Tree crown shyness is a natural phenomenon where the crowns of fully grown trees avoid touching each other, creating distinct gaps or channels in the forest canopy. This growth habit may have several advantages: minimize competition for sunlight, crown shyness helps to prevent wind damage, the distance may minimize, spread of diseases and pests & may facilitate a kind of communication between trees. 🌳 #biology#nature#science#Reels#ecology
It’s that time of year again – the Aussie Bird Count! 🦜🦉🦅
Each year, from October 14–20, BirdLife Australia hosts Australia’s biggest birdwatching and citizen science event – and you’re invited to get involved!
Taking part is easy; register on the Birdlife Australia website, spend 20 minutes in your favourite outdoor space, and submit a list of the birds you see during that time! You can participate as many times as you want during the event, so be sure to get started now… https://aussiebirdcount.org.au
What birds do you want to see this year? Let us know in the comments! 👇
No, this isn't a dragon hatchling – it's a great-eared nightjar!
A nocturnal species known for its haunting calls and unusual habit of incubating its eggs on the forest floor, the great-eared nightjar (Lyncornis macrotis) is a sight to behold for those lucky enough to spot one in the wild.
Hurricane Milton's rapid intensification linked to climate change, scientists say
The storm's rapid intensification highlights how climate change is driving stronger, faster-developing hurricanes, fueled by rising sea surface temperatures
Primates face an uncertain future due to climate change
Primates, our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom, are under threat due to climate change. In particular, primates are vulnerable to climate change due to their reliance on stable ecosystems, specific habitats, and specialized diets
21 Private Equity Firms Fund Over a Gigaton of Annual Climate Pollution
"Private equity firms and their executives are making billions by investing public employees' retirement money into planet-destroying fossil fuel assets," said one researcher
Spotted sun orchids (Thelymitra ixioides) in open grassland near Mallacoota, VIC. These are fairly typical forms growing closer to the coast in this area - with larger/bluer flowers opening slightly earlier than plants further inland near Genoa.
Hummingbirds live life on the edge. @KnowableMag looks at how these tiny creatures can shut their bodies down almost completely, fly thousands of miles, sometimes across open oceans, sometimes upside down and backwards, and can generate g-forces high enough to make a fighter pilot black out.
Caladenia alata (fairy fingers / fairy orchid), starting to flower in open grassland near Mallacoota, VIC. Most plants at this location are fairly close to the typical white form - with just a solitary pink-flowering plant out nearby.
Spotted sun orchids (Thelymitra ixioides) starting to flower in open grassland near Genoa, VIC. Plants at this location are generally smaller (with less flowers) than coastal populations closer to Mallacoota and usually open at least a few weeks later.
New study reveals climate change toll on Maine's kelp forests
Parts of the warming Gulf of Maine have become inhospitable for kelp forests, according to new research from the Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences in East Boothbay
For people who are into #physics, #complexity, #ecology, #biology, the Santa Fe Institute #podcast has launched a new season, and has incredibly interesting guests. Worth a listen!