Ngg

Bhutan Giant Flying Squirrel (Petaurista nobilis), family Sciuridae, Bhutan

I know spiders are among the animals many people fear, and I understand that. A phobia is not something you can simply reason away.

Even so, I think it is a pity, because spiders are extraordinary animals. The closer you look, the more remarkable they become. In these photographs you can see the spider drawing silk from its spinnerets, a reminder of the astonishing engineering that spiders carry with them wherever they go.

Spiders are also among nature's most important predators, helping to keep insect populations in balance. I am convinced that the more we learn about them, the easier they become to appreciate. You do not have to love spiders, but perhaps knowledge can replace at least a little of the fear with curiosity and respect.

saw some gorgeous indian green peafowl at a bird sanctuary over the weekend!!

I met this lovely couple on one of my walks in Mariehamn. We had a pleasant chat about the weather, the quality of this year's grazing, and whether the local humans had finally learned to keep a respectful distance. Delightful company.

What song did you personally like the best out of this round? Did a song make an impact right away or did it require the full version? Did the artist reveal change your opinion for better or for worse? Tell me in a reblog! :D

(note: this is not a popularity contest or to vote for a favourite artist out of loyalty 💖 it's still about the song.)

Give the songs a re-listen to refresh your memory!

861 here 862 here 863 here 864 here 865 here 866 here 867 here 868 here 869 here 870 here

or listen to a quick recap here:

Southern Emerald Toucanet (Aulacorhynchus albivitta), family Ramphastidae, Colombia

It was the first take, actually! The scratches are from the other little shitheads climbing all over me with their horrible needle-tipped feet