Located in the Caribbean Sea, the island of Montserrat is a fantastic place to observe pristine habitats on and offshore. A walk along the islands’ lush green coastline will make it clear why Montserrat holds the nickname ‘Emerald Isle’. However, the species of Montserrat are at a crossroads with both natural and human-caused environmental disturbances threatening some species with extinction.

Join the ARKive Geographic team as we take a trip to explore the species that make Montserrat so very special. We bet you’ll learn a thing or two about this little green gem that you didn’t know before!

Pigmented plumes

The national bird of Montserrat, the Montserrat oriole has also become symbolic of the island’s conservation efforts. Recent volcanic eruptions in the country have reduced this species hill forest habitat to one third of its historic size. To safeguard the survival of the Montserrat oriole into the future, researchers and conservationists have embarked on a highly successful captive breeding program in the UK and populations should rebound barring any further volcanic disruptions.

Flashy fish

Some might argue that a queen can have many moods however, not every queen can change colors to match them! The queen triggerfish has some very unique abilities with one of them being the ability to adjust the vibrancy of its scales depending on its mood. Another clever adaptation is the fish’s  ability to move its  eyes  independently of each other; a very useful skill for spotting danger.

Serene sea cow

Speaking of species with fascinating abilities, the West Indian manatee has evolved to survive in both  freshwater and saltwater environments. If that isn’t interesting enough, recent evidence suggests that the manatees are able to detect pressure changes through a unique sixth sense: highly-tuned sensory hairs.

 Reticent reptile

While not much is known about this particular species, the Montserrat galliwasp faces threats that are still worth mentioning; the most critical being habitat loss. Environmental destruction (deforestation), fragmentation (splintering environments for development), and degradation (pollution and the introduction of non-native species) are all forms of habitat loss suffered by the species. As more information becomes available, Montserrat’s conservation efforts may help the galliwasp thrive, but until then this reptile’s biology and behavior remain a mystery.

Ambling amphibian

The mountain chicken frog may look unimposing but it actually has a carnivorous appetite and is considered the top endemic predator in Montserrat. Despite its place in the food chain, mountain chicken populations have been devastated by the deadly chytrid fungus. The mountain chicken stars in ARKive’s newest online education game, Team WILD, where players are tasked with evacuating non-infected mountain chickens from the island before they succumb to the fungus.

The Team WILD game is a fun and unique way for students to discover the importance of a career in conservation and science – by turning scientists into superheroes! See if you can beat the current high score for saving the most mountain chicken frogs on Montserrat. Or, if you’re more interested in chytrid conservation news, check out a more in-depth ARKive blog on healthy frog reintroduction efforts.

We hope you’ve enjoyed this virtual visit to Montserrat with us. If you’re not yet ready to return to the mainland, why not explore the 200+ species on ARKive that live on or visit the waters around Montserrat. And don’t forget to test your species-saving skills in Team WILD!

Andrea Small, Education and Outreach Intern, Wildscreen USA

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Vast plains and towering mountain ranges, colourful coral reefs and windswept desert sands. These are mere glimpses of the natural wonders found in the United Arab Emirates.

With its rich biodiversity and breathtaking vistas, the UAE and its emirates such as Abu Dhabi safeguard these natural treasures with keen interest. Abu Dhabi in particular has a strong focus on wildlife conservation, making contributions to some prominent environmental success stories.

Coinciding with the new BBC series Wild Arabia, ARKive Geographic is booking a (virtual) trip to the UAE and taking a closer look at the stunning native fauna that call this place home!

Gentle giant

Is it a whale or is it a shark? The whale shark may look like a whale, but it is actually the world’s largest fish at up to 12 metres in length. An ocean wanderer, the whale shark is known to travel huge distances and researchers have followed individuals for thousands of kilometers across the seas.

Powerful predator

Although the Arabian leopard may be the smallest leopard subspecies, it is actually the largest of all Arabian cats. An effective hunter, its darkly spotted coat provides excellent camouflage in rocky terrains, allowing it to hide in plain sight. While the Arabian leopard is currently considered Critically Endangered, captive breeding programs in the UAE have produced several cubs in recent years.

Arid amphibian 

Isn’t it remarkable that the Dhofar toad is one of only two toad species in the entire UAE? While there may not be many other amphibians in this area, the Dhofar toad does have some unusual characteristics, including a sticky, prehensile tongue and very large eyes. Perhaps most interesting of all is that in times of drought, the Dhofar toad buries itself underground for self-preservation and emerges after a substantial rainfall.

 Success story

The Arabian oryx is a proud conservation success story in the UAE. Once Extinct in the Wild, this desert antelope was reintroduced into its habitat with the help of captive breeding programs. Wild populations now thrive and are slowly increasing in number. When this oryx stands in profile, its rigidly straight horns appear to become one, making it look like the mythical unicorn.

Venomous viper

Though small, the sind saw-scaled viper’s quick strike and sharp fangs make it quite dangerous. While most snakes ward off potential predators with a hiss from the mouth, this particular species can create a hissing sound by winding its body around in C-shaped coils and rubbing its scales in opposite directions against one another. Part of a fascinating group snakes, the sind saw-scaled viper is viviparous which means it gives birth to live young instead of laying eggs.

Stately soarer

The saker falcon is a graceful bird and a skillful hunter. Known for its variable plumage, this species ranges in colour from a fairly uniform chocolate brown to a pale sandy colour with brown bars or streaks, to almost pure white individuals. No stranger to a challenge, the saker falcon dives at up to 200 miles per hour and can often be observed taking down prey much larger than itself!

This is just a small sample of the unique species that abound in the United Arab Emirates. Why not explore hundreds more species on ARKive’s Jewels of the UAE? It would be hard to pick a favorite but if you had to, which would it be? Tell us in the comments or chat with us on Facebook or Twitter!

Andrea Small, Education and Outreach Intern, Wildscreen USA 

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Did you know that your very own backyard is a valuable scientific research environment? Well, from February 15-18^th , it can be if you take part in this year’s Great Backyard Bird Count. A joint project of Cornell Lab of Ornithology and Audubon, the Great Backyard Bird Count, or GBBC for short, invites everyone to participate in this landmark citizen science event to create a real-time snapshot of birds all over the world.

All you need is your backyard (or any green space really), 15 minutes (or longer if you like!) and either a piece of paper or your phone or tablet PC to capture your avian sightings. At the conclusion of your observations, log onto the GBBC website to record your sightings with people from around the globe doing the exact same thing.

Since many of us participating in the GBBC probably live in residential areas, the ARKive team has put together a helpful checklist of some of the more common and widespread bird species you might spot this weekend along with the defining features to look for:

Northern cardinal

Unmistakable with its deep rouge coloring, the northern cardinal’s plump round shape is also a dead giveaway for the species. Add it’s distinctive circular, black face mask and you can check this one off the list.

Lesser black-backed gull

Gulls are a class of birds with a considerably large distribution around the world. True to its namesake, the lesser black-backed gull can be identified by its dark coloration on its back and wings. If you’re still not sure, use binoculars to try to spot its red-tipped beak, a sure sign you’re observing this species.

Common pigeon

A frequent sight in cities around the world, the common pigeon can be identified by its speckled coloration and shimmery jeweled shading on its neck. Then again, if all else fails, the signature head-bobbing walk of the pigeon is distinctive enough.

Ruby-throated hummingbird

Always a treat when spotted, the ruby-throated hummingbird is the most widespread of all hummingbird species. As its name suggests, keep an eye out for its brightly colored and iridescent red throat but be aware, only the males of the species possess this.

American robin

Arguably the most recognizable bird in the United States (and a welcomed harbinger of spring), the bright orange chest and long dark tail feathers identify the American robin from all others.

Canada goose

Although it is often times heard before seen, the water-loving Canada goose’s dark, black neck contrasted by white cheek patches distinguishes it among all other goose species.

Mallard

Another avian fond of the aquatic lifestyle, the mallard’s striking metallic green head and white collar along with its bright orange legs are all positive identifiers of the species.

Barn owl

Despite being so elusive, the barn owl is one of the most wide-ranging birds, occupying every continent except Antarctica. If you’re lucky enough to spot one head on, look for its characteristic heart-shaped face and general ghost-white coloration.

Mourning dove

If the gentle cooing of this species doesn’t give it away, the mourning dove’s plump, gray chest, allover taupe color and delicate-looking black bill will.

We’d love to hear how your observations go this weekend so be sure to stop back in and share your findings in the comments below or on ARKive’s Facebook and Twitter feeds. Snap any pics during your observations? You can enter them into the Great Backyard Bird Count’s photo contest and also upload them to ARKive’s Flickr page. Tagged correctly, you may see your own photos appear on ARKive in the “Users’ photos” section of the species pages.

Happy bird watching this weekend!

Liana Vitali, ARKive Education & Outreach Manager, Wildscreen USA

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Here in the ARKive office we can’t wait for the next installment of the new BBC series ‘Africa’, which kicked off earlier this month and is currently airing in the UK. Presented by Wildscreen patron Sir David Attenborough, the first chapter focused on the Kalahari desert in Africa’s southwest corner.

Having been inspired by this incredible first episode, we thought we would feature Botswana in ARKive Geographic this month, a land-locked nation with nearly 85% of its area falling within the Kalahari. Of course, Botswana also boasts the stunning Okavango Delta which supplies water to this region year-round, meaning that Botswana is teeming with a wonderful array of wildlife!

Creative Canine

The African wild dog, also known as the painted hunting dog, may appeal to many artists, as it illustrates nature’s sense of creativity. Their coats resemble an abstract painting from an art gallery, and no two dogs have the same pattern. These dogs hunt in packs, and are capable of taking down a wildebeest weighing up to 250 kg.  Another unique fact is that females can have litters of up to 10 pups, the largest litter size of any dog species. The African wild dog is classified as Endangered on the IUCN Red List, with potentially viable populations currently found in Botswana, Kenya, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Wattled Wader

One of six crane species in Africa, the wattled crane is not only the largest but also the rarest,  with the largest populations occurring in Botswana and Zambia. Appropriately named for the wattles that hang below their chin, a crane’s wattle signals aggression when elongated, and feeling threatened when it is retracted. These non-migrating birds are rather quiet unless they need to use their resounding bugle call!

Kalahari Kitten

The black-footed cat may look cuddly, but it is actually quite a formidable hunter. Despite being the smallest wild cat species in Africa, this nocturnal stalker is able to consume prey up to twice its own weight. This rare species is found in savannah habitats in the Kalahari and Karoo deserts, and is classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to poisoning and traps set out for other animals.

Bleeding Beauty

The beautiful bleedwood tree is a tropical deciduous tree found in southern Africa, including the arid bushveld regions of Botswana. Its sweetly-scented, orange-yellow flowers bloom in spring and autumn. Its large leaves are up to 40 centimeters long, and its trunk varies in color from light brown to copper. The dark red, sticky sap from which the tree gets its name is used as a dye and has medicinal properties.

Sabred Sandman

The gemsbok is a striking animal, with black and white facial markings and long saber-like horns. These heavy-bodied antelopes can be found in the semi-arid and arid grasslands, bushlands, sandy plains and dunes of Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Incredibly, gemsbok can go much of the year without drinking any water, and as depicted by the photo, males establish territories and mating rights to females by fighting with their horns.

Do you have a Kalahari wildlife experience you would like to share with us? Find us on Twitter and Facebook!

Maggie Graham, ARKive Program Assistant, Wildscreen USA

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South Africa is a nation rife with natural beauty. Found on the southern-most tip of the African continent it is bordered by five other countries including Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Swaziland.

Famous for its captivating and exquisite wildlife, South Africa is a popular travel destination for travellers wanting to experience spectacular flora and fauna. To help you save on the air fare, we thought we would showcase just some of the amazing species found in South Africa as part of this months installement of ARKive Geographic.

Sandy Serpent

Sometimes the best things come in small packages, or perhaps the most powerful! The Namaqua dwarf adder is one such example, being the smallest venomous snake in the world. Reaching a maximum of 28 centimetres, this true viper has an attractive broad and triangular head, a heavy body covered in protruding scales, and retractable hollow fangs used to inject venom into its prey. This dune-dwelling reptile is classified Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to mining activities and collection for the pet trade.

Rooted in Riches

The silver tree is a shining beauty, growing on the slopes of Table Mountain in Cape Town. What makes this tree unique is its silver sheen and velvety leaves, which are covered in tiny hairs to protect it from desiccation and being eaten. The fruit of the silver tree will ripen over several months and is sometimes not released from its woody sheath for several years. This hearty plant can live for up to 80 years, yet is considered Vulnerable due to excessive leaf collection and other invasive plant species.

Shy Guy

Lacking the fierce predatory nature of its larger relative, the great white shark, this brown shyshark is much less dominating in appearance and behaviour. In fact, its name comes from its tendency to coil its tail around its eyes as a defense against predators when it is caught or picked up. It prefers to feed on lobsters and smaller fish, and is endemic to waters around South Africa in the western Indian Ocean.

Stately Stepper

The secretary bird is a large bird of prey from the African grasslands, whose name stems from the peculiar long feathers on the back of its neck which are said to resemble the quill pens that secretaries used over a century ago. This unique bird is also known as the ‘marching eagle’ as it prefers to move around on foot. It can easily cover 20-30 kilometers a day hunting opportunistically for food, taking mongooses, hares, snakes, lizards, squirrels and even freshwater crabs! The secretary bird has an intricate courtship routine that involves pendulum displays in flight.

A Rare Hare

The critically endangered riverine rabbit is one of the rarest terrestrial mammals endemic to South Africa. What makes this lagomorph unique is that it typically produces only one kitten (baby rabbit) a year. The riverine rabbit is nocturnal and feeds on flowers and grasses at night. Over the past century, two-thirds of its habitat has been lost and it is estimated that only 250 individuals remain in the wild.

A horse of a different colour

What would a zebra be without its stripes? While zebras may all blend together in a herd, different zebra species have distinguishing characteristics, and each individual has a unique stripe pattern. The mountain zebra is discernible from other zebra species by the thin and relatively closely spaced vertical black lines on its neck and torso, and the ‘grid iron’ pattern of narrow stripes across the rump. The Mountain zebras also has a square flap of skin, or dewlap, on its throat. Hunting and habitat loss are primary threats to this black and white beauty.

Savannah Sovereign

While the range of the lion is not restricted to South Africa, it is difficult to overlook this ‘king of beasts’. An iconic species, lions inspire us with their courage, strength and spirit. This magnificent big cat is built to prey on animals many times its size, including African buffalo, hippos, and even elephants while hunting cooperatively! Male lions are larger than females and possess a mane of hair around their heads, a unique feature unique amongst the cat family. Some of the biggest threats that lions face are habitat loss, human conflict and over-hunting.

While these species are truly magnificent, they are only a small sample of what you can see in South Africa. Haved you visted before, or is it on your travel wishlist? Let us know, and please share your favourite South African species with us on our Facebook or Twitter page!

Maggie Graham, ARKive Program Assistant

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