Camptoloma lyperiiflorum

Camptoloma lyperiiflorum

This species is easily recognized by the glandular hairs. It is found in the cliffs of western and southwestern Socotra, often in places protected by the sun.…


Buddleja colvilei

Buddleja colvilei

Elevation: 3198 meters. Native range is Himalaya to China.


Blanford's Rock Gecko (Pristurus insignis)

Blanford’s Rock Gecko (Pristurus insignis)

I've noticed this species much less frequently than those of the Socotra Mabuya (Trachylepis socotrana) and Socotra Rock Gecko (Pristurus sokotranus). At each…


Scrophularia arguta

Scrophularia arguta

I encountered this one close to a vertical cliff that blocks the sun for many months of the year where only the early morning rays reach the ground. In…


Socotra Rock Gecko (Pristurus sokotranus)

Socotra Rock Gecko (Pristurus sokotranus)

A common species revealing its location when darting to safety as you step near its location. If you see it from a distance you might get very close if you…


Red-legged Golden Orb-web Spider (Nephila sumptuosa)

Red-legged Golden Orb-web Spider (Nephila sumptuosa)

The only one of this species I encountered. A magnificent, large spider! I also found a small male on the outer fringes of the large web made by this female.…


Campylanthus spinosus

Campylanthus spinosus

This plant is one of many interesting species I found in a very small area in a valley at 320 meters altitude. A river runs through on the valley floor,…