#Trinidad naturalist

[octahedral-chaos]

Bronze Skink

Taken by: Hans Boos

From: Trinidad Naturalist - Volume 2 Number 12 (1979)

@vintagewildlife

[pwlanier]

YELLOW-FRONTED AMAZON

Amazona ochrocephala

around 1930

In antique glass dome

The yellow-fronted amazon, also called yellow-crowned amazon or yellow-crowned parrot belongs to the family of the parrots. The bird species reaches a body length of 35 to 38 cm. Its natural range is in tropical rainforests of Brazil, Peru, Guiana States, Trinidad, Venezuela and Colombia. Yellow-fronted Amazons are distinguished by their loud voice and good imitation of ambient sounds. The Yellow-fronted Amazon was first scientifically described in 1788 by the German physician and naturalist Johann Friedrich Gmelin under the name "Psittacus ochrocephalus".

Koller Auctions

[fatehbaz]

Prior to the First World War, sprawling European empires collectively controlled roughly 80% of Earth's landmass. [...] [A] new study by an international collaboration of researchers shows how the legacy of colonialism is still deeply entrenched within scientific practice across the Caribbean archipelago. [...] "We wanted to provide a solutions-based approach," said lead author Ryan Mohammed, a Trinidadian biologist and postdoctoral research associate at Massachusetts' Williams College. [...]

Islands have played an essential role in the origin and development of ecology and evolutionary biology and are often viewed as natural laboratories [...]. "When trying to understand these processes, you go to islands because they're isolated, they seem controllable [...]," said senior author Alexis Mychajliw [...]. The Caribbean islands are a biodiversity hotspot that have attracted naturalists for centuries. But, Mychajliw explains, they also have a long history of human habitation: They've been the home of Indigenous communities for thousands of years, and they were the first European colonies in the Americas, calling into question whether current patterns were caused by "natural" processes.

"Viewing these spaces as natural laboratories also implies that people haven't had a role in shaping them in the past," she said.

The idea that Indigenous communities in the Americas made no lasting alterations to their environments, known as the "Pristine Myth," has been debunked on multiple occasions but is often still the default notion in environmental and ecological studies. Even when properly accounted for, deciphering the signature left by more than 5,000 years of human habitation in the Caribbean can be challenging. "When Europeans 'discovered' the Caribbean islands, what they saw and recorded wasn't necessarily the natural state of the region's biodiversity," said senior author Michelle LeFebvre [...]. "For example, Indigenous people moved animals up from South America and in between islands, resulting in a biocultural diversity. [...]”

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Caribbean researchers attempting to piece together the natural history of the archipelago's more than 7,000 islands run up against multiple obstacles. One of the most formidable of these is a lack of access to specimens. To illustrate this issue, the authors conducted a global analysis of digitized natural history collections from Trinidad and Tobago, which showed that the vast majority are housed in North American and European Institutions. The same pattern holds true for other islands in the Caribbean as well. [...]

The exportation of natural-history specimens directly curtails local research and education, but it also has more subtle and pernicious effects that influence everything from cultural identity to conservation. 

Mohammed referenced a fossil from an extinct group of giant armadillos found in Tobago. Researchers have known that Trinidad was once connected to current-day Venezuela based on similar fossils found in both countries, but the bone plate from Tobago is the sole piece of evidence that indicates all three were likely once a continuous landmass, he said.

"If we didn't know of this fossil's existence, we wouldn't know about that connection. The problem is, that fossil doesn't reside in Trinidad and Tobago; it's currently elsewhere."

Such fossil specimens in the tropics tend to be rare compared with temperate environments, as the warm and moist conditions near the equator result in the rapid decomposition of plant and animal remains. Trinidad is a spectacular exception to this rule. The island's southern spur is home to the largest tar pits on the planet, which entomb a plethora of fossils in sticky, viscous asphalt deposits. Giant ground sloths, armadillos, relatives of modern elephants called gomphotheres, and rodents were all pulled from the surrounding area in the early 20th century when foreign oil companies began pumping out asphalt for export.

Of the 68 known mammal fossils excavated from the pits, the majority are located outside of Trinidad, and nearly all of the preserved plants, birds and insects referenced in early manuscripts from the time seem to have disappeared entirely.

An international collaboration of researchers from multiple institutions is now spearheading an effort to return these fossils to Trinidad.

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Text, image, caption, and headline by: Jerald Pinson. “The persistent effects of colonialism in Caribbean science.” Published at Phys dot org. Story provided by Florida Museum of Natural History. 1 June 2022.

[brooklynislandgirl]

(for SPICY SUNDAY!)

"Beth, rate the hotness as per the Scoville scale -

Matthrew McConaughey, Idris Elba, Ryan Gosling, David Beckham and Jake Gyllenhall".

Sugar and Spice || Accepting

Beth's lower lip creeps toward her teeth until half of it's completely hidden by those little crooked points. She wants to play Kit's game, if that's what it is, really she does, but she's never...worked that way. She can see a person's classical beauty like a painting or sculpture, sure. But it is so rare that she has any desires towards them that might even be considered in the same zip-code as romantic, that for years she didn't honestly think she could feel desire for another human being. That still holds true, and none of these men are friends. She's never done more than perhaps sit in the same first-class area on a plane, or attended the same gala. She doesn't know what their hopes and dreams are, she doesn't know what scares them in the dark. She can't tell you how they like their coffee or when they laugh so hard that tears leak from their eyes. She doesn't know them, and so...can only judge based on performances in films that have touched her heart.

"Uhm...okay. So I don't know who is David Beckham...gonna rate him...bell peppah at zero Scoville." She makes a mental note to look him up later. "Same-same wi' Ryan Gosling. Like I'm sure he's a lovely person an' so many people love him but...I got no kine, no feeling. I don' even t'ink he's dat aest'etically pleasant t' jus' stare at." "Idris Elba...funny. He look so much like a friend of mine dat...dat dey could be twins if only he was taller an' broader in da chest." Lacking gold. "Scoville say... Serrano peppah. Ten t'ousand t' tweny-t'ree t'ousand unit."

Which leaves her with the final two. "Got a real soft spot for Matt'ew McConaughey because from what I've read, he's a surfer. A naturalist. All kinds about him line up wi' my values an' beliefs an' he got dat beautiful smile wi' dimples f' days. Somewhere between Trinidad Scorpion an' Ghost. An' He gets a pass for bein' haole." She winks at Kit so that she knows Beth is kidding. "Now dat he's older, more settle in his bones, I really t'ink Jake is underrated. I'm also a sucker for darker colourin' on a person, and he just seems like a very sweet man. Plus he got a sistah, so he can understand my family dynamic. No can say if dat's Thai or Fatali, or mebbe somewhere in between but I no kick him out of my picnic for bringin' ants wi' him."

[jtenvs3000w24]

Blog Post #5: Citizen science in nature and demographics

While growing up, attending school and at time volunteering I had noticed a growing trend for environmental stewardship. Coincidentally my own interests also shifted in this direction towards the environment. I feel that the article Convergence between science and environmental education covers this perfectly. In today’s society there is a greater emphasis in environmental science and environmental education which unfortunately, was not as much of a concern in older curriculum. As stated in the article the three main focuses of environmental education today are; 1) developing thinking capacity to 2) make inform conditions and 3) act individually and together to benefit the environment (Wals, A., et al, 2014). These three principles tie together nicely as a natural thinking process with inevitable action. Despite the only recent growth and still growing concern, simply teaching children and youth alone in schools and through interpretation, would not be enough to create change and spread knowledge as far as possible. Aiming towards adults and elderly audiences as well will help.

Incorporating new ideas into education and interpretation are good examples of innovative solutions that will work to help foster more environmental stewards and at the very least more people who are informed of the current environmental issues. Incorporating edible gardens and more green spaces into schools to me sounds like a fun idea and something I feel I would have enjoyed (Stevenson, R., et al, 2013). It also works to teach basic skills like gardening and growing crops which are transferable skills that would work to increase the public interest of community gardens and individual gardens by passing on these skill and knowledge to parents. There may also be the added benefit of having more green spaces in schools as a comfortable aesthetic which works to distress students.

I had never really considered the importance of citizen science and the role it plays in research and informing the public. I knew of the term citizen science but had never really seen it in practice or read about it much. It’s interesting to think that there are whole niche communities that use citizen science as their primary research like in Trinidad and Tobago (Overdevest, C., et al, 2004). Its kind of like an indie science that delivers research results in a different manner that is more accessible and comprehensible for the public, made by citizens for the science word and other citizens.

In the article Evaluating Environmental Education, Citizen Science, and Stewardship through Naturalist Programs, it was interesting to see the different reaches of science within a specific field. Focusing on the areas where demographics of groups participating in citizen science and research as a whole were specific to a few demographics (Merenlender, A., et al, 2016). Whether it be naturally or by choice I thought it was an interesting observation to note. The fact that this article addresses it and therefore aims to work on closing this gap of data for science fields. In doing so, there will be a wider spread of knowledge and less misinformed or uniformed communities and individuals. This will work to increase the individual and community stewardship gaps by addressing interpretation bias on some level, even if its just through word of mouth from minority and misrepresented communities.

References

Wals, A. E., Brody, M., Dillon, J., & Stevenson, R. B. (2014). Convergence between science and environmental education. Science, 344(6184), 583-584.

Stevenson R. B., Brody M., Dillon J., Wals A. E. J., Eds., International Handbook of Research on Environmental Education (Routledge, New York, 2013).

Hargreaves L. G., Educ. Rev. 6, 69 (2008); www.developmenteducationreview.com/issue6-perspectives2.

Overdevest C, Orr CH, Stepenuck K. 2004. Volunteer stream monitoring and local participation in natural resource issues. Human Ecology Review 11: 177–185.

Merenlender, A. M., Crall, A. W., Drill, S., Prysby, M., & Ballard, H. (2016). Evaluating environmental education, citizen science, and stewardship through naturalist programs. Conservation Biology, 30(6), 1255-1265.

[roamanddiscover]

Trinidad and Tobago

If you're interested in learning about a beautiful Caribbean nation with a vibrant culture and a fascinating history, then Trinidad and Tobago should be on your list. This twin-island republic is located just off the coast of Venezuela, and it boasts an incredible variety of attractions for travelers of all interests. The name "Trinidad" comes from the Spanish word for "the Trinity," which was first applied to the island by Christopher Columbus in 1498. The name "Tobago," on the other hand, is thought to derive from the Arawakan word tabago, which means "lighted pipe." Trinidad and Tobago have a rich history dating back thousands of years. The islands were first settled by indigenous peoples, including the Arawaks and Caribs, before being colonized by various European powers, including Spain, France, and Britain. The Republic of Trinidad and Tobago gained independence from Britain in 1962, and it has since become a thriving nation with a diverse population and a unique cultural heritage. Trinidad and Tobago are both volcanic islands with varied geology. Trinidad is home to several mountain ranges, including the Northern Range, which is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor recreation. Tobago, on the other hand, has a more gentle topography, with its highest point at just 1,900 feet. Trinidad and Tobago are located in the southern Caribbean, just off the coast of Venezuela. The islands are separated by a 20-mile strait, and they have a combined land area of 1,981 square miles. Trinidad is the larger of the two islands, with an area of 1,864 square miles, while Tobago covers just 116 square miles. Trinidad and Tobago are home to a stunning variety of plant and animal life, with many unique species found nowhere else on Earth. The islands are divided into nine ecological regions, each with its own distinct flora and fauna. Trinidad and Tobago have been recognized as one of the world's biodiversity hotspots, with an astonishing diversity of species packed into a relatively small area. The islands are home to over 3,000 species of flowering plants, 430 species of birds, and 100 species of reptiles and amphibians. Trinidad and Tobago have a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round and a wet season from June to December. The islands are located just south of the hurricane belt, and they are rarely affected by major storms. Like many small island nations, Trinidad and Tobago face a range of environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and water pollution. The government has taken steps to address these issues, including establishing protected areas and promoting sustainable development. Trinidad and Tobago is a parliamentary democracy with a president as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government. The country has a multi-party system, and elections are held every five years. Trinidad and Tobago have a mixed economy based primarily on the energy sector. The country is the largest natural gas producer in the Caribbean and the fifth-biggest exporter of liquefied natural gas in the world. The energy sector accounts for around 60% of Trinidad and Tobago's total GDP, with the rest coming from sectors like tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture. Trinidad and Tobago have a relatively advanced infrastructure by Caribbean standards, with well-developed transportation, telecommunications, and utility systems. The islands are served by two international airports and several seaports, making it easy to get around and access goods and services. Trinidad and Tobago have made significant advances in science and technology in recent years, with a growing emphasis on research and innovation. The country has a number of institutions dedicated to scientific study, including the Trinidad and Tobago Field Naturalists' Club and the University of the West Indies. Trinidad and Tobago has produced a number of notable individuals who have made a global impact, including Nobel Prize-winning author V.S. Naipaul, legendary cricketer Brian Lara, and Olympic gold medalist Hasely Crawford. Trinidad and Tobago are home to a diverse population that includes people of Indian, African, European, and mixed ancestry. The largest ethnic group is people of Indian descent, who make up around 36% of the population, followed by people of African descent at 35%. Other groups, including Chinese, Syrian, and Lebanese, make up the remaining 29%. Trinidad and Tobago is a religiously diverse nation, with Christianity, Hinduism, and Islam being the most widely practiced faiths. Other religions practiced in the country include Buddhism, Judaism, and Rastafarianism. The official language of Trinidad and Tobago is English, but many other languages and dialects are also spoken on the islands, including Spanish, French Creole, and various Indian languages. Trinidad and Tobago have a relatively well-developed healthcare system, with both public and private hospitals and clinics. However, the country faces a number of public health challenges, including high rates of HIV/AIDS and non-communicable diseases like diabetes and hypertension. Trinidad and Tobago have a rich cultural heritage that draws on the influences of its many ethnic groups. The country is famous for its Carnival celebrations, which take place every February and feature colorful costumes, music, and dancing. In addition to Carnival, Trinidad and Tobago offer visitors a wide range of activities and experiences, from hiking in the rainforest to birdwatching on the beaches. Other popular activities include scuba diving, surfing, and snorkeling. The major urban centers in Trinidad and Tobago include Port of Spain, San Fernando, and Arima. Each of these cities offers its own unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment. If you're looking for picturesque and captivating cities, Trinidad and Tobago have plenty to offer. Favorites among tourists include the colonial-era city of Port of Spain, the historic town of Scarborough, and the charming fishing village of Speyside. Trinidad and Tobago have a wealth of must-see destinations and attractions, including the El Tucuche Nature Reserve, the Asa Wright Nature Centre, and the Buccoo Reef Marine Park. Trinidad and Tobago's cuisine is a delicious mix of African, Indian, and Creole influences that features a variety of spices, seafood, and tropical fruits. Some of the most popular dishes include roti, pelau, and callaloo. Rum is the national drink of Trinidad and Tobago, and the islands are home to several famous distilleries. Getting to Trinidad and Tobago is easy, with direct flights available from several international airports. Popular airlines that fly to the islands include American Airlines, Delta, and Caribbean Airlines. Trinidad and Tobago offer a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences, from all-inclusive resorts to cozy guesthouses and hostels. Some of the most popular hotel chains on the islands include Hilton, Hyatt, and Marriott. Trinidad and Tobago have been featured prominently in global media and culture, with movies like The Godfather Part II and TV shows like The Amazing Race filming on the islands. The country has also produced a number of talented artists, musicians, and writers who have gained international acclaim.

Etymology

The names Trinidad and Tobago have interesting etymologies that reflect the country's unique history and culture. Trinidad was named by Christopher Columbus in 1498 and means 'Trinity' in Spanish, referring to the Christian doctrine of the Holy Trinity. Tobago's name has a contested origin, with some scholars believing it comes from the Carib word 'tabaco' meaning tobacco, while others assert that it comes from the Galibi word 'tobaco,' meaning rock or rocky. Trinidad and Tobago's indigenous population, the Amerindians, had their own names for the islands. The Arawaks called Trinidad 'Iëre' or 'Kairi,' meaning 'Land of the Hummingbird.' Meanwhile, the Caribs called Tobago 'Urupaina,' which meant 'The Land Across the Water.' As European colonial powers vied for control of the Caribbean, Trinidad and Tobago changed hands several times. The islands were variously named before the present-day names were adopted. The French called Trinidad 'La Belle Étoile,' which means 'The Beautiful Star,' while the Dutch named Tobago 'New Walcheren' after a peninsula in the Netherlands. During the British colonial era, the islands were together known as 'Trinidad and Tobago,' and this name was retained after the country achieved independence in 1962. Today, Trinidad and Tobago's names embody the diversity of the country's population and history.

History

Trinidad and Tobago's history is a rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, colonialism, and independence struggles. The earliest inhabitants of the islands were the Amerindians, who migrated from South America thousands of years ago. By the time the Spanish arrived in the late 15th century, there were several different Amerindian tribes living on the islands. In the early 16th century, Trinidad and Tobago became a Spanish colony, and the indigenous population was forced into slavery. However, the Spanish found the islands to be difficult to settle, and Trinidad and Tobago changed hands several times over the next few centuries, with the Dutch, French, and British all claiming the islands at various times. The arrival of the British in 1797 marked the beginning of a new era for Trinidad and Tobago, as the islands became a British colony. During this time, the islands' economy was transformed by the introduction of sugar, cocoa, and tobacco crops, which were grown with the labor of enslaved Africans and indentured laborers from India and China. Trinidad and Tobago gained independence from Britain in 1962, becoming the first English-speaking Caribbean nation to do so. The country's first prime minister was Dr. Eric Williams, who led the independence movement and worked to improve the lives of the country's citizens through social and economic reforms. Since independence, Trinidad and Tobago has experienced periods of political instability and economic challenges, but it remains a vibrant and culturally rich nation with a diverse population and a unique heritage. Today, the country is known for its vibrant Carnival celebrations, its beautiful beaches, and its thriving energy sector, which includes both petroleum and natural gas production. Trinidad and Tobago's history is a testament to the resilience of its people and the power of culture to unite and inspire. From its indigenous roots to its colonial past to its modern struggles and successes, the story of Trinidad and Tobago is an inspiring one that continues to be told through its vibrant culture and rich traditions. Geology Trinidad and Tobago geology is composed of sedimentary rocks that host a wide range of natural resources. The islands' geology is closely tied to its oil and gas industry - with Trinidad being one of the largest petroleum reserves in the Caribbean. The southern parts of Trinidad are particularly rich in petroleum, and the hills are capped with shale which acts as natural seals for the oil and gas. The Paria Peninsula and the Gulf of Paria are some of the most significant areas of petroleum exploration and extraction. The Tobago island is made up of volcanic rocks, including lava, tuff, and agglomerates that have been overlaid with recent sandstones and conglomerates. These geological formations give rise to some of the most spectacular coastal features in the Caribbean, such as the Nylon Pool and the Buccoo Reef. The islands also have significant deposits of natural gas, silica sand, limestone, and clay, which are used in the construction and manufacturing industries. Trinidad and Tobago are also known for their beautiful gemstones, including topaz and amethyst. The geology of Trinidad and Tobago has also influenced the unique plant and animal life found on the islands. The rainforests, savannas, and marshes contain many species of flora and fauna, including the famous pitch lake in the southern Trinidad. The pitch lake is the largest of its kind and is a significant source of asphalt. Trinidad and Tobago's geology is incredibly diverse and plays a pivotal role in the islands' economy and biodiversity. From petroleum reserves to magnificent volcanic formations, Trinidad and Tobago's geological treasures are worth exploring. Geography Trinidad and Tobago is a nation composed of two main islands, located in the southern part of the Caribbean Sea. These islands have a total land area of approximately 5,131 square kilometers. Trinidad is the larger of the two islands, with an area of 4,768 square kilometers, while Tobago has an area of approximately 300 square kilometers. Trinidad is characterized by its hilly terrain, with an average elevation of 83 meters above sea level. The northern part of the island is the most populated and urbanized, with a largely flat landscape. The southern part of the island is more rural and dominated by the Northern Range, a mountain range that runs parallel to the east coast of the island. Tobago, on the other hand, is characterized by its rugged coastline and hilly terrain. The highest point on the island is Pigeon Peak, which has an elevation of 577 meters above sea level. The island is also home to several rivers and waterfalls, such as the Argyle Waterfall, which is a major tourist attraction. Trinidad and Tobago also have several smaller islands, which are often collectively referred to as the "islands of Trinidad and Tobago". These islands include Little Tobago, St. Giles Island, Gaspar Grande, Monos Island, and Chacachacare Island, among others. The islands are also home to several bays and natural harbors, including Chaguaramas Bay, which is used for yachting and other water sports. The Gulf of Paria is another significant water body, separating Trinidad from Venezuela. In terms of flora and fauna, Trinidad and Tobago are home to over 2,000 species of plants and hundreds of species of animals, including several endemic species. The islands have also designated several protected areas, including the Nariva Swamp and the Main Ridge Forest Reserve in Tobago. Trinidad and Tobago's geography is diverse and rich in natural resources and biodiversity, making them a popular destination for ecotourism and outdoor adventures. Ecology Trinidad and Tobago have some of the most diverse and unique ecosystems in the world, thanks to their location in the southeastern Caribbean. These islands are home to a variety of habitats, including rainforests, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and savannas. These habitats support an incredible range of flora and fauna, much of which is endemic to the islands. One of the most well-known ecosystems in Trinidad and Tobago is the Asa Wright Nature Centre. This centre is situated in the Northern Range, and it is home to a variety of bird species, including Trinidad's national bird, the Scarlet Ibis. Other unique bird species in Trinidad and Tobago include the Oilbird, which is the only known nocturnal fruit-eating bird in the world, and the Bellbird, which produces an incredibly loud and distinctive call. The islands' rainforests are also home to a variety of mammals, including the Ocelot, Agouti, and Red Howler Monkey. Meanwhile, the coral reefs surrounding Tobago are teeming with marine life, including turtles, angel fish, and stingrays. In addition to its diverse flora and fauna, Trinidad and Tobago is also rich in natural resources. Oil and natural gas are the country's primary exports, and these industries have been a significant source of income for the country in recent years. However, the government has recognized the importance of preserving the islands' unique ecosystems, and efforts have been made to protect these habitats from overdevelopment. Trinidad and Tobago's diverse and fragile ecosystems make it a truly unique and special destination for nature enthusiasts. Whether you're a birder, a scuba diver, or simply a lover of nature, there is something here for everyone to enjoy. Biodiversity Trinidad and Tobago has an incredibly diverse ecosystem, with a significant number of unique species. The country is home to more than 4300 species of plants, 100 species of mammals, 400 species of birds, and 620 species of fish. The forested regions of Trinidad and Tobago are full of unique flora, including more than 700 species of orchids. The country is also home to a range of animal species, including the endangered Trinidad Piping Guan, which is endemic to Trinidad. Trinidad and Tobago's marine environment is also incredibly diverse, with several unique species of fish and coral reefs. The country boasts over 400 species of hard corals and 700 species of fish, making it one of the most biodiverse marine environments in the world. Leatherback turtles, the largest species of turtle, also nest on the beaches of Trinidad every year, with hundreds of volunteers working to protect their nesting sites. The island of Tobago has been designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to its unique biodiversity. The protected area covers over 14,000 hectares, including coral reefs, mangrove swamps, and the oldest protected rainforest in the western hemisphere. The reserve is home to a significant number of endangered species, including the Tobago coral snake and the Tobago silk cotton tree. Trinidad and Tobago's biological diversity is essential to the country's economy and culture. The government has made significant efforts to protect its natural resources and biodiversity, with several initiatives in place to protect endangered species and their habitats. The country also has several national parks and reserves, which help to protect the natural heritage of the islands. Trinidad and Tobago is home to a vast and diverse range of flora and fauna, with unique ecosystems found on both land and sea. The country's biodiversity is crucial to its economy and culture, and conservation efforts are helping to ensure this rich natural heritage is protected for generations to come.

Leatherback turtles Climate Trinidad and Tobago has a tropical climate with fairly consistent temperatures year-round. The average temperature in Trinidad and Tobago ranges from 25°C to 33°C (77°F to 91°F), and the humidity can be quite high. The country experiences two seasons: a rainy season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. During the rainy season, tropical storms and hurricanes can occur, making travel and outdoor activities challenging. However, this time of year also brings lush green landscapes and is the best time for birdwatching. The dry season is the most popular time to visit Trinidad and Tobago as it offers the best conditions for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The temperature and humidity remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with little variation between the two seasons. Read the full article

[petculiars]

Interesting Green Anaconda Facts

New Post has been published on https://www.petculiars.com/interesting-green-anaconda-facts/

Interesting Green Anaconda Facts

The green anaconda, Eunectes murinus, also known as the common anaconda or water boa, is a species of snake in South America, being the largest snake in the world. In the wild, a 10 to 12 meters anaconda that weighs more than 250 kg has been discovered, although the actual maximum size of an anaconda is the subject of many controversies. Females typically have a much larger weight and length than males, reaching an average length of 6 meters while males will only reach 6 meters in length. The gender of an anaconda is reflected by the size of the spurs located in the cloacal region. Males have larger notches, at around 7,5 millimeters than females.

The scientific name of green anaconda is derived from the Greek term eленic, meaning “good swimmer”.

The green anaconda is one of the four constrictor species, the other species being Eunectes notaeus, the yellow anaconda, Eunectes deschauenseei, the dark anaconda, and Eunectes beniensis, the Bolivian anaconda.

The green anaconda became famous in the human world with its discovery and description in the scientific world in 1758 by the renowned Swedish naturalist Carl Linnaeus. Because it is the largest representative of the boa family, Venezuelan and Brazilian farmers call it green boa because of its color, or water boa, with direct reference to the aquatic environment in which this giant with scales lives. The Indians of the South American tribes call it Sucurinju, Yakumama, or Jiboia.

You might also like my articles on whether anacondas eat people, how many teeth a snake has, and how to know if a snake is sleeping.

Like all snakes, the anaconda has a forked tongue that helps it locate the prey and move around in its environment.

The green anaconda is more active in the evening. It can travel long distances and in short periods of time, especially in the dry annual seasons. They migrate preferentially after the peak heat of the day. Anacondas are able to regulate their body temperature.

Where does the green anaconda live?

Eunectes murinus is found in South America to the east of the Andes, in countries such as Colombia, Venezuela, Guiana, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, the island of Trinidad, and northern Paraguay. Anaconda lives in swamps, mainly in the rainforests of the Amazon and Orinoco basins. It is heavy on land, but it swims easily. The eyes and nasal openings lie on the head, allowing it to sit in wait for the prey, remaining almost completely submerged.

What does a green anaconda eat?

Basically aquatic, it consumes a wide variety of prey, including fish, birds, a variety of mammals, and other reptiles. Being particularly large, it can also consume large prey such as tapirs, deer, capybaras, caimans, and even jaguars, but such food is not consumed regularly. They use constriction to subdue their prey.

Cannibalism among green anacondas is also known, with most recorded cases involving a larger female consuming a smaller male.

How does a green anaconda hunt?

Anaconda stalks its prey while standing in the swamps and ponds from the endless amazon selva, usually avoiding the rapid streams of water. From its hiding place, the anaconda lies motionless for hours until the prey reaches its attack range. The attack happens lightning-fast as the huge snake puts down its prey. The prey is snatched with a multitude of teeth, after which, if the victim is small, it will be carried in the water and drowned.

If it has caught a large prey, the anaconda’s body wraps around the victim, after which the terrible clasp of force follows. Ring by ring, millimeter by millimeter, the snake begins to tighten its muscles until the prey is suffocated and eventually takes its last breath.

In very rare cases, when the anaconda feels that it is in great danger, it regurgitates the prey, which may be twice as large as its size, to get rid of the predators around it.

The mating phenomenon

Anaconda mating is an interesting phenomenon, unique in the world of reptiles. During the mating season, the female eliminates a specific smell that attracts all males in the territory crossed by it, like a magnet. The males gather in a real “mating ball” in which about 12-15 males wreathe around the female.

Mating may take several weeks. During this time, a female can mate with several males. Males compete to gain access to the female by wrapping around it.

Females are selective in the mating process. In conditions of high density or when females are easy to follow, males can meet, which can lead to confrontations between them. However, male fights are rare.

Females are ovoviviparous and incubate their eggs for up to 7 months until they give birth to live offspring. Feeding movements and behaviors are limited to avoid compromising their health. Females give birth in shallow water, in the evening or late afternoon, at the end of the wet season. They can give birth to 82 offspring. Newborns measure 60 cm on average and do not need parental care. At the age of 4 years, young anaconda females reach reproduction maturity.

Conservation

Possible threats to this species include habitat loss and exotic pet trade. Anacondas are listed as vulnerable species in CITES, but information about them is relatively rare. The Venezuelan Fisheries and Wildlife Service, the Wildlife Conservation Society, and the Convention on International Trade in Endangered species (CITES) funded the Green Anaconda project for us to understand the potential threats to the species.

[newsstoryoftheweekblog]

NEWS STORY OF THE WEEK 22/4/22 - the Queen’s platinum jubile book list

‘The Big Jubilee Read list

1952-61

The Palm-Wine Drinkard – Amos Tutuola (1952, Nigeria) The Hills Were Joyful Together – Roger Mais (1953, Jamaica) In the Castle of My Skin – George Lamming (1953, Barbados) My Bones and My Flute – Edgar Mittelholzer (1955, Guyana) The Lonely Londoners – Sam Selvon (1956, Trinidad and Tobago/England) The Guide – RK Narayan (1958, India) To Sir, With Love – ER Braithwaite (1959, Guyana) One Moonlit Night – Caradog Prichard (1961, Wales) A House for Mr Biswas – VS Naipaul (1961, Trinidad and Tobago/England Sunlight on a Broken Column – Attia Hosain (1961, India)

1962-71

A Clockwork Orange – Anthony Burgess (1962, England) The Interrogation – JMG Le Clézio (1963, France/Mauritius) The Girls of Slender Means – Muriel Spark (1963, Scotland) Arrow of God – Chinua Achebe (1964, Nigeria) Death of a Naturalist – Seamus Heaney (1966, Northern Ireland) Wide Sargasso Sea – Jean Rhys (1966, Dominica/Wales) A Grain of Wheat – Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o (1967, Kenya) Picnic at Hanging Rock – Joan Lindsay (1967, Australia) The Beautyful Ones Are Not Yet Born – Ayi Kwei Armah (1968, Ghana) When Rain Clouds Gather – Bessie Head (1968, Botswana/South Africa)

1972-81

The Nowhere Man – Kamala Markandaya (1972, India) Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy – John Le Carré (1974, England) The Thorn Birds – Colleen McCullough (1977, Australia) The Crow Eaters – Bapsi Sidhwa (1978, Pakistan) The Sea, The Sea – Iris Murdoch (1978, England) Who Do You think You Are? – Alice Munro (1978, Canada) The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy – Douglas Adams (1979, England) Tsotsi – Athol Fugard (1980, South Africa) Clear Light of Day – Anita Desai (1980, India) Midnight’s Children – Salman Rushdie (1981, England/India)

1982-91

Schindler’s Ark – Thomas Keneally (1982, Australia) Beka Lamb – Zee Edgell (1982, Belize) The Bone People – Keri Hulme (1984, New Zealand) The Handmaid’s Tale – Margaret Atwood (1985, Canada) Summer Lightning – Olive Senior (1986, Jamaica) The Whale Rider – Witi Ihimaera (1987, New Zealand) The Remains of the Day – Kazuo Ishiguro (1989, England) Omeros – Derek Walcott (1990, Saint Lucia) The Adoption Papers – Jackie Kay (1991, Scotland) Cloudstreet – Tim Winton (1991, Australia)

1992-2001

The English Patient – Michael Ondaatje (1992, Canada/Sri Lanka) The Stone Diaries – Carol Shields (1993, Canada) Paradise – Abdulrazak Gurnah (1994, Tanzania/England) A Fine Balance – Rohinton Mistry (1995, India/Canada) Salt – Earl Lovelace (1996, Trinidad and Tobago) The God of Small Things – Arundhati Roy (1997, India) The Blue Bedspread – Raj Kamal Jha (1999, India) Disgrace – JM Coetzee (1999, South Africa/Australia) White Teeth – Zadie Smith (2000, England) Life of Pi – Yann Martel (2001, Canada)

2002-11

Small Island – Andrea Levy (2004, England) The Secret River – Kate Grenville (2005, Australia) The Book Thief – Markus Zusak (2005, Australia) Half of a Yellow Sun – Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (2006, Nigeria) A Golden Age – Tahmima Anam (2007, Bangladesh) The Boat – Nam Le (2008, Australia) Wolf Hall – Hilary Mantel (2009, England) The Book of Night Women – Marlon James (2009, Jamaica) The Memory of Love – Aminatta Forna (2010, Sierra Leone/Scotland) Chinaman – Shehan Karunatilaka (2010, Sri Lanka)

2012-21

Our Lady of the Nile – Scholastique Mukasonga (2012, Rwanda) The Luminaries – Eleanor Catton (2013, New Zealand) Behold the Dreamers – Imbolo Mbue (2016, Cameroon) The Bone Readers – Jacob Ross (2016, Grenada) How We Disappeared – Jing-Jing Lee (2019, Singapore) Girl, Woman, Other – Bernardine Evaristo (2019, England) The Night Tiger – Yangsze Choo (2019, Malaysia) Shuggie Bain – Douglas Stuart (2020, Scotland) A Passage North – Anuk Arudpragasam (2021, Sri Lanka) The Promise – Damon Galgut (2021, South Africa)’ (Sherwood, 2022).

REFERENCE

Sherwood, H. (2022) 'The God of Small Things to Shuggie Bain: the Queen’s jubilee book list', The Guardian 18 April [Online]. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/books/2022/apr/18/the-god-of-small-things-to-shuggie-bain-the-queens-jubilee-book-list (Accessed 21 April 2022).

[umarandlife]

A brown pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) looks on at the Caribbean Dockyards. Spotted on 31/09/2019 at 8:25am. The brown pelican is a North American bird of the pelican family, Pelecanidae. It is one of three pelican species found in the Americas and one of two that feed by diving in water. It is found on the Atlantic Coast from Nova Scotia to the mouth of the Amazon River, and along the Pacific Coast from British Columbia to northern Chile, including the Galapagos Islands.  #brownpelican #pelican #naturalist #trinidadandtobago #trinidad #trinidadnature #sea #ocean #species #birds (at Carribean Dockyard) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4ig_G8jISz/?igshid=1eyuw05wkhs02

[toomucheyes]

Artist: Michel Jean Cazabon (Trinidadian, 1813–1888)

Title: Port of Spain from Fort George

Medium: oil on canvas

Size:45.7 x 60.9 cm. (18 x 24 in.)

Michel-Jean Cazabon was a Trinidadian painter known for his naturalistic landscapes, portraits, and glimpses of everyday life in his home country during the 19th century. His detailed yet atmospheric depictions of tropical landscapes afforded him international renown. Many of his works were collected by aristocratic Harris family and are now on display in Kent, United Kingdom. Born on September 20, 1813 in Naparima, Trinidad, Cazabon attended school at St. Edmund’s College in Ware, United Kingdom from 1826–1830. Briefly returning to Trinidad, he soon left for Europe to pursue studies in Paris, first in medicine, then in fine art under Paul Delaroche. He traveled throughout France and Italy before settling back in homeland. Over the course of his career, he notably exhibited at the Salon du Louvre in Paris in 1839 and the “Colonial and Indian Exhibition” in London in 1886. Cazabon died on November 20, 1888 in Trinidad at the age of 75.

source: Artnet

[sapphickaliprasad-blog]

Wasn’t He Recently Elected As President?

Anticipation ran high as the clock ticked closer to midnight on Water Street in St. John’s. Home-owners invest in high intensity strobing light machines not only to deter rats, but other rodents as well, like squirrels. I like to keep our spending in check anyway, and it’s not hard to scan and email bills. Can anyone tell me how to block up the holes, and keep them from eating the door? Policy provisions, benefit restrictions, and reinsurance can be used to help alleviate problems to the extent they exist. The credit cannot exceed the taxable disability benefit actually received. A problem for the employer is how to verify an employee's disability. No Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) filing and reporting requirement as long as the master contract is issued to a trust and as long as there are no employer contributions for the cost of coverage. 37. Submit syndromic surveillance data - The Stage 1 menu set requirement was a single transaction. 22. Patient specific educational resources - Stage 1 requires this for 10% of patients. 1500 (whichever is less) per year with prior approval from supervisor and human resources for job related courses. In a disaster, they'll look to you and other adults for help. Illicit online pharmacies are a growing global public health concern. Canadian Pharmacies are almost synonymous for online pharmacies. Two daily flights from Miami to Port of Spain are available on American Airlines. There are dealers for nearly all Japanese and Korean brands and an increasing number of European models. While employers expect employees to miss a few days of work from time to time, online pharmacies canada there is often a tendency to underestimate both the frequency and severity of disabilities that last for longer periods. I kept our dog in our bedroom with closed door while we slept so we could put a few open area traps out at night. Most of the time she was here, I had very few ratz. With the cryptocurrency market being so volatile, it’s not uncommon to hear about massive gains over a short period of time. Most of us have sold something online at some point, but it’s seller beware. Then, when they have needs, they first must meet an “annual unshared amount” (similar to a deductible) before their expenses are eligible for sharing. OSHA has not added these types of conditions to the first aid list because the list includes treatments rather than conditions. If a chiropractor provides observation, counseling, diagnostic procedures, or first aid procedures for a work-related injury or illness, the case would not be recordable. These treatments will be considered first aid whether they are provided by a lay person or a licensed health care professional. Did the person have any money at home to be stolen? Counseling may be provided on a short-term basis by either a licensed health care professional or an unlicensed person with limited training. We liked what we saw with the medical cost sharing model instead. Whenever you attain pain medicine given by an internet drugstore, you don't get to pay any additional cost which is generally charged by the physician/doctor for getting you a prescription. How did steroids get contaminated? For years, and especially more so since about 2006, there has been a major surge in emailed spam for so-called 'Canadian Pharmacies'. This is quite challenging because there are many factors that can affect the BG. This undigested fat can then pass naturally through your body and leave via bowel movements. Drip up to to 4-5 drops on a cotton ball, then place it in those spots where rats appear more often. Rats are attracted to dog poo. Does peppermint oil repel rats? As Governor, I will work with school districts to make this a reality for more teachers, and will work with the legislature to incentivize districts to provide affordable childcare before and after the bell. Packages over 2 Kilos usually take 4 weeks or more. One lady had cautions introduced on the entryways of her home to alarm her family in the event that she endeavored to go out while dozing. Trinidad and Tobago's agricultural sector is still dominated by sugar, which was introduced in colonial times. Some other clubs include the Horticultural Society, Trinidad and Tobago German Club, the Orchid Society, the Field Naturalists Society, Living Waters Christian Community, an informal Jewish community, and other groups. Trinidad has no school bus system. A judicial system which has a Court of Appeals as its highest level in the country. Click here to see a sample list from one of our many suppliers.

[octahedral-chaos]

Captive Two - Toed Sloth at the Emperor Valley Zoo

Taken by: Unknown

From: Trinidad Naturalist - Volume 2 Number 12 (1979)

@vintagewildlife

[tetsvro-blog]

Trinidad And Tobago

Don't forget to include online pharmacies in your search, as they often have the best prices, and you can save a lot of money on a prescription. Bring your ID and a form of payment — cash or debit are your best bets — and you should be able to get a money order easily and conveniently. Really you get more energy when you move more. So are we going to get the generic Propecia soon? Corporation Committees are each chaired by an Alderman. Unfortunately, there are still too many Coloradans who earn too much to qualify for Medicaid but struggle to afford the cost of private insurance. Employers with fewer than 15 employees may still exclude pregnancy disabilities unless they are subject to state laws to the contrary. By providing employees the peace of mind to tend to life’s most important moments, we will be able to improve productivity and employee retention while attracting employers to the state. While some countries have imposed total ban on the use of plastic bags, those that have not are increasingly encouraging citizens to refrain from using the bags. Pouring stabilizer into storage containers helps, but does not extend the life of the gasoline for extensive long-term use. Some other clubs include the Horticultural Society, Trinidad and Tobago German Club, the Orchid Society, the Field Naturalists Society, Living Waters Christian Community, an informal Jewish community, and other groups. In particular, many managed care plans abandoned capitation as a form of physician reimbursement, canada online pharmacy although some global cap systems were retained or modified for larger provider groups. ] The doctors must be registered with the Care Quality Commission. This is a must for anyone considering mail order steroids online. Employees may prefer insurance to some other form of funding in order to obtain the financial backing of an outside financial institution. Nitrazepam tablets may influence how your muscles function or may make you feel tired or distracted. Sport drinks can contain a lot of calories which may mean you will be consuming more calories than you are burning while exercising. Gail, they mean true sweet potatoes, not yams! All Natural also means you save money on costly prescription drugs and you avoid harsh side effects, all while receiving improved benefits fighting Diabetes. This is important as people with disabilities include people with diabetes. I had a bit about everything and a little bit about the City of Hamilton and the people with warm and friendly smiles. Furthermore, as of 2000, over 17% of people over age 60 abuse prescription drugs, many of them doing so unwittingly. Canadians are being deserted and abused in much the same manner as Americans, because of their version of our CDC prescription guidelines. My kids want to do the same with me! Boats, tractor-trailers, and airplanes will cease to move goods as well. By contrast, Tobago diving is well organized with equipment and instruction available; the reefs, clear water, and tropical fish provide for excellent diving opportunities. Swimming can be dangerous at any beach in Trinidad because of frequent heavy surf, rip-tides, and undertows. If you ever have a concern you can contact info@canadavet.com or call our call centre which is located in Vancouver, BC and open 7 days a week. Two observations can be made about this trend. The one government-owned TV station operates separate programs on two channels. Causally not rotationally tired, drug companies reunite free medications, but rarely, if ever publicize the programs. Having said that, I have thrown diced cubes of SP’s outside where I know the rats are getting in and exiting about four times and I haven’t noticed a difference. I used to have 2 but after a few killed they got smart and didn’t go in so they were useless. As a pharmacist, I have actually had a patient YELL at me NOT to call the PCP for a refill because she was a afraid that I would "rat her out" for not taking her thyroid meds as prescribed. Nitrazepam has a place with a gathering of meds called benzodiazepines. I am going to try the NOW company mint on cotton balls too. There is now a DEFINITE problem.. The PBGC now has substantial ability to involve itself in mergers, acquisitions, and sales when the sponsor of an under-funded plan is involved. FEMA estimates grocery store shelves will be empty in three days - but in all reality, that will happen in mere hours. The majority of plans using this approach allow employees to accumulate unused sick leave up to some maximum amount, which rarely exceeds six months (sometimes specified as 180 days or 26 weeks). After a couple days of testing Humalog my numbers in general started rising. Rifles are not legal hunting weapons here. Therefore, non-prescription medicines at non-prescription strength, whether in ointment, cream, pill, liquid, spray, or any other form are considered first aid. Although some improvements are under way, many roads and streets (with the exception of a few major highways) are narrow, full of potholes, and poorly maintained.

[ainawgsd]

Ocelot

The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is a wild cat distributed extensively within South America, including the islands of Trinidad and Margarita, Central America, and Mexico. North of Mexico, it is found regularly only in the extreme southern part of Texas, although there are rare sightings in southern Arizona. Its fur was once regarded as particularly valuable. As a result, hundreds of thousands of ocelots were killed for their fur, causing a marked decline in the species' numbers. The cat was listed as Vulnerable from 1972 until 1996 and is now listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

The name ocelot comes from the Nahuatl word ōcēlōtl, which usually refers to the jaguar (Panthera onca) rather than the ocelot. Another possible origin for the name is the Latin cellatus ("having little eyes" or "marked with eye like spots"), in reference to the cat's spotted coat. Other names for the ocelot include cunaguaro, manigordo, mathuntori, ocelote, onsa, pumillo, tigri-kati and tigrillo.

The ocelot is a medium-sized spotted cat, similar to the bobcat in physical proportions. The ocelot is between 22 and 39 inches in head-and-body length and weighs 18–35 pounds. The fur is short and smooth; the back is basically creamy, tawny, yellowish, reddish grey or grey, while the neck and underside are white. 

The coat is extensively marked with a variety of solid black markings – these vary from open or closed bands and stripes on the back, cheeks and flanks to small spots on the head and limbs. A few dark stripes run straight from the back of the neck up to the tip of the tail. A few horizontal streaks can be seen on the insides of the legs. English naturalist Richard Lydekker observed that the ocelot is "one of the most difficult members of the feline family to describe". In 1929, wildlife author Ernest Thompson Seton described the coat of the ocelot as "the most wonderful tangle of stripes, bars, chains, spots, dots and smudges...which look as though they were put on as the animal ran by."

The ocelot is active around twilight (crepuscular) and at night (nocturnal). However, it can be seen hunting in daytime as well – especially on cloudy or rainy days. The ocelot is active for 12 to 14 hours every day, and hunting is the major activity. It rests mainly during the day and in a variety of places, such as tree branches, depressions at the base of trees or under fallen trees. 

Solitary animals, ocelots live singly in territories that are scent-marked by urine spraying and forming dung piles. Ranges of females hardly overlap, whereas the territory of a male can include the territories of two to three females. Social interaction is minimal, though a few adults have been observed together even in non-mating months, and some juveniles may interact with their parents. 

The remnant U.S. ocelot population in south Texas has declined from 80–120 individuals in 1995 to fewer than 50 in recent years, with about half of ocelot deaths resulting from automobile accidents. The destruction of habitat is the main threat to their survival. In addition, this animal is sought by poachers in order to market their skin, because of the aesthetic values it has. At the level of America, its main threats are loss and fragmentation of habitat, illegal trade in specimens and skins, hunting and predation retaliation for poultry species. Natural predators of ocelots include jaguar, cougar, the harpy eagle, and species of boa.

In Trinidad, habitat fragmentation, as well as direct exploitation via illegal poaching are major threats to the survival of the remnant populations of ocelots on the island. No empirical studies have been conducted to reliably estimate population status on the island. Historical records indicate that the species once existed on the island of Tobago, but it has long been extirpated there.

[sexydarky002]

ATTENTION ( LADIES 18-30) Peggy's Beauty Pageant On Point Presents The queen in the naturalist form Pageant.(note:- No hair extensions, No eyelashes and minimal makeup) East, West, North & South do you think you have what it takes? Come show us who you are.(note:- Trinidad and Tobago citizens only) We are currently looking for 8 more ladies *SERIOUS ENQUIRES ONLY* No experience necessary No height requirements All prizes will be in Cash Queen will receive - $25000 First Runner Up - $15000 Second Runner Up - $10000 If interested send a short bio along with 2 clean picture (face / full body no copyright pictures) with subject Attention Miss Francis to photography.trinbago@gmail.com https://youtu.be/4bFrnGlRleA Pageant Date: 1st September 2019 Venue: TBA Whatsapp 18682722569 for more info #CharmaineWilliamson #LizFrancis #AnthonyDeBourg #CynthiaFrancis https://www.instagram.com/p/ByQtZk3lE_s/?igshid=1809fwb8eztf8

[umarandlife]

Adubon's Multicoloured Lizard (Polychrus Auduboni) Was digging up manure and saw this guy. Looks like something tried to eat him. Polychrus is the only extant genus of polychrotid lizards in the world. Commonly called Bush anoles, they are found in Central and South America, as well as nearby Trinidad and Tobago. Polychrus means many coloured. #lizard #polychrus #trinidadbiodiversity #trinidadnature #trinidadandtobago #naturalist #reptile #polychrusauduboni #multicoloredlizard #inaturalist (at Daily Road) https://www.instagram.com/p/B-faVkTDPZp/?igshid=r50h91xyf6y3