American Museum of Natural History’s Post

Scilly Shrews! The Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust has been using the British Trust for Ornithology (BTO) Acoustic Pipeline https://lnkd.in/eXzVxdPc for two seasons now to process their bat recordings. In return for carrying out post-verification of their bat results each year for them, I have also been mining these triggered bat recordings (> 1 million wav files / year) for sound recordings of Lesser white-toothed shrew (Crocidura suaveolens). I wanted to collect recordings of this species to include in the book just published with Neil Middleton and Huma Pearce https://lnkd.in/egTEgMfm, but it also gave been an opportunity to build in the calls of this species to an AP 'bat' classifier that I had built for the Isles of Scilly, and to iteratively test and refine this AI / machine-learning algorithms over the past two years. It is very satisfying now, that in addition to routinely identifying bats, (and bush-cricket species), Lesser white-toothed shrew is now identified across the islands in the Isles of Scilly. With this work, this shrew species is also now routinely identified as 'by-catch' during bat surveys in the Channel Islands (Sark, Jersey), and in a number of other western European countries where this species is present and the AP is being used for bat surveys - So, it has been possible to go from nothing being known about the calls of Lesser white-toothed shrew, to being able to identify this species automatically. Before this work, I didn't know this, but interestingly, this species produces the highest frequency calls of any European shrew species that I have seen to date - where unless you have this species in mind, the calls could be overlooked as Brown rat (Rattus norvegicus) calls - see the below playable spectrogram (played in 10 x time expansion), but the shrew warble to the calls help distinguish these species from Brown rat.

🐊 Creature Feature: The Orinoco Crocodile (Crocodylus intermedius) 🌿 I'm thrilled to shed light on the remarkable Orinoco Crocodile, a species of utmost significance in the realm of wildlife conservation. These crocs are massive, boasting an impressive length of up to 6 meters. Their dark gray-green scales and V-shaped ridges on their snout distinguish them. The Orinoco Crocodile calls the pristine freshwater rivers, lagoons, and swamps of the Orinoco Basin in Venezuela and Colombia its home. Their survival is intricately linked to this unique ecosystem. Sadly, these magnificent reptiles are critically endangered, with populations declining due to habitat loss, hunting, and illegal trade. Collaborative efforts by conservation organizations are crucial for their protection and are in full swing. Fun Facts: 1) They are known for their complex vocalizations, which include growls, roars, and bellows. 2) These crocs have been around since the time of the dinosaurs, making them a living relic of Earth's prehistoric past. Let's raise awareness about the plight of the Orinoco Crocodile and support conservation initiatives to ensure their survival for generations to come. (Photo Credit: © slowmotiongli/Shutterstock.com) #WildlifeConservation #OrinocoCrocodile #ProtectOurEcosystems #Reptiles #herpetoculture

Steller’s Jay (Cyanocitta stelleri) making an appearance today! 🐦 These birds an imitate the vocalizations of many species of birds, other animals, and even sounds of non-animal origin. 🐦 Steller's Jays were discovered on an Alaskan island in 1741 by Georg Steller, a naturalist on a Russian explorer's ship. 🐦 Steller’s Jays are common nest predators, stealing both eggs and chicks from the nests of many species. 🐦 Populations have declined approximately 0.5% per year for a cumulative decline of about 34% between 1966 and 2019, according to the North American Breeding Bird Survey. 🐦 This species are found in coniferous and coniferous-deciduous forests. You’ll typically find them at elevations of 3,000-10,000 feet, and lower down in the evergreen forests of the Pacific coastal foothills. #yosemite #californiabirding #wildlifebiologist #wildlifebiology #fieldwork #ecologist #environmentalconsulting

The feeding and predatory behaviour of three aquarium-housed elasmobranch species (blacktip reef shark, whitetip reef shark, pelagic stingray) were investigated in a study published in Journal of Zoological and Botanical Gardens MDPI: 🦈Four feeding methods tested (pole, short buoy, long buoy, and PVC) using five prey species. 🦈 All elasmobranch species interacted with all feeding methods, but the stingrays favoured the pole method. 🦈The whitetip and blacktip reef sharks favoured bony fish and cephalopod prey, respectively. 🦈Applications to the ex situ management and welfare of elasmobranches. --- Read paper (open access): https://lnkd.in/ecjwMb2a --- #ZooResearch #Aquarium #Elasmobranch #Sharks #Stingrays

Uganda has has 95% chances for you seeing this dinosaur like looking bird that inhabits the mabamba swamps surrounding lake Victoria basin. Tap me on matthewkajungu@gmail.com +25678814972 for more information and itinerary. The shoebill, also known as the whalehead or shoe-billed stork, is a large bird native to tropical swamps and wetlands in central tropical Africa. 2. With a distinctive shoe-shaped bill, the shoebill is known for its unique appearance and is often considered one of the world's most peculiar-looking birds. 3. Shoebills are solitary birds and are known for their patience while hunting. They primarily feed on fish, but they may also consume amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals. 4. These birds can stand up to 5 feet tall and have a wingspan of around 7.5 feet, making them an impressive and sizable species within the avian world. 5. Shoebills are classified as "vulnerable" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) due to habitat loss, hunting, and disturbance in their native environments. Conservation efforts are being made to protect their habitats and ensure their survival.

Cobras are a group of venomous snakes belonging to the family Elapidae, known for their distinctive hoods that they can flare when threatened. Here are some key points about cobras: 1. **Venom and Fangs**: Cobras are venomous snakes with hollow fangs used to inject venom into their prey or predators. Their venom is primarily neurotoxic, affecting the nervous system and causing paralysis. 2. **Hood**: Cobras are famous for their ability to spread a hood, which is created by elongated ribs and loose skin around the neck. When threatened, they raise the front part of their body off the ground and spread their hood to appear larger and more intimidating. 3. **Species Diversity**: There are many species of cobras, found primarily in Africa and Asia. Some well-known species include the Indian cobra (Naja naja), king cobra (Ophiophagus hannah), and Egyptian cobra (Naja haje). 4. **Habitat**: Cobras inhabit a range of habitats, including grasslands, forests, and even urban areas. They are adaptable and can be found near human settlements where rodents, their primary prey, are abundant. 5. **Behavior**: Cobras are generally solitary and nocturnal hunters. They use their keen eyesight and excellent sense of smell to locate prey. When hunting, they strike swiftly and can inject venom to immobilize their prey. 6. **Cultural Significance**: Cobras have significant cultural importance in various societies, often portrayed in mythology, religion, and folk tales. They are symbols of both fear and respect in many cultures. 7. **Conservation**: Some species of cobras are threatened due to habitat loss, persecution, and illegal wildlife trade. Conservation efforts focus on protecting their habitats and reducing human-wildlife conflict. Overall, cobras are fascinating and often misunderstood creatures with a range of adaptations that make them formidable predators in their ecosystems. #Cobras #VenomousSnakes #SnakeFacts #SnakeHood #WildlifeConservation #SnakeBehavior #Herpetology #SnakeSpecies #NatureFacts

The American Ornithological Society will change names referencing people or deemed offensive for ones that better describe species. The decision follows months of meetings and discussions about how the group should handle birds named after problematic historical figures, including enslavers, colonialists, racists and grave-robbers. Eventually, rather than evaluating individual species on a case-by-case basis, the organization decided to change all eponymous bird names. https://lnkd.in/dBXQQqH6

Vintage Collection | National Geographic Magazine | 1946 (Missing November) $55 The National Geographic Magazine from January to December 1946 featured a variety of fascinating articles. Here are some highlights: “England’s Wild Moorland Ponies” (January 1946): Each October, the wild ponies of Devon and Somerset are rounded up and auctioned at Bampton Fair. This annual event has taken place since the 13th-century reign of Henry III. “High Country of Colorado” (July 1946): The director of the Colorado Museum of Natural History explored the mountains of the High Country, a sparsely populated haven for diverse wildlife. “Mystery Mammals of the Twilight” (July 1946): This article aimed to dispel myths surrounding bats and provided insights into their true abilities  Modernization in Syria and Lebanon: Both countries gained independence from France and began charting their own paths. The magazine covered their transition and newfound freedom. Mending Dikes in the Netherlands: A photographic essay showcased the repair work on dikes damaged by Royal Air Force bombs. The restoration efforts received assistance from the U.S., Great Britain, and Switzerland. Wildlife in the High Country: An article explored the sparsely populated mountainous region, known as the High Country, which serves as a haven for various wildlife species. Mystery Mammals of the Twilight: This piece aimed to dispel myths surrounding bats and shed light on their true abilities. Bats are often misunderstood, and the article provided valuable insights into their behavior and capabilities.

🐦⬛ This Boat-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus major) is a passerine bird from the family Icteridae (New World Blackbirds). This species is a coastal blackbird species and is a prime example of Synurbization as pictured here. 🐦⬛ Synurbization is relatively newer term that describes the adjustment of wildlife to specific conditions of urban environments. This is a zoology/ecology term that specifically applies to responses of animals when concerning urbanization. 🐦⬛ Birds and Mammals seem to be species that are better suited to Synurbization, think Raccoons, Crows, Deer, Bears, Rock Doves, etc. These species have taken advantage of urban environments, finding both access to food and shelter. 🐦⬛ While Synurbization is a fascinating topic, it can lead to tragic circumstances for both wildlife and humans (Car/Wildlife collisions, “nuisance” wildlife species removals, etc). 🐦⬛ The Boat-tailed Grackle pictured here has found an unlikely source of water from a drain pipe of a house. The bird likely returns here regularly to drink as it’s a source of clean water even during times of drought. 🐦⬛ Can you think of any examples of Synurbization or seen any in person? Let me know in the comments section. #bird #birds #birdphotography #birder #birdwatcher #wildlife #birding #birdwatching #birdlovers #wildlifeofinstagram #wildlifeconservation #wildlifephotography #wildlifeonearth #outdoors #outdoorphotography #nature #naturephotography #animal #animallovers #animalphotography #science #synurbization #photography #wildlifephotographer #SonyAlpha #birdphotos #ornithology #grackle #blackbird

Two Red Foxes Kits Come Out Of Den To Check Out What Mom Has Brought ABOUT: The red fox (Vulpes vulpes) is the largest of the true foxes and one of the most widely distributed members of Carnivora, being present across the entire Northern Hemisphere, including most of North America, Europe, and Asia, plus parts of North Africa. The IUCN lists the red fox as least concern. The red fox originated from smaller-sized ancestors from Eurasia during the Middle Villafranchian period and colonized North America shortly after the Wisconsin Glaciation. The red fox represents a more progressive carnivore form among the true foxes. Apart from its large size, the red fox is distinguished from other fox species by its ability to adapt quickly to new environments. Despite its name, the species often produces individuals with different colorings, including leucistic and melanistic individuals. Forty-five subspecies are currently recognized, divided into two categories: the large northern foxes and the small, basal southern gray desert foxes of Asia and North Africa. Red foxes are usually found in pairs or small groups of families, such as a mated pair and their young or a male with several females with kinship ties. The young of the mated pair remain with their parents to assist in caring for new kits. The species primarily feed on small rodents, though it may also target rabbits, squirrels, game birds, reptiles, invertebrates, and young ungulates. Fruit and vegetable matter are also eaten sometimes. However, the red fox kills smaller predators, including other fox species. It is vulnerable to attack from larger predators, such as wolves, coyotes, golden jackals, large predatory birds such as golden eagles and Eurasian eagle owls, and medium- and large-sized cats. "When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everyone will respect you." ~ Lao Tzu #tworedfoxkits, #redfox, #redfoxkits, #motherredfox, #comingoutoftheden, #curiosity, #motherredfox, #investigating, #truefox, #adultredfox, #mammal, #mammals, #vulpesvulpes, #nature, #naturephotography, #naturephotographer, #wildlife, #wildlifephotography, #wildlifephotographer, #southbay, #northerncalifornia, #brucefinocchio, #dreamcatcherimagesnet Please let me know if you want to join me in photographing birds and other animals visiting my ranch ponds this fall. I still have openings for the fall session, mid-September to mid-October. If you want to join my nature photography community or view more of my imagery, please check out my website, dreamcatcherimages.net. Fill out the contact form on the right sidebar. Beautiful metal prints, 24 x 16, are available for this wonderful image; traditional prints as well, contact, bruce@dreamcatcherimage.net