Foto Friday – Creepy Crawlies

February 18, 2010 - 11:59 PM by Rachel Neiman · 5 Comments
Filed under: Environment, Foto Friday, General 

Last month, scientists at the University of Haifa announced that they had discovered a new and previously unknown species of spider. I don’t know about you, but I greet news like that with mixed emotions: pride in our local research institutions, curiosity at seeing the bug and — now having seen the photos (like this one by researcher Yael Olek) — a dash of alarm. This thing is a big as a Mack Truck.

The researchers say that this spider’s leg-span can reach up to 14 cm., which makes it the largest spider of its type in the Middle East. The species was discovered in the dune of the Sands of Samar in the southern Arava region. It is a member of the genus Cerbalus and was named Cerbalus aravensis for its native habitat, if you like knowing that sort of thing.

Unfortunately, however, the poor critter’s habitat is endangered by — you guessed it — humans and their boundless capacity to screw things up. According to head of research Dr. Uri Shanas, mining projects in the area will endanger the existence of the spider as well as possibly other unknown animal species living in the sands. Hopefully, efforts will be made to preserve this unique region in the Arava, as well as the lifeforms crawling in, out and round about.

Photographer Marco Jona has a particular fascination for such creepy crawlies. Waiting patiently for the right moment, he manages to get in close and catch almost human-like expressions. A few of his photos are presented here with more on display at his website.

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Foto Friday – Summer at the Safari

July 3, 2009 - 1:40 PM by Rachel Neiman · Leave a Comment
Filed under: Art, Environment, Foto Friday, General, Life, Travel 

It’s hot!
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I’m so warm, I don’t know whether I’m coming or going!
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How about stepping over to the watering hole for a bit of refreshment…
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Though it’s a bit crowded…
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Probably best just to stay put.
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Maybe have a light snack.
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And wearing that heavy fur coat is certainly out of the question!
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All of the above photos were taken at the Ramat Gan Safari and come courtesy of Sharpest Pictures.com, a unique collection of high-quality pictures about nature, animals, ancient and urban environments. The site’s founders are happy for educational institutions to make use of the photos, which are available free-of-charge. Individuals may also download, for personal use only. Enjoy and spread the word.

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