A typical large stoutly built grey goose which can be found over much of Europe and can have a lifespan of over 20 years in the wild.

The tortoise is native to seven of the Galápagos Islands;

With lifespans in the wild of over 100 years, it is one of the longest-lived vertebrates.

A captive individual lived at least 170 years. Tortoises are not likely to migrate, as they are too big and have an extremely slow metabolism.[22] Spanish explorers, who discovered the islands in the 16th century, named them after the Spanish galápago, meaning tortoise. Tortoises also live very uncomplicated lives, and can nap up to 16 hours a day.[22]

A large strong flying butterfly that can found in all kind of habitats anywhere in Britain and Ireland. Although thought of as a British species some individuals will have come from the Mediterranean region. Before the 18th century this butterfly was previously known as the 'red admirable butterfly'. The best time to see this butterfly on the wing is from March to November. The lifespan of this butterfly has a winter generation of about 9 months and a summer generation of about 4 to 6 months which will often go on to hibernate.

One of three species of wild swans to be found in the UK which can in the wild have a lifespan of up to 12 years. The Mute Swan is the less vocal one and is unique in making a vibrant throbbing sound with the wings when in flight. The Mute Swan is also the national bird of Denmark. A large group of swans can be called , school, ballet and regatta. No swan has ever broken any ones arm, this is a actually a complete myth.

A goose that was introduced into Europe in the 17th century that is often over looked all for the sake for being something that is classed as common. This goose has be known to have a lifespan of 10 to 24 years in the wild and tends to favour semi-urban or man made habitats.

The Mute swan actually gets its name from the fact that its is less vocal than other swan species and is one of the heaviest flying birds. A male swan is known as a Cob while the female is known as a Pen and has a lifespan of around 12 years in the wild and can reach 30 years if in an protected environment. One of three species of wild swans to be found in the UK and is the national bird of Denmark. The Mute Swan is unique in making a vibrant throbbing sound with the wings when in flight. A large group of swans can be called , school, ballet and regatta. No swan has ever broken any ones arm, this is a actually a complete myth.

The Mute swan actually gets its name from the fact that its is less vocal than other swan species and is one of the heaviest flying birds. A male swan is known as a Cob while the female is known as a Pen and has a lifespan of around 12 years in the wild and can reach 30 years if in an protected environment. One of three species of wild swans to be found in the UK and is the national bird of Denmark. The Mute Swan is unique in making a vibrant throbbing sound with the wings when in flight. A large group of swans can be called a school, ballet and regatta. No swan has ever broken any ones arm, this is a actually a complete myth.

The Mute swan actually gets its name from the fact that its is less vocal than other swan species and is one of the heaviest flying birds. A male swan is known as a Cob while the female is known as a Pen and has a lifespan of around 12 years in the wild and can reach 30 years if in an protected environment.

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

A goose that was introduced into Europe in the 17th century that is often over looked all for the sake for being something that is classed as common. This goose has be known to have a lifespan of 10 to 24 years in the wild and tends to favour semi-urban or man made habitats.

A large strong flying butterfly that can be found in all kind of habitats anywhere in Britain and Ireland. Although thought of as a British species some individuals will have come from the Mediterranean region. The best time to see this butterfly on the wing is from March to November. The lifespan of this butterfly has a winter generation of about 9 months and a summer generation of about 4 to 6 months which will often go on to hibernate. The name Red Admiral is actually a corruption of the original 18th century name 'Red Admirable. For some cultures this butterfly signifies the spirit of souls, transformation and resurrection.

Originally from Aldabra in the Seychelles, this species can reach up to 1m in length with an average lifespan of more than 150 years.

The second-largest species of tortoise in the world, the Aldabra species is a cousin of the native domed and saddle-backed giant tortoises, which have gone extinct from Mauritius since the early 18th century.

Photo taken in the Chamarel Tortoise Park.

Unlike my much smaller Lesser Tenrecs, their lifespan is only up to 5 years.

Photographed with very low POV at British Wildlife Centre

Adult life for a cheetah in the wild is difficult. Cheetahs in the wild (both male and female combined) have an average age span of 10 – 12 years. The average lifespan of an adult male in the wild skews lower (8 years), due in part to territorial conflicts with competing groups of males. Adult mortality is one of the most significant limiting factors for the growth and survival of the wild cheetah population. The cheetah’s unique body structure: flexible spine, semi-retractable claws, long legs and tail allow it to achieve the unbelievable top speed of 110 km/hr (70 mph). [Credit: Cheetah Conservation Fund]

Shelduck - Tadorna Tadorna

Length: 58-64cm

Wingspan: 1.1m

Weight: 1-1.2kg

Average lifespan: 10 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015).

When to see

January to December

The shelduck is one of our largest ducks, growing as big as some geese. It is mainly coastal, feeding on small invertebrates that it finds in the mud of estuaries and sandy beaches. It has spread inland, however, as flooded gravel pits with sandy shores and gravel banks provide a perfect feeding ground.

The shelduck is a big, white duck, with a dark green head, bright red bill, orangey-brown band around the breast, and black patches on the back and wings.

Distribution

Common around much of the UK's coastline, but can also be found inland in small numbers on gravel pits and reservoirs.

Did you know?

The shelduck nests underground in old rabbit burrows, in tree holes or in haystacks. During the 19th century, it was persecuted for this habit in certain areas as it competed with rabbits which were food for many people.

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

Goshawk - Accipiter Gentilis

Juvenile

Double click to view

Known as the phantom of the forest, goshawks can fly through the trees at up to 40km per hour as they hunt birds and small mammals.

Statistics

Length: 49-56cm (male). 58-64cm (female)

Wingspan: 90-105cm (male), 108-120cm (female)

Weight: 850g (male), 1.5kg (female)

Average lifespan: 7 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

This powerful bird of prey was persecuted to extinction in the UK in the late 19th century, but escaped and deliberately released falconry birds launched a population recovery in the late 1960s. Nesting in forests and large woods, they are most easily seen in late winter and spring, when pairs perform spectacular aerial displays over their woodland territories.

The goshawk is similar to the sparrowhawk, but much larger. In flight they appear powerful, with broad wings and a long, rounded tail (more square-cut in sparrowhawk). Up-close they show thick legs and a white line above each orange-red eye. Females, the size of a Buzzard, have slate-grey upperparts and whitish underparts barred grey, whilst males are smaller, with blue-grey upperparts. Juvenile birds have striped rather than barred underparts.

Distribution

Found across the UK but often localised. Population strongholds in Wales, northern England, the New Forest and southern and eastern Scotland.

Did you know?

Although we consider goshawks to be birds of the forest, in other parts of Europe they can be found in urban settings, perching on street lights and catching Feral Pige

Shelduck - Tadorna Tadorna

Length: 58-64cm

Wingspan: 1.1m

Weight: 1-1.2kg

Average lifespan: 10 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015).

When to see

January to December

The shelduck is one of our largest ducks, growing as big as some geese. It is mainly coastal, feeding on small invertebrates that it finds in the mud of estuaries and sandy beaches. It has spread inland, however, as flooded gravel pits with sandy shores and gravel banks provide a perfect feeding ground.

The shelduck is a big, white duck, with a dark green head, bright red bill, orangey-brown band around the breast, and black patches on the back and wings.

Distribution

Common around much of the UK's coastline, but can also be found inland in small numbers on gravel pits and reservoirs.

Did you know?

The shelduck nests underground in old rabbit burrows, in tree holes or in haystacks. During the 19th century, it was persecuted for this habit in certain areas as it competed with rabbits which were food for many people.

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

This was once a municipal rubbish dump and Sheffield Council had to return it back to nature after it's lifespan was complete, It's now part of the Shire Brook Valley where I have been volunteering this year for 29 years.

I know it's not the greatest photograph but it's the first one of the New Year. The fields have been cut for Skylarks, Meadow Pipits and the wildflowers

Happy New Year everybody

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

Adult life for a cheetah in the wild is difficult. Cheetahs in the wild (both male and female combined) have an average age span of 10 – 12 years. The average lifespan of an adult male in the wild skews lower (8 years), due in part to territorial conflicts with competing groups of males. Adult mortality is one of the most significant limiting factors for the growth and survival of the wild cheetah population. The cheetah’s unique body structure: flexible spine, semi-retractable claws, long legs and tail allow it to achieve the unbelievable top speed of 110 km/hr (70 mph). [Credit: Cheetah Conservation Fund]

Goshawk - Accipiter Gentilis

Juvenile

Known as the phantom of the forest, goshawks can fly through the trees at up to 40km per hour as they hunt birds and small mammals.

Statistics

Length: 49-56cm (male). 58-64cm (female)

Wingspan: 90-105cm (male), 108-120cm (female)

Weight: 850g (male), 1.5kg (female)

Average lifespan: 7 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

This powerful bird of prey was persecuted to extinction in the UK in the late 19th century, but escaped and deliberately released falconry birds launched a population recovery in the late 1960s. Nesting in forests and large woods, they are most easily seen in late winter and spring, when pairs perform spectacular aerial displays over their woodland territories.

The goshawk is similar to the sparrowhawk, but much larger. In flight they appear powerful, with broad wings and a long, rounded tail (more square-cut in sparrowhawk). Up-close they show thick legs and a white line above each orange-red eye. Females, the size of a Buzzard, have slate-grey upperparts and whitish underparts barred grey, whilst males are smaller, with blue-grey upperparts. Juvenile birds have striped rather than barred underparts.

Distribution

Found across the UK but often localised. Population strongholds in Wales, northern England, the New Forest and southern and eastern Scotland.

Did you know?

Although we consider goshawks to be birds of the forest, in other parts of Europe they can be found in urban settings, perching on street lights and catching Feral Pigeons.

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

The Mute swan actually gets its name from the fact that its is less vocal than other swan species and is one of the heaviest flying birds. A male swan is known as a Cob while the female is known as a Pen and has a lifespan of around 12 years in the wild and can reach 30 years if in an protected environment. One of three species of wild swans to be found in the UK and is the national bird of Denmark. The Mute Swan is unique in making a vibrant throbbing sound with the wings when in flight. A large group of swans can be called, school, ballet and regatta. No swan has ever broken anyone's arm, this is a actually a complete myth.

The Gray fox or grey fox is a mammal of the order Carnivora.

This species is widespread throughout North America and Central America. More specifically, their range spans from southern Canada to Venezuela and Columbia, excluding portions of the Great Plains and mountainous regions of northwestern United States and eastern coast of Central America.

Gray foxes prefer to live in deciduous forests interspersed with brushy, woodland areas. Many populations thrive where woodlands and farmlands meet. Proximity to water is a key feature of preferred habitat as well.

They are most often found below 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in elevation.

The lifespan of the gray fox is 6 to 9 years in the wild.

Goshawk - Accipiter Gentilis

Juvenile

Known as the phantom of the forest, goshawks can fly through the trees at up to 40km per hour as they hunt birds and small mammals.

Statistics

Length: 49-56cm (male). 58-64cm (female)

Wingspan: 90-105cm (male), 108-120cm (female)

Weight: 850g (male), 1.5kg (female)

Average lifespan: 7 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

This powerful bird of prey was persecuted to extinction in the UK in the late 19th century, but escaped and deliberately released falconry birds launched a population recovery in the late 1960s. Nesting in forests and large woods, they are most easily seen in late winter and spring, when pairs perform spectacular aerial displays over their woodland territories.

The goshawk is similar to the sparrowhawk, but much larger. In flight they appear powerful, with broad wings and a long, rounded tail (more square-cut in sparrowhawk). Up-close they show thick legs and a white line above each orange-red eye. Females, the size of a Buzzard, have slate-grey upperparts and whitish underparts barred grey, whilst males are smaller, with blue-grey upperparts. Juvenile birds have striped rather than barred underparts.

Distribution

Found across the UK but often localised. Population strongholds in Wales, northern England, the New Forest and southern and eastern Scotland.

Did you know?

Although we consider goshawks to be birds of the forest, in other parts of Europe they can be found in urban settings, perching on street lights and catching Feral Pigeons.

Such a shame that these once widespread found birds are declining in the UK. The House Sparrow is now a Red-Listed conservation species due to its long-term decline particularly in urban and suburban environments. Despite the small size the House Sparrow can have a lifespan of 3 years in the wild.

...alone in a beautiful place, to figure things out.

Joshua Trees aren’t actually trees, they’re yuccas. For desert plants, Joshua’s are relatively fast growers. Whereas a saguaro will achieve a height of only an inch to 1½” in its first 8 years of growth, the Joshua grows at an average rate of 3” per year in its first 10 years of life. The tallest of Joshua’s reach a height of up to 49 feet. Their “deep and extensive” root system allows the plant to adapt to the harsh desert climate.

Unlike trees with growth rings, the Joshua trunk consists of thousands of small fibers. The plant does not produce growth rings like a pine or oak, which makes it difficult to determine its age. Researchers say that the average lifespan of a Joshua tree is around 150 years; however, some are believed to have lived over 500 years.

Legend has it that the “tree” got its name from Mormon settlers who were crossing the Mojave Desert in the mid 1800’s. The tree’s unusual shape reminded them of a biblical story in which Joshua reaches his hands up to the sky in prayer. Yet, upon further investigation we learned that others called this unusual plant a tree yucca, yucca palm and desert yucca.

Whatever you call it, the Joshua Yucca Tree is the identifiable icon of Southern California. Its botanical name is yucca brevifolia, a member of the agave family. These plants are native to the southwestern desert green spaces and thrive at elevations between 1300 and 5900 feet. Joshua’s can also be found in Arizona, Utah and Nevada.

(Nikon, 24-70/2.8 @ 24 mm, 1/1000 @ f/16, ISO 800, edited to taste)

attention-drawing and playful, The Japanese macaque, also known as the snow monkey, is a terrestrial Old World monkey species that is native to Japan. Wikipedia

Lifespan: 27 years (Male, In captivity)

Zoom to appreciate.

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. m

Out of the three species of wild swans to be found in the UK with a lifespan of up to 12 years in the wild. The Mute Swan is the less vocal one and is unique in making a vibrant throbbing sound with the wings when in flight. The Mute Swan is also the national bird of Denmark. A large group of swans can be called , school, ballet and regatta. No swan has ever broken any ones arm, this is a actually a complete myth.

How fast do Joshua trees grow? Joshua trees are slow -growing. Trees adding only 2 or 3 inches each year. It will take 50 to 60 years for a Joshua Tree to reach full height. A more common lifespan is 150 years old.but some of the larger trees may be older than that. It is quite an intriguing place..

Shelduck - Tadorna Tadorna

Length: 58-64cm

Wingspan: 1.1m

Weight: 1-1.2kg

Average lifespan: 10 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Amber under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015).

When to see

January to December

The shelduck is one of our largest ducks, growing as big as some geese. It is mainly coastal, feeding on small invertebrates that it finds in the mud of estuaries and sandy beaches. It has spread inland, however, as flooded gravel pits with sandy shores and gravel banks provide a perfect feeding ground.

The shelduck is a big, white duck, with a dark green head, bright red bill, orangey-brown band around the breast, and black patches on the back and wings.

Distribution

Common around much of the UK's coastline, but can also be found inland in small numbers on gravel pits and reservoirs.

Did you know?

The shelduck nests underground in old rabbit burrows, in tree holes or in haystacks. During the 19th century, it was persecuted for this habit in certain areas as it competed with rabbits which were food for many people.

Razorbill - Alca Torda

The razorbill or lesser auk (Alca torda) is a colonial seabird in the monotypic genus Alca of the family Alcidae, the auks. It is the closest living relative of the extinct great auk (Pinguinis impennis). Wild populations live in the subarctic waters of the Atlantic Ocean.

Razorbills are primarily black with a white underside. The male and female are identical in plumage; however, males are generally larger than females. This agile bird, which is capable of both flight and diving, has a predominantly aquatic lifestyle and only comes to land in order to breed. It is monogamous, choosing one partner for life. Females lay one egg per year. Razorbills nest along coastal cliffs in enclosed or slightly exposed crevices. The parents spend equal amounts of time incubating, and once the chick has hatched, they take turns foraging for their young.

In 1918, the razorbill was protected in the United States by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. Presently, the major threat for the population is the destruction of breeding sites.

Their mating system is female-enforced monogamy; the razorbill chooses one partner for life. It nests in open or hidden crevices among cliffs and boulders. It is a colonial breeder and only comes to land to breed. The annual survival rate of the razorbill is between 89-95%. Though the razorbill's average lifespan is roughly 13 years, a bird ringed in the UK in 1967 survived for at least 41 years—a record for the species.

Razorbills dive deep into the sea using their wings and their streamlined bodies to propel themselves toward their prey. While diving, they rarely stay in groups, but rather spread out to feed. The majority of their feeding occurs at a depth of 25 m (82 ft) but they have the ability to dive up to 120 m (390 ft) below the surface. During a single dive an individual can capture and swallow many schooling fish, depending on their size. Razorbills spend approximately 44% of their time foraging at sea.

When feeding their young, they generally deliver small loads. Adults will mainly feed only one fish to their chick with high feeding deliveries at dawn and decreased feeding 4 hours before dark. Females will generally feed their chicks more frequently than males. They may well fly more than 100 km (62 mi) out to sea to feed when during egg incubation, but when provisioning the young, they forage closer to the nesting grounds, some 12 km (7.5 mi) away, and often in shallower water.

Population:

UK breeding:

130,000 pairs

Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds

The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, or great white egret or great white heron is a large, widely distributed egret, with four subspecies found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe, recently also spreading to more northern areas of Europe. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Ardea alba

Conservation status: Least Concern Encyclopedia of Life

Lifespan: approximately 15 years chesapeakebay.net

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. ~m

The Gray fox or grey fox is a mammal of the order Carnivora.

This species is widespread throughout North America and Central America. More specifically, their range spans from southern Canada to Venezuela and Columbia, excluding portions of the Great Plains and mountainous regions of northwestern United States and eastern coast of Central America.

Gray foxes prefer to live in deciduous forests interspersed with brushy, woodland areas. Many populations thrive where woodlands and farmlands meet. Proximity to water is a key feature of preferred habitat as well.

They are most often found below 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in elevation.

The lifespan of the gray fox is 6 to 9 years in the wild.

Seen here getting ready for its dust bath. Such a shame that these once widespread found birds are declining in the UK. The House Sparrow is now a Red-Listed conservation species due to its long-term decline particularly in urban and suburban environments. Despite the small size the House Sparrow can have a lifespan of 3 years in the wild.

Art - Layered and Textured from 3 photos

The cedar waxwing is a member of the family Bombycillidae or waxwing family of passerine birds. It is a medium-sized, mostly brown, gray, and yellow. This bird is named for its wax-like wing tips. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Bombycilla cedrorum

Lifespan: eight years nwf.org

Family: Bombycillidae

zoom in to appreciate

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.

Art - Texture and Layer on photo image

The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, or great white egret or great white heron is a large, widely distributed egret, with four subspecies found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe, recently also spreading to more northern areas of Europe. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Ardea alba

Conservation status: Least Concern Encyclopedia of Life

Lifespan: approximately 15 years chesapeakebay.net

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. ~

Die Lebensdauer der adulten Tiere beträgt bei den meisten Arten durchschnittlich etwa sechs bis acht Wochen. Manche Arten leben auch nur etwa zwei Wochen. Die längste Lebensdauer als ausgewachsene Libelle haben in Mitteleuropa die Winterlibellen (Gattung Sympecma), welche als erwachsenes Tier überwintern und dadurch zehn bis elf Monate leben. Das aktive Leben beträgt bei ihnen allerdings nur etwa vier bis sechs Monate, da sie den Winter weitestgehend in Kältestarre überdauern.

Quelle Wikipedia

Beauties for one summer

The average lifespan of adult animals for most species is about six to eight weeks. Some species live only about two weeks. The longest lifespan as a full-grown dragonfly in Central Europe is the winter dragonflies (type Sympecma), which hibernate as an adult animal and thus live ten to eleven months. However, they only live for about four to six months, as they largely survive the winter in cold rigidity.

Source Wikipedia

Goshawk - Accipiter Gentilis

Juvenile

Known as the phantom of the forest, goshawks can fly through the trees at up to 40km per hour as they hunt birds and small mammals.

Statistics

Length: 49-56cm (male). 58-64cm (female)

Wingspan: 90-105cm (male), 108-120cm (female)

Weight: 850g (male), 1.5kg (female)

Average lifespan: 7 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

This powerful bird of prey was persecuted to extinction in the UK in the late 19th century, but escaped and deliberately released falconry birds launched a population recovery in the late 1960s. Nesting in forests and large woods, they are most easily seen in late winter and spring, when pairs perform spectacular aerial displays over their woodland territories.

The goshawk is similar to the sparrowhawk, but much larger. In flight they appear powerful, with broad wings and a long, rounded tail (more square-cut in sparrowhawk). Up-close they show thick legs and a white line above each orange-red eye. Females, the size of a Buzzard, have slate-grey upperparts and whitish underparts barred grey, whilst males are smaller, with blue-grey upperparts. Juvenile birds have striped rather than barred underparts.

Distribution

Found across the UK but often localised. Population strongholds in Wales, northern England, the New Forest and southern and eastern Scotland.

Did you know?

Although we consider goshawks to be birds of the forest, in other parts of Europe they can be found in urban settings, perching on street lights and catching Feral Pigeons.

Art - Different clouds and texture

The great egret, also known as the common egret, large egret, or great white egret or great white heron is a large, widely distributed egret, with four subspecies found in Asia, Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe, recently also spreading to more northern areas of Europe. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Ardea alba

Conservation status: Least Concern Encyclopedia of Life

Lifespan: approximately 15 years chesapeakebay.net

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The Gray fox or grey fox is a mammal of the order Carnivora.

This species is widespread throughout North America and Central America. More specifically, their range spans from southern Canada to Venezuela and Columbia, excluding portions of the Great Plains and mountainous regions of northwestern United States and eastern coast of Central America.

Gray foxes prefer to live in deciduous forests interspersed with brushy, woodland areas. Many populations thrive where woodlands and farmlands meet. Proximity to water is a key feature of preferred habitat as well.

They are most often found below 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in elevation.

The lifespan of the gray fox is 6 to 9 years in the wild.

See image below in which the two trees are full of these little birds. Seen on my photo shoot in The Shipyards District, North Vancouver

The house sparrow is a bird of the sparrow family Passeridae, found in most parts of the world. It is a small bird that has a typical length of 16 cm and a mass of 24–39.5 g. Females and young birds are coloured pale brown and grey, and males have brighter black, white, and brown markings. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Passer domesticus

Lifespan: 3 years (In the wild)

Mass: 24 – 40 g (Adult)

The Gray fox or grey fox is a mammal of the order Carnivora.

This species is widespread throughout North America and Central America. More specifically, their range spans from southern Canada to Venezuela and Columbia, excluding portions of the Great Plains and mountainous regions of northwestern United States and eastern coast of Central America.

Gray foxes prefer to live in deciduous forests interspersed with brushy, woodland areas. Many populations thrive where woodlands and farmlands meet. Proximity to water is a key feature of preferred habitat as well.

They are most often found below 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) in elevation.

The lifespan of the gray fox is 6 to 9 years in the wild.

Tufted Duck - Aythya Fuligula

The unmistakeable, black-and-white tufted duck lives up to its name - look out for the black tuft of feathers on its head. It can be seen all year-round, but often flocks together with other ducks in winter.

Length: 41-45cm

Wingspan: 70cm

Weight: 760g

Average lifespan: 4 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

Our most common diving duck, the tufted duck nests on flooded gravel pits, lakes and reservoirs, and gathers in large flocks in the winter, often mixed with Pochard and Coot. Tufted ducks feed on waterweed, plant seeds and aquatic invertebrates.

The tufted duck is very distinctive: the female is entirely chocolate-brown, while the male is black with white flanks and a long tuft at the back of the head.

Distribution

Found throughout the country, on lakes, reservoirs and flooded gravel pits.

FreshwaterWetlandsTowns and gardens

Did you know?

The scientific name of the tufted duck, fuligula, means 'sooty throat'. Like most ducks, the 'drake' (male) has nothing to do with the incubation of the eggs or raising the young. The 'hen' (female) has eight to eleven eggs in a brood; the young becoming independent once their true feathers have fledged.

Goshawk - Accipiter Gentilis

Juvenile

Known as the phantom of the forest, goshawks can fly through the trees at up to 40km per hour as they hunt birds and small mammals.

Statistics

Length: 49-56cm (male). 58-64cm (female)

Wingspan: 90-105cm (male), 108-120cm (female)

Weight: 850g (male), 1.5kg (female)

Average lifespan: 7 years

Conservation status

Classified in the UK as Green under the Birds of Conservation Concern 4: the Red List for Birds (2015). Protected in the UK under the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981.

When to see

January to December

This powerful bird of prey was persecuted to extinction in the UK in the late 19th century, but escaped and deliberately released falconry birds launched a population recovery in the late 1960s. Nesting in forests and large woods, they are most easily seen in late winter and spring, when pairs perform spectacular aerial displays over their woodland territories.

The goshawk is similar to the sparrowhawk, but much larger. In flight they appear powerful, with broad wings and a long, rounded tail (more square-cut in sparrowhawk). Up-close they show thick legs and a white line above each orange-red eye. Females, the size of a Buzzard, have slate-grey upperparts and whitish underparts barred grey, whilst males are smaller, with blue-grey upperparts. Juvenile birds have striped rather than barred underparts.

Distribution

Found across the UK but often localised. Population strongholds in Wales, northern England, the New Forest and southern and eastern Scotland.

Did you know?

Although we consider goshawks to be birds of the forest, in other parts of Europe they can be found in urban settings, perching on street lights and catching Feral Pigeons.

The cedar waxwing is a member of the family Bombycillidae or waxwing family of passerine birds. It is a medium-sized, mostly brown, gray, and yellow. This bird is named for its wax-like wing tips. Wikipedia

Scientific name: Bombycilla cedrorum

Lifespan: eight years nwf.org

Family: Bombycillidae

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Turnstone - Arinaria Interpres

Ruddy turnstones can survive in a wide range of habitats and climatic conditions from Arctic to tropical. The typical breeding habitat is open tundra with water nearby. Outside the breeding season, it is found along coasts, particularly on rocky or stony shores. It is often found on man-made structures such as breakwaters and jetties. It may venture onto open grassy areas near the coast. Small numbers sometimes turn up on inland wetlands, especially during the spring and autumn migrations.

In terms of wintering sites, ruddy turnstones are particularly faithful to specific locations. A study published in 2009 examined turnstones wintering along a stretch of coastline in the Firth of Clyde. It found that 95% of birds resident to the area at the end of winter returned the following autumn. The same study also confirmed ruddy turnstones as one of the longest lived wader species, with annual adult mortality rates of under 15%. Their average lifespan is 9 years with 19 years and 2 months being the longest recorded.

Population:

UK wintering:

48,000 birds