Images Dated 4th May 2010

Cardon Cactus - massive speciman in the background

Cardon Cactus - massive speciman in the background framed by the many arms of a very ancient one in the foreground (Echinopsis atacamensis)

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Ancient, Arms, Atacamensis, Background, Cactus, Cardon, Echinopsis, Foreground, Massive, Speciman

Two Sulphur-crested Cockatoos - suffering from Psittacine Beak-and-Feather Disease (PBFD) bond together after being shunned by entire birds of the same species

EL-1934
Two Sulphur-crested Cockatoos - suffering from Psittacine Beak-and-Feather Disease (PBFD) bond together after being shunned by entire birds of the same species.
occurs in woodland from the Kimberley Region in Western Australia east to Cape York and south along the eastern coast to South Australia.
Cacatua galerita
Beak-and-Feather Disease is a viral infection caused by a circovirus (Circoviridae) and affects many species of parrots and cockatoos. It is transmitted by direct contact and inhalation of aerosols. No known cure, but some birds may develop immunity. Causes loss of, or pulling-out of feathers, and deformities of the beak, and occasionally feet. /Circovirus - attacks feather follicles causing ultimate inability to produce feathers; attacks beak and feet growth cells causing malformity and over-enlargement.
Eric Lindgren
Please note that prints are for personal display purposes only and may not be reproduced in any way

© Eric Lindgren / ardea.com