique and striking appearance. It is the national bird of Uganda, featured prominently on the country's flag and coat of arms.
Appearance: This crane stands about 1 meter (3.3 feet) tall with a wingspan of up to 2 meters (6.7 feet). Its body plumage is mainly grey, but its most distinctive feature is a crown of stiff, golden-yellow feathers on its head. It also has white cheek patches, a bright red, inflatable throat pouch (gular sac), and a short, grey bill.
Habitat: They are highly adaptable and found in mixed wetland and grassland environments, including marshes, riverbanks, cultivated fields, and open savannahs. They are unique among cranes for their ability to roost in trees, thanks to a long hind toe that can grasp branches.
Diet: They are omnivores, foraging during the day for a variety of items including plants, seeds, grains, insects, frogs, worms, snakes, and small fish. They often stamp their feet while walking to flush out insects, and sometimes follow grazing animals to catch prey disturbed by their movement.
Behavior: Grey Crowned Cranes are known for their elaborate courtship dances, which involve bowing, jumping, and wing flapping. They form strong, monogamous pair bonds that often last for life, and both parents share the duties of building the nest and raising the young. They are gregarious birds outside the breeding season, often forming flocks of 30 to 150 individuals.
Vocalization: Unlike other cranes that trumpet, the Grey Crowned Crane makes a distinct "booming" call by inflating its red throat pouch, and also produces a honking sound.
Masai Mara National Park
Kenya
East Africa
The common duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), also known as the gray duiker or bush duiker, is a small antelope and the only member of the genus Sylvicapra.
This species is found everywhere in Africa south of the Sahara, excluding the Horn of Africa and the rainforests of the central and western parts of the continent. Generally, they are found in habitats with sufficient vegetation cover to allow them to hide—savannah and hilly areas, including the fringes of human settlements.
Colouration of this species varies widely over its vast geographic range. There are 14 subspecies described, ranging from chestnut in forested areas of Angola to grizzled gray in northern savannas and light brown shades in arid regions.
It grows to about 50 cm (20 in) in height and generally weighs 12 to 25 kg (26 to 55 lb); females are generally larger and heavier than the males. Only the male has horns and these can grow to 11 cm (4.3 in) long.
The common duiker has a wide diet; beyond browsing for leaves, flowers, fruits and tubers, they will also eat insects, frogs, small birds and mammals, and even carrion. As long as they have vegetation to eat (from which they get some water), they can go without drinking for very long periods.
They are active both day and night, but become more nocturnal near human settlements, presumably due to the presence of feral dogs and humans.
Males are territorial and smear gland secretions on rocks and branches to mark their territories; their preferred resting places are generally on elevated ground, where they can observe their territory. Females, by contrast, prefer deeper cover. The overall success of this species stems from its ability to inhabit a wide variety of habitats, as well as from its adaptable, generalist diet. – Wikipedia
The distinctive red-brown fur and long bushy tail of the fox are a familiar sight almost everywhere in the British Isles. Foxes are intelligent, adaptable mammals, opportunistic, with unfussy palates, and they make use of a wide range of habitats, including those of towns and cities. They are social animals, living in family groups of a breeding pair, together with cubs in the spring, and sometimes other subordinate juveniles and adults. The latter are usually young born the previous year and help with the rearing of cubs, feeding, grooming and playing with them. Each group occupies a territory, which is marked with urine and scats. Dens (called ‘earths’) may be dug in banks or make use of (disused or occupied) badger setts or old rabbit burrows. In urban areas, favoured sites for dens are under buildings or sheds, and in overgrown gardens and cemeteries.
Foxes hunt and scavenge with keen senses of smell and hearing, and probably use the latter to locate earthworms, which can make up a large part of their diet.
Thanks for viewing my photos and for any favourites and comments, it’s much appreciated.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
The black-headed gull (Chroicocephalus ridibundus) is a common and widespread small gull species found across Europe and Asia, known for its adaptability and "laughing" call.
Appearance: Despite its name, the breeding adult has a dark chocolate-brown hood in the summer, which often appears black from a distance. For the rest of the year (winter plumage), the head is white with just a dark smudge or spot near the ear coverts, which can look like it is wearing headphones. The body is pale grey above and white below, with black wingtips, and a distinctive white leading edge on the outer wing, especially visible in flight. Adults have dark red legs and a dark red bill.
Size: It is a relatively small gull, measuring about 34–39 cm (13.5–15.5 in) in length with a wingspan of 100–110 cm (39–43.5 in).
Great Horned Owl
Sonoran Desert
Tucson, Arizona
Nikon Z9
This is one of my favourite birds to photograph. They have the most amazing feathers. This one is a perfect avian model.
The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), also known as the tiger owl (originally derived from early naturalists' description as the "winged tiger" or "tiger of the air"), or the hoot owl, is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an extremely adaptable bird with a vast range and is the most widely distributed true owl in the Americas. Its primary diet is rabbits and hares, rats and mice, and voles, although it freely hunts any animal it can overtake, including rodents and other small mammals, larger mid-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
The Squirrel Spirit Animal is a Symbol of Ingenuity, Adaptability, Playfulness and Preparation.
Its Characteristics and cultural Significance offer valuable lessons for those who encounter it.
Lieblicher Nussknacker…
Das Krafttier Eichhörnchen ist ein Symbol für Einfallsreichtum, Anpassungsfähigkeit, Verspieltheit und Vorbereitung. Seine Eigenschaften und seine kulturelle Bedeutung bieten wertvolle Lehren für diejenigen, die ihm begegnen.
Eurasian squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris) Sciurus.
Eurasisches Eichhörnchen.
Thanks for your Visit Views Faves and Comments, have all a Nice Weekend. 🌞✌
Wikipedia: The white-tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus), also known commonly as the whitetail and the Virginia deer, is a medium-sized species of deer native to North, Central and South America. It is the most widely-distributed mainland ungulate herbivore in the Americas; coupled with its natural predator, the mountain lion (Puma concolor), it is one of the most widely-distributed terrestrial mammal species in the Americas and the world. Highly adaptable, the various subspecies of white-tailed deer inhabit many different ecosystems, from arid grasslands to the Amazon and Orinoco basins; from the Pantanal and the Llanos to the high-elevation terrain of the Andes. Globally, the white-tailed deer has been introduced (primarily for sport hunting) to New Zealand, the Greater Antilles of the Caribbean (Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola, and Puerto Rico), and some countries in Europe (mainly the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Romania and Serbia).
Conservation status: Least Concern
WWT Slimbridge Wetland Centre.
What3Words
///trailers.ripen.grownup
The cormorant is a family of medium-to-large aquatic birds found worldwide that are expert fishers known for their characteristic posture of standing with wings outstretched to dry.
Appearance:
Cormorants are generally large, dark-plumaged birds with a long, thick, and flexible neck, giving them a somewhat "prehistoric" or "reptilian" appearance. They have a long, thin bill that ends in a sharp hook, perfectly suited for catching fish. Most species have webbed feet with all four toes joined.
Size:
Size varies by species, but the Great Cormorant, a widespread species, typically measures 80-100 cm (31-39 in) in length with a wingspan of 130-160 cm (51-63 in).
Habitat and Distribution:
They are highly adaptable and found in a wide variety of aquatic environments, including ocean coasts, estuaries, large rivers, and freshwater lakes and reservoirs across the world, except for the central Pacific islands.
Diet and Hunting:
Cormorants are carnivorous, feeding primarily on fish, but also amphibians, crustaceans, and eels. They hunt by diving from the water's surface and propelling themselves underwater using their powerful webbed feet. They can dive to impressive depths, sometimes up to 45 meters (150 feet), and use their hooked bills to seize prey.
Unique Behaviors and Facts
Wing-Drying Posture:
One of the most recognizable cormorant behaviors is perching with their wings spread wide in the sun. This is because their feathers are not fully waterproof (which helps them reduce buoyancy for diving more efficiently), so they need to dry them afterwards.
Still trying to breed.
Buckpool and Fens Pool Local Nature Reserve
What3Words
///thin.spill.bravo
While wild mallards primarily breed during a specific season, typically spring and summer in the Northern Hemisphere, some populations in urban areas or with stable, year-round food sources (like in the UK) may breed outside of the typical season, sometimes even during winter.
Out-of-Season Breeding Factors:
Some circumstances can lead to breeding outside the typical March to July window:
Urban Environments:
In urban areas with consistent, human-provided food and safe nesting sites (like roof gardens or enclosed courtyards), mallards may breed at different times and in some cases, even raise two broods a year.
Geographic Location:
In some regions, like the UK, mallards may be resident breeders and can be found breeding in summer and winter where suitable wetland habitats exist.
The mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) is the most familiar and widespread species of dabbling duck, found across North America, Europe, and Asia. They are highly adaptable and a common sight in urban parks, ponds, rivers, and various wetland habitats.
Size:
They are large, heavy-looking ducks, typically 50-62 cm (20-24 inches) in length with a wingspan of 81-98 cm (32-39 inches).
Sexual Dimorphism:
Males (drakes) and females (hens) have very different appearances, so much so that they were once thought to be different species.
Male (Drake):
Has a striking, iridescent green head and neck, a bright yellow bill, a white neck ring, a chestnut-brown breast, and grey body plumage. They also have a distinctive curled black feather just above the tail.
Female (Hen):
Has a more muted, mottled brown and tan plumage for camouflage during nesting, with an orange and brown bill.
Both:
Both sexes have a distinctive, white-bordered, iridescent blue or purple patch on their wings called a speculum, which is visible in flight.
Vocalization:
Only the female makes the loud, characteristic "quack" sound commonly associated with ducks. Males have a much quieter, raspier, one or two-note call.
The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), also known as the tiger owl (originally derived from early naturalists' description as the "winged tiger" or "tiger of the air")or the hoot owl, is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an extremely adaptable bird with a vast range and is the most widely distributed true owl in the Americas.[5] Its primary diet is rabbits and hares, rats and mice, and voles, although it freely hunts any animal it can overtake, including rodents and other small mammals, larger mid-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
In ornithological study, the great horned owl is often compared to the Eurasian eagle-owl (Bubo bubo), a closely related species, which occupies the same ecological niche in Eurasia despite its notably larger size. The great horned owl is also compared to the red-tailed hawk (Buteo jamaicensis), with which it often shares similar habitat, prey, and nesting habits by day; thus the red-tailed hawk is something of a diurnal ecological equivalent. The great horned owl is one of the earliest nesting birds in North America, often laying eggs weeks or even months before other raptorial birds.
Los Angeles. California.
These little birds are not at all common where we live in Suffolk, and so I always love to see one when we head back to Essex. We spotted this handsome fella at Colchester Zoo!
The House Sparrow, (Passer domesticus) is adaptable and can live in urban and rural settings, being found from the centre of cities to the farmland of the countryside. They feed and breed near to people, living off seed and scraps. The House Sparrow is a species vanishing from the centre of many cities, but is not uncommon in most towns and villages. It is absent from parts of the Scottish Highlands and is thinly distributed in most upland areas.
Breeding males have a black bill, and black around their eyes, under their bill and in a rounded “bib” on their chest. Their belly and top of the head is gray, with white cheeks and chestnut brown neck and wings with black flecks. Non-breeding males look similar but with some yellow on their beak and less black on the chest. Females are a plain light brown all over with grayish underparts and striped backs.
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The great horned owl (Bubo virginianus), also known as the tiger owl (originally derived from early naturalists' description as the "winged tiger" or "tiger of the air"), or the hoot owl,[2] is a large owl native to the Americas. It is an extremely adaptable bird with a vast range and is the most widely distributed true owl in the Americas.[3] Its primary diet is rabbits and hares, rats and mice, and voles, although it freely hunts any animal it can overtake, including rodents and other small mammals, larger mid-sized mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates.
Welcome to Bondi's 'Sculptures By The Sea', 2025.
See the videos:
sculpturebythesea.com/sculpture-sea-bondi-2025-exhibition...
sculpturebythesea.com/sculpture-sea-bondi-2025-exhibition...
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZVJbwsWK2i0
This is Sculpture 32, entitled 'Rustle', by the artist Andrew Cullen.
Andrew states: "Crafted from reclaimed timber, this towering Water Dragon embodies adaptability in the face of changing waters. Its poised stance mirrors Nature's resilience, urging us to reflect on our uncertain future. Will we evolve to survive or be swept away?"
Photographed at sunset on Saturday 1st November, 2025, on the edge of the ocean cliffs along the Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk.
My Canon EOS 5D Mk IV with the Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS II USM lens.
Processed in Adobe Lightroom.
I designed this fighter to be reminiscent of the arc-170, though in the lore it would fulfill a closer roll to the BTL Y-wing. A hyperspace capable heavy star-fighter/bomber meant to go up against capital ships and not get involved in dogfights with other fighters. Though able to hold it’s own and considered quite versatile with it’s interchangeable hard points making it adaptable to various mission profiles.
Red foxes are highly adaptable so it's no surprise they set up their dens at playgrounds, green parks or in barns like here. This youngster was so curious but skittish at the same time... just seconds for a shot and off he was...Bavaria, Germany
The Australian water dragon (Intellagama lesueurii) is a large semi-aquatic lizard from eastern Australia, noted for its swimming skills, striking look, and adaptability to diverse habitats.
Wild duck near the pond in my hometown park, among fresh Spring green. Here are many of them :)
Mallard or wild duck (Anas platyrhynchos) is a dabbling duck that breeds throughout the temperate and subtropical Americas, Eurasia, and North Africa, and has been introduced to New Zealand, Australia, Peru, Brazil, Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, the Falkland Islands, and South Africa. The male birds (drakes) have a glossy green head and are grey on their wings and belly, while the females (hens or ducks) have mainly brown-speckled plumage. It flies very well, in a horizontal flight it can reach even 90 km / h. Mallards live in wetlands, eat water plants and small animals, and are social animals preferring to congregate in groups or flocks of varying sizes. This species is the main ancestor of most breeds of domestic ducks. Unlike many waterfowl, mallards are considered an invasive species in some regions. It is a very adaptable species, being able to live and thrive in urban areas.
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Dzika kaczka (a właściwie kaczorek) przy stawie w parku, wśród wiosennej zieleni. Całkiem sporo ich tu jest :)
Kaczka krzyżówka (Anas platyrhynchos) – gatunek dużego ptaka wodnego z rodziny kaczkowatych (Anatidae). Jest to najpospolitszy i najszerzej rozpowszechniony gatunek kaczki. Zasiedla większość półkuli północnej, ale została introdukowana do południowo-wschodniej Australii oraz na Nową Zelandię. Nie jest zagrożona. W Polsce gatunek łowny w okresie od 15 sierpnia do 21 grudnia. Od krzyżówki pochodzą kaczki domowe. W szacie godowej występuje bardzo wyraźny dymorfizm płciowy. Samiec, ma wtedy zielono opalizującą głowę, odgraniczoną od reszty ciała białą obrożą. W szacie spoczynkowej samiec ma upierzenie podobne do samicy, ale różni się żółtym dziobem, rudą piersią i czarnymi pokrywami nadogonowymi. Często przebywa w grupach z innymi ptakami wodnymi. Bardzo dobrze lata, w locie poziomym może osiągać nawet 90 km/h. Jest ptakiem wędrownym, poza okresem lęgowym tworzy duże stada. Krzyżówka jest wszystkożerna, ale żywi się głównie roślinami, przeważnie wodnymi. Żeruje na powierzchni wody; charakterystycznie, z tylną częścią ciała wystającą ponad taflę. Ponadto zjada pokarm zwierzęcy, np. larwy komarów, chrząszcze, skorupiaki i inne zwierzęta związane ze środowiskiem wodnym.
The Coyote is intelligent, adaptable and survives in harsh conditions in Yellowstone during the winter based on its resourcefulness. We saw this same coyote on multiple days hunting by an open river and then sheltering from a storm by tucking into a tree along a hillside.
A fascinating hour spent watch black headed gulls hawking flies and insects in the strong autumn sunshine as the sun dipped behind the hills the temperature dropped the gulls suddenly settled on the water after wondering what was going on I noticed as the temperature dropped the insects starting to land on the water and the gulls snapped all they could catch !!
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Regards Clive
Callistemon citrinus
(some herbaria are calling this Melaleuca citrina)
Callistemons are found wild only on the Australian continent, but are among the best-known Australian plants grown in other countries where several half-hardy species are widely grown and adaptable to garden treatment. The Callistemon flower with the showy part consisting of massed stamens, not petals, is a novelty in cooler climates, and where the plants will not survive outdoors they are prized as pot plants under glass. Australian National Botanic Gardens and Centre for Australian National Biodiversity Research, Canberra.
Lassalle-Hof is a municipal residential complex with 269 apartments in Leopoldstadt, the 2nd district of Vienna. It was built in the years 1924-1926.
Lassalle-Hof Lassalle-Hof is a municipal residential complex with 269 apartments in Leopoldstadt, the 2nd district of Vienna. It was built in the years 1924-1926.
"Gemeindebauten have become an important part of the architecture and culture of Vienna since the 1920s. Up to 1918, the housing conditions of Vienna's growing working class were appalling by modern standards. When the Social Democratic Party of Austria gained control of the municipal administration during Austria's First Republic (1918-1934) (so called "Red Vienna"), it began the project of improving living conditions for workers. A large number of Gemeindebauten, usually large residential estates, were built during that time. Including those buildings that were finished after the events of February 1934, 64,000 apartments where completed, which created housing space for about 220,000 people. Apartments were assigned on the basis of a point system favoring families and less affluent citizens.
The classic interwar Gemeindebauten typically have a main entrance with a large gate, through which one enters into a yard. Inside, there are trees and some greenery, where children can play without having to go out on the street. Apartments are accessed from the inside.
This fortress-like structure made the buildings adaptable to military use. Several Gemeindebauten in Vienna, most notably the Karl-Marx-Hof, were sites of fighting during the Austrian Civil War of February 1934, when they were defended as Social Democratic Party strongholds." en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemeindebau
The ride was hot and dusty as we rapidly bumped across the Serengeti plain. Our driver-guide miraculously kept the Jeep in the ‘two-track ruts’ that locals call roads while craning his neck from side to side searching for African Wildlife.
Finally, he yelled back to us that he had spotted a lion cooling off under a tree. After stopping to verify his “find” with binoculars, off we flew down the road towards the Lion.
Fortunately, the Male Lion was not concerned about our presence, and I was able to capture this portrait. If you look closely, old scars covering areas of his face are visible… It’s a tough world he lives in !!
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The African Lion:
In the past lions roamed throughout all of Africa and parts of Asia and Europe. However, this mighty species is now found only in fragments of sub-Saharan Africa, along with a critically endangered subpopulation in West Africa.
The largest lion populations can be found in Tanzania. Since lions are extremely adaptable big cats, they can survive in a wide variety of habitats, including dry forests, thick bush, floodplains, and semi-arid desert areas. However, they typically prefer open savannas where it is easier to stalk their prey.
Compared to other big cat species, lions are the most sociable. They live in groups called prides, which can consist of anywhere from two to 30 members, including three or four males, a dozen or more females, and their offspring.
Lionesses remain with the same pride for their entire lives. Male lions, on the other hand, leave after maturing to compete for control of another pride. Leading males defend their territory by marking it with urine and roaring to scare off intruders. A lion’s roar can be heard from five miles away.
Within their pride, female lions act as the primary hunters and work in teams to prey on zebras, wildebeests, antelope, and other large herbivores. Lions sleep up to 20 hours a day, so most of their hunting is done at night or early in the morning. This is because their eyes easily adapt to the dark, and it is easier to sneak up on prey at night.
Along with hunting for the pride, female lions are responsible for raising their offspring. They typically give birth to a litter every two years, which consists of one to four cubs.
It is estimated that between 23,000 to 39,000 lions remain in the wild. However, other data from recent years suggests that that number may be closer to 20,000, as three-quarters of their population is in decline. Although lions are not currently endangered, population numbers will continue to decrease without proper conservation efforts.
(Nikon, 100-400/5.6 @ 400 mm, 1/1250 @ f/5.6, ISO 900, processed to taste)
The Cattle Egret is a small, white heron that is native to Africa but has been introduced to many other parts of the world, including the Americas, Asia, Australia, and Europe. It is often seen near grazing animals, such as cattle, horses, and goats, and is known to feed on insects and other small animals that are disturbed by the grazing activity.
The Cattle Egret has a compact body and short, thick bill that it uses to capture its prey. It has white plumage and yellow legs, and during the breeding season, it develops a distinctive orange-brown patch of feathers on its head, neck, and back.
Cattle Egrets are social birds and often nest in large colonies, building their nests out of sticks and other materials in trees, bushes, or on the ground. Both parents take turns incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks, which are born with downy feathers and open eyes.
Cattle Egrets are found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields. They are known for their adaptability and have successfully expanded their range to many new areas, where they have become a common sight near farms and ranches.
Cattle Egrets play an important ecological role by feeding on insects and other small animals that can damage crops and pastures. They are also a popular species among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts due to their distinctive appearance and interesting behavior.
Mirlo typically refers to the Common Blackbird (Turdus merula), a widespread and well-known bird species belonging to the thrush family (Turdidae).
Here's a quick rundown of some key characteristics:
Appearance:
Males: Distinctive for their entirely black plumage, bright orange-yellow beak, and an orange ring around their eyes.
Females: Are dark brown, often with a paler throat and a slightly mottled breast, and a darker beak.
Young birds: Resemble females but have a reddish-brown, heavily mottled plumage.
Size: A relatively large bird, typically around 23-29 cm in length and weighing 80-135 grams.
Habitat: Highly adaptable, originally a forest bird, but now commonly found in a wide variety of environments, including parks, gardens, agricultural areas, open woodlands, and even city centers.
Diet: Primarily feeds on invertebrates like worms, snails, and insects. In autumn and winter, they also consume berries and fruits.
Vocalization: Famous for its beautiful, melodious, and flute-like song, often heard at dawn and dusk, especially during breeding season (from late winter to summer). They also have distinct alarm calls.
Behavior: Often seen hopping on the ground while searching for food. They build cup-shaped nests using grass, twigs, moss, and mud, typically in dense hedges, bushes, or trees at low to medium heights.
Distribution: Widely distributed across the Paleartic region (Europe, Asia, and North Africa), and also introduced in Australia and New Zealand. It's a common and abundant bird throughout Spain.
The mirlo is not only a familiar sight but also plays an important role in ecosystems by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds through its diet of fruits.
In almost every part of the world, the Dragonfly symbolizes change, transformation, adaptability, and self-realization. The change that is often referred to has its source in mental and emotional maturity and understanding the deeper meaning of life.
The Myiopsitta monachus is a species native to the Southern Cone of South America, distributed across Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, Bolivia, and southern Brazil. This bird is recognized for its unique social behavior among parrots: it constructs large communal nests made of branches and sticks, where several pairs breed and find shelter. Due to its great adaptability and longevity, this species has managed to establish self-sustaining populations outside its native range in various regions of the world, being considered an introduced or feral species in countries in North America and Europe.
• Monk parakeet
• Cotorrita verde, cotorrita verdigrís, cotorra argentina, perico monje
Scientific classification
Kingdom:Animalia
Phylum:Chordata
Class:Aves
Order:Psittaciformes
Superfamily:Psittacoidea
Family:Psittacidae
Subfamily:Arinae
Genus:Myiopsitta
Species:M. monachus
Santa Regina, Colonia, Uruguay
Blue jays are natural forest dwellers, but they are also highly adaptable and intelligent birds. They are a familiar and noisy presence around many North American bird feeders.
"Rain lily refers to about 70 species of Zephyranthes and Habranthus, all of which are flowering bulbs that share this common name. Both species are related and have similar flowers and foliage.
These small bulbs earned the name "rain lily" because they often flower within a few days after rain. From spring through autumn, rain lilies can produce flushes of star-shaped, crocus-like flowers that are bronze, copper, white, pink or yellow, depending on the species. Flowers of some new hybrids are in shades of peach, orange and red, and some have multicolored flowers in striped or picotee patterns. Rain lily’s easy care, broad adaptability and beautiful, starry flowers make it ideal for gardens."
The Lynx Spider - "A fierce predator, the green lynx will eat just about anything. Bees, wasps, beetles, flies, grasshoppers and even other spiders become victim to the green lynx's aggressive hunting. While the green lynx is dangerous to other spiders and insects, it seldom bites people."
European Robin
Two years ago Sid's Skinless head was so much more noticeable. Amazing how adaptable birds are and how much he recovered.
So pleased we still have him
Colliers Reserve Country Club
Southwest Florida
USA
Male is in the background.
The mottled duck (Anas fulvigula) or mottled mallard is a medium-sized dabbling duck. It is intermediate in appearance between the female mallard and the American black duck. It is closely related to those species, and is sometimes considered a subspecies of the former, but this is inappropriate (see systematics).
There are two distinct populations of mottled ducks. One population, A. fulvigula maculosa (mottled duck), lives on the Gulf of Mexico coast between Alabama and Tamaulipas (Mexico); outside the breeding season individual birds may venture as far south as to Veracruz. The other, A. fulvigula fulvigula (Florida duck), is resident in central and south Florida and occasionally strays north to Georgia. The same disjunct distribution pattern was also historically found in the local sandhill cranes.
Along the Gulf of Mexico coast, the mottled duck is one of the most frequently banded waterfowl. This is due in part to the fact that it is mostly non-migratory. Approximately one out of every twenty mottled ducks is banded, making it an extremely prized and sought after bird among hunters.- Wikipedia