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  • This is a pair of forest green tree frogs (Zhangixalus arboreus) spawning. Endemic to Japan, this species produces a sponge-like egg mass, normally suspended from tree branches above bodies of still water. Though not yet considered endangered, populations of this frog are in decline, in large part due to habitat destruction. As seen here, the frogs are doing the best they can, in this case using a manmade fence in lieu of a tree. Conservation efforts are perhaps the best hope of sustaining this species. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • Cute green Japanese tree frog (Hyla japonica) sitting on a tree branch. アマガエル
    japanese-tree-frog-hyla-japonica-shi...tif
  • Japanese tree frog (Hyla japonica)
    japanese-tree-frog-hyla-japonica-shi...tif
  • Japanese tree frog (Hyla japonica) matching the the background color. This species often appears green to match foliage. Here it is brown because it was autumn when this photograph was taken. Most tree leaves had fallen, and most shrubbery was brown. Photographed in Kobuchizawa, Ysamanashi Prefecture, Japan. 小淵沢, 山梨県
    japanese-tree-frog-hyla-japonica-yam...tif
  • This is a pair of forest green tree frogs (Zhangixalus arboreus). The male is facing the camera, female in the rear. This species normally spawns on branches of trees, but sometimes also makes use of manmade structures. Habitat destruction is increasingly restricting their range, as well as limiting suitable spawning locations. This pair chose to spawn on a fence, four to five hours after this photograph was taken. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is a pair of forest green tree frogs (Zhangixalus arboreus) spawning. Endemic to Japan, this species produces a sponge-like egg mass, normally suspended from tree branches above bodies of still water. Though not yet considered endangered, populations of this frog are in decline, in large part due to habitat destruction. As seen here, the frogs are doing the best they can, in this case using a manmade fence in lieu of a tree. Conservation efforts are perhaps the best hope of sustaining this species. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is an enormous Ginkgo biloba tree occupying the corner of a Shinto shrine in Kyoto, Japan. The folded white paper is called a Shide. It is one of several affixed to the tree. Shide demarcate sacred spaces and objects.
    sacred-ginkgo-tree-shinto-shide-japa...tif
  • Face-to-face encounter with an adorable green Japanese tree frog (Hyla japonica). アマガエル
    japanese-tree-frog-hyla-japonica-shi...tif
  • This is a pair of forest green tree frogs (Zhangixalus arboreus) preparing to spawn. The male has jumped onto the back of the female. From this point, she will carry him to her chosen location, then excrete a substance that the male churns into a bubbly sponge-like mass, into which the female deposits eggs as the male fertilizes. The female bears the weight of the male for the duration, hanging by her forelimbs from a branch or something similar. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is a pair of forest green tree frogs (Zhangixalus arboreus) preparing to spawn. The male has jumped onto the back of the female. From this point, she will carry him to her chosen location, then excrete a substance that the male churns into a bubbly sponge-like mass, into which the female deposits eggs as the male fertilizes. The female bears the weight of the male for the duration, hanging by her forelimbs from a branch or something similar. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • These feathery structures are modified<br />
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) of Spirobranchus giganteus  polychaete worms, often called Christmas tree worms. These spiral radioles are lined with cilia and are used by the worm for feeding and breathing. These worms have a mutual symbiotic relationship with their host corals. The corals provide structural support and protection, while the worms enhance water circulation which helps corals feed.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • Close-up of the main structure at Kita no Tenman-gu in Kyoto, with a ginkgo tree in full autumn display of brilliant yellow visible in the background.
    kyoto-kita-no-tenman-gu-ginkgo-tree-...tif
  • This is a male forest green tree frog (Zhangixalus arboreus) hanging from a thin branch during light rainfall. This frog jumped back into the canopy after approaching a female that was not yet ready to spawn. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is a Japanese tree frog (Dryophytes japonicus). It had adapted to urban life by taking up residence in a public toilet. The bright lights attracted insects at night, hence the frog's big belly.
    dryophytes-japonicus-japanese-tree-f...tif
  • This is a male forest green tree frog (Zhangixalus arboreus) sitting on the crossbar of a fence. This male spawned four to five hours after this photograph was taken. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • These feathery structures are modified<br />
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) of Spirobranchus giganteus  polychaete worms. These spiral radioles are lined with cilia and are used by the worm for feeding and breathing. The circular structure in the foreground is the operculum, which the worm uses to seal its burrow.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • These feathery structures are modified<br />
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) of Spirobranchus giganteus  polychaete worms. These spiral radioles are lined with cilia and are used by the worm for feeding and breathing. These worms have a mutual symbiotic relationship with their host corals.<br />
The corals provide structural support and protection, while the worms enhance water circulation which helps corals feed.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • Depicted here a forest green tree frog tadpole (Zhangixalus arboreus) just about to drop from a sponge-like egg mass suspended in forest canopy. Seasonal rains saturate the egg mass, eventually rupturing its membrane. Developing tadpoles wriggle to the bottom and drop into bodies of water such as lakes and ponds, but also swimming pools, wells and other manmade structures. This unusual reproductive behavior is characteristic of this species, which is endemic to Japan. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is a male Christmas tree polychaete worm (Spirobranchus giganteus) engaged in broadcast spawning. The male is sending a stream of sperm into the water while nearby individuals were sending out gametes in synchrony. Some eggs from nearby females are visible in the water at full magnification. Photographed in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • This is a female Christmas tree worm (Spirobranchus giganteus) engaged in broadcast spawning. The female is sending a stream of orange eggs into the water. Other polychaete worms of the same species were sending out gametes in synchrony. Photographed in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • Depicted here a forest green tree frog tadpole (Zhangixalus arboreus) just about to drop from a sponge-like egg mass suspended in forest canopy. Seasonal rains saturate the egg mass, eventually rupturing its membrane. Developing tadpoles wriggle to the bottom and drop into bodies of water such as lakes and ponds, but also swimming pools, wells and other manmade structures. This unusual reproductive behavior is characteristic of this species, which is endemic to Japan. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • Depicted here is the split-second just before a forest green tree frog tadpole (Zhangixalus arboreus) drops from a sponge-like egg mass suspended in forest canopy. Seasonal rains provide the water and signal to the developing tadpoles. They drop from the egg masses into bodies of water such as lakes and ponds, but also swimming pools, wells and other manmade structures. This unusual reproductive behavior is characteristic of this species, which is endemic to Japan. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • This is a female Christmas tree worm (Spirobranchus giganteus) engaged in broadcast spawning. The female is sending a stream of orange eggs into the water, with eggs being carried into the background by the current. The progression of eggs up the right spiral appendage is visible from this angle. Other polychaete worms of the same species were sending out gametes in synchrony. Photographed in Kagoshima Prefecture, Japan.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-christmas-tr...tif
  • Depicted here a forest green tree frog tadpole (Zhangixalus arboreus) dropping from a sponge-like egg mass suspended in forest canopy. Seasonal rains saturate the egg mass, eventually rupturing its membrane. Developing tadpoles wriggle to the bottom and drop into bodies of water such as lakes and ponds, but also swimming pools, wells and other manmade structures. This unusual reproductive behavior is characteristic of this species, which is endemic to Japan. Photographed in Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan.
    zhangixalus-arboreus-forest-green-tr...tif
  • Red-orange leaves of a momiji Japanese maple tree silhouetted against a background of brilliant yellow ginkgo tree leaves. Photographed at the Kita no Tenman-gu in Kyoto, Japan.
    red-momiji-leaves-yellow-ginkgo-back...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • The visible portion of Christmas tree worms (Spirobranchus giganteus) comprises modified<br />
prostomial palps (mouth appendages) that are used by the animals for feeding and breathing. These polychaete worms also defecate from central tube within these spiral appendanges, as shown here. This particular worm has made a home in a thin wedge of Pavona decussata leaf coral.
    spirobranchus-giganteus-polychaete-w...jpg
  • This is a female Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel that has emerged during the day to use the toilet. A pellet of defecation is visible stuck to her bottom. While outside the nest, she decided to snack on needles of a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis).
    pteromys-volans-orii-eating-abies-sa...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • Autumn yellow ginkgo leaves and small momiji maple leaf in a parking lot after rain. Photographed at Kifune in northern Kyoto.
    ginkgo-leaves-and-momij-leaf-kifune-...tif
  • An unusual 3-headed coconut tree on Tongatapu Island, Kingdom of Tonga
    coconut-tree-with-three-heads-tonga-...tif
  • Pine tree with morning sun near the famous Tougetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan.
    pine-tree-tougetsu-bridge-arashiyama...tif
  • An unusual 3-headed coconut tree on Tongatapu Island, Kingdom of Tonga
    coconut-tree-with-three-heads-tonga-...tif
  • Steller's sea eagle (Haliaeetus pelagicus) looking out to sea from a comfortable perch on a tree branch. Photographed in Rausu, Hokkaido, Japan.
    stellers-sea-eagle-haliaeetus-pelagi...tif
  • Red-tinted black coral tree (Antipathes sp.) surrounded by a school of orange fairy basslets (Pseudanthias squamipinnis) at the Black and Silver dive site in the Nuakata Island area of Milne Bay, Papua New Guinea.
    Antipathes-sp-black-coral-Pseudanthi...tif
  • Detail of a sacred rope called a shimenawa (標縄, 注連縄, 七五三縄) wrapped around a large, old tree at Otoya Jinja (大豊神社) Shinto shrine in Kyoto
    shimenawa-sacred-rope-otoyo-jinja-ky...tif
  • Long Lake, part of Ngeruktabel Island in Palau, is home to a variety of plant life, including a dense forest of mangrove trees. Pictured here is a portion of the thick, intertwined network of Bruguiera gymnorrhiza mangrove prop roots that are submerged during high tide, but partially exposed during lower tides. These roots are key to the survival of the trees, but also serve as shelter for juvenile fish and other marine animals. The intricate network of roots also stablize and lock-in silt and mud, providing a buffer against erosion.
    Bruguiera-gymnorrhiza-mangrove-tree-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), gliding from the top of one tree to another. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. Mature females measure up to 15cm, males up to 18cm (not including tail). These animals weigh up to 120g and are capable of gliding considerable distances. During flight, they use their patagia (membranes of skin between their forelimbs and hind limbs) and tails (10-12cm) to achieve lift, directional control and maneuvering capability. One study in Japan recorded a maximum glide distance exceeding 49m, though most flights fell into the 10m to 20m range. Although these animals are primarily nocturnal, they sometimes emerge during the day. Usually this is for brief durations to urinate or defecate. In this instance, this particular individual was one of two males competing for the right to mate with a female. Such reproduction-related competition sometimes takes place during daylight hours.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-airbo...tif
  • This composite image shows the landing sequence of a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel, covering a distance of about 4m in less than half a second. This implies an average flight speed in the range of 30-35kph. The squirrel launched from a higher point on a nearby tree, gliding downward to cover distance, then pulling up as shown here to land on the targeted tree. Note that the distance traveled between frames decreases as the squirrel approaches the tree, indicating deceleration as the animal shifts from horizontal to vertical attitude.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. Mature females measure up to 15cm, males up to 18cm (not including tail). These animals weigh up to 120g and are capable of gliding considerable distances. During flight, they use their patagia (membranes of skin between their forelimbs and hind limbs) and tails (10-12cm) to achieve lift, directional control and maneuvering capability. One study in Japan recorded a maximum glide distance exceeding 49m, though most flights fell into the 10m to 20m range. This individual has just emerged shortly after sunset from its nest, a cavity in the tree pictured. After preening for a bit, the flying squirrel ascended into the canopy to forage for the night. While these squirrels are known to nest in a number of tree species, they appear to prefer Sakhalin fir trees (Abies sachalinensis).
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-at-du...tif
  • Just before a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel lands on a tree, the animals folds its wings inward and stretches its limbs toward the targeted tree. This serves to slow the animal's approach and also to prepare the animal to be able to move immediately upon landing.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Pictured here are two male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrels. The one inside the tree has just peeked out from the nest which he has occupied with a female that has gone into estrus. Caught sneaking up to try to enter the nest to compete for the female, the male on the tree has just jumped away to avoid a confrontation.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • During reproductive season, Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel males sometimes compete for females that have gone into estrus. Pictured here are two male rivals. One is guarding the entrance to a hole in a tree. Inside is the female. The other male is sneaking up from the other side of the tree with the intention of challenging the ensconced male.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel. Known locally as ezo-momonga, this sub-species is found only in Hokkaido, Japan. It is primarily nocturnal. Mature females measure up to 15cm, males up to 18cm (not including tail). These animals weigh up to 120g and are capable of gliding considerable distances. During flight, they use their patagia (membranes of skin between their forelimbs and hind limbs) and tails (10-12cm) to achieve lift, directional control and maneuvering capability. One study in Japan recorded a maximum glide distance exceeding 49m, though most flights fell into the 10m to 20m range. This individual has just emerged shortly after sunset from its nest, a cavity in the tree pictured. After preening for a bit, the flying squirrel ascended into the canopy to forage for the night. While these squirrels are known to nest in a number of tree species, they appear to prefer Sakhalin fir trees (Abies sachalinensis).
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-ptero...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel pausing after consuming catkins from a Japanese alder tree (Alnus japonica) that it had found on the ground. The catkins are favored fare for these squirrels. This squirrel ran up the tree and launched itself into the forest after this.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii Japanese dwarf flying squirrel foraging at dawn. It is high in the canopy, around 15-20m, not far from its nest. The tree is a Japanese elm (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica), one of several prime food sources for this species. As seen here, these flying squirrels consume the leaf buds of this tree.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii), photographed during breeding season. The individual higher up on the tree is a female in oestrus. In the first two images in this sequence of three, the male approaches the female from behind to attempt copulation. In the third image, the female spins around to indicate in no uncertain terms that she is not ready. The pair’s nest is in the crack in the tree.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-copu...tif
  • Depicted here is the split-second prior to this Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel landing on a tree. The squirrel has adjusted its attitude in mid-flight toward a relatively vertical position to reduce speed. It has also folded its wings inward and stretched its limbs forward in preparation for grasping the tree ahead.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • In the midst of competition for the right to mate with a female Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii), this male launched itself from the top of the tree stump just fractions of a second before I pressed the shutter. The squirrel landed centimeters away from my arm on a tree that I was braced against, then rushed upward and launched itself again in pursuit of the other male.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-male-...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel pictured in the split-second before landing on a tree. The Sakhalin fir trees in the background are nearly completely covered in snow from a large winter storm.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel consuming male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel has just started to consume male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel emerging from a hideaway at the base of a tall tree. This individual was just digging its way out after snowfall had accumulated and blocked the entrance.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye. Image 2 in a sequence of 3, showing the bird breaking a piece off from the tip of the icicle.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) grooming itself while resting in a tree in the golden light of late afternoon. Although this species is primarily nocturnal, individuals occasionally emerge from their nests during daylight hours. This individual was well hidden in a shaded area covered by a tangle of small branches.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-groom...tif
  • The Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel male seen fleeing up the tree in this photograph had just been chased off by the male poking his head out of the nest. The reason for this conflict was a female inside the nest. She was approaching estrus.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a female Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel feasting on a branch that she cut from a nearby Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel is enjoying a meal of male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii).
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel making its final approach back to the nest after foraging. The animal blends in perfectly with its environment, a snow-covered forest. The entrance to the nest is a narrow crack in the Erman's birch (Betula ermanii) tree.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Japanese flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) has just emerged from its nest at dusk, before setting out for a night of a foraging in the tree tops.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Japanese flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) is perched on a comfortable, safe location high above the ground, where it is eating one of its favorite foods, the buds of a Japanese elm tree (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica). Normally nocturnal, these squirrels are sometimes active in the early hours of daylight.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a female whitespotted pygmy filefish (Rudarius ercodes) tending to a clutch of eggs that she has deposited on a cluster of bryozoans that have grown on the branches of a dead tree lodged in the substrate. Development of this species is rapid, with the juveniles hatching in approximately three days.
    rudarius-ercodes-tending-eggs-whites...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii Japanese dwarf flying squirrel gliding across the top of the tree canopy after sunset. The moon is visible, six days prior to being full. This individual was part of a ruckus of reproductive season activity stretching over many hours that involved two females and three males.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) attempting to take a bite from an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds often need to hover in front of icicles, but in this instance, there was a convenient perch. In the end, the icicle proved too thick for the bird to be able break off a piece with its small mouth.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye. A piece of the icicle is visible in the bird’s mouth.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) engaged in copulation. The crack in the middle of the tree is the entrance to their nest.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-copul...tif
  • Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) perched at the juncture of a small branch and tree trunk. This species is normally nocturnal. This one appeared during briefly during the day, but soon returned to its nest.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. This individual has just emerged from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree  (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, preparing for a night of foraging. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • Fire-red momiji Japanese maple leaves on a rooftop underneath the momiji tree from which they dropped. Photographed at Kurama-dera in Kyoto.
    fire-red-momiji-leaves-on-rooftop-ku...tif
  • Shallow, protected nooks and crannies among the Rock Islands of Palau are characterized by murky water, but can provide a safe environment for corals to flourish and develop into intricate, unbroken formations like the one pictured here. This coral tree was one of many in very shallow water in front of Ngchuus Beach, Ngeruktabel Island.
    backlit-coral-formation-ngeruktabel-...tif
  • This is a Japanese red squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris orientis) leaping among the branches of a fir tree while collecting material for the construction of a nest in the final days of winter. The squirrel was preparing for the upcoming reproductive season.
    sciurus-vulgaris-orientis-ezo-red-sq...tif
  • This is a female Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel that has brought back a few small branches of an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii) to her nest as a takeaway meal.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel eating a male catkin from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii) on a snowy day.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel peeking out from the entrance to its nest just before a major snowstorm hit. The northwest side of the tree was already coated with snow, and the winds had picked up considerably. The squirrel decided not to emerge at the time.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Close-up view of a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel finishing off a meal of male catkins from an Erman's birch tree (Betula ermanii)
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Portrait of a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel taken moments before it launched from the tree
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Shown here is the split-second when a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel makes contact with a tree upon landing. The squirrel first uses its hind limbs to gain a foothold, then secures its front limbs. The squirrel had been foraging during light snowfall.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel is eating fresh needles of a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis) during a light snowfall. One of the squirrel's teeth is visible from this angle.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Depicted here is the split-second prior to this Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel landing on a tree. The squirrel's limbs are stretched forward to brace for impact and to ensure that the animal can move immediately when it makes contact.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel perched at the top of a 20+m Japanese elm tree (Ulmus davidiana var. japonica) early in the morning. Fresh buds of this elm species are one of the preferred foods of these squirrels.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a marsh tit (Poecile palustris hensoni) hovering beside an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    poecile-palustris-hensoni-marsh-tit-...tif
  • This is a Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel eating one of its favorite foods—catkins from a Japanese alder tree (Alnus japonica). This individual had descended to ground level during a winter evening to forage for fallen catkins. Descending in this manner is unusual behavior.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • This is a male Pteromys volans orii flying squirrel perched in a safe location high up in the canopy. Behind this knot in the tree was the nest. The squirrel was positioned at the top entrance to the nest, which gave him the ideal vantage point from which to survey the surroundings and keep a lookout for two rival males that were attempting to get the attention of the female inside. Many battles ensued, with much chasing and lots of flying.
    pteromys-volans-orii-flying-squirrel...tif
  • Competition between rival males for the right to mate with a female flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) in estrus can become heated. The two males pictured here chased one another up and down the tree, culminating in one executing a full body-slam punch, sending the other into the air.
    japanese-flying-squirrel-pteromys-vo...tif
  • This is a marsh tit (Poecile palustris hensoni) poised to break off a piece of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    marsh-tit-poecile-palustris-hensoni-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye. This is a delicate operation. Sometimes the birds fail to break off a piece, as seen in this series of four photographs. Image 3 in a sequence of 4.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye. This is a delicate operation. Sometimes the birds fail to break off a piece, as seen in this series of four photographs. Image 1 in a sequence of 4.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering in front of an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye. Image 1 in a sequence of 3, showing the bird grab the icicle.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This is a long-tailed tit (Aegithalos caudatus) hovering under an icicle formed from the sap of a painted maple tree (Acer pictum). During winter months, small birds like this make use of this calorie-rich food source (essentially frozen maple syrup) to fuel their high metabolisms. The birds fly to an icicle, hover, break off a piece and fly away, all in the blink of eye.
    long-tailed-tit-aegithalos-caudatus-...tif
  • This series of six images shows a pair of Japanese dwarf flying squirrels (Pteromys volans orii) that have just emerged from a nest in the tree. The male pursues the female; the pair copulate; and the female returns to the nest. Over the course of a day or so, the male copulates as many times as possible. Rival males sometimes approach, which can result in a heated battle between males.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrels-copu...tif
  • This is a Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) resting in a tree in the golden light of late afternoon. Although this species is primarily nocturnal, individuals occasionally emerge from their nests during daylight hours. This individual was well hidden in a shaded area covered by a tangle of small branches.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-20200...tif
  • This Japanese dwarf flying squirrel (Pteromys volans orii) is just emerging from its nest in the trunk of a tree at dusk to prepare for a night of foraging. Found only in Hokkaido, Japan, these animals prefer small holes to their nests, as this provides a measure of protection from predators like owls and martens. This particular nest entrance is also partially covered by a large white fungus, which obscures it from view. This animal is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrel and is known locally as ezo-momonga.
    japanese-dwarf-flying-squirrel-emerg...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers, as seen here. This individual is just emerging from a hole in a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, in preparation for a night of foraging. These small animals are particularly wary when they emerge, as they must be on the lookout for predators like owls and weasels. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. This individual has just emerged from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree  (Abies sachalinensis) at dusk, preparing for a night of foraging. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This individual paused in this position for a few moments after emerging one winter evening from its hole in a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis), known as todomatsu in Japanese. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • This is the Japanese sub-species of Ural owl (Strix uralensis japonica) resting in a tree in Hokkaido. These owls are known as Ezo Fukurou in Japanese.
    strix-uralensis-japonica-ural-owl-ez...tif
  • This is a species of flying squirrel called Ezo Momonga in Japanese (Pteromys volans orii). It is a sub-species of Siberian flying squirrels that is found on the island of Hokkaido in Japan. These squirrels are primarily nocturnal and usually shy, though the squirrels can occasionally be seen during the day. They prefer to take up residence in holes made by woodpeckers. Their diet primarily comprises leaves, seeds, cones, buds, sprouts, nuts and berries. This individual is nibbling on the soft parts of a Sakhalin fir tree (Abies sachalinensis), known as todomatsu in Japanese. This species does not hibernate.
    ezo-momonga-pteromys-volans-orii-fly...tif
  • Adult female California maple aphid (Periphyllus californiensis) with a cluster of nymphs gathered on the underside of a leaf of a Japanese maple tree (Acer sp.) in the autumn. A couple of the nymphs appear to be in the process of moulting. These aphids go through several nymphal instars before taking on adult form.
    california-maple-aphid-periphyllus-c...tif
  • A juvenile tufted gray langur sitting in the nook of a tree. This is the Semnopithecus priam thersites subspecies, which is listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
    tufted-gray-langur-juvenile-semnopit...tif
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Tony Wu Underwater Photography

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