Spotted-necked otter (Hydrictis maculicollis)
The Spotted-Necked Otter, also called the Speckle-throated Otter, is a unique species inhabiting various parts of Africa. It has a dark brown body and a distinctive pattern of white spots on its neck and chest.
They live in rivers, streams, and lakes, hunting for fish, crabs, frogs, and insects. Meanwhile, they have predators like crocodiles and eagles.
Twin Spotted Sphinx Moth
Scientific name: Smerinthus jamaicensis.
Twin-spotted sphinx moths belong to the family Sphingidae along with others like the rosy maple moth and white-lined sphinx moth. This sphinx moth has a large wingspan of 2 to 3 inches.
This sphinx moth has stunning blue eyespots on its hind wing. The colors on its wings are beige-brown, white and pinkish-red, and yellow markings. The larger wedge-shaped forewings are yellowish-brown with shades of dark brown and white markings. You’ll find this sphinx moth spread across North America.
The controversial plan to protect the spotted owl
One of a threatened species, a northern spotted owl perches on a branch. Spotted owls are dark brown with spots of white. To an untrained eye, barred and spotted owls may look similar, but they are unique in their color patterns — and competitors for food and habitat. (Courtesy Paul Bannick)
