Author Topic: Walking around corfu  (Read 341749 times)

0 Members and 1 Guest are viewing this topic.

Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #285 on: September 25, 2019, 09:33:01 AM »


Hi

Corn on the cob

You can see this plant on the back road pass the BARDIS HOTEL

Maize  known as corn, Corn on the cob is a culinary term used for a cooked ear of freshly picked maize from a cultivar of sweet corn. Sweet corn is the most common variety of maize eaten directly off the cob.[1] The ear is picked while the endosperm is in the "milk stage" so that the kernels are still tender. Ears of corn are steamed or boiled, usually without their green husks, or roasted with them. The husk leaves are in any case removed before serving.
Also  is a cereal grain first domesticated by indigenous peoples in southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago. The leafy stalk of the plant produces pollen inflorescences and separate ovuliferous inflorescences called ears that yield kernels or seeds, which are fruits.
Family: Poaceae  Genus: Zea   Scientific name: Zea mays
HABITAT
Zea mays grows to be about eight feet tall at maturity. When corn is grown in a field with thousands of other corn plants, it can provide shelter for medium to small-sized animals. In the Corn Belt, it is common to see white-tailed deer in the corn fields. Worms are also are common

Maize has become a staple food in many parts of the world, with the total production of maize surpassing that of wheat or rice. However, little of this maize is consumed directly by humans: most is used for corn ethanol, animal feed and other maize products, such as corn starch and corn syrup.[4] The six major types of maize are dent corn, flint corn, pod corn, popcorn, flour corn, and sweet corn.[5] Sugar-rich varieties called sweet corn are usually grown for human consumption as kernels, while field corn varieties are used for animal feed, various corn-based human food uses (including grinding into cornmeal or masa, pressing into corn oil, and fermentation and distillation into alcoholic beverages like bourbon whiskey), and as chemical feedstocks. Maize is also used in making ethanol and other biofuels.
In places outside North America, Australia, and New Zealand, corn often refers to maize in culinary contexts. The narrower meaning is usually indicated by some additional word, as in sweet corn, sweetcorn, corn on the cob, baby corn, the puffed confection known as popcorn and the breakfast cereal known as corn flakes.





NONE


Uses Of Maize Maize can be used in many other ways they are: Maize Flour, Cornstarch, Kitty litter, Corn syrup and Maize mazes. Maize flour is used to make baked products and corn bread. Cornstarch is made from maize kernels which is act as a thickening agent in soups.
Maize is also an important livestock feed both as silage and as crop residue, grain and is also used industrially for starch and oil extraction. It is an important source of carbohydrate, protein, iron, vitamin B, and minerals.
Whiskey
People have made liquor from their crops for thousands of years, and in the western hemisphere that meant whiskey distilled from corn. During the settlement of the Appalachian Mountains by European immigrants, farmers found it much easier to transport their corn crop to distant markets when they distilled it first (and just as profitable, if not more so). Taxes imposed during the Civil War and later liquor prohibition laws split the corn whiskey industry into the legal distilling of Bourbon and the illegal distilling of moonshine, so called because it was produced at night to evade notice.





Corn silk is used as a medicine. Corn silk is used for bladder infections, inflammation of the urinary system, inflammation of the prostate, kidney stones, and bedwetting. It is also used to treat congestive heart failure, diabetes, high blood pressure, fatigue, and high cholesterol levels.

Prevents Hemorrhoids
The fiber content of one cup of corn amounts to 18.4% of the daily recommended amount. This aids in alleviating digestive problems such as constipation and hemorrhoids, as well as lowering the risk of colon cancer due to maize being a whole-grain.

Cosmetic Benefits
Cornstarch is used in the manufacturing of many cosmetic products and may also be applied topically to soothe skin rashes and irritation. Its products can be used to replace carcinogenic petroleum products which are major components of many cosmetic preparations. Many of the traditional skin creams contain petroleum jelly as a base material, which can often block pores and make skin conditions even worse. Furthermore, cosmetic use of corn oil in skin cleansing and wrinkle-reducing cream
Manages Diabetes
Eye & Skin Care
Yellow corn is a rich source of beta-carotene, which forms vitamin A in the body and is essential for the maintenance of good vision and skin.
Lowers LDL Cholesterol
Prevents Anemia
Corn helps prevent anemia caused by a deficiency of vitamins and minerals.
Protects Your Heart  Corn oil, in particular, is the best way to improve heart health and this is derived from the fact that corn is close to an optimal fatty acid combination. This allows omega-3 fatty acids to strip away the damaging LDL or bad cholesterol and replace them at the binding sites. This will reduce the chances of arteries becoming clogged, lower blood pressure, and minimize the risk of heart attack and stroke.



Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #286 on: September 26, 2019, 10:03:19 AM »


Hi
As you walk though Arillas countryside you see some sort of wild life on your travels


Swallowtail butterfly

In the family Papilionidae and include over 550 species. Though the majority are tropical, members of the family inhabit every continent except Antarctica. The family includes the largest butterflies in the world, the birdwing butterflies of the genus Ornithoptera.
The forked appearance of the swallowtails' hindwings, which can be seen when the butterfly is resting with its wings spread, gave rise to the common name swallowtail. As for its formal name, Linnaeus chose Papilio for the type genus, as papilio is Latin for "butterfly". For the specific epithets of the genus, Linnaeus applied the names of Greek figures to the swallowtails. The type species: Papilio machaon honored Machaon, one of the sons of Asclepius, mentioned in the Iliad. Further, the species Papilio homerus is named after the Greek poet, Homer.
Swallowtails have a number of distinctive features; for example, the papilionid caterpillar bears a repugnatorial organ called the osmeterium on its prothorax. The osmeterium normally remains hidden, but when threatened, the larva turns it outward through a transverse dorsal groove by inflating it with fluid
The scarce swallowtail (Iphiclides podalirius) is a butterfly belonging to the family Papilionidae. It is also called the sail swallowtail or pear-tree swallowtail These you will see in Arillas
 Only 12 species are found in Europe and only one species, Papilio machaon is found in the British Isles. I have seen in london
The caterpillars of various swallowtail butterfly species feed on a wide range of different plants, most depending on only one of five families: Aristolochiaceae, Annonaceae, Lauraceae, Umbelliferae (Apiaceae) and Rutaceae. By eating some of these toxic plants, the caterpillars sequester aristolochic acid which renders both the caterpillars and the butterflies of some of these as toxic, thus protecting them from predators.
Adult swallowtails sip nectar, but also mud and sometimes manure
For example, the eastern black swallowtail's main host plant in the wild is Queen Anne's lace,[wild carrot] but they also eat garden plants in the carrot family, including carrots, parsley, dill, and fennel.
The butterfly prefers areas of mixed fen usually dominated by sedge, or sometimes reed, which are cut periodically and contain tall, prominent foodplants. The occasional migrants of gorganus can be found in almost any habitat but are most frequently seen on grassland







Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #287 on: September 27, 2019, 09:34:39 AM »


HI

European hornet

We all have see the Hornet And flapping our arms around to get rid of it well should we ?

Vespa crabro is better known as the dreaded Hornet
Is the largest eusocial wasp native to Europe. It is also the only true hornet (genus Vespa) found in North America, having been introduced by European settlers in the 1800s. V. crabro is usually regarded as a pest by those humans who come into contact with it.
This species stings in response to being stepped on or grabbed, but generally avoids conflict. It is also defensive of its nest and can be aggressive around food sources. European hornets are largely carnivorous and hunt large insects such as beetles wasps, large moths, dragonflies, and mantises
The European hornet is a true hornet (genus Vespa), a group characterized by eusocial species. The genus is in the subfamily Vespinae, members of which are known for chewing up their food to feed it to their young, as well as chewing up paper-like materials to make their nests. According to a recent phylogenetic study, its closest relative is Vespa dybowskii.
Hornets (insects in the genus Vespa) are the largest of the eusocial wasps, and are similar in appearance to their close relatives yellowjackets. Some species can reach up to 5.5 cm (2.2 in) in length.
Are European hornets aggressive? Even though these giant hornets are the largest in the United States, they are not as aggressive as some wasp species. European hornets will aggressively defend their nests and may get hostile if you are near their food.
Certain gels and baits, when transported to the nest, serve to poison and kill European hornets. This can be an effective means of pest control. Honeydew gel is an effective means to poison European hornets.
European hornet nests do not survive the winter. The workers will die by late fall. A few fertile females will leave the nest to hide in sheltered places until spring. They will establish colonies in the spring.
V. crabro prefers to build nests in dark places, usually hollow tree trunks. After the site has been chosen, the queen lays eggs in the combs inside the nest. The workers dispose of any eggs that are not laid by their queen; this behavior is called worker policing. Based on laboratory data, the average rate of egg-laying is 2.31 eggs per day. However, in this same nest, cell construction rate was only 1.63 cells per day
Endangered species and legal protection
Unwarranted fear of V. crabro has often led to the destruction of nests. This has led to the decline of the species, which is often locally threatened or even endangered. European hornets benefit from legal protection in some countries, notably Germany, where killing a European hornet or nest has been illegal since January 1, 1987, with a fine up to €50,000.

 stings from V. crabro do not require medical attention, but rarely can be serious.
Hornets are specific types of wasp and are usually a little rounder and fatter than the common wasp. Although they nest in the same way, hornets are known to be less aggressive than wasps if unprovoked.
Hornet stings are also more painful to humans than typical wasp stings because of the chemicals found in hornet venom.
Individual hornets can sting repeatedly, Severe pain or burning at the site lasts 1 to 2 hours. Normal swelling from venom can increase for 48 hours after the sting. The redness can last 3 days. The swelling can last 7 days.
 European Hornets will prey on many types of insects, both alive and dead, and are attracted to most anything sweet or protein based. European hornets will readily eat fruit and honeydew (tree and plant sap).



 


European hornets and other stinging insects sting to subdue prey or protect and defend their colonies. Hornets can sting repeatedly during an attack. Because European hornets have smooth stingers, they may not always detach after a sting. If the stinger becomes lodged in the skin at the site of the sting, it is important to remove the stinger as quickly as possible to curb the release of venom from the stinger.
When a sting occurs, clean the affected area thoroughly with soap and cold water and apply a cold compress or ice pack. Over the counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (including Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Naproxen) may be used as needed to relieve pain. Antihistamines and hydrocortisone ointment can help soothe the local reaction. If the local reaction worsens, see a doctor for prescription oral steroids or antihistamines. If a more serious reaction occurs, seek emergency medical assistance. Those who have known allergies to European hornets or other stinging insects should acquire epinephrine kits, know how to use them, and carry them at all times.
Please note that DEET and other insect repellents are not effective in protecting against European hornet stings. To prevent stings, avoid swatting at hornets. Instead, blow gently from a safe distance. Avoid attracting hornets to certain areas by keeping both food and garbage in sealed containers. Rinse out empty food containers before throwing them away.
Generally, hornet venom isn't considered that toxic to humans, but due to their size, the amount of venom they release per sting can be harmful. Hornets release more venom per sting than any other stinging insect.



European hornets prey on a variety of large insects such as grasshoppers, flies, yellow jackets and honeybees. They help control insects that would otherwise become pests without the local presence of European hornets. European hornets also eat tree sap, fruit and honeydew.

Offline Eggy

  • On the Spot reporter
  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 6407
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #288 on: September 27, 2019, 06:40:49 PM »
To be honest , Kevin , when approached by one of these little buggers I do not have to time to communicate with it and make pleasant conversation as to where it is from. - Our food is their food so they will, however do what they have to do and get at it , at our expense.
So.... we let them exist , alongside us , and pick up a few scraps of cat food plus the odd fly which we swat. (them not us!)
But..... sting me once , matey and I'll bite yer head off!!!
Cheers
Negg

Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #289 on: September 29, 2019, 10:19:22 AM »


HI
If you been very lucky to see this animal i have in Arillas between The Tria and the Makris
Have you seen any Mr EGGY Neil

BEACH MARTEN

The beech marten Also known as the stone marten, house marten or white breasted marten, Martes foina family is Mustelids  is a species of marten native to much of Europe and Central Asia, though it has established a feral population in North America. It is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN on account of its wide distribution, its large population, and its presence in a number of protected areas. It is superficially similar to the pine marten, but differs from it by its smaller size and habitat preferences. While the pine marten is a forest specialist, the beech marten is a more generalist and adaptable species, occurring in a number of open and forest habitats.
 Martes vetus, which also gave rise to the pine marten. The earliest M. vetus fossils were found in deposits dated to the Würm glaciation [ , was the last glacial period in the Alpine region. It is the youngest of the major glaciations of the region that extended beyond the Alps themselves. It is, like most of the other ice ages of the Pleistocene epoch, named after a river, the Würm in Bavaria, a tributary of the Amper. The Würm ice age can be dated to the time about 115,000 to 11,700 years ago, ]
The beech marten is superficially similar to the pine marten, but has a somewhat longer tail, a more elongated and angular head and has shorter, more rounded and widely spaced ears. Its nose is also of a light peach or grey colour, whereas that of the pine marten is dark black or greyish-black.
HABITAT
These animals prefer rock croppings and open deciduous forest in mountainous habitats, preferring open landscapes, as they are less dependent on forested areas than other martens. They are often found living close by human habitation, and may den in buildings.
The beech marten's diet includes a much higher quantity of plant food than that of the pine marten and sable. Plant foods eaten by the beech marten include cherries, apples, pears, plums, black nightshade, tomatoes, grapes, raspberries and mountain ash. Plant food typically predominates during the winter months. Rats, mice and chickens are also eaten. Among bird species preyed upon by the beech marten, sparrow-like birds predominate, though snowcocks and partridges may also be taken. The marten likes to plunder nests of birds including passerines, galliformes and owls, preferring to kill the parents in addition to the fledglings. Although it rarely attacks poultry, some specimens may become specialized poultry raiders, even when wild prey is abundant. Males tend to target large, live prey more than females, who feed on small prey and carrion with greater frequency
Mustelids
The Mustelidae are a family of carnivorous mammals, including weasels, badgers, otters, ferrets, martens, minks, and wolverines, among others. Mustelids are a diverse group and form the largest family in the order Carnivora, suborder Caniformia. Mustelidae comprises about 56–60 species across eight subfamilies
Marten are shy, and sightings are not common, but if you do spot one it will likely hold its ground. An aggressive predator, the marten makes growling, huffing, and scolding noises when approached by humans.






Though it has recovered a little from a dramatic decline, the species is still rare. Scotland's population is estimated at 3,700 adult pine martens. It was once trapped for its fur.
 martens are sexually mature by 2 or 3 years of age and the females usually give birth in March or April to litters of around 2-5. The young are fully independent around 6 months after their birth; the male pine marten plays no part in rearing the young
Baby martens are known as kits. ... This is due to a process called delayed implantation, which means adults can keep their winter activities to a minimum but babies are born at the best time of year for survival. Mating season is usually the only time that martens make any noise: a shrill cat-like call.








Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #290 on: September 30, 2019, 11:25:37 AM »


HI



You can see this plant around Arillas

Cortaderia selloana, Commonly known as pampas grass It is a tall grass, growing in dense tussocks that can reach a height of 3 m (10 ft). The leaves are long and slender, 1–2 m (3 ft 3 in–6 ft 7 in) long, and 1 cm (3⁄8 in) broad, with very sharp edges that can easily cut exposed skin. The leaves are usually bluish-green, but can be silvery grey. The flowers are produced in a dense white panicle 20–40 cm (8–16 in) long on a 2–3 m (6 ft 7 in–9 ft 10 in) tall stem.
The plant was introduced to Europe, North America, Australia and New Zealand as an ornamental grass, and, to a lesser extent, to provide food for grazing animals. The feathery flower head plumes, when dried, are widely used in flower arrangements and other ornamental displays.
Pampas grass is highly adaptable and can grow in a wide range of environments and climates. It also seeds prolifically, with each plant able to produce over one million seeds during its lifetime. As such, in some areas such as Florida, California, Hawaii and Spain it is regarded as an invasive weed. In areas of the southeastern United States, large pampas clumps are known to shelter snakes and rodents.
Several media outlets reported that it was planted by some couples who practise swinging in the United Kingdom as a way to indicate to other swingers that they enjoy that lifestyle, based on a post on Twitter. The reports caused a plunge in already declining sales
Order:   Poales
Family:   Poaceae
Genus:   Cortaderia
Species:   C. selloana
The Poales are a large order of flowering plants in the monocotyledons, and includes families of plants such as the grasses, bromeliads, and sedges. Sixteen plant families are currently recognized by botanists to be part of Poales.
The best time to cut back pampas grass is in late winter just before the plant begins sending up new foliage. ... Every once in a while, clumps of pampas grass form smaller clumps off to the side. Remove these clumps when you do your annual pruning to prevent overcrowding and to preserve the shape of the clump.
Or you can set fire to The dead foliage of warm-season ornamental grasses can be burned to remove it and make way for new growth. ... Burning it in fall would destroy the winter interest the grass contributes and open the plant up to winter injury.
Pampas Grass and Outdoor Bench. ... Because pampas grass has stiff stems and sharp-edged leaves, it also can also serve as a living hedge or fence. Gardeners like its graceful, fluffy plumes, which appear in late summer in colors that range from sand-pink to silvery-white.
pampas grass in Greek pampas γρασίδι  pampas grasídi
Some Greeks use this plant in weddings
/size]



NONE


Because pampas grass has stiff stems and sharp-edged leaves, it also can also serve as a living hedge or fence. Gardeners like its graceful, fluffy plumes,
In Gardens,Parks.All types of landscaping,
Uses of pampas grass. The plant has no known edible or medicinal use. But a fiber can be extracted from the leaves that can be used for making paper.
flower arrangements,Weddings,


UNKOWN NONE


Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #291 on: October 01, 2019, 09:33:44 AM »


HI

Sainfoins,

Onobrychis , are Eurasian perennial herbs of the legume family (Fabaceae). Including doubtfully distinct species and provisionally accepted taxa, about 150 species are presently known. The Flora Europaea lists 23 species of Onobrychis;
Sainfoin is a herbaceous plant, which grows wild in Europe  it can grow at temperatures above 32°C in Spain and Greece.
The Greeks did not grow it, and their descendants have not introduced it into their Agriculture to this day
These highly nutritious plants were an important forage for heavy working horses in agriculture, and are still an excellent source of nectar for honey production as well as pollen for bee food.
England have started to use this plant for Honey and fodder.
 Onobrychis typically have a deep taproot and so are very drought resistant,
Onobrychis means "devoured by donkeys", from Ancient Greek ónos (ὄνος, "donkey") and brýkein (βρύκειν, "to eat greedily")
HABITAT A perennial herb which occurs in a dwarf form in unimproved chalk grassland. Robust alien variants are found on grassy banks, roadsides and by tracks on chalk and less often on other calcareous soils. They can be abundant on newly sown roadsides.







UNKOWN


Sainfoin provides a superb forage for grazing animals and voluntary intake of sainfoin by cattle and sheep is 20% higher than for grass. Unlike many other legumes, it is non-bloating and is known to have anthelmintic properties, so reducing the problems associated with livestock worms.
 
For Bees Honey and Pollination



Unkown for humans
Due to its anthelmintic properties the common sainfoin is a natural alternative to drugs to control nematode parasitism in the guts of small ruminants.
Ruminants (e.g. cows, deer, goats, antelope, bison, buffalo, moose, giraffe, elk) have a specialized stomach for fermentation, which requires that they chew, regurgitate and chew their food (cud) again.



Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #292 on: October 02, 2019, 09:20:48 AM »


HI
Greek bee

Apis mellifera cecropia  the Greek bee, is the subspecies of honey bee that is native to southern Greece.
 It is very similar to Apis mellifera ligustica, the Italian bee. it is favored for its extreme gentleness and lack of tendency to swarm. The Greek bee originates in Greece where the climate is Mediterranean, and cannot survive in the north of Europe where the climate is cooler, and because of that they are not spread around the world much by commercial beekeepers. They are mainly only kept in southern Greece.
Bees are flying insects closely related to wasps and ants, known for their role in pollination
Family:   Apidae
Genus:   Apis
Species:   A. mellifera
Subspecies:   A. m. cecropia
Some species including honey bees, bumblebees, and stingless bees live socially in colonies. Bees are adapted for feeding on nectar and pollen, the former primarily as an energy source and the latter primarily for protein and other nutrients. Most pollen is used as food for larvae. Bee pollination is important both ecologically and commercially. The decline in wild bees has increased the value of pollination by commercially managed hives of honey bees.
There are about 20,000 different species of bees in the world. Bees live in colonies and there are three types of bees in each colony. There is the queen bee, the worker bee and the drone.
Africanized “Killer” Bees
This bee species, which resembles its European honeybee cousin, has a much more aggressive nature. Although their venom is no stronger than that of the regular honeybee, the danger comes from the fact that “killer” bees attack in much larger numbers, usually the entire colony.
A honey bee colony typically consists of three kinds of adult bees: workers, drones, and a queen. Several thousand worker bees cooperate in nest building, food collection, and brood rearing. Each member has a definite task to perform, related to its adult age.
When a honey bee stings a person, it cannot pull the barbed stinger back out. It leaves behind not only the stinger, but also part of its abdomen and digestive tract, plus muscles and nerves. This massive abdominal rupture kills the honey bee. Honey bees are the only bees to die after stinging.
A drone is a male honey bee. Unlike the female worker bee, drones do not have stingers and gather neither nectar nor pollen. A drone's primary role is to mate
HABITATS of the honey bee are tropical climates and heavily forested areas. Honey bees can thrive in natural or domesticated environments, though they prefer to live in gardens, woodlands, orchards, meadows and other areas where flowering plants are abundant.

If you walk past the Kaloudis up the path towards the Akrotir on the way you can see theses Hives on the side of the foot path


 




Honeybees are the only type of bee that die after they sting. Wasps and other species don't lose their stingers. They may sting you more than once. If a bee stings you, it leaves a behind a venomous toxin that can cause pain and other symptoms
Bee poisoning refers to a serious body reaction to the venom from a bee sting. Usually, bee stings don't cause a serious reaction. However, if you're allergic to bee stings or have had several bee stings, you may experience a severe reaction such as poisoning. Bee poisoning requires immediate medical attention.



Bees use pollen for food, which is converted into energy, allowing the bee to fly for extended periods in order to gather and distribute the pollen. Due to the bee's attentions, crops thrive and produce fruit, vegetables, flowers, nuts, seeds, beans, and much more.
Bees are not only extremely important for humans, but also for entire ecosystems to function. As we know, bees allow plants to reproduce through pollination. These plants contribute to the food system by feeding animals – aside from humans – such as birds and insects.
Honey is used in Shampoo,Shower gel,breakfast cereal,Sweets,Cooking,
 preserving meat and fruits. Highly popular in cosmetic treatment, bee's honey is used in preparing facial washes, skin moisturizers,



Fresh bee's honey is used in treatment of eye diseases, throat infections, bronchial asthma, tuberculosis, hiccups, thirst, dizziness, fatigue, hepatitis, worm infestation, constipation, piles, eczema, healing of wounds, ulcers and used as a nutritious, easily digestible food for weak people
High-Quality Honey Is Rich in Antioxidants
Honey Is "Less Bad" Than Sugar for Diabetics
The Antioxidants in It Can Help Lower Blood Pressure
Honey Also Helps Improve Cholesterol
Honey Can Lower Triglycerides
The Antioxidants in It Are Linked to Other Beneficial Effects on Heart Health
Honey Promotes Burn and Wound Healing=Topical honey treatment has been used to heal wounds and burns since ancient Egypt and is still common today.
Honey Can Help Suppress Coughs in Children


Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #293 on: October 03, 2019, 09:17:36 AM »


HI

Corfu Lizards

Most People would see these Lizards

Lizards are a widespread group of squamate reptiles, with over 6,000 species  ranging across all continents except Antarctica, as well as most oceanic island chains. The group is paraphyletic as it excludes the snakes and Amphisbaenia; some lizards are more closely related to these two excluded groups than they are to other lizards. Lizards range in size from chameleons and geckos a few centimeters long to the 3 meter long Komodo dragon




Balkan Green Lizard
Europe’s largest lizard, body length is up to 20cm. and if the tail is included can be 60cm. or more. Its long tail allows it to run along on only its hind legs. It has a bright green body . The females and juveniles have yellow or brighter stripes the length of the body.
Food is mainly insects and smaller vertebrates. Does not hibernate in hotter areas of its range like the Ionians. Regularly seen in the open countryside, where it invariably scurries off once disturbed.
If you sit quietly it will usually re-emerge to continue its previous activity after a few minutes
It is found in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Greece, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, Romania, Serbia, Israel, Syria, and Turkey.






Agama
Also known as the Sling Tailed Agama The blue-throated keeled lizard This species is about 12 inches long but quite heavily built and not dissimilar to an iguana. They have a gular fold and spiny scales around the neck. The male can change colour depending on mood. They love to bask in sunshine and are usually found on rocky terrain.Their colour also differs between species, between genders,  Up to eight eggs are laid in June which hatch late August into September






Dalmatian Algyroides
The most common lizard found on Corfu. They reach lengths of about 8 inches. the male is distinguishable by his bright blue throat. During the hottest part of the day they seek shelter in rocky walls etc. Two or three eggs are laid in may.
The natural habitats of A. nigropunctatus are Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation, rocky areas, arable land, pastureland, plantations, rural gardens, and urban areas.





Geckos
can be seen around lights at night where they feed on moths and other insects attracted by the light. Their more natural habitat is stone walls and tree trunks. The Gecko’s feet are unusual in that they have thousands and thousands of tiny hairs which in turn split into thousands of smaller hairs, these microscopic hairs create “Van Der Waals forces “ which produces a molecular attraction with the surface on which they climb which allow it to walk across ceilings and on virtually any surface.


Moorish Gecko
This is Europe’s largest species up to 6 inches long, also known as the Wall Gecko. They are more stockily built than the lizards. Their colour is grey / tan brown with darker blotches, the under belly is white. They have pronounced wart like scales along the side of the body and tail. Two to four clutches of two eggs are buried where they hatch after about two months; the hatchlings take up to two years to mature. The males can sometimes be heard making a clicking sound.







Turkish Gecko
Smaller in size to the Moorish Gecko. It’s habits however are very similar. Distinguishable by it’s very pink colouration.
The Greeks have always had a superstitious fear of geckos. They call geckos “Molintiri “ the defiler.
The Mediterranean house gecko is a type of house gecko common to the Mediterranean which has spread to many parts of the world. It is commonly referred to as the Turkish gecko as represented in its Latin name and also as the moon lizard because it emerges in the evening.






These Lizards are not poisonous and do not pose any threat to people


Until 2006 it was thought that among lizards, only the Gila monster and the Mexican beaded lizard were venomous. However, several species of monitor lizards, including the Komodo dragon, produce powerful venom in their oral glands. Lace monitor venom, for instance, causes swift loss of consciousness and extensive bleeding through its pharmacological effects, both lowering blood pressure and preventing blood clotting. Nine classes of toxin known from snakes are produced by lizards. The range of actions provides the potential for new medicinal drugs based on lizard venom proteins.

Genes associated with venom toxins have been found in the salivary glands on a wide range of lizards, including species traditionally thought of as non-venomous, such as iguanas and bearded dragons. This suggests that these genes evolved in the common ancestor of lizards and snakes, some 200 million years ago (forming a single clade, the Toxicofera). However, most of these putative venom genes were "housekeeping genes" found in all cells and tissues, including skin and cloacal scent glands. The genes in question may thus be evolutionary precursors of venom genes







Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #294 on: October 04, 2019, 12:30:00 PM »

HI
Common fig

Looking though my records i have not listed this plant.
This plant is all over  Corfu and Arillas.
The Greek word for FIG is Σύκο [ Sýko ]
The Ficus carica is an Asian species of flowering plant in the mulberry family,
It is grown commercially. Native to the Middle East and western Asia, it has been sought out and cultivated since ancient times and is now widely grown throughout the world, both for its fruit and as an ornamental plant. The species has become naturalized in scattered locations in Asia and North America.
The word fig, first recorded in English in the 13th century, derives from (Old) French figue, itself from Occitan (Provençal) figa, from Romance *fica, from Classical Latin ficus (fig or fig-tree). Italian has fico, directly derived from Latin ficus. The name of the caprifig, Ficus caprificus Risso, is derived both from Latin capro (billygoat) and English fig
Family:   Moraceae
Genus:   Ficus
Subgenus:   Ficus subg. Ficus
Species:   F. carica
Ficus carica is a deciduous tree or large shrub that grows up to 7–10 metres (23–33 ft) tall, with smooth white bark. Its fragrant foliage is 12–25 centimetres
The edible fruit consists of the mature syconium that contains numerous one-seeded fruits,
The fruit is 3–5 centimetres (1.2–2.0 in) long, with a green skin that sometimes ripens toward purple or brown. Ficus carica has milky sap, thus rendering it a laticifer. The sap of the green parts is an irritant to human skin.
 Ficus carica does not always require pollination by a wasp or from another tree, because the fig wasp, Blastophaga psenes can pollinate it so as to produce seeds. Fig wasps are not present to pollinate in colder nations, e. g. the United Kingdom.
The plant tolerates seasonal drought, and the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean climates are especially suitable to it.
Sometime  you will see the tree with no leaves it is not going to Die it is going to fruit again save energy and all the energy gose to the Fruit [seed] so it can reproduce
 







   
 

None Only  phytophotodermatitis from the SAP  also known as berloque dermatitis or margarita photodermatitis, is a cutaneous phototoxic inflammatory reaction resulting from contact with a light-sensitizing botanical agent followed by exposure to ultraviolet light (from the sun, for instance).



Figs can be eaten fresh or dried, and used in jam-making The widely produced fig roll is a biscuit, August through to early October. Fresh figs used in cooking should be plump and soft, and without bruising or splits. If they smell sour, the figs have become over-ripe. Slightly under-ripe figs can be kept at room temperature for 1–2 days to ripen before serving. Figs are most flavorful at room temperature
Wine
Ficus wood make furniture and more.
Cosmetics
Cooking



Fig FRUIT is used as a laxative to relieve constipation. Fig LEAF is used for diabetes, high cholesterol, and skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and vitiligo. Some people apply the milky sap (LATEX) from the tree directly to the skin to treat skin tumors and warts I WOULD NOT DO THIS AS A IRRITANT ALSO CAN BLISTER THE SKIN
Figs benefits for hair
It may also help lower cholesterol and control blood sugar levels. Figs are a good source of calcium, which can ward off osteoporosis as well as other health issues.
Improve Heart Health
Prevent Colon Cancer
Cure Anemia
Prevent Breast Cancer
Strengthen Bones
Rich In Antioxidants
Prevent Hypertension
Increase Sexual Stamina [Now i know Neil you got one in your garden] or do save the stamina for Darts
Reduce Throat Pain
Prevent Macular Degeneration
 Improve Liver Health
Treat Piles
Boost The Immune System
Prevent Wrinkles
Rejuvenate Your Skin
Cure Boils And Warts


Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #295 on: October 05, 2019, 11:00:12 AM »


HI

Pomegranate

You will see this plant around Arillas give a try lovley

pomegranate in Greek ρόδι  [ródi]

Punica granatum As we Know as the Pomegranate is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub in the family Lythraceae, subfamily Punicoideae, that grows between 5 and 10 m
The fruit is typically in season in the Northern Hemisphere from September to February, and in the Southern Hemisphere from March to May.
The pomegranate originated in the region extending from modern-day Iran to northern India, and has been cultivated since ancient times throughout the Mediterranean region. It was introduced into Spanish America in the late 16th century and into California by Spanish settlers in 1769.
Today, it is widely cultivated throughout the Middle East and Caucasus region, north and tropical Africa, South Asia, Central Asia, the drier parts of southeast Asia, and parts of the Mediterranean Basin. It is also cultivated in parts of Arizona and California. In the 20th and 21st centuries, it has become more common in the shops and markets of Europe and the Western Hemisphere
Family:   Lythraceae
Genus:   Punica
Species:   P. granatum



The Greeks were familiar with the fruit far before it was introduced to Rome via Carthage, and it figures in multiple myths and artworks.[63] In Ancient Greek mythology, the pomegranate was known as the "fruit of the dead", and believed to have sprung from the blood of Adonis.

The myth of Persephone, the goddess of the underworld, prominently features her consumption of seven pomegranate seeds, requiring her to spend seven months in the underworld every year. During these seven months, while Persephone sits on the throne of the underworld beside her husband Hades, her mother Demeter mourned and no longer gave fertility to the earth. This was an ancient Greek explanation for the seasons

The pomegranate is one of three trees mentioned or alluded to in the Bible many times. It is also included in coinage and various types of ancient and modern cultural works.

Pomegranates are curious fruits - apple-sized, red in color, and containing hundreds of pitch-red juicy seeds. ... Some sources fix the number to exactly 613, some allow for an error of +/- 200, yet others believe that all pomegranates have the exact same number of seeds.
Judaism. Pomegranate seeds are said to number 613—one for each of the Bible's 613 commandments. The pomegranate was revered for the beauty of its shrub, flowers, and fruit—symbolising sanctity, fertility, and abundance.
HABITAT
The tree prefers low-humidity environments and thrives in warm areas that are protected from the wind.
The pomegranate does best in well-drained ordinary soil, but also thrives on calcareous or acidic loam as well as rock strewn gravel.
Once established, pomegranates can take considerable drought, but for good fruit production they must be irrigated. To establish new plants they should be watered every 2 to 4 weeks during the dry season. The plants are tolerant of moderately saline water and soil conditions.





The root, stem, or peel of pomegranate is POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth in large amounts. The root, stem, and peel contain poisons. When applied to the skin: Pomegranate extract is POSSIBLY SAFE when applied to the skin. Some people have experienced sensitivity to pomegranate extract.



Culinary use After the pomegranate is opened by scoring it with a knife and breaking it open, the seeds are separated from the peel and internal white pulp membranes. Separating the seeds is easier in a bowl of water because the seeds sink and the inedible pulp floats. Freezing the entire fruit also makes it easier to separate.
Pomegranate juice can be sweet or sour, but most fruits are moderate in taste,
Pomegranate juice has long been a popular drink in Europe and the Middle East, and is now widely distributed in the United States and Canada.
Grenadine syrup long ago consisted of thickened and sweetened pomegranate juice, now is usually a sales name for a syrup based on various berries, citric acid, and food coloring, mainly used in cocktail mixing. In Europe, Bols still manufactures grenadine syrup with pomegranate. Before tomatoes (a New World fruit) arrived in the Middle East, pomegranate juice, molasses, and vinegar were widely used in many Iranian foods, and are still found in traditional recipes such as fesenjān, a thick sauce made from pomegranate juice and ground walnuts, usually spooned over duck or other poultry and rice, and in ash-e anar (pomegranate soup).
Pomegranate seeds are used as a spice known as anar dana  most notably in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. Dried whole seeds can often be obtained in ethnic South Asian markets. These seeds are separated from the flesh, dried for 10–15 days, and used as an acidic agent for chutney and curry preparation.
pomegranate wine
In Turkey, pomegranate sauce
In Greece, pomegranate is used in many recipes, including kollivozoumi, a creamy broth made from boiled wheat, pomegranates, and raisins, legume salad with wheat and pomegranate, traditional Middle Eastern lamb kebabs with pomegranate glaze, pomegranate eggplant relish, and avocado-pomegranate dip. Pomegranate is also made into a liqueur, and as a popular fruit confectionery used as ice cream topping, mixed with yogurt, or spread as jam on toast.



Various parts of the tree and fruit are used to make medicine. People use pomegranate for conditions such as chronic obstructive lung disease (COPD), heart conditions, high blood pressure, athletic performance, and recovery after exercise, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Antioxidants
Pomegranate seeds get their vibrant red hue from polyphenols. These chemicals are powerful antioxidants.
 Vitamin C
Cancer prevention
 Alzheimer's disease protection
Digestion
Anti-inflammatory
Arthritis
 Heart disease
 Blood pressure
Antiviral
Vitamin-rich
Endurance and sports performance
Diabetes
Pomegranate was traditionally used as a remedy for diabetes in the Middle East and India. While much is still unknown about the effects of pomegranate on diabetes, it may help decrease insulin resistance and lower blood sugar.



Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #296 on: October 07, 2019, 09:39:31 AM »


HI

Walnut tree

You can see this plant behind the Galini walking up the hill A white Walnut

Juglans  commonly known as butternut or white walnut,and black walnut,
 the type genus of the family Juglandaceae, the seeds of which are referred to as walnuts. All species are deciduous trees, 10–40 metres (33–131 ft) tall, with pinnate
Juglans cinerea,  commonly known white walnut
Juglans nigra, commonly known black walnut
The 21 species in the genus range across the north temperate Old World from southeast Europe east to Japan, and more widely in the New World from southeast Canada west to California and south to Argentina.
In 2014, global production of walnuts (in shell) was 3.5 million tonnes, led by China with 46% of the world total (table). Other major producers were the United States and Iran
The trees  live for some 75 years English walnut trees can live up to 150 years
 The first historical account of walnut cultivation dates back to Babylon (now Iraq) circa 2000 B.C. However, archaeological excavation of Neolithic sites in southwest France has uncovered roasted walnut shells, indicating walnuts were being eaten in Europe at least 8000 years ago. 
The following from Greek scholar Eleanor Irwin (personal communication) is helpful. Generally all nuts and fruit are fertility symbols. The ancients knew that they were the end product of flowering. A nut like walnut with a big seed and a shell to crack must have seemed appropriate as an "encouragement" to throw towards the bride and groom (like rice).
The Greek bride and groom shared a quince on their wedding night as a symbol of the fertility (and sweetness?) they hoped for in their marriage.

HABITAT
The common walnut is a demanding species and requires special site conditions. Usually grown in pure stands or as individual trees, rather than within mixed woodland, it needs a warm and sheltered site and a long growing season3, 13. It also prefers deep and rich soils, with pH values of between 6 and 7.51. Forests in the Himalayas, preferring a northerly aspect in the west but a southerly or westerly aspect in the east of the range.






   

 

 


NONE

foods, such as salads, fish, pork, chicken, vegetables and pasta dishes. Oil, furniture
Beauty benefits. • Slows down the aging process • Moisturizes skin • Gives shine to hair • Prevents skin inflammation • A natural hair dye • Lightens dark circles
 A yellow dye is obtained from the green husks. It is green. The green nuts (is this the same as the green husks?) and the leaves are also used. The rind of unripe fruits is a good source of tannin. A brown dye is obtained from the leaves and mature husks. It does not require a mordant and turns black if prepared in an iron pot. The dye is often used as a colouring and tonic for dark hair. The leaves and the husks can be dried for later use. A golden-brown dye is obtained from the catkins in early summer. It does not require a mordant. A drying oil is obtained from the seed. It is used in soap making, paints, etc. It is not very stable and quickly goes rancid. The nuts can be used as a wood polish. Simply crack open the shell and rub the kernel into the wood to release the oils. Wipe off with a clean cloth. The dried fruit rind is used to paint doors, window frames etc (it probably protects the wood due to its tannin content). The shells may be used as anti-skid agents for tyres, blasting grit, and in the preparation of activated carbon. The leaves contain juglone, this has been shown to have pesticidal and herbicidal properties. The crushed leaves are an insect repellent. Juglone is also secreted from the roots of the tree, it has an inhibitory effect on the growth of many other plants. Bark of the tree and the fruit rind are dried and used as a tooth cleaner. They can also be used fresh. Wood - heavy, hard, durable, close grained, seasons and polishes well. A very valuable timber tree, it is used for furniture making, veneer





The walnut tree has a long history of medicinal use, being used in folk medicine to treat a wide range of complaints. The leaves are alterative, anthelmintic, anti-inflammatory, astringent and depurative. They are used internally the treatment of constipation, chronic coughs, asthma, diarrhoea, dyspepsia
Juglans regia is used to treat Diabetes mellitus symptoms in Austrian traditional medicine, whereby air-dried leaves are used as aqueous decoction or liquor preparation and are consumed on a daily basis.
 bark has been claimed to possess anti-inflammatory, blood purifying, anticancer, depurative, diuretic and laxative activities. It contains several therapeutically active constituents, especially polyphenols.









Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #297 on: October 08, 2019, 09:11:05 AM »


HI

Sea Blackthorns


Hippophae Is a Deciduous shrubs in the family Elaeagnaceae. Known as sea buckthorn,
 It produces orange-yellow berries, which have been used over centuries as food, traditional medicine, and skin treatment in China, Russia, and northern Europe, which are its origin regions.
It is an exceptionally hardy plant able to withstand winter temperatures as low as −43 °C (−45 °F).[4] Because Hippophae develops an aggressive and extensive root system, it is planted to inhibit soil erosion and is used in land reclamation for its nitrogen fixing properties, wildlife habitat, and soil enrichment.[5] Hippophae berries and leaves are manufactured into various human and animal food and skincare products.
Hippophae production in Greece is developing at a fast pace, while exports are also in the works. No wonder sea buckthorn area has increased sixfold within only one year! Greek sea buckthorn or hippophae –as it is also known– producers are ready to expand their presence into international markets.
Sea-buckthorn is one of the oldest plants on Earth and its presence is dated back long before the ice age.
Hippophae belongs to natural superfoods.
Hippophae is a small genus of Elaeagnaceae having a terminal taxon with seven species recognized, as of 2002.Hippophae rhamnoides is a highly variable species with eight subspecies.
 is the most widespread of the species in the genus, with the ranges of its eight subspecies extending from the Atlantic coasts of Europe across to northwestern Mongolia and northwestern China. In western Europe, it is largely confined to sea coasts where salt spray off the sea prevents other larger plants from outcompeting it. In central Asia, it is more widespread in dry semi-desert sites where other plants cannot survive the dry conditions.
They are tolerant of salt in the air and soil, but demand full sunlight for good growth and do not tolerate shady conditions near larger trees. They typically grow in dry, sandy areas.
The shrubs reach 0.5–6 metres (1.6–19.7 ft) tall, rarely up to 10 metres (33 ft) in central Asia. The leaf arrangement can be alternate or opposite.
During the Cold War, Russian and East German horticulturists developed new varieties with greater nutritional value, larger berries, different ripening months and branches that are easier to harvest. Over the past 20 years, experimental crops have been grown in the United States, one in Nevada and one in Arizona, and in several provinces of Canada.
Sea buckthorn may be used as a landscaping shrub with an aggressive basal shoot system used for barrier hedges and windbreaks,
The majority of Sea Buckthorn plant's habitat is in northern Europe, China, Mongolia, Russia, and Canada. It is a soil stabilizer, wildlife food and cover, repairs desert areas and is a source of commercial products. Plants may grow as shrubs of less than 2 feet in height or trees of nearly 20 feet tall.

Family:   Elaeagnaceae
Genus:   Hippophae


   

      

 

     


NONE


Sea buckthorn berries are edible and nutritious,   
When the berries are pressed, the resulting sea buckthorn juice separates into three layers: on top is a thick, orange cream; in the middle, a layer containing sea buckthorn's characteristic high content of saturated and polyunsaturated fats; and the bottom layer is sediment and juice. Containing fat sources applicable for cosmetic purposes, the upper two layers can be processed for skin creams and liniments, whereas the bottom layer can be used for edible products such as syrup.
Besides juice, sea buckthorn fruit can be used to make pies, jams, lotions, teas, fruit wines, and liquors.[4] The juice or pulp has other potential applications in foods, beverages, or cosmetics products.[4] Fruit drinks were among the earliest sea buckthorn products developed in China. Sea buckthorn-based juice is common in Germany and Scandinavian countries. It provides a beverage rich in vitamin C and carotenoids.
 used as a landscaping shrub with an aggressive basal shoot system used for barrier hedges
 Free from gluten, dairy, yeast, soy and nuts. – Nature's super berry – 60 different antioxidants, more than 10 times the vitamin C found in oranges



Sea buckthorn has been used over centuries in traditional medicine.
 Rich in Many Nutrients
It is naturally full of antioxidants, which help protect your body against aging and illnesses like cancer and heart disease
Promotes Heart Health
For starters, its antioxidants may help reduce risk factors of heart disease, including blood clots, blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels.
Protect Against Diabetes
Animal studies show that it may help reduce blood sugar levels by increasing insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity
Protects Your Skin
The oil may help stimulate skin regeneration, helping wounds heal more quickly
Boost Your Immune System
 High flavonoid content of the oil.
 Support a Healthy Liver
 Help Fight Cancer Cells
Improve digestion
lower inflammation
Treat dry eyes
Reduce symptoms of menopause
Reduce symptoms of depression


 






Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #298 on: October 09, 2019, 09:03:51 AM »


HI

Fireflies

If you been out in Arillas in May you most probably have seen this Insect a fantastic site

Lampyridae are a family of insects in the beetle order Coleoptera with over 2,000 described species. They are soft-bodied beetles that are commonly called fireflies or lightning bugs for their conspicuous use of bioluminescence during twilight to attract mates or prey.
Bioluminescence is the production and emission of light by a living organism. It is a form of chemiluminescence. Bioluminescence occurs widely in marine vertebrates and invertebrates, as well as in some fungi, microorganisms including some bioluminescent bacteria and terrestrial invertebrates such as fireflies.
. Fireflies produce a "cold light", with no infrared or ultraviolet frequencies. This chemically produced light from the lower abdomen may be yellow, green, or pale red, with wavelengths from 510 to 670 nanometers. Fireflies are found in temperate and tropical climates. Many are found in marshes or in wet, wooded areas where their larvae have abundant sources of food. Some species are called "glowworms" in Eurasia and elsewhere. While all known fireflies glow, only some adults produce light and the location of the light organ varies among species and between sexes of the same species.
Firefly populations are declining worldwide, for a variety of reasons. Fireflies, like many other organisms, are directly affected by land-use change (e.g. loss of habitat area and connectivity), which is identified as the main driver of biodiversity changes in terrestrial ecosystems. Pesticides and weed-killers have also been indicated as a likely cause of firefly decline.
These are beneficial insects. They don't bite, they have no pincers, they don't attack, they don't carry disease, they are not poisonous, they don't even fly very fast.
Fireflies don't put on those spectacular summer displays just to entertain us. You're eavesdropping on the firefly singles bar. Male fireflies cruising for mates flash a species-specific pattern to announce their availability to receptive females. An interested female will reply, helping the male locate her where she's perched, often on low vegetation.
Most fireflies are nocturnal, although some species are diurnal. They are soft-bodied beetles that range from 5 to 25 mm (up to 1 inch) in length. The flattened, dark brown or black body is often marked with orange or yellow.
Larvae Feed on Snails
Firefly larvae are carnivorous predators, and their favorite food is escargot. Most firefly species inhabit moist, terrestrial environments, where they feed on snails or worms in the soil. A few Asian species use gills to breathe underwater, where they eat aquatic snails and other mollusks. Some species are arboreal, and their larvae hunt tree snails.


   


Offline kevin-beverly

  • ARILLIAC
  • *
  • Posts: 3748
Re: Walking around corfu
« Reply #299 on: October 11, 2019, 09:32:37 AM »


HI

European Tree frog

I did not know about tree frogs on Corfu i have seen them in Australia so i am going to look for them next time

Hyla arborea Is a small tree frog found in Europe, Asia and part of Africa.
 Tree frogs are small; the males range from 32–43 mm (1.3–1.7 in) in length, and females range from 40–50 mm (1.6–2.0 in) in length. They are slender, with long legs. Their dorsal skin is smooth, while their ventral skin is granular. Their dorsal skin can be green, gray, or tan depending on the temperature, humidity, or their mood.
 The discs on the frog's toes, which it uses to climb trees and hedges, is a characteristic feature of H. arborea . Like other frogs, their hind legs are much larger and stronger than the fore legs, enabling the frogs to jump rapidly.
They hibernate in walls, cellars, under rocks, under clumps of vegetation, or buried in leaf piles or manure piles.
Historically, tree frogs were used as barometers because they respond to approaching rain by croaking.
Depending on subspecies, temperature, humidity, and the frog's 'mood', skin colour ranges from bright to olive green, grey, brown and yellow.
European tree frogs eat a variety of small arthropods, such as spiders, flies, beetles, butterflies, and smooth caterpillars. Their ability to take long leaps allow them to catch fast-flying insects, which make up most of their diets.
Family:   Hylidae
Genus:   Hyla
Species:   H. arborea
European tree frogs reproduce in stagnant bodies of water, such as lakes, ponds, swamps, reservoirs, and sometimes puddles, from late March to June. They croak in the breeding season, even when migrating to their mating pools or ponds. Males will often change breeding ponds, even within the same breeding season. After a spring rain, the males will call females from low vegetation or shallow ponds. About 800 to 1000 eggs are laid in clumps the size of a walnut.
Individual eggs are about 1.5 mm in diameter. After 10–14 days, the eggs hatch. Then, after three months, tadpoles metamorphose into frogs. Metamorphosis usually peaks from late July to early August. They are able to live for up to 15 years.
Look around the stream that runs though Arillas. The bridge near the Galini this year had Terrapins in the water







 

Booking.com