tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65253463996822817972012-02-01T01:31:22.288-08:00South African Wildlife and Macro Photography Identification and education of all fauna and floraSAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comBlogger9621100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-45794443316994009562012-02-01T00:02:00.000-08:002012-02-01T00:02:00.119-08:00

They are commonly found in tropical waters and inhibit sandy floors and beds of sea grass. Their stings, although mild, appear in the form of a red rash-like skin irritation and are notorious for being extremely itchy.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-74731834409507176752012-01-31T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-31T00:02:00.471-08:00

The Dark-webbed Ringlet (Physcaeneura panda) is a butterfly of the Nymphalidae family and the only one of this species found in South Africa. The sexes are similar but with the males having more rounded wing than the female. They are common in the north west areas of South Africa where they are found in the hot flatlands. They feed on flowers and fruit and are smallish in size.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-65069854426225345512012-01-30T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-30T00:02:00.592-08:00

Spear Thistle (Cirsium vulgare) family Asteraceae Cirsium vulgare (Spear Thistle) is a species of the genus Cirsium, native throughout most of Europe (north to 66°N, locally 68°N), western Asia (east to the Yenisei Valley), and northwestern Africa (Atlas Mountains). It is also naturalised in North America and Australia and is as an invasive weed in some areas. It is a tall biennial or

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-11040019327578201132012-01-29T00:02:00.001-08:002012-01-29T00:02:00.116-08:00

Milkweed Bugs (Oncopeltus famelicus) belong to the Lygaeidae family of which here are many types and are medium to large in size. Oncopeltus famelicus is one of the large species and identified by the orange and black stripes. Although called a Milkweed bug, it feeds on a variety of other plants as well such as granadilla and sweet potato to mention a few. The one in the picture above

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-45026992996425947002012-01-28T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-28T00:02:00.371-08:00

Of all the Bauhinia’s I have seen so far, this one has very different flowers to the rest although the leaves (from which it gets its name), is the same. A small to medium size tree which occurs in low altitudes of woodlands. The ash from the burnt wood is soapy and the green fruits provide a soap substitute. The bark contains a fibre which is used as string and is made into ropes.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-77255566945624128592012-01-27T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-27T00:02:00.456-08:00

Isn’t this just typical!! I have been searching for a Kite spider for simply ages and could not find one, then here is goes, spinning a web right on my front porch!! J I must admit though that I could easily have missed this one as the spider itself is only about 3mm at most and can hardly be seen and recognized with the naked eye. Thank goodness for macro lenses!! Kite or Box spiders

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-34861839302414455762012-01-26T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-26T02:03:01.104-08:00

Wild Foxglove (Ceratotheca triloba)  -  Pedaliaceae family The wild foxglove varies in height, depending on the amount of water it receives during the summer. In the garden with regular watering they grow 1,5 - 2 metres tall. Some plants become quite bushy while others remain single stemmed. The soft, green leaves are about 50mm long and divided into 3 lobes with a bluntly serrated margin

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-34184994485439897282012-01-25T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-25T00:02:00.429-08:00

Velvet Ant (Dolichomutilla sycorax) family Mutillidae Hymenoptera (Wasps) When I bought my first little point and shoot camera way back in 2008 in order to take pictures of insects, little did I know that this was going to become the foremost thing of importance in my life. I did not for one minute think that bugs of any kind could be interesting enough to capture my heart. Now, I live and

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-65237112245577082022012-01-23T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-23T00:02:00.111-08:00

There are many Monarch's around at this time of the year and I was trying to take pictures in order to show you the difference between the male and female. The underside of the wing was no problem but as they so seldom open their wings, getting the top side was a challenge. I hope these will help though. For more information on them, please follow this link. The male has four black marks (dots)

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-39410538916769686472012-01-21T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-21T00:02:00.607-08:00

Cicadas have to be amongst the most difficult insects to find. Although you hear them constantly, their sound seems to echo and you can never pinpoint exactly where they are. For more information, click on this link.  Else, the sound stops when you get close and it is absolutely useless searching in the grass to find them. They tend to hide in amongst the roots so finding this one was a

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-32849846689509912892012-01-20T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-20T00:02:00.259-08:00

Snake awareness courses: This course covers the biology and life history of African snakes, snake bite and first aid for snake bite. It is aimed at safety officers, game rangers, trainee doctors, corporates, mines and businesses that encounter venomous snakes from time to time. Successful attendees, after having written an exam immediately after the course, are awarded a certificate. Johan Marais

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-26468009015335184442012-01-19T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-19T00:02:00.582-08:00

Spring time and the beginning of summer is far and above the most wonderful seasons for me. It means that many species of wild animals are going to be having their babies and they are fascinating and oh so cute!! These Wildebeest always form a protective ring around them.   This is the time of year, after the first rains, when grass is plentiful and it ensures that the little ones have plenty

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-71889344516780214182012-01-17T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-17T00:02:00.945-08:00

Common Diadem (Hypolimnas misippus) family Nymphalidae They are also known as Eggflies and found in Africa, Asia and Australia. These butterflies are large and the males are easily recognized by their large white spots fringed with blue. The females are almost plain orange as seen in the picture and tend to mimic the African Monarch. Their distribution in South Africa covers mostly

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-9739711835121123842012-01-15T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-15T00:02:00.214-08:00

Outside watering the garden, I noticed this Agama lizard climb onto the wall and it had what looked like some kind of meal in its mouth. At first I could not identify it as I had never seen one with those red X markings before and only later on discovered that it was a female Southern Tree Agama and due to stress, the usual dull black markings had turned red. Needless to say, I dashed

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-77678883381384246722012-01-13T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-13T00:02:00.949-08:00

I have now found three species of Two-spotted Ground beetles here, the latest is Anthia burchellii. One has to look closely on finding them as they can easily be confused so I am posting pictures of all three here to see if you can spot the difference. They are usually found foraging alone and all three species occur in the same areas. They are large beetles, over 3cm (1.5”) in body

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-35538764439632033132012-01-11T00:02:00.001-08:002012-01-11T00:02:00.228-08:00

Poison Apple (Solanum panduriforme)  family Solanaceae The fruit is about 20mm (1”) in diameter and when ripe, is orange/yellow in color and in both stages, poisonous. This plant has an extensive root system from which new plants sprout and is found mainly in grassland areas. Both roots and fruit are used in traditional medicine. Bees release pollen by rapid vibration as they

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-55845012802753050462012-01-10T01:38:00.000-08:002012-01-10T02:08:41.778-08:00

It has been named after him and called Pachydactylus maraisi. This small (about 8cm) Gecko was found in Namibia near Swakopmund on the north coast about 5 years ago and has a restricted distribution within the National Park. It inhabits minute cracks in small dark boulders scattered in desert sand. What a magnificent find!! Congratulations Johan!! You deserve to have it named after you!! In

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-56623191365260884352012-01-09T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-09T00:02:01.778-08:00

Hibiscus  Hippo  Rhino Beetle  Aquarium  Lions - Part 1       Lions - Part 2      White Lions  Flap-necked Chameleon - Part 1         Part 2  Some fun with a graphics program  Montage

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-88115622007251879102012-01-07T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-07T00:02:00.616-08:00

The Painted Lady Butterfly (Vanessa cardui) is cosmopolitan and found on every continent where they migrate vast distances. In South Africa, they are found throughout the year and in all regions except the desert.  They are rapid fliers and defend their areas.  The females are not as colourful as they males. It is a medium sized butterfly and its life cycle is about 3 weeks in length.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-12856698734905292772012-01-05T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-05T00:02:00.172-08:00

This dragonfly was featured in my "Art of Disguise" series. Dung Beetles  African Goshawk  Parrot  Caracal  One of the many fascinating caterpillars to be found but unfortunately few have names.  Insect antennae  True Leaf Katydid

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-72031437534367991282012-01-03T00:02:00.001-08:002012-01-03T00:02:01.798-08:00

Mites and ticks both belong to the Acari order and easily recognised by the lack of body divisions. Mites fall under the Trombidiidae family. Like spiders, they are not classified as Insects.  They have 4 pairs of legs and no antennae, These are small to very small critters, this one being about 3-4mm in length. Red Velvet Mites are widely distributed throughout most of the world.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-603195190529649832012-01-01T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-03T22:32:01.772-08:00

May 2012 bring you great happiness, good health and prosperity. Thank you all for taking the time out to follow my blog. It is greatly appreciated. Hugs, Joan Montecasino - Bird Show - Part 4 This was the first time I had taken or tried to take pictures of flying birds and loved the way they came out.  Tiny green spider  Beautiful Emperor moth  Vacation time This was taken while

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-29757310951903720602011-12-31T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-31T00:02:00.108-08:00

White Mexican Poppy (Argemone ochroleuce) family Papaveraceae A cosmopolitan weed native to Mexico, it is a blue-green spiny plant growing up to 1m (3’) in height. It is found in all soil types and helps to keep erosion at bay. Plants contain a milky latex and toxic alkaloids which make them unpalatable to animals. When the plant or leaves are crushed, it exudes a bad odour but

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-87288942203553632182011-12-30T00:02:00.001-08:002011-12-30T00:02:01.208-08:00

As it is the end of another year, I have decided to do some post on my favorite pictures which I have taken over the years and have also inserted links to the original posts in case you want to see more of a particular insect and read the information suplied....... hope you like them. All pictures can be enlarged by clicking on them. Eyed-flower mantis  Dragonflies  Leopard Lizard  

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-73711942481505266112011-12-29T00:25:00.000-08:002011-12-29T00:25:28.257-08:00

Hairy Star-flower (Hypoxis hemerocallidea)  family Hypoxidaceae This is also known as the “African potato” but is not edible as such and is actually poisonous. It contains anti-cancer properties and used in traditional medicine for treatment of prostate cancer, tuberculosis, bladder disorders and arthritis. While it contains sterols that are good for the immune system, they are also found

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-70951730088186273322011-12-28T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-28T00:02:00.078-08:00

There are some days and events which take place in our lives which are very special and we hold close to our hearts. For me, one of these days was 28th December 2009. (227) Somehow, no matter how long afterwards, the events stay bold, clear and vivid. They can be replayed in our minds forever. It may be a special flower, picking up a stone, meeting someone or a day at the beach but whatever it

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-9293197405478835122011-12-26T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-27T19:24:35.892-08:00

The female Southern Agama (Acanthocercus atricollis) is quite indistinctive and blends in so well with the bark of a tree that unless she moves, she is not easily noticed.  For more information and pictures of the male, please click on the link.  Like so many of our species, the patterns, colors and even protrusions on the skin add to their camoflage.  This lizard must be about 10-12

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-24092813612164792482011-12-24T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-24T00:02:00.827-08:00

Skunk Longhorn Beetle (Anubis scalaris) Longhorn beetles belong to the Cerambycidae family and are found in all sizes. The antennae are anywhere between 3-4 times the length of their body and can be swept back over the body when at rest. Adults are found on flowers where they feed on the leaves, pollen, nectar wood and roots. Eggs are laid in cracks along the stems of plants. When grasped,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-65634282389135128252011-12-22T00:02:00.001-08:002011-12-22T00:02:01.202-08:00

I never knew that there was such a thing as a wild carnation and being in a new area, I was excited to find some. These are growing in a bush area which is mostly grassland and the soil is very poor. The area was a river bed a few millennium ago and does not contain soil. The same as you would find in a child’s sandpit. These are thriving and as you can see by the pictures, the stems and leaves

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-53538370618253426152011-12-20T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-30T08:03:38.534-08:00

Topaz Blue (Azanus jesous) family Lycaenidae These are very small hairtails and very difficult to get pictures of as they do not land for any amount of time on one spot so by the time you get your camera focused, they are gone again. J The trials and tribulations of being an insect photographer. LOL!! However, patience plays a big part in all of this and sooner or later, the chance

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-80208823561769428052011-12-18T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-18T00:02:00.479-08:00

Although we do not have snow in many part of South Africa, we do still have our own misletoe......Mistletoe (Tapinanthus oleifolius) Tapinanthus oleifolius is one of the best known of the evergreen half-parasitic shrubs growing on other trees and shrubs. The sticky seeds are deposited by birds on the bark of branches and stems where they germinate rapidly. The developing plant attaches itself

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-8507159014388126932011-12-16T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-16T00:02:00.494-08:00

This has an interesting story…… While on one of my walks I noticed a cocoon on one of the branches of a bush. It was quite large, about 2.5cm (1 inch) if not more. This must have been made by a very hairy caterpillar as you can see the hairs are stick into it. I very carefully cut the branch and took it home with me hoping it would breed out and just as carefully placed it in the same

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-78132480502973501112011-12-14T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-27T19:25:49.434-08:00

Tapering Darkling Beetle (Himatismus) belong to the Tenebrionidae family. They are found throughout South Africa and have long golden patches of hair on their body.   They feed on various leaves and are often found under rocks or logs. These are fairly small beetles, this one being about ½ an inch in length.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-55253742620252713232011-12-12T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-12T00:02:01.176-08:00

Bushveld Crossandra – Crossandra greenstockii - Acanthaceae The following quotation is from Braam van Wyk’s book “A photographic Guide to Wild Flowers of South Africa” An erect perennial herb up to 30cm high, sprouting annually from a woody rootstock; occurring in bushveld. When the dry capsules are wetted by rain, they split explosively, ejecting the seed some distance from the plant. Upon

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-2581050661985336312011-12-10T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-10T19:29:15.805-08:00

Can anyone help me with identification? The first three picures are probably some kind of Wax Scale (Ceroplates) belonging to the Coccidae family. They were all found in Hoedspruit and on the same bushes but the last is more like a snail shell and I really do not have a clue as to their classification. Any help would be appreciated.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-21812174332751458622011-12-08T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-08T00:02:00.053-08:00

The Small-eyed Leaf Beetle (Monolepta bioculata) belongs to the Chrysomelidae family and is only about 5mm (1/2 an inch) in length. They are distributed thoughout South Africa and easily recognised by the four yellow spots on the Elytra. These can be found on all types of flowers and are also capable of jumping.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-28329255264778768212011-12-06T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-06T00:02:00.648-08:00

Tortoise Beetles belong to the Chrysomelidae (Leaf Beetle) family and is one species I have really been trying hard to find. According to the books, these are all found along the coastal areas but once again it shows how outdated our distribution maps are as I found this in my garden which is hundreds of miles away from any sea. All Tortoise Beetles are recognised by the pronotum and elytra which

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-69136503945033915882011-12-05T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-05T00:02:00.811-08:00

Senna italica - Wild Senna – Caesalpiniaceae familyThis is a small perennial plant growing to maybe 30-35cm in height and found in most grassland areas. Due to a nectar substance, these plant attract many ants which may help to protect it from herbivorous insects. Anthers have tiny apical pores; they must be vibrated at high frequency by bees to release the pollen. Forms of cultivated Senna (

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-81335376381084611932011-12-04T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-04T00:02:00.483-08:00

This female has made a huge web and in the middle are her egg sacks. She is about ½ and inch in length. I cannot find anything like this in my spider book but I have an idea it might be some kind of bark spider as the protrusions on her back and the way she draws her legs in are what this species usually does. The pictures are very difficult to get as they are all taken through the thick web

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-26416768400069462011-12-02T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-09T00:53:22.557-08:00

Are dung beetle necessary? What good does it do to roll a ball of dung and then bury it? This wonderful explination is from the San Diego Zoo. Three varieties of dung beetle Dung beetles do just what their name suggests: they use the manure, or dung, of other animals in some unique ways! These interesting insects fly around in search of manure deposits, or pats, from herbivore like cows and

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-30904588782201713272011-11-30T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-08T05:13:15.927-08:00

This first picture is of the mother and is easily 2'6" in length. The others are the baby, only about 6-7" in length.The Gaint Plated Lizard is the largest member of the plated lizards and may attain a total length of more than 80cm. Adults are vlackish-brown above with yellow stippling that may form lines down the body and straw yellow bars on the sides. Males have plenty of orange on the face

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-18929499583531780232011-11-28T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-28T17:25:27.863-08:00

Many times while walking in the bush, I come across skulls of animals which have died. This one is rather small and I think it may belong to a duiker (a small buck) A Blue Wildebeest skull which has been nicely cleaned by the ants and other insects.  Now how would you like to wake up in the morning and see tracks like this outside your door?? I found these one morning after it had rained and

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-78915160451795029842011-11-26T00:02:00.001-08:002011-12-09T00:47:50.160-08:00

It is often planted in gardens (it is frost-sensitive, requires full sun and well-drained soil and should be regarded as invasive), particularly because it attracts butterflies (Monarch and Swallowtail), but also crab spiders, ladybirds/bugs, bees, wasps, ants and moths. Some feed on the nectar and the plant itself while others feed on the insects attracted to it. Milkweed not only provides food

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-26257085195025233312011-11-24T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-09T00:48:33.384-08:00

Females build large multi-celled mud nest attached to cliffs, tree trunks and buildings. The cells are provisioned with several spiders (which they paralyze with poison) and sealed with mud. Adults collect nectar from flowers to feed on. Most of this family of wasps are solitary and vary greatly in size. Some species excavate burrows in the ground and at the beginning of the summer season, they

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-55703059045938515172011-11-22T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-09T00:49:09.829-08:00

No pictures could show you the actual colors in these skinks as it changes according to how the sun shines on them and is really beautiful.Rainbow Skinks are olive to brown with pearly white spots and light stripes. Females and juveniles are dark brown to black above with three distinct bluish-white stripes down the back and an electric blue tail. They occur mostly in the northern parst of South

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-13699034486228376312011-11-20T00:02:00.000-08:002011-12-09T00:54:10.942-08:00

Hippo Fly (Tabanus biguttatus) Family Tabanidae These flies are huge - must be at least an inch in body length if not more. They attack large animals such as cattle and hippo's driving them to spend the night underwater to avoid being bitten.  The larvae live in mud pans, constructing mud pillars above the surface to avoid dehydration. They feed on insect larvae and tadpoles.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-69040460580047028102011-11-18T00:02:00.000-08:002012-01-12T02:56:13.634-08:00

In South Africa the prickly pear is a very popular fruit in summer and it is also made into a wonderful and refreshing health drink.  Prickly pear cactus (Opuntia ficus-indica) is a flower- and fruit-bearing cacti plant that has been used for centuries by indigenous Mexican tribes to treat a variety of ailments and conditions. In the wild, prickly pear cactus grows in desert-like conditions,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-55203433243012605202011-11-16T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-16T22:04:54.842-08:00

With thanks to Diane from My life in Charente  who gave me the e-mail address of John Joannou who in turn sent me this wonderful information. This moth belongs to the family Geometridae – the Earth Measurers or Inch Worms – and falls under the genus Prasinocyma. Unfortunately containing a large number of species which are difficult to separate purely on morphological grounds. Probably

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-27571246347703940922011-11-14T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-14T00:02:00.252-08:00

The Marshall Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) is the largest of all the raptors and found throughout Sothern Africa. These pictures show a juvenile and an adult in full plumage. They are usually silent and found in almost all habitats where there are tall trees or power pylons for nesting sites. Normally they are seen singularly or in pairs and soar to great height. They hunt by scanning the ground

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-66316500399750958082011-11-12T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-12T00:02:00.872-08:00

Metalic Assassin Bugs - Glymmatophora Fam. Reduviidae They are medium sized and found throughout South Africa with metalic bluish black or dark brown with red, orange or cream amrkings.  The females are wingless and look similar to the nymphs.  They come out at night to feed, eating ants and possibly millipedes.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-81980621343694064792011-11-10T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-10T00:02:00.569-08:00

The Eastern Transvaal (now Mpumalanga) escarpment is a place of pine forests, beautiful vistas and many waterfalls. In any trip done to South Africa, this area is a must. The first three pictures are of the Bridal Veil Falls and the beautiful rock formations surrounding it. It is set deep in a forest but with easy access from the parking lot and on a hot day, they spray of water is always welcome

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-51009776617788332682011-11-08T00:02:00.000-08:002011-11-08T00:02:01.081-08:00

Gold-haired Fruit Chafer (Xeloma tomentosa)  These are smallish beetles and identified by the dense golden hairs and brown and yellow markings.  Mostly they can be found in the north and north-eastern parts of SA.  The adults feed on flowers including sunflowers. This one below looks like it was having a snooze. :)

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-15985889489793801672011-11-06T00:02:00.000-07:002011-11-06T00:02:00.195-07:00

Sessile-leaved cucumber – Coccinia sessilifolia It is a herbaceous perennial climber with a tuberous rootstock. Both the fruit and the tuber are used as food by the San people, the fruit being best when still green and cooked as a vegetable. The seeds of the ripened fruit are eaten by birds and so propagated. These plants occur in grassland and bushveld. The fruits ripen through yellow to red

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-27376808481979104822011-11-04T00:02:00.000-07:002011-11-04T00:02:00.648-07:00

Common Fungus-growing Termite – Odontotermes badiusTheses termites are fairly common in the northern parts of South Africa and are fairy large in size.  They build their nests underground and can only be detected by slight soil elevation. They are very destructive in that they forage on wood, dry dung and tree bark and love wooden homes. The queen is hidden in a spherical clay cell in the

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-43466972151863688062011-11-02T00:02:00.000-07:002011-11-02T00:02:00.253-07:00

These are such stunning lizards and I was lucky enough to get pictures of both the male and female. The Common Flat Lizard (Platysaurus intermedius) is a species of lizard in the Cordylidae family. This lizard has nine subspecies, all living in southern Africa. Description The females and juveniles of all subspecies of Platysaurus intermedius have black scales, with white stripes on the back.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-25474983833180903992011-10-31T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-31T02:35:48.908-07:00

Daddy Long Legs - (Pholcidae - Smeringopus)The Pholcidae, or daddy long legs spiders, is a large family with a worldwide distribution. They are harmless to people as their jaws are unable to penetrate human skin and the venom dose is also too minute. Spider specialists are often asked if it is true that, of all the spiders, the pholcids have the deadliest venom and the only reason there are no

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-19358849856498365082011-10-30T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-30T00:02:00.138-07:00

Tornado damage?? Unheard of!! In all my years I have never heard of tornadoes in South Africa and now, within the space of a month, we have had two!! What is happening with this world of ours?? Even worse, is actually experiencing one and although this was small in comparison to what I have seen in pictures going through Tornado Alley in the USA, it sure caused a lot of damage and blew part of

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-40375371339522185022011-10-29T00:02:00.000-07:002011-12-09T00:55:00.808-08:00

Poison Bulb – Amaryllidaceae (Boophane didticha) This is an extraordinary plant to find and see for the first time. It is not very high so can be well hidden in the grass and one can easily pass it by. I found a lovely book called Wild Flowers of South Africa by Braam van Wyk. It has great pictures and information in it so for anyone who is interested in this part of nature, do look for it at

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-7117579168784872132011-10-27T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-27T00:02:00.531-07:00

The African Red Toad or African Split-skin Toad (Schismaderma carens) is a species of toad in the Bufonidae family. It is found in South and Central Africa. Its natural habitats are dry savanna and moist savanna, subtropical or tropical dry shrubland, subtropical or tropical moist shrubland, subtropical or tropical dry lowland grassland, freshwater marshes, intermittent freshwater marches,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-32248175906317002612011-10-25T00:02:00.000-07:002011-12-09T00:55:42.679-08:00

Visiting Lynda (Mainly Mongoose) is always such a pleasure and a special treat for me was to go out with her to see how the mongoose were doing. She has a fantastic blog which she writes with a wonderful sense of humour and is full of interesting encounters in out African bush so do go and read Blog. Physical Characteristics The dwarf mongoose is the smallest of the African mongooses. It is

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-25312205333822383062011-10-23T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-23T00:02:00.642-07:00

It is very large, exceeding 35cm (13 inches) in length. It is a robust lizard with a large head. Breeding males have bright blue heads and front limbs, with yellow and orange colouration on the back. The tail tip is often blue. Females lay 5-14 eggs in soft soil. When they hatch three months later, the young are 7-8cm long. Females are various shades of grey, with light green, orange and yellow

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-23370169508752637582011-10-21T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-21T00:02:00.387-07:00

One of the nice things about living out of town and one a private game reserve is that no two days are the same. I have a wonderful porch to sit on and most times take my laptop outside to work on my pictures. Soon the zebra arrive to make a meal of the grass which is turning green after the first rains and the giraffe is never far behind. I am beginning to think that my lawn must be special as

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-73536111002821866822011-10-19T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-19T00:02:00.442-07:00

African Monarch (Nymphalidae subfamily Danainae – Danaus chrysippus aegyptius)They are common in South Africa and are found in almost all types of habitat except the desert. Of medium size, males and females can be differentiated by the number of black spots on their hind wing – males have 4 and females 3. They mostly feed on Milkweed plants which makes them poisonous to predators and as such,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-27934638102733928842011-10-17T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-17T01:19:42.083-07:00

It was once again wonderful to have some very special people from Italy visiting me for a few days and being able to show them around. Andrea and his wife have to rank amongst the most wonderful people I have met so please do go and visit his blog SIDECAR where he shares pictures of his travels to South Africa. During this trip we visited the Sudwala Caves and the eastern escarpment also spending

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-57950591862707173332011-10-15T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-15T00:02:00.697-07:00

It is getting late but with such a beautiful day, I am reluctant to go indoors. At a drinking trough for the animals, the bees are lining up to get a drink of water. There is an old beehive amongst the bushes which someone put there years ago and if anyone was brave enough, it is full of wonderful honey just waiting to be collected. For interesting facts about bees, click on these links: Part1 

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-91803253301705999632011-10-13T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-13T00:02:01.299-07:00

For the first time in many years I have a patch of ground which I can put in some plants for summer. The first ones to bloom have been these Dutch Irises which come in some lovely colors however the porcupines once again got in and dug up a lot of the bulbs so I have only these colors left.  The name Iris comes from a Greek word meaning "rainbow" and is a bulb found very commonly around the world

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-73578022954651493622011-10-11T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-11T00:02:00.152-07:00

Once again photographs are being loaded into Blogger any way the program feels like doing it and it is SO annoying!! Why don't the leave programs which work the way they are so we do not have to struggle like this?? I will never understand the minds of some people. There is not even a way to correct it. I think the problem with the programmers is that they do not use the end product themselves

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-81891016528769662152011-10-09T00:02:00.000-07:002011-12-09T00:56:33.297-08:00

(Chondrodactylus turneri)They are widespread in the northern parts of South Africa and this one is about 6” excluding the tail.They are nocturnal and feed mainly on grasshoppers, large moths and mantids. They occur on rocky outcrops in or under which they hide during the day.These are just the cutest feet!! As you can see, at some time this one lost its tail and it is now growing out again.Many

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-15817877196898233962011-10-07T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-07T00:02:00.417-07:00

To date I have only seen pictures of these and found them in either plain green or plain brown. This one with pink stripes is quite unusual and as always, I wonder if it is a new species or just a species which is not very common?  This is about 4" in body length so is not a baby which might still change color.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-15212553088792967572011-10-05T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-05T00:02:00.717-07:00

The Large-fruited Bushwillow (Combretum Zeyheri) is a large tree growing to 10m in height.This tree is said to indicate “sour bushveld” carrying poor grasses which are not usually palatable to stock and game. The Afrikaans name Raasblaar is based on the sound made by the leaves and fruits in the wind and translated means “noisy leaf”. Many animals feed off the leaves and fruit including giraffe,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-5265285692958615552011-10-03T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-03T00:02:00.412-07:00

Images of the birds are difficult to get through the wire of the cages but this one of the Brown Snake Eagle did not come out too badly. It was feeding time and this leopard was listening to someone coming nearer in order to feed it.  For more information on them, here is the link: http://saphotographs.blogspot.com/2009/05/leopard_26.html  The poor Black Rhino looked so sad. There were always two

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-6575730281939442512011-10-01T00:02:00.000-07:002011-10-01T00:02:00.694-07:00

Blyth's Hornbill is found in Indonesia and its bill can be up to 10 inches in length. The gardens at the zoo are very pretty, even in winter.  This made me smile. :) The hippo had such a self-satisfied look on his face, I wondered what he was dreaming about?  The Secretary Bird (Sagittarius serpentarius) is endemic to Africa and stands about three feet in height. Prey consists of insects, small

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-32192997294194880252011-09-29T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-29T00:02:00.291-07:00

The Potato Bush is very common in our gardens. Other names: Potato bush blue, Paraguay nightshade, Blue lycianthes S. rantonnetii is a deciduous shrub forming purple-blue flowers throughout the summer, followed by red decorative fruit in autumn which is popular with the birds and is semi evergreen.  Toxicity: All parts of plant are poisonous. If is ingested, may result in severe discomfort.  They

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-46004067120513448502011-09-27T04:53:00.000-07:002011-12-09T00:57:18.565-08:00

The Bongo sports a bright auburn or chestnut coat, with the neck, chest and legs generally darker than the rest of the body. Coats of male Bongos become darker and buffy as they age until they reach a dark mahogany-brown colour. Coats of female Bongos are usually more brightly coloured than those of males. A white chevron appears between the eyes and two large white spots grace each cheek. There

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-65957605254548006562011-09-25T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-25T03:05:39.293-07:00

The Brown Heart Beetle (Family Scarabaeidae - Subfamily Cetoniinae - Plaisir)To date, I have only seen these brown ones but found some which are black too. I cannot find out if the difference in coloration is due to the age of the beetle or maybe a difference beween male and female. Caterpillars and more caterpillars. Even in winter there are some to be found but once again, no identification.  

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-52310844157018907912011-09-23T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-23T00:02:00.221-07:00

The Gasteruptiidae family of wasps are small in body length and usually brown or black in color. They are easily identified by the abdomen arising from the top of the thorax and getting larger towards the tip. The females (as shown here) have a long ovipositor sometimes marked by a white tip.  The hind portion (tibiae) of the leg is narrow at the base and swollen at the base. They are parasites

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-55412180237192151522011-09-21T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-21T00:02:00.329-07:00

Please click on the picture to enlarge it and read the story.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-9812390963398042602011-09-19T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-19T00:02:00.522-07:00

Shingwedzi (c.1934-1981)Origin of Name: Shingwedzi was named after the river and rest camp where he spent the last few years of his life. (Shingwedzi means, “place of ironstone” referring to the gabbro rock outcrops common to the area. Shingwedzi is derived from the Tsonga word Ngwetse which means ‘the sound of metal objects rubbing against each other’).  Range: Shingwedzi was known to move as

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-20364911925717833662011-09-17T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-17T00:02:00.355-07:00

The Aermacchi or Macchi MB-326 is a light military jet aircraft designed in Italy. Originally conceived as a two-seat trainer, there have also been single and two-seat light attack versions produced. It is one of the most commercially successful aircraft of its type, being bought by more than 10 countries and produced under licence in Australia, Brazil and South Africa. It set many category

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-82961781876209699682011-09-16T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-16T00:02:00.861-07:00

Happy birthday!! May your day be filled with smiles and happpiness!! May all your dreams come true and your life be filled with sunshine!!

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-77318082601663972022011-09-15T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-15T00:02:00.205-07:00

Once again all these pictures except the last one are not the correct way up but for some reason this has now become a constant problem in Blogger and there is no way to fix it. SO sorry!! Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) contain several species of caterpillars that are armed with stinging hairs and/or fragile spines. These modified hairs serve as an effective means of protection against

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-84796274460632295262011-09-13T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-13T01:31:49.904-07:00

Even if there is nothing else to see in winter, the garden still hosts a large variety of birds such as this Weaver without its yellow breeding colors. Yellow Canary.  Yellowbilled Hornbill. A Brown Robin - it is the first time I have seen this bird anywhere and it took me a long time to identify it. As it walks, it also bobs its tail up and down like the Wagtails do and is about the same size as

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-38053149286808464912011-09-11T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-11T00:02:00.517-07:00

Nature can be so astounding at times!! This weed is now covered with very tiny seeds and is so pretty and fine in design.  A Crane fly with a delicate pattern on its wings.  A White Pearl Moth (Palpita unionalis)  It is so tiny it can almost hide behind a blade of grass.  I never realized until now that the Impala Lily (pictured below), has or gets seed pods. This plant is very easy to grow as

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-34274899534673633102011-09-09T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-09T00:02:00.835-07:00

Oh what drama!! The likes of which I have never seen before!! This Harvard was parked on the side of the runway and the next thing we knew, a GORILLA had stolen it and was cruising past. He had the cheek to WAVE as he went past!! The next thing we knew he was up in the air doing acrobatics and having a ball of a time!!  But all good things must come to an end and his stolen plane developed engine

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-36838172597437423632011-09-07T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-07T00:02:00.278-07:00

Now this was an interesting find and the first one for me of this species.It has been identified as Nigidius bubalus  family Lucanidae and the male has two large mandibles. It also has two large horn-like protrusions which can be seen nicely in the shadow it castes in the above photograph. The adults do not feed and some of this species are very rare and listed in the Red Data Book.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-49633343321183004812011-09-05T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-05T00:02:00.455-07:00

This late in the season, it is unusual to find anything around and yet I did. This dragonfly looks almost golden in color. I have now found someone who I am hoping will help me identify them in future. As to be expected at the end of the season many of the insects have only one leg or half a wing as they have evaded predators during the summer and the following two grasshoppers are no exception.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-81441312764302442522011-09-03T00:02:00.000-07:002011-12-09T00:58:00.668-08:00

The Jackass Penguin (also called the African penguin or Blackfooted penguin) is a flightless seabird, and it is found nowhere in the world except off the coast of southern Africa. Named after a donkey because of the loud, braying noise it makes, the Jackass penguin is no fool. It has so far survived many oil spills, poachers and predatory fishermen who have depleted its food stocks. This

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-64767447830861448292011-09-01T00:02:00.000-07:002011-09-01T00:02:00.144-07:00

The first day of spring has finally arrived!! This year has been the coldest in living history and I thought I would never get through it!!  How I longed to see some kind of bug, butterfly, grasshopper, flower, ANYTHING as long as it was moving and colorful!!  Now I have spent time in the graden planting seeds and bulbs I bought and I cannot wait for them to pop up!! It is so wonderful to have a

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-64607192490064130972011-08-30T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-30T00:22:15.331-07:00

The males are black and the females and young a chestnut brown.  All have white bellies and rumps, hence their name in Afrikaans "black white-stomach". Usually the males are found by themselves and therefore when a group is together it will have a female as its leader.Females reach sexual maturity at about two years of age. As they are dependant on water, they will never be found more than a few

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-59447010822282404792011-08-28T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-28T00:02:00.482-07:00

I am always amazed at the spectacular colors in winter.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-79964182576670146502011-08-26T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-26T00:02:00.541-07:00

Skippers are small to medium in size with broad wings and bright markings. They Have a flitting flight and dancing, alighting on leaves with open wings.  A single white egg is laid in a domed and ribbed Acanthaceae (egg sack).  Spippers are the second largest subfamily of Hesperidae.  This is Bushveld Sandman (Spialia colotos transvaaliae). They prefer dry to arid areas.  A close-up of the wings

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-25701636920139693642011-08-24T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-24T00:02:00.545-07:00

One night I was outside trying to get some shots of the moon again. You have to give me an "A" for trying. :) I must have been there for about 20-30 minutes but did not get anything spectacular.  However, once I have them on the computer, I could see that I had captured a whole rotation of it.

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-31477857660332018412011-08-22T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-22T00:02:00.347-07:00

I have found a few scorpions now but it is one critter I know almost nothing about. Scorpions are fascinating animals, though most people see them as potentially deadly killers, a wildly inaccurate assessment. However, it is true that after man himself, followed by snakes and the bees, scorpions cause more human deaths than any other no-parasitic animal. Mexico is one hotspot to watch out for

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-20779271081172994452011-08-20T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-20T01:19:56.578-07:00

TIGER MOTH OVER DUNVILLE In the 1920's, the de Havilland Aircraft Works developed a line of light aircraft, intended to be affordable and easy to fly for the average man. They were called Moths, in recognition of Geoffrey de Havilland's renown as a lepidopterist. The first model, introduced in 1925 became the D.H. 60 Cirrus Moth. It was a simple yet strong spruce and plywood box section design,

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-52997371690980950322011-08-18T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-18T00:02:00.235-07:00

If there is anything in the animal/insect world which I find it is butterflies. Not only is there a difference in males and female of the species, in many case there is a difference in the wet and dry seasons too!! Now I have to look at and find for different ones in order to make a positive identification.  This is a Broad-bordered Grassy Yellow butterfly belonging to the Pieridae/coliadinae

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-45726352994135461862011-08-16T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-16T00:02:00.512-07:00

This dam is very popular for kayaking and there are always people practicing.  Every year they have a big competition there. As mentioned in a previous post, the dam has been divided so that no boats with engins come this side.  In some places the dam is fairly narrow and on both sides of it, people can be seen having a BBQ or picnic and enjoying the sunshine.  Roodeplaat lays just on the

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-91609969774341665872011-08-14T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-14T00:02:00.149-07:00

 Pygmy Hippopotamus - Hexaprotodon liberiensis are about the same size as a sheep or Alsation and belongs to order of Artiodactyla. It lives in rivers and swamps in dense forests in western Africa (Ivory Coast, Liberia, and Sierra Leone, and possibly Nigeria and Guinea). This kind of hippopotamus is considered to be critically endangered.   The body of hippopotamus is barrel-shaped and it is

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-1906373216538302712011-08-12T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-12T00:02:00.230-07:00

The winter sunsets are very spectacular here and yet the days can start off misty and cold. Much like life I would think.  Sometimes we start out with a dim prospect or outlook and slowly, as time passes, things look brighter.  They say things improve with time and age but I wonder if this is really the case or is it just that our perspective changes?  Is it our experiences in life which sets

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-44112472963935667062011-08-10T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-10T00:02:00.173-07:00

On a warm summers evening it is well worth putting on a light outside and see what comes to it like this Netted Slug (Parapludaq invitabilis) They come in many shapes and colors. This is a Red-lined Emerald (Heterorachis devocata)  This one reminds me of the old days when people used to throw a cape around their shoulders.  Lacewings are attracted to the light as well but unfortunatly, so are the

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6525346399682281797.post-91366765314141318042011-08-08T00:02:00.000-07:002011-08-08T00:02:00.841-07:00

One will not believe that helicopters now days could be so manoeuvrable. The one helicopter actually flew upside down in a circle and the last two were doing a face-off which was almost like a ballet. Helicopter Development in the Early Twentieth Century At the end of the nineteenth century, the internal combustion engine became available, making the development of full-sized vertical-flight

SAPhotographs (Joan)http://www.blogger.com/profile/15993474141491808257noreply@blogger.com0