Animals, Aquariums and Zoos

The model of the modern, public zoo became popular in 18th century, during the Age of Enlightenment. The Age of Enlightenment was a period in European history when science, reason, and logic were promoted as ideals of society and government. During this time, people started wanting to study animals for scientific reasons. Scientists wanted to research animal behavior and anatomy. The first modern zoo, built in 1793, opened in Paris, France. The menageries of French aristrocrats, including the king and queen, were taken by leaders of the French Revolution and relocated to the Ménagerie du Jardin des Plantes. Today, zoos are meant to entertain and educate the public but have a strong emphasis on scientific research and species conservation.

Crystal Spring. Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, Nevada

Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refugee

July 17, 2023

The Orchard. Corn Creek, Desert National Wildlife Refuge

Corn Creek at Desert Wildlife Preservation Refuge

July 3, 2023

Lizards around Las Vegas

June 19, 2021

Baby Ostriches on the Ocean

November 7, 2020

African Penguin Colony at Boulders Bay

October 10, 2020

Cape Fur Seals on Duiker Island

October 6, 2020

Newborn Gambel’s Quail (Callipepla gambelii)

Backyard Baby Gambel’s Quail

February 27, 2020

Better Bird Photography with Flash

January 17, 2020

Hummingbirds, Butterflies and Flowers of Costa Rica

November 25, 2019

Birds Around Arcata California

July 26, 2019

If you love flowers, plants, birds and animals, then you are in the right place. I love nature photography and combined with my love of birds, flowers and travel I have decided to create a place to present photographs and information on my favorites. This is a revision of my previous website traveltoeat.com since I become old (and fat) and I have become more interested in photography than eating.

I live in Las Vegas but I travel frequently in the southwest, California and in fact around the world. While Las Vegas would seem to be an unusual choice with regards to plants and birds it is an unusually busy place due to Pacific Migration Flyway which comes through Las Vegas. Since this is a desert, the birds are concentrated in the many springs, seeps, lakes and parks in and around Las Vegas, making for really great birding.

Since the previous blog focused on travel and eating, there will be a fair amount of focus on history beautiful architecture and food. However, both in the past and today I am always interested in a good garden, zoo, safari or hike.My idea of a perfect day is to be surrounded by flowers, insects, animals and birds, I hope my photographs and descriptions will inspire you in your own travels and hikes.