Life in the Natural World

Show us your interesting pictures of tree branches, either a single branch, or many branches, (but NOT whole trees, and NOT tree trunks.) Show us the textures, colours, bark, of these branches. They might be bare branches in winter, or they might display the new spring foliage, or coloured leaves in autumn.... Your entry could can be a close-up of a single branch with lichens and mosses, or...

This nature challenge invites your interesting pictures of these ancient forms of plant life. Though they aren't related, it is sometimes difficult to tell the difference between cycads and palms. Cycads, (Cycadophyta family) have been on this earth at least 280 million years, while the palms (Arecaceae family) have been growing a mere 80 millions years. No pictures of ferns please which are...

This challenge invites examples of eggs found in nature. Show us insects' or spiders' eggs, (their egg sacs or egg cases), frogs' eggs, eggs from birds in the wild, turtles' eggs.... No, NOT the chickens' or ducks' eggs from the supermarket or your favourite hen farm, not fried or scrambled, etc. Eggs come in such a variety of shapes and colours, so this should make an interesting challenge....

It's a while since there has been a frog challenge, so here is an opportunity for you to display your best images of these small, or not-so-small amphibians. The frogs should be in their natural environment. I will accept tadpoles, and toads, but NO cane toads, (Bufo Marinus), an introduced feral pest in Australia, and which are detested by Australians because of their widespread damage to the...

This is my 250th challenge in the 'Life in the Natural World' series. To help me mark this milestone, show us your best, most interesting images which meet this theme. Macro and close-ups, landscapes, birds, animals insects, plants, abstract nature.... your choice of subject. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions, please. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

In nature we see an amazing variety of white, beige, cream, grey and other colours of the palest hues. This challenge seeks your best pictures in these soft, muted colours. Please, no high key effects, or desaturation to produce your image; this is all about nature showing us what is already there. Macro and close-ups welcome. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, and man-made constructions. Please...

In this challenge, show us examples of insects, spiders, birds, animals etc., providing food for their young. Your picture might show the food already there for the babies to eat, or it might show the animals bringing the food to their young. We need to see the relationship between parent and young. (A bird flying with a fish does not show us that it is destined for young mouths, but might be...

In this nature challenge, show us flower buds JUST as they are starting to open their petals, the centre of their blooms ALMOST visible, their beauty nearly ready to display itself to the world. The flower bud/buds should be still in their natural environment. Insects or other small creatures may be present in your entry but must not dominate the picture. Minimal evidence of man, pets, or...

This challenge gives you the opportunity to showcase your interesting pictures of some of the tiny creatures, plants or naturally occurring inanimate objects in our natural environment. Digital cameras, particularly with their macro lenses have given us the opportunity to view minuscule wonders which cannot be seen with the naked eye. Show them to us. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or...

Lilies are a very diverse family of flowers, of the Lilium species. However, for this challenge, you may enter pictures which are not 'true' lilies, such as daylilies, (Hemerocallis family), arum or calla lilies, (Zantedeschia), or waterlilies. The flowers should be still outside in their natural environment, and not indoors in vases as cut flowers. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of your...

This challenge invites you to showcase your best examples of nature, where the birds, animals, insects, spiders, or plants gather or grow together for safety against predators, or to ensure their best chances of survival. Macro and close-ups welcome. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

Here is your opportunity to show us some interesting pictures you've taken of elements in nature which are beautiful in appearance, yet are poisonous or toxic, to humans, animals or birds. Plants, flowers, insects or spiders, animals or fish... Minimal evidence of humans, pets or man-made structures. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

Here's a challenge for you to show off your best pair, or four, or six or eight legs, (or maybe more), which you've captured in nature. Are they tall skinny legs of an ostrich, short fat legs of a hippopotamus, the hairy legs of a spider, or perhaps the delicate swaying legs of a praying mantis just waiting to pounce on its next meal. Macro and close-ups welcome. NO humans, pets, or birds which...

What do horseshoe crabs, gingko trees, koalas, dragonflies, tree ferns, cycads, and crocodiles, (but not alligators) have in common? They are all Living Fossils. The fossilised remains of these and other interesting animals and plants have been found to be exact replicas of the animals or plants we see today. For more information and other examples, Google Living Fossils in Wikipedia, or...

Here's your opportunity to showcase the flamboyant attention-seekers of the natural world. You might choose pictures of brightly coloured birds strutting about, animals claiming their territory and harem, insects or spiders with vivid colours to warn others to leave them alone. Perhaps you have pictures of amazing flowers or plants which cry out, "Look at Me!" Macro and close-ups welcome....

Mauve, violet, lavender or lilac are all muted, soft and pleasing colours in nature's palette. This challenge invites you to show us examples of this delicate colour which is more subtle than the bright attention-seeking purples, reds, deep blues, or magentas. Your entries might well be flowers such as jacarandas, lilacs, lavender, violets, perhaps birds or insects, or landscapes which appear...

In this challenge, show us the beauty of ferns: just-unfurling fronds, small fern plants or large tree ferns. A fern is a plant in the Pteridophyta family, with stems, leaves, roots, and it reproduces via spores. It has no seeds or flowers. NO photos of palms or cycads because they are not related to ferns. The ferns (unless grown as a house-plant or in a glasshouse) should be outside in their...

Translucent: 'Allowing light, but not detailed shapes, to pass through; semi-transparent'. This challenge, by request, invites you to showcase your interesting examples of translucence in the natural world. Suggested examples: translucent insect wings, shells, flower petals, insect larvae, ice, some mineral crystals, small crustaceans, very deep sea fish, etc. Macro and close-ups welcome....

Caterpillars, one or more.... hairy ones, green ones, ones with spots or stripes, brightly coloured ones; I don't mind, as long as they are caterpillars, before they pupate and develop into moths or butterflies. Show us caterpillars on leaves, flowers, tree trunks etc. out in the natural world. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

This challenge welcomes your best pictures of rock pools. Definition of a rock pool: a tidal pool in a rocky shoreline or reef. You may also enter pictures of small fresh water rock pools, in mountain streams or gorges, or where rain has collected in cavities in larger rocks. You might show us pools which contain interesting sea life, such as starfishes, sea anemones, crabs, etc or you may...

The lowly Point & Shoot cameras are much maligned by many photographers who have their expensive, but heavy-weight cameras, lenses, tripods, reflectors, etc. which they carry around in big back-packs. When on holiday, many of the same photographers, leave the heavy equipment in their hotel rooms, and put their little P&S cameras in their pockets, and capture interesting pictures, without...

Shade: the slight darkness that is produced when something blocks the light of the sun. It's easy to take good pictures in sunlight, but more difficult when the subjects are in deep shade, low light, or if the light is very flat. Show us DAYTIME outdoors examples where there is no visible sunshine, perhaps because of heavy cloud cover, under the canopy of trees in a rain forest, over-hanging...

At this time of year we decorate our homes and communities to enhance the holiday spirit. Show us interesting ways that nature decorates the world which we to see and enjoy. This might be a flower, bright berries, leaves covering a wall, interesting colours in rocks, snow blanketing the tree branches, etc. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Minimal evidence of man or pets. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM...

Small and medium-sized birds enjoyed their displays on these pages recently, now it's time to showcase the large birds in their own nature challenge. Large birds, IMO, would include pelicans, cranes, flamingoes, eagles, condors, peacocks, some penguins, ostriches, swans and geese.... The birds must be free and in their natural environment. Evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions...

For this challenge, show us two or more insects and/or spiders, (or other small arthropods) who encounter or confront each other, perhaps just in passing, maybe eyeing off a potential mate OR hoping the other insect/spider will be their next meal. For this challenge, the insects or spiders should not be devouring each other, or mating.... just meeting, in their natural environment. Macro and...

Here is your opportunity to showcase the beauty and intricacy of these remarkable insect-catchers. Your entry might be a complete web, with spider, or just part of one. The spider may be present, but the web MUST be the main subject: more web, less spider. Macro and close-up shots welcome. The photos should be taken outside in their natural environment, (unless you too have spider webs inside...

This should be an easy challenge, with so much blue to be seen in the natural world: sky, sea, flowers, birds, mountains in the distance.... but maybe not. The difficulty is for you to show us a picture which is basically blue, and which stands out from all the other entries in the challenge. Other colours may be present in the entry, but blue MUST be the dominant colour. Macro and close-ups...

This challenge isn't about the ballad made famous by Simon & Garfunkel, but all about HERBS, which we use to enhance our cooking and eating pleasure. This is a nature challenge, so show us examples of these (or other) fresh herbs, growing in the garden, or freshly picked. The flowers or leaves are acceptable entries. Please name your herbs if possible. For those interested, herbs are the...

In this nature challenge, show us examples where the two textures of roughness and smoothness are in contrast in the one picture. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or man-made structures. Macro and close-ups are welcome. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

In this nature challenge, show us your best examples of multiple, independent flowers blooming on one stem, stalk or branch. Multiple flowers on single stems would include lavender, gladioli, echiums, hyacinths, grevilleas, foxgloves, some orchids, etc. Macro and close-ups welcome. Insects or spiders may be present, but should not dominate the picture. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or...

Small birds enjoyed their display on these pages recently, now it's time to showcase the medium-sized birds in their own nature challenge. These birds are about 9" to 16" in length, or 23 to 41cm. I would consider medium sized birds to be gulls, doves, crows, parrots, owls, some of the raptors, (but not condors or large eagles), etc. Evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions should be...

This challenge invites you to show us your interesting pictures of waves, (wind-generated waves); surf-breakers at the beach, foaming waves crashing over the rocky shore, swells in the deep ocean, ripples along the shoreline. Minimal evidence of humans, or pets. Man-made constructions will be accepted, but only if they enhance the subject, which are the waves. (For example, a lighthouse...

It's a while since we had a jigsaw puzzle challenge in the series which I started back in 2012. In this challenge, show us an example in nature, which is very busy and intricately detailed: a natural landscape, a seascape, a forest, plants, flowers, trees, birds or animals in the wild, insects, etc., which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. Minimal evidence of man, pets, or man-made structures...

Yes, that's right, this challenge is seeking your best pictures of live green, open flowers; natural, not artificially coloured for the florist trade or styling gurus. I would prefer them to be still outside growing in their natural environment. Flowers which are green include varieties of orchids, euphorbias, daisies, hellebores, chrysanthemums.... Please keep your entry's natural colour....

This nature challenge invites you to show us your best pictures of small birds, not in captivity, but enjoying their environment as they should. Small means the passerines, seed-eaters, honeyeaters, insect-eaters, etc. Please, no large birds such as pelicans, gulls, raptors, ostriches, etc.. Minimal evidence of man, pets, or man-made structures. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side.

In this nature challenge, show us your best images to illustrate the amazing colours found in nature. Your entries could be anything from vast landscapes, down to macro pictures of tiny creatures or plants. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions. Maximum size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on the long side.

For this challenge, show us your best examples of a single, live flower, still in its natural environment; not in a studio under lights, or in a vase or bowl. Macro and close-ups welcome. Small insects or spiders may be present, but must not dominate the picture. The flower is the subject. Size of your entry: 1,600 pixels on its longer side.

Mosses and lichens are two quite different plant species, and they have been a part of the ecological world for many millions of years. In this challenge, show us either lichen or moss; the beauty and interesting details that can be found in their textures, and colours. Refer to Wikipedia for Lichen: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lichen Refer to Wikipedia for...

In this challenge, show us some of the interesting insects you've captured with your cameras. There are many weird and wonderful ones out there, and this is an opportunity to share your pictures with us. Macro and close-ups welcome. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or man-made constructions. No spiders, please. The creepy critters should have six legs. If they have eight (or more) they will be...

This is the title of a centuries-old English nursery rhyme about church bells. However, in this challenge, show us EITHER oranges and lemons, the fruits, or similar-coloured fruit, such as tangerines, mandarins, grapefruit, OR aspects of nature which are orange and/or lemon in colour. They might include flowers, leaves, birds, insects, etc. Minimal evidence of man, pets, caged birds, or...

Show us in this challenge, examples of nature being blown about by the wind. Dandelion puff balls, birds feathers caught in a gust of wind, leaves blowing about on the ground, clouds scudding across the sky, waves whipped up by off-shored winds, etc etc. Macro and close-ups welcome. Please, no humans, no pets, no birds in captivity, minimal man-made constructions, and no man-made bubbles. Size...

This watercolour challenge invites your best abstract pictures of water, in its natural environment, where colours reflected from the sky, land or trees enhances the scene. Show us still, abstract reflected waters on a lake, gentle waters receding with the tide, or colourful water droplets in sunlight, etc. The colours should be natural and translucent like a watercolour painting, and not...

For many years, Sir David Attenborough, Naturalist Extraordinaire, has shown us the wonders of nature through his amazing documentaries, films and books. As a tribute to him, I'd like you to show us your pictures of nature, (animals, birds, insects, plant-life, corals, etc,) taken as a result of his inspiring work. Wikipedia has interesting information about him and his very busy life, even at...

In this challenge, show us interesting and beautiful ways that nature carpets the ground, perhaps with wildflowers, fallen leaves or petals, mosses, or snow or frost in winter. Show us the interesting details that can be found there, their textures, and their colours. Minimal evidence of humans, pets, or the results of human activity in cultivated fields, garden beds or grassy lawns. Think of...

In this NATURE challenge, show us your best examples of the minimalist principles where 'less is more'. Minimalism is an art style characterised by the smallest number of components used; ideally a simple background with open space, and a single element as the subject. You might choose to show single elements or use colour to give this same 'less is more' effect. As this is a nature challenge,...

In this nature challenge, show us pictures of edible, or culinary fruit, any variety of fruit, but they MUST still be growing on the trees, vines, bushes, shrubs, canes, plants, etc. Viewers who look at these entries will be able to see the trees where their oranges and apples come from, the grapes on their vines, or raspberries still on their canes. Photos of fruit in a bowl at home ready to...

This is a repeat of a popular 2013 challenge, so here's your opportunity to show us your latest captures of amazing insects with their wings in action, displaying their beauty, colours, and speed. The insects should be flying around in their natural environment. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Size: MAXIMUM 1,600px on LONGER SIDE. Make sure your entry is 1,600px MAXIMUM on its longer side....

Here's your chance to show us your best pictures of seabirds, those which live in a marine environment, and rely on the sea for their livelihood. You can enter photos of very large albatrosses, pelicans, gulls, egrets, penguins, puffins, marine ducks and geese, or smaller waterbirds such as sandpipers and plovers which live along the shorelines. They can be in flight, or swimming, or seeking...

This is the final challenge about leaves in the four seasons. In this challenge, show us the dead or dying leaves of winter. The bright colours of the autumn leaves have faded, and all that's left are leaves still hanging desperately on the tree branch, or lying on the ground, waiting to provide nutrients for new growth in the cycle of life. Macro and close-ups welcome. Minimal evidence of...

I'm aware that this is the title of a 1990's protest song, but I am not looking for protest pictures for this challenge. Instead, show us examples of EITHER little things in nature, (eg. plants, baby birds or animals,) OR big things (large trees, adult birds and animals, etc). Perhaps your entry is able to include both the big and the little. Please, no humans, domestic pets or birds which have...

This challenge is to showcase the interesting examples you have of natural wrinkles, or folds in our environment. You can think big, (geological folds in the earth's crust from millions of years ago), or you can think very small, (insects' wings still wrinkled when they hatch.) Or maybe in between, with wrinkled leaves, flower petals, the skin of animals or birds... Please no humans, dogs, cats...

In this nature challenge, show us pictures consisting of these three colours: blue, green and white. Other colours may be present but must be very, very minor. Your entries might be landscapes or seascapes, flowering plants, birds, etc, but all three colours MUST be present, or the entry will be disqualified. Macro and close-ups welcome. Make sure your entry is 1,600px MAXIMUM on its longer...

This challenge seeks your best images of the flamboyant, very photogenic hibiscus flowers. Often seen in the tropics, they also grow well in temperate climates. Your entry may be of a single flower, part of the flower, or numerous flowers on the hibiscus shrub. Insects or spiders may be present, but should not dominate the picture. I will also accept mallows and other species in the Malvaceae...

Recently, I hosted an 'Unwelcome, Undesirable Insects or Spiders' challenge. Today's challenge is for you to show us some of the beneficial insects or spiders which help mankind. Bees are an obvious choice, since they pollinate the fruit, vegetables, and flowers in our world. But there are many other helpful insects: silkworms produce silk, ladybirds, praying mantids, hoverflies and other...

Is that an alien I see? In this NATURE challenge show us pictures you've taken which you think appear to be not quite of this world. Could this really be a genuine plant/ insect/ spider/ flower.... ? Show us the amazing natural oddities here on earth, which could be from somewhere 'out there'. Macro and close-ups welcome. Please, no humans, domestic pets or birds which have lost their freedom....

This is the third challenge about leaves in the four seasons. Show us in this challenge the wonderful colours of autumn (fall) leaves. With summer gone, the leaves are beginning to show signs of hard wear from the weather: heat, rain, winds, and are now displaying their beautiful colours. Macro and close-ups welcome. Insects or small creatures may be present on or near the leaves but should not...

Yes, I know that this is a human, subjective view of the world, that we see aspects of nature as beautiful or ugly, and not as the animals, birds, insects, plants see themselves. Given that proviso, show us what you consider really, really ugly in nature. Man-made ugliness will be disqualified, and no people, or domestic pets. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600 pixels on the...

In this nature challenge, show us your interpretation of the wonder of life: in plants, animals, birds, insects, spiders, reptiles, or fish, etc. Please, no humans or domestic pets, or birds which have lost their freedom. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side. And no, DPR does NOT reduce the sizes of the entries for you. You need to do this yourself BEFORE...

This Macro Nature challenge invites you to show us pictures of insects, spiders, or other small creatures in their natural habitat, amongst grasses, leaves, plant stems, flowers, etc. Pictures where the insects or spiders dominate a single flower or leaf and there is a plain background will be disqualified, since that does not give us the impression of 'life in the jungle'. Think busy scenes,...

This nature challenge invites you to enter images which you feel show an element of serenity, or peacefulness and tranquility. Humans, domestic pets, and man-made constructions (including high voltage power lines), should be minimal, and should not dominate the picture. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size, 1,600 pixels on the longer side. And no, DPR does NOT reduce the sizes of the entries for...

Here's your opportunity to show the world the problems insects or spiders can cause in our domestic lives. I'm thinking termites, wasps, stinging ants, bee swarms in unwanted places, bed bugs, midges which drive animals and Scottish Highlanders insane with their bites, leeches, (yes, I know they aren't insects or spiders), and any other nasties you can suggest. Entries of insects or spiders...

This is the second challenge about leaves in the four seasons. Show us in this challenge the green leaves of SUMMER, their ability to give us shade and shelter from the hot sun, protection for birds, animals or insects to raise their young, and protection for the fruits on the trees or smaller plants. Macro and close-ups welcome. Insects may be present on the leaves but should not dominate the...

Over time, nature has been producing wonderful sculptures through its harsh weather: erosion, wind, water, sun. These 'sculptures' might be made of hard sedimentary or volcanic rock, soft sand which moves with the tides or wind, icebergs or glaciers, or the sculptures might be living trees or plants which have interesting shapes. No animals or birds in this challenge, and definitely no man-made...

Show us the beauty and and unusual details in mushrooms, toadstools or other fungi in their natural environment. (No mushrooms sliced and diced ready for a Stir Fry or Mushroom Sauce.) Insects or other small creatures may be present in your entry but must not dominate the picture. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Make sure your entry is 1,600px MAXIMUM on its longer side. DPR does NOT resize...

Sometimes nature can overload our senses, so we lose the ability to appreciate its beauty and magnificence. Nature's natural colours can be very flamboyant, or geographically, a landscape can so huge and inspiring, (the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls), deserts can be too vast, oceans too deep, that we lose our sense of perspective. Very vivid flowers, or brilliant autumn leaves might be examples...

This challenge is all about those interesting plants which rely on the support from other plants or structures to head skywards, because their stems are usually thin and can't support their own weight. Show us examples of vines, climbers, the leaves or tendrils, flowers or seeds. Macro or close-ups welcome. Small insects or spiders can be present, but should not dominate the picture. Size of...

Black is a very dramatic colour in nature's landscape. It is the darkest color, the result of the absence of or complete absorption of light, and the opposite of white (the combined spectrum of colour or light). It is an achromatic colour, literally a colour without colour or hue. (Wikipedia). The colour black relates to the hidden, the secretive and the unknown, and as a result it creates an...

This challenge is about seeds, and the interesting seed pods/capsules/cases which hold and protect the fruit inside them until they are ready to grow into the next generation of plants. Your entry should show BOTH the seed case or capsule, AND the seeds or fruit inside. Macro and close-ups welcome. SIZE of entry: 1,600 pixels. Entrants who choose to enter over-size shots will not be invited to...

Sometimes nature can overload our senses, so we lose the ability to appreciate the beauty or magnificence of what we are looking at. Nature's natural colours can be very flamboyant, or perhaps a landscape is so huge and magnificent, such as the Grand Canyon, or Niagara Falls, deserts can be too vast, oceans too deep, that we lose our sense of perspective. Very vivid flowers, or brilliant...

This is the first challenge about leaves in the four seasons. Show us in this challenge the new, fresh leaves which have just opened in spring, and haven't yet toughened up for the hot days of summer, and the changing weather which the leaves will have to endure. Macro and close-ups welcome. Insects may be present on the leaves but should not dominate the picture. Size of entry: 1,600pixels on...

In this challenge, show us examples of the interesting geometric shapes found naturally in our environment. I know that everything has its own shape, but I'd like to see images where the geometric shape is the dominant subject, such as triangles, squares, circles, spheres, etc. No man-made geometric shapes please. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side. For...

This challenge gives you the opportunity to showcase your interesting nature pictures taken after the rain has stopped. You may show us examples of water drops on flowers, insects, leaves, spiderwebs. Alternatively you might show us how the land responds on a larger scale, with new plants sprouting in the moist earth, or puddles left after the rain, water levels rising in rivers and streams,...

The flowers of weeds can be as beautiful as those plants we cultivate, even though they can be annoying in our tidy garden beds or pristine lawns. Show us the beauty in these flowers, in their natural world. I know that a weed in one country may be a treasure somewhere else, but it is what YOU consider to be a weed where you live. Please don't enter wildflowers, which grow in the countryside on...

At this time of the year, we give and receive gifts from family and friends. In this challenge, share with us all a gift of a beautiful aspect of nature, through your photography. Perhaps your gift will be a beautiful flower or a tree which appeals to our senses, a view of a stunning landscape, free-flying birds, fresh water, (the ultimate gift of life), a honey bee helping to produce the foods...

In years gone by, it was difficult for most of us to see the minuscule wonders in nature just with the naked eye. Digital cameras and their macro lenses allow us to appreciate these microscopic marvels of nature. In this challenge, show us examples of nature in its most minuscule forms, such as insects, spiders, fungi, plants and flowers, or inanimate natural objects. You may use either cameras...

This challenge is all about shadows, but the entries MUST be nature-based. This is a colour challenge, so no black and white, or monochromatic entries please. The subjects of your entries is up to you, but must be natural. Man-made objects or constructions should be minimal, and not the subject of your picture; no humans, or domestic pets. The shadows must be shadows, NO reflections or...

I hope this challenge won't send you to sleep, but instead give you the opportunity to show us examples of birds, animals, insects, flowers, plants which have gone to sleep, or are dormant. Your entry might be birds or animals resting (with eyes closed), or flowers which close for the night. It might be animals in hibernation, or trees which have lost their leaves in winter. Seeds can lie...

Pink, the colour somewhere between red and white, is an inviting, warm colour in nature's palette. History has linked it with love, beauty, femininity, sensitivity and romance. We see many shades and tones of pink in nature, from the palest pink of apple blossom, to the hot, hot pink of some birds, which almost hurts your eyes; leaves, salt lakes, rock crystals, birds or animals, shells and...

Before humans left their marks on walls and buildings, nature was already demonstrating graffiti in interesting places. Show us some examples of this. It may be carvings by beetles under tree bark, snail trails, leaves with wandering paths beneath their surfaces caused by tiny insects, tidal marks in the beach sand... Please, no graffiti or markings made by humans or domestic pets, and minimal...

In this challenge show us examples of the softness and beauty we find around us in the early morning light, before the freshness is lost when the day's heat, weather, dust, bright sunshine, hustle and bustle of daily life takes over. Think of dew on the grass, mists rising from the lake or river, sunlight filtering through the trees, birds singing their wake-up songs. This is NOT a sunrise...

The subject of the bark on tree trunks has always been popular with photographers. Show us your best, and most interesting images, their texture, pattern, colour, light and shade, rough and smooth. If you know the name of the tree, let us know. Small insects or birds on the bark may be present, but they must not dominate the picture. SIZE of entry: 1,600 pixels on the longer side. Macro and...

In this nature challenge, show us images of ducks, geese or swans, that is, birds in the Anatidae family. Your entries can be a single bird, or pairs, families or flocks; in water, on land, or in flight mode. Please, no chickens, turkeys, peacocks, or any other species. No roast duck, no Peking Duck... Evidence of man or man-made objects should be minimal. Size: 1,600 pixels on the longer side...

Before humans left their marks on walls and buildings, nature was already demonstrating graffiti in interesting places. Show us some examples of this. It may be carvings by beetles under tree bark, snail trails, leaves with wandering paths beneath their surfaces caused by tiny insects, tidal marks in the beach sand... Please, no graffiti or markings made by humans or domestic pets, and minimal...

This challenge gives you the opportunity to showcase your beautiful pictures where the subjects are sparkling like diamonds. For example, sun on dappled water, early morning dew on the grass, rough diamonds recently dug out of the ground or other rocks and minerals which sparkle, the sun on fresh snow, or ice crystals. Please, no ready-made jewellery, polished gemstones or man-made objects....

This is a repeat of a challenge from 2013, to showcase the interesting insects, Praying Mantids (or Mantis); order Mantodea. These insects can remain very, very still, then catch their prey at lightning speed. Show us praying mantids outside in their natural environment, not under artificial conditions. Google Praying Mantids for more information on these exceptional creatures. Macro and...

In this challenge show us interesting and unusual whiskers to be found in the animal world. Whiskers, (facial hair) on large or small animals, birds, fish and marine creatures. I am also accepting the whisker-like appendages on the faces of insects, spiders, caterpillars. Please, NO photos of whiskers on humans, or domestic pets. Macro and close-up photos welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px on the...

In this challenge, show us interesting examples of layers or strata in nature. This might be sedimentary layers in rocks, laid down over millions of years, and seen by us now because of erosion. It might be close-up pictures of fruit, vegetables or seeds, with their protective hard outer layers, another softer layer beneath the skin then the fruit pulp within. Perhaps a tree has fallen, and...

Brown is an interesting colour in nature's palette. It is quite a soothing colour against which brighter yellows, greens, reds and blues and white display to their best advantage. Show us some examples of brown which you find in nature, perhaps tree bark, leaves, mushrooms, earth, sand or rocks, insects, birds or animals. Macro and close-ups welcome. The colour brown can range from dark...

Here's a fun, humorous challenge for you. Choose a popular movie (film) title, and enter a NATURE picture which conveys this title, but which bears no relationship to the original movie/film. You can choose titles from films or television. Macro and close-ups welcome. Your entry title must be the title of the movie. There should be some humour in your entry, so a shot of a pond in autumn for...

This challenge is all about daisies, one of the largest families of flowering plants in the world, (Asteraceae, also called Compositae). They are found everywhere on Earth except Antarctica. A daisy is actually two flowers in one: the coloured petals and the cluster of (usually) tiny disc petals that form the "eye". Your daisies should be outside in the natural environment, alive, and not...

In this nature challenge, show us the interesting and delightful interaction between children and/or adults as they experience and learn about their natural environment, and the surprising things to be found out there. Please, no domestic animals or birds which have lost their freedom. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px on its longer side.

I'm repeating this nature challenge from mid-2013, since this seems to be a popular subject. Show us eyes: eyes of insects, spiders, birds, animals, reptiles, amphibians etc. Macro and close-ups welcome. Please, no eyes of humans, domestic pets, or birds who have lost their freedom. Size of entry: 1,600px MAXIMUM on the longer side.

Here's an interesting NATURE challenge for you! Show us examples of nakedness in the environment: bare trees in winter, dead tree trunks, seeds without their protective pods, flower heads after the petals have died, bare rocks, bare earth, bare bones in the desert, baby birds or animals before they have fledged or grown hair to cover themselves.... Absolutely NO NAKED HUMANS or parts thereof,...

This is the last of five challenges concerning the five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell. All the challenges are nature-based. This challenge is showcasing SOUND, or HEARING. Show us ears which assists hearing in animals, birds, or reptiles, or the sensory parts of insects or spiders which assists them to be aware of their surroundings. Alternatively, show us those subjects in...

In this nature challenge, show us examples of subjects which are flat. This might be a flat-shaped flower, an insect, a leaf, a landscape, sedimentary rocks or pebbles. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px on the longer side. Please, no humans, domestic pets, or man-made objects.

It's bath time in the natural world. Show us interesting examples of animals, birds, amphibians or reptiles cleaning themselves. Images of birds or animals having dust baths in order to rid themselves of lice or other insects are acceptable. Ducks or swimming birds won't be accepted unless they are obviously splashing, cleaning and preening their feathers. Insects and spiders grooming...

This is always a very popular subject, so I'm repeating it for your enjoyment. You may enter any type of bee, whether it is a honey bee, a bumble bee, a carpenter bee, or a native bee. The bee/bees should be outside, on flowers, leaves, buzzing around, or just doing what bees do. NO flies, hoverflies, other insects or spiders. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Since I expect that this will be a...

In this nature challenge, show the viewers something you have found which is beautiful, interesting, in an unexpected place, or makes you pause and wonder at it. Perhaps it is a flowering plant growing in a sidewalk, (footpath), an insect on a flower, where you didn't expect it to be, wave patterns in the sand, a 'face' in the bark of a tree.... There should be an element of surprise in your...

This was such a popular challenge recently, I am repeating it for your enjoyment. Your entry can show one bird or flocks of them, large birds or tiny ones, sitting on branches, in nests, swimming or flying. Please, no caged or domestic birds which have lost their freedom. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size: 1,600px on the longer side of your entry. As this will be another popular challenge,...

This challenge is to showcase the interesting and 'touch-me-not' flower heads such as thistles, teasels, (teasles, teazels) and other flowers which are very beautiful, but protect themselves from predators with their sharp prickles or spines. Your entries may be flowers, or seed heads after the flowers have died, but they MUST show some prickles, thorns or spines on or around the flower to...

This is the fourth of five challenges concerning the five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell. All the challenges are nature-based. This challenge is showcasing TASTE. Show us the mouths and tongues which assists tasting and eating, in animals, birds, or reptiles, or the mouth-parts and proboscises of insects, as they obtain their food etc. Alternatively, show us those things in nature...

This was a popular nature challenge in 2013, so I'm repeating it. As you stroll along, what do you see when you look down at the ground? Show us the beauty and interesting details of nature that can be found there, whether it is a new plant, insects or spiders, grass or weeds, tree bark or twigs, fallen leaves, berries, wildflowers, and their interesting textures, or colours. Please, no...

This challenge addresses the changing seasons in both the northern and the southern hemisphere. Folks living north of the equator, will be experiencing spring: new growth on the trees and plants, new-born animals, birds hatching from eggs, and small insects feeding on new growth. Those living south of the equator will be seeing autumn foliage, trees in amazing colours before their leaves fall,...

For all of you bird-watchers, here's your opportunity to showcase your flying and feathered beauties. Your entry can show one bird or flocks of them, large birds or tiny ones, sitting on branches, in nests, swimming or flying. Please, no caged or domestic birds which have lost their freedom. And no human females, even if they look like an old turkey or a cute young chick... :-) Macro and...

In this Nature Jigsaw Puzzle challenge, the subject is fauna, that is, animals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, insects, spiders etc etc. If it lives and breathes, and is part of our natural world, it's okay for entry here. The exception will be humans, domestic pets, and birds who have lost their freedom. The entry should be a very detailed and 'busy' scene which would make an ideal jigsaw...

If we look around us, we can find natural bubbles in our environment. Show us some of the interesting examples which you have found and captured. It might be in volcanic rocks which have bubbled up from the fiery earth below, or bubbles left after waves have receded on the shoreline, or bubbles trapped in ice. In the macro world, you might have examples of insects blowing bubbles, or the...

This is the third of five challenges concerning the five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell. All the challenges are nature-based. This challenge is showcasing SMELL. Show us EITHER the noses which assists smelling, in animals, birds, insects, spiders etc., OR the objects in nature suggesting smell or aroma in plants and flowers, insects, birds, natural landscapes. The smell can...

This challenge addresses the many and varied ways that flowers achieve pollination, that is, the fertilisation of the flowers so the plants will produce fruits or seeds. Honey bees are the obvious first choice, but native bees pollinate flowers, as do some wasps, butterflies, moths, beetles, flower spiders, some flies, small birds, bats, and small animals. Your entries should show the insect or...

This challenge is all about holes, singular or plural, which we find in nature. The hole/holes can be very very small, (an ant or spider's hole in the ground) or very, very large, (a sink hole, a crater, a cave opening, or blow hole on a rocky shoreline.) Your entry can be botanical, animal or mineral. No man-made structures, or holes caused by man. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size: 1,600px...

In this nature challenge, show us your pictures of reeds, bulrushes, plants or tree branches reflected in the calm waters of a pond, lake or river. There should be an element of serenity and peacefulness in your entry. No evidence of man, man-made objects or structures please. Size of entry: 1,600px MAXIMUM on the larger side. I am indebted for the idea of this challenge to the host,...

In this nature challenge, show us examples of tracks, footprints, or indications of movement where an animal has been, (vertebrate or invertebrate). Your entry might show crab tracks in the wet sand, beetle tracks, snail trails, bird footprints, animal paw prints. I'll accept the deep rutted tracks made by animals such as sheep, goats, cows, etc as they persistently use the same pathways to...

Modern-day VELCRO was designed by a Swiss inventor, George de Mestral, after he studied the burdock burrs clinging to his clothes and hair on his dog after a hike in the mountains. In this challenge, show us the sorts of prickly burrs (burs), or seed-sacs which cling to passers-by, in order to travel to new fertile ground. You may enter pictures of small prickly or sticky seeds such as burrs,...

This is the second of five challenges concerning the five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell. All are be nature-based. This challenge is showcasing TOUCH. Show us EITHER the fingers, claws, feet, antennae etc which assists touch, in animals, birds, insects, spiders etc., OR the texture of an object in nature suggesting smooth, rough, hard, soft,silky etc in plants and flowers,...

The theme of this challenge is the roots of trees, and the interesting patterns and shapes they display to the world above ground. The tree roots might be old and gnarled, and visible because of the soil movement or erosion, or they may be aerial roots of trees such as fig trees, or mangroves. Perhaps the tree started life in a rocky crevice, and its roots went searching for the soil and...

In this challenge, show us the clever forms of camouflage which insects, spiders, birds or animals use to protect themselves from other predators, or while they wait for their own meal to come by. Camouflage is a form of visual mimicry, and clever examples of mimicry will be accepted in the challenge if they are appropriate. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px MAXIMUM on its...

This challenge, the last of my Leaf Series, is looking for natural leaves with two or more colours in each leaf. The multiple colours in the leaves should be an integral part of the plant, such as we see in spring or summer, and not just the result of the colours changing in autumn. Show us the beauty of their unusual colour, details, veins and texture of the leaves. Your entry can be a single...

Yellow is considered to be a warm and cheerful colour, to brighten our lives, particularly for those in the northern hemisphere where the weather outside may be cold, wet, grey or unappealing. Show us some examples of yellow which you find in nature, perhaps a flower, autumn leaves, a mushroom, sand or rocks, insects, birds or animals. Macro and close-ups welcome. Please no humans, domestic...

This week's challenge: Spiders, in their natural environment. They should be outside, if that is where they live. However, if they live on the ceiling above your bed, then capture this image by all means.... :-) If you aren't sure whether it's a spider, count the legs. Six legs = an insect, eight legs = a spider, ten or more legs, it's something else, such as a centipede. We want to see...

This nature challenge focuses on grass, the most prolific plant species in the world, and which we often take for granted. Each day, we walk or play on it, eat the grains produced by it, (wheat, rice, corn, etc) use it for building construction, food production (bamboo, thatching or sugar cane), and use it to bind unstable soil or sand through its tough, but shallow fibrous root system....

This is the first of five challenges I'm planning with the five senses: sight, touch, sound, taste and smell. All are be nature-based. This challenge is showcasing SIGHT, (an easy one to start with.) Show us EITHER the eyes which view sight, in animals, birds, insects, spiders etc., OR what you see with your eyes, whether it is landscapes, plants and flowers, insects, birds. No humans' eyes...

In this Jigsaw Puzzle challenge, the subject is anything botanical. It can be trees, shrubs or bushes, plants, leaves, flowers, or lichens and mosses. The entry should be a very detailed and 'busy' scene which would make an ideal jigsaw puzzle. Think 1,000 piece "drive you crazy" picture. Macro and close-ups welcome. Man-made structures should be minimal. Small insects, birds or animals may be...

This challenge, which has been part of my Leaf Series, is looking for natural blue, grey or silver leaves. Show us the beauty of their unusual colour, details, veins and texture of the leaves. Your entry can be a single leaf or multiple leaves. Other leaves may be in the background, but the blue, grey or silver leaves should be dominant as the subject. Let nature show us the true colour of the...

In this FULL COLOUR challenge, show us pictures in nature where the subject is in monochrome, that is, in different shades or tones of a SINGLE colour. NO entries in black & white only, or sepia. You may enter photos of any colour, for example green, but the whole picture must be in shades of green. Ditto white, yellow, pink, red.... See my examples below. Macro and close-ups welcome. Please,...

This nature challenge is repeated by request. It's the end of the year, so let's see some end views of insects, spiders and other arthropods. We spend so much time trying to capture the faces and eyes of these creatures that we often overlook their interesting and often colourful abdomens Show us their rear view, (not side or front views.) Macro and close-up shots welcome. Please, no humans,...

At this time of the year, when we are giving and receiving gifts from family and friends, consider the gifts that nature gives to us. This might be a beautiful flower which appeals to your senses, a view of a stunning landscape, fresh water, (the ultimate gift of life), a honey bee helping to produce the foods which we eat..... Show us what you consider a gift from nature. Please, no humans,...

In this insect challenge show us pictures of DAMSELFLIES, (Order Odonata, Suborder Zygoptera) the much daintier smaller cousins of dragonflies. Macro shots welcome. NO photos of Dragonflies (Order Odonata, Suborder Anisoptera) please. They are usually bigger and sturdier than damselflies and had their own challenge recently. http://bugguide.net/node/view/190/bgpage will provide more information...

In this challenge in the 'Leaf' series, here is your opportunity to show us two (2) natural leaves, which are different in colour, texture, size or age. One might be green, the second leaf another colour, or dried, one might be large, the other small; one smooth, the other serrated and rough-textured. Other leaves may be in the picture, but the two leaves which are the subjects should dominate....

This challenge is about delicacy or fragility in nature. Your entries may be those plants, flowers, insects or animals which are delicate. Alternatively, they may appear deceptively delicate to us while in their own environment they are actually strong and robust. A dragonfly's wings look delicate, while they are surprisingly strong. Beautiful lacy spiderwebs are not really delicate, since they...

Here's your chance to display the weird and wonderful pictures you've collected over the years of plants, animals, insects, birds etc which appear to be having a 'bad hair day'. Only subjects found in nature, please, and no humans, domestic birds or animals. Macro and close-up photos welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px on the longer side.

In this challenge show us examples where life is a struggle for survival, in places such as deserts, barren lands, the Arctic or the Antarctic tundras. This might be through lack of water in the deserts, or permafrost in the tundras, or continual harsh weather on rocky inhospitable land. The life in these places might be plants, lichens, insects or spiders, reptiles, animals or birds.......

This insect challenge is just for photos of DRAGONFLIES, (Order Odonata, Suborder Anisoptera) possibly the fastest fliers in the insect kingdom. http://bugguide.net/node/view/191/bgpage will provide more information about dragonflies. NO photos of Damselflies (Order Odonata, Suborder Zygoptera). They are smaller than dragonflies, and will have a separate challenge later. Macro shots welcome....

In this challenge, show us ONE RED LEAF, the beauty of its colour, details, veins and texture. The leaf can be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, or it might have fallen to the ground. Other leaves may be in the background, but the single red leaf should be dominant as the subject. Please, no yellow, green, brown, pink, purple or orange leaves, no flowers of any colour in this...

This is the title of Richard Llewellyn's book, which was subsequently made into a film, then later a television series. Here, I'd like to see examples of (would you believe?) green valleys. Tell us the location of your valley, if you know it. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM on the entry's longer side.

In this Jigsaw Puzzle challenge, the subject is to be an abstract of nature. It must be 1. Part of the natural world. 2. An abstract picture. 3. A very detailed and 'busy' scene which would make an ideal jigsaw puzzle. Think 1,000 piece "drive you crazy" picture. Your entry might be a waterscape, landscape, leaves, tree bark, flowers, animals in the wild, an insect's wing, patterns in the...

This challenge is all about the beautiful curves which we see in nature. Perhaps the curve is in a leaf, a petal, a wave at sea, a seashell. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the natural environment. Please, no domestic animals. Macro and close-ups welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

In this challenge show us photos of insects, spiders or other arthropods which can bite or sting us, (humans or animals.) Think mosquitos, ants, bees, wasps, venomous spiders such as the Black Widow in America, or the Redback in Australia, scorpions, etc. This challenge is NOT about insects stinging other insects or eating them. Where possible, the insects or spiders should be outside in their...

In this challenge, show us natural leaves coloured pink or purple, the beauty of their unusual colour, details, veins and texture of the leaves. Your entry can be a single leaf or multiple leaves. The leaves can be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, or they might have fallen to the ground. Other leaves may be in the background, but the pink or purple leaves should be dominant as the...

The evocative title of Thomas Hardy's book is a line taken from Gray's 'Elegy Written in a Country Churchyard'. It offers us the opportunity to share some interesting photographs of lonely, quiet, rural, contemplative places. Please DON'T enter shots of graveyards; just quiet, isolated places. Man-made structures can be present, but should not dominate the picture. Tell us the location of your...

I've been asked to repeat some of the Jigsaw Puzzle Challenges, which I started back in 2012. In this challenge, show us an example of something very busy, and detailed: a natural landscape, a seascape, a forest, plants, flowers, trees, birds or animals in the wild, insects, etc etc which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. Man-made structures, (roads, buildings, bridges etc.,) should be...

Here's your chance to show us nature at its most flamboyant and colourful best. Sometimes we see trees, flowers, birds, insects, rocks etc in such bright colours that they surprise and disturb our senses. Your entries can be these discordant colours, or they can just be very vivid and bright. But let NATURE take centre-stage, NOT your saturated post-processing. (If entries look unrealistic...

In this challenge, show us one natural orange leaf, its beauty, detail, veins and texture of the leaf. Macro and close-up photos welcome. The single orange leaf can be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, but it might have fallen, and attracted you to it where it lies. Other leaves may be in the background, but there should be only one dominant leaf as the subject.This is the fourth of...

In this challenge, show us subjects which are shiny in nature, where the texture of the subject is smooth and (usually) highly reflective. Show us shiny sea shells, the hard exoskeleton wings of beetles, shiny leaves, pebbles, rocks or wood polished by the weather. The subject of your entry must be tangible, and able to be touched, so sunshine, sunsets, reflections of water, will probably be...

Have you taken a stroll beside a river, fresh water lake, pond, lagoon or canal recently? Show us interesting examples of life here. This is a nature challenge, so show us water ripples, reflections of reeds, overhanging branches, waterbirds, fish, canoeists, swimmers etc. Please, NO noisy activities which disturb the peace in the water. Beside the water, you might see trees, leaves, flowers,...

This challenge gives you an opportunity to showcase some unusual, interesting insects, or arthropods which you've captured on your camera. Let's think beyond honey bees, bumblebees, butterflies etc to some of the more unusual creatures you've found. If you don't know what they are, then another member might know. Where possible, the insects or spiders should be outside in their natural...

In this challenge show us examples where colours in nature harmonise together. I know that this is very subjective, but I'd like to see what colours YOU think are harmonious, and are pleasing in YOUR eyes. I'm not just referring to 'complementary colours' of red-green, yellow-violet etc., but I want to see pictures which you find pleasing to view, and perhaps tell us why. Preferences for colour...

In this challenge, show us one natural brown leaf, its beauty, detail, veins and texture of the leaf. Macro and close-up photos welcome. The single brown leaf may be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, but it has probably fallen, and attracted you to it where it lies. Other leaves may be in the background, but there should only be one dominant leaf as the subject.This is the third of...

The structure of a bird's feather is quite amazing when looked at through a Macro lens or a microscope. The design is quite specific for each species of bird, whether the feathers are to aid flight, waterproofing, downy to keep warm, muted to camouflage, or brightly-coloured to display themselves to the world. Show us examples of the beautiful design of feathers, a single feather or many. ...

Do you have the opportunity sometimes to take a walk in a park? Show us interesting examples of life in the park. This is a nature challenge, so think trees, leaves, flowers, leaf litter, birds and bees, people having lunch, children playing together... Tell us the location of your park if known. It should be a park or garden open to the public, not a private garden. Macro and close-ups...

In nature we often see examples of things suspended in midair, sometimes for protection, sometimes by accident. Show us what you've found suspended. It might be a spiderweb, a caterpillar hanging by a single thread, an insects' or a bird's nest Maybe it's an icicle or a stalactite, a plant growing in a precarious place; perhaps a vine or branch crossing a void to form a natural bridge. Where...

This challenge is seeking examples of the way everything in nature changes over time. Perhaps you see this in the life cycle of a plant, an insect, or an animal. Tiny plants become mighty trees, which die, and become the host for other plants and animals. Old leaves become the mulch for new plants to thrive. Rocky headlands erode and become sand on the beaches or new habitats for underwater...

In this challenge, show us one natural yellow leaf, its beauty, detail, veins and texture of the leaf. Macro and close-up photos welcome. The single yellow leaf may be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, or it may have fallen, and attracted you to it where it lies. Other leaves may be in the background, but there should only be one dominant leaf as the subject. The leaf may be...

This is always a popular subject in photography, and with good reason! Show us the beauty of dewdrops on leaves, flowers, insects, spiders and their webs, and the wonderful delicacy during their short existence. Please NO raindrops, which will be DQ'd from this challenge. As this is a nature challenge, no photos of waterdrops with beautiful post-processed images within the drops.; save these...

Do you have happy childhood memories of spending days at the beach, of sun, sand and surf? Show us interesting examples of nature by the sea. This is a nature challenge, so think rockpools, seaweed, shells, wading birds, footprints in the sand, driftwood, breaking waves, fishing, children building sand castles, etc.... Please NO scantily-clad men or women, and NO slow-speed cotton candy shots...

In this challenge, let us see examples of spots or dots in nature, perhaps on flowers, plants, tree bark, insects or spiders, wild (undomesticated) animals or birds, the first drops of rain on dry ground, etc. By 'spot' I mean a mark on a surface differing sharply in colour or texture from its surroundings. Macro and close-ups welcome. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the...

We tend to look at flowers from above, as they display their beauty to the sun, and be attractive to insects, birds etc. However, they can look quite different from below. Show us examples of upward-facing flowers backlit by the overhead sun. Get your camera down to ground-level, and see these flowers from a different aspect. White daisies are often shot this way, but they are just too easy for...

In this challenge, show us seed pods: EITHER pods or capsules with their seeds still inside, after the flowers have bloomed, OR the pods are empty now, but are still interesting to look at for their textures, shape, colour and size. They should be in their natural environment, still on or near the plant whether it is a tree, shrub, small plant or grass. Insects, spiders or other small creatures...

In this challenge, show us one natural green leaf, its beauty, detail, veins and texture of the leaf. Macro and close-up photos welcome. The single green leaf may be outside, still attached to the tree or plant, or it may have fallen, and attracted you to it where it lies. Other leaves may be in the background, but there should only be one dominant leaf as the subject. This is the first of a...

This challenge is for you to show us your best and most interesting beetles (Order Coleoptera) or true bugs (Order Hemiptera), displaying their interesting shapes and colours. Beetles tend to have a split down the back of their hard-shell wings, and have chewing mouth parts. Bugs typically have diagonally-crossed wings, and a long proboscis for feeding. Where possible, the beetles or bugs...

Here's an interesting one for you, to show us evidence that life was around a long, long time ago. The fossils, such as shells, animals, petrified wood may be still in situ out there in the natural world, or you may have interesting specimens which you use as paperweights or doorstops! Please, NO photos of elderly grandparents as this may offend those of us in our dotage. Size, 1,600px MAXIMUM...

Grey is not my most favourite colour, yet I've noticed there are some very interesting shades of grey in the natural world. Here's your opportunity to show us some of them. Your pictures might be of drift wood, moths' wings, spiders, feathers, (with or without the owners), rocks or pebbles, grey clouds in the sky, foggy mornings. No domestic animals. Please, full colour photos only, DON'T...

In this challenge, show us examples in nature of subjects which are hollow. This might be a giant log which has become hollow through old age and decay, lava tubes, ice caves, or it may be something very small, such as marine tubeworm shells, bamboo, dried grass stalks. Macro and close-ups welcome. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the natural environment. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM...

Nature has a wonderful way of reclaiming its lost land. Show us examples where nature has found ways to start new life, through plants, moss, fungi etc., often in extremely harsh, unwelcome places. The plants can be between bricks, stones, concrete, steel, asphalt, or other man-made structures. Show us the sense of struggle and survival between the tiny plant and the large structure. Please NO...

In the world of insects and spiders, show us the interesting details and hairiness of these creatures' legs, which isn't visible with our naked eyes. Show us your best photos of these hirsute, or in some cases, prickly, or spiny legs. Macro and close-up photos welcome. Where possible, the insects or spiders should be outside in their natural environment, (unless you too have Daddy-Long-Legs and...

By request, here is an opportunity for you to showcase interesting and beautiful seashells (molluscs). The shells may still be enjoying life at the seaside, or you may have the shells at home where you can still admire the intricacies of these remarkable molluscs. Please, NO photos of fine dining with oysters on a bed of rock salt, snails in garlic butter, seafood paella etc. I will allow...

If we look around, we can see many examples of nature using repeating patterns, on leaves, flowers, seed pods, tidal marks at the beach, clouds in the sky, sedimentary rocks,.... Show us your interesting examples of these patterns. Where possible, the patterns should be outside in the natural environment. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Size, 1,600px MAXIMUM

In this challenge, show us examples of roughness in nature, where the texture of the subject is dominant. Show us craggy rocks, coarse tree bark, textured leaves....The subject should appear to be rough relative to its environment. Macro and close-ups welcome. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the natural environment. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Show us examples of flowers, in nature, which hold their heads down, rather than up to the sunlight. You may enter photos of a single flower or multiples, looking straight at the flowers, or from below, peering inside them to see their inner secrets. Where possible, the flowers should be outside in the natural environment. Please, NO flowers in vases or dried arrangements. Macro and close-up...

In this challenge, show us examples of some very detailed aspects of nature. We have just seen examples of the simplicity of nature; now let us see the wonderful intricate details of nature. Flowers, plants, insects, small animals, (not domestic), etc. Macro and close-up photos welcome. Size of entry: 1,600px MAXIMUM on its longer side. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the...

By request, this challenge is being repeated, as the first one was popular, and filled very quickly. In this challenge, show us examples of simplicity in nature, perhaps a grass stalk, a leaf, a pebble or shell at the beach. Your entries should be VERY SIMPLE and MINIMAL. Less is better in this challenge. If the entry is considered too busy and detailed, it will be DQ'd. Macro and close-ups...

This challenge gives you the opportunity to showcase some interesting insects, or arthropods which you've captured on your camera. Let's think beyond honey bees, bumblebees, butterflies etc to some of the more unusual creatures you've found. If you don't know what they are, then another member might know. The insects should be outside in the natural world if possible, doing their natural...

In this challenge, show us interesting and beautiful mosses; the beauty and details found in their textures, and colours. These are some of the very earliest plant-life of the ancient world, and there are known to be at least 12,000 species. The mosses should be outside in their natural environment. Macro and close-up photos are welcome. (Lichens, which have different botanical structures have...

In this challenge, show us examples of smoothness in nature, perhaps a flower petal, a leaf, nuts or seed pods, the hard, shiny exoskeleton of a beetle, a pebble at the beach... The subject should appear to be smooth relative to its environment. (Water-worn rocks in a riverbed or beneath a waterfall are acceptable, though we know that up close they are quite rough). Macro and close-ups...

Here is your opportunity to show us photos you've captured recently of the weather that has been making life so difficult in many parts of the world. Your entry may be of dramatic snow storms, frozen rivers, the chaos of attempting to travel in many parts of the US and Canada, the floods which have inundated parts of Britain and Europe, typhoons in Asia, or bushfires in Australia.You may enter...

In this challenge, show us a photo of something in the natural world which brought a smile to your face. Perhaps it was an insect, spider or other small creature, a flower or plant, or maybe rocks. Macro and close-ups welcome. Size 1,600px MAXIMUM.

For this New Year, show us photos of new life in the world of very small creatures (arthropods) or plantlife. This might be baby insects or spiders, eggs, or tiny new plants rising from the earth. If possible, photos should be taken outside in the natural environment. Macro shots and close-ups welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

This challenge is repeated by request. It's the end of the year, so let's see some end views of insects, spiders and other arthropods. We spend so much time trying to capture the faces and eyes of these creatures that we often overlook their interesting and often colourful abdomens Show us their rear view, (not side or front views.) Macro and close-up shots welcome. The creatures should be...

Here's a challenge, at this time of gift-giving, to show us interesting ways nature wraps its treasures. The subject may be the outer wrapping OR the treasure inside, or both. This might be a seed pod, a case moth (or bagworm), a shell, a bud just opening, a rock with crystals hidden inside.... Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

In this challenge show us examples in nature, of birds, animals, fish, plants, flowers, insects or spiders, etc., which have been given nicknames which describe them well. The names will not be their scientific names, but have been adopted into common usage because that is what the subjects look, feel, sound, smell or taste like. Examples which come to mind include spoonbills, parrotfish,...

In this challenge, show us examples of the beauty of simplicity in nature, perhaps a grass stalk, a leaf, a pebble or shell at the beach,.... If the entry is too 'busy' and detailed, I may ask you to withdraw it and submit a simpler picture. Less is better in this challenge. Macro and close-ups welcome. Where possible, the subject should be outside in the natural environment. SIZE: 1,600px...

In this challenge, show us the clever forms of mimicry that insects, spiders, or other small arthropods use to trick their predators into believing they are unpalatable or dangerous. Some flowers use mimicry to entice pollination. Camouflage is a form of visual mimicry, and clever examples of camouflage will be accepted in the challenge if they are appropriate. (The insect or spider must be...

Show us Macro or close-up examples of flowers, plants or leaves (or anything botanical) which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. The entry can be just one flower, leaf or plant, or lots of them. Insects or spiders etc may be present, but the flowers or plants must be the dominant subject of the picture. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of minute details.... :-)...

In this challenge show us examples in nature, of plants, flowers, insects or spiders, etc., which have been given names which describe them well. The names will not be their scientific names, but have been adopted into common usage because that is what the subjects looks like. Examples which come to mind include lady slipper orchids, bachelor's buttons, bottle brushes (callistemons,) powder...

Here's your chance to showcase those unusual little Arthropod critters which don't fit into the world of spiders or insects. These include scorpions, centipedes, millipedes, slaters, (woodlice or pill bugs), mites, ticks, small crustaceans; (no lobsters or large crabs, please.....) Macro and close-up shots welcome. Where possible, the subjects should be outside in their natural environment....

In this challenge show us examples of abstract beauty in nature. The subject might be a leaf, tree bark, a rocky outcrop, patterns in the sand, an insect's wing, etc., but it must be recognisable as a natural object, and not man-made. Where possible, the abstract subject should be outside in its natural environment. Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Here's an interesting challenge for you. Show us examples of insects or spiders, (or other arthropods) in the act of moulting, OR their abandoned and cast-off exoskeletons, or outer skins. Macro and close-up shots welcome. If the insect or spider is in the act of moulting, it should be outside in its natural environment. MAXIMUM SIZE 1,600px.

This may be an interesting challenge for you to find examples of sharp angles in nature, where curves and smooth lines are the norm. The triangles, squares, diamonds, rectangles rhomboids, polygons etc should be outside in the natural environment. Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Ants are always a popular subject, to photograph, even when they won't stay still! So show us your best photos of these little hard workers in their natural environment, (either one or many ants). Get up close and personal, but try not to get bitten.... :-) The ant/ants should be outside, not inside under artificial conditions. Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE 1,600px MAXIMUM!

Here is your opportunity to showcase the beauty and intricacy of these remarkable insect-catchers. Your photo could be a complete web, with spider, or just part of one. The spider may be present, but the web MUST be the main subject: more web, less spider. Macro and close-up shots welcome. The photos should be taken outside in their natural environment, (unless you too have spider webs in your...

In this challenge, show us the interesting places where insects, spiders or other arthropods make their homes, perhaps to stay protected and dry from the weather, or where they raise their young. Think bee hives, wasps' nests, ants' nests, insects or spiders who have woven leaves together to protect themselves against the world. (Note: The well-known and much-photographed aerial webs of spiders...

Show us Macro or close-up examples of insects, spiders or other arthropods which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. The entry can be just one insect or spider or lots of them. Flowers or plants etc may be present, but the insects or spiders must be the dominant subject of the picture. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of minute details.... :-) SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM...

Here's your chance to show off your best pictures of dandelions, (Taraxacum species), either the flowers or the puffballs, or both. For many folks, this is one of the first subjects they shoot when trying out Macro photography, so enjoy showing us your works of art. Macro and close-up shots welcome. The dandelions should be outside in their natural environment, not inside under artificial...

Some insects have amazing see-through wings, which appear to be extremely fragile, though they probably aren't. Show us examples of these wings, their beauty and their interesting structure. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Where possible, if the insect is still alive it should be outside in its natural environment. MAXIMUM SIZE 1,600px.

In this challenge, show us interesting and beautiful lichens; the beauty and interesting details that can be found in their textures, and colours. These are some of the very earliest plant-life of the ancient world. The lichens should be outside in their natural environment if possible. Macro and close-up photos are welcome. (Mosses, which have different botanical structures will have their own...

In this challenge, show us beautiful butterflies, Order Lepidoptera. They are the flamboyant members of the insect world. They (generally) hold their resting wings upright. (Moths are more modest in appearance than butterflies, and hold their resting wings flat. They had their own challenge recently, so any moths which flutter into the challenge will be DQ'd.) Show us butterflies alive and...

Show us the unique and interesting ways nature uses spirals, whether in plants, flowers, seeds pods, in insects ands spiders, (the ultimate spiral makers), or shells etc. Subjects should be taken outside in their natural environment, if possible, not inside under artificial conditions. No flat circles, or spheres. Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Here's your chance to show us these amazing insects with their wings in action. showing off their beauty, colours, and speed. The insects should be flying around in their natural environment. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Size: MAXIMUM 1,600px on LONGER SIDE.

Show us an example of a very detailed seascape or waterscape which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. Think lots of water whether it is an ocean, a beach, a lake, a waterfall or a river! There can be evidence of man-made structures, such as roads, buildings, bridges over the water, but they should not dominate the entry. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of minute...

Yes, this challenge is giving flies (Order Diptera) the opportunity to show their talents??? and redeem themselves in the eyes of the public who just see them as pests needing to be swatted or sprayed. You may enter any type of flies, (order Diptera) whether they are house flies, hover flies, robber flies, time flies, even mosquitoes and gnats, (which are in the same family). The flies should...

In this challenge, show us interesting and beautiful ways that nature carpets the ground, perhaps with wildflowers, fallen leaves, mosses, or even frost in winter. Show us the beauty and interesting details that can be found there, in their textures, and colours. Please, NO cultivated fields or man-made coverings such as garden beds, grass or lawn. Think soft and natural! SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM...

In this challenge, let us see photos of true bugs, (Order Hemiptera), showing off their interesting shapes and colours. Bugs typically have diagonally-crossed wings, and a proboscis for feeding. The bugs must be outside in their natural environment, on leaves, flowers, trees, just doing what comes naturally to them, not inside under studio lights. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Refer to...

In this challenge, show us spheres or balls formed by nature. This might be a flower, a dandelion puffball, a fruit or seed, a drop of water as dew, or the moon. Subjects should be taken outside in their natural environment, not inside under studio lights. No flat, one-dimensional circles, or spirals this time. Waterdrops should be natural, NOT those captured by high speed flash in a studio....

This challenge is only for INSECTS' or SPIDERS' eyes. Show us your best close-up or Macro photos of these interesting parts of their anatomy, which are so different from our own eyes. The insects or spiders should be outside in their natural environment, on leaves, flowers, trees, just doing what comes naturally for them, not inside under studio lights. Size: MAXIMUM 1,600px on LONGER SIDE.

Here's your chance to show us a very detailed picture inside a building or man-made structure: perhaps a shopping centre, a place of worship, hardware store, supermarket, a ship, or other place whose internal view would make a very busy, drive-you-crazy jigsaw puzzle. Your entry could be an overall view of the building interior, or a close-up of its contents, or merchandise on display. Think...

In this challenge, show us the beauty of moths, Order Lepidoptera. Moths are flying insects which (generally) hold their resting wings flat. Their antennae do NOT have the 'knobs' at the tips seen on butterflies.They are usually more modest in appearance than their butterfly cousins. Many are night-flyers. (Butterflies are mostly day-flyers, holding their wings upright to their body, when at...

In this challenge, show us examples of flowers, leaves, trees or plants or other natural phenomenon, which are no longer perfect in form, but their beauty has been enhanced by defects. Perhaps the subject has been chewed by an insect, or damaged by the wind or rain, or old age. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Insects or spiders may be present, but should not dominate the picture. Subjects...

This is always a very popular subject, so I'm repeating it for your enjoyment. You may enter any type of bee, whether it is a honey bee, a bumble bee, or a native bee. The bee/bees must be outside, on flowers, leaves, buzzing around, or just doing what bees do; NOT under studio lights. NO flies, or other insects. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Size: MAXIMUM 1,600px on LONGER SIDE.

Here's your chance to show us the really weird and wonderful fungi which grow, often sight-unseen. The fungi can be mushrooms, toadstools or other strange growths which defy categorisation. Macro and close-up shots welcome. You may not know what the fungus is, and other entrants or viewers might help identify them. Photos taken outside in the real world are preferred, but for this challenge,...

In this challenge, let us see photos of beetles, (Order Coleoptera), showing off their beauty and colours. The beetles must be outside in their natural environment, on leaves, flowers, trees, just doing what comes naturally to them, not inside under studio lights. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Refer to http://bugguide.net/node/view/60/bgpage for more information on beetles. (Bugs, order...

In this challenge, show us circles formed by nature. This might be a flower, a mushroom, a leaf, or perhaps something formed by wind or water. Macro and close-up shots welcome. Subjects should be taken outside in their natural environment, not inside under studio lights. No balls or spheres, or spirals this time; they will have their own challenges later. No shots of the moon, (which is a...

In this challenge, show us tiny insects, spiders, or arthropods, in relation to their natural surroundings. Macro and close-ups are welcome, but the subject of the entry must be seen as very small in its environment. Show the insects or spiders outside, on leaves, flowers, trees, just doing what comes naturally to them, not inside under studio lights. TO BE CONSIDERED TINY, THE SUBJECT SHOULD...

Here's your chance to show us a very detailed picture of a cityscape, townscape, buildings or man-made structures, bridges, statues or sculptures, which would make a very busy, drive-you-crazy jigsaw puzzle. Think 1,000+ piece puzzle with lots of minute details. This jigsaw puzzle should show the EXTERNAL views of the buildings, etc., NO interior shots; and NO seascapes this time. SIZE:...

Here is your chance to showcase Praying Mantids (or Mantis); Order Mantodea; these interesting insects, which can stay very, very still, or catch their prey at lightning speed. Show us praying mantids outside in their natural environment, on leaves, flowers, trees, just doing what comes naturally to them, not inside under studio lights. Refer to praying mantis in Wikipedia, or ...

This challenge is about flowers on tall stalks or stems. It may be difficult to find appropriate examples of stemmed flowers, because we look at the flower as the subject, and ignore the stem. (Why do some flowers hug the ground or remain close to their parent plant, while others reach for the sky?) Your flower may have risen to great heights from a succulent, or you might shoot smaller plants,...

In this challenge show us your best photos of these interesting insects, of the Order Orthoptera: grasshoppers, crickets or katydids; the ones with powerful springs in their back legs! Macro and close-up shots welcome. These insects must be outside, on flowers, leaves, or just doing what they do; NOT under studio lights. Go to http://bugguide.net/node/view/73/bgpage for more information. SIZE:...

In this challenge, show us examples what you think are some of nature's really weird, unusual or bizarre flowers. Macro and close-up shots welcome. You may not know what the flowers are, and other entrants or viewers might help identify them. Photos taken outside in the real world are preferred, but for this challenge, you may have had a reason for shooting indoors. Small insects or spiders...

In this challenge, show us the clever forms of camouflage that insects, spiders, or other small arthropods use to hide themselves from other predators, or wait for their own meal to come along. They should be outside, on flowers, leaves, or trees, NOT under studio lights. Macro and close-up shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

This challenge is for you to showcase your photos of those strange and unusual plants, such as sundews, snaptraps, pitcher plants etc. which derive their nutrients from trapped insects, spiders or even tiny animals. Capture your photos in the natural environment if you can, though some of these carnivorous plants may be in pots or baskets, because that is the only way we can see and experience...

In this challenge, show us those insects we refer to as wasps, or their larger relatives, hornets. (Order Hymenoptera.) Often they aren't so friendly to those of us who accidentally encounter them or their nests. However, they are very useful, as parasitizers to control most pest insects. Macro and close-up shots welcome. The wasps or hornets, must be outside, on flowers, leaves, flying...

Show us an example of a very busy, detailed landscape which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. There must be evidence of man-made structures, such as roads, buildings, bridges over rivers or streams, orchards, tree plantations, vineyards, cultivated fields, etc. NO cityscapes, townscapes or seascapes this time please. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of minute...

In the world of small creatures, show us two insects [perhaps more], spiders, (or other small arthropod creatures) as mating couples. They should be outside, on flowers, leaves, or trees, NOT under studio lights. Macro shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Photographing a single rose to capture its beauty, texture and colour is not difficult. In this challenge, show us TWO OR MORE roses in bloom, with open petals, in your entry. A single rose and bud, or unopened buds as the subject, will be DQ'd. The roses must be outside, still on the rose bush or shrub, with the natural background still visible. Please, NOT in a floral bouquet, flower market,...

This challenge is just for photos of DAMSELFLIES, (Order Odonata, Suborder Zygoptera) the much daintier smaller cousins of dragonflies. The damselflies must be outside, on flowers, leaves, flying around, or just doing what damselflies do; NOT under studio lights. Macro shots welcome. NO photos of Dragonflies (Order Odonata, Suborder Anistera) please. They are usually bigger and sturdier than...

What do you see when you look down at the ground, amongst the fallen leaves, bark, needles and twigs? Show us the beauty and interesting details that can be found there, whether it is new life, insects or spiders, textures, or colours. Macro and close-ups are welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

In this challenge show us insects or spiders (or other small arthropods) eating their prey. Insects eating spiders, spiders eating insects, insects eating insects.... your choice! (Please, NO birds, or animals eating these small creatures.) The creatures should be outside in their natural environment, not inside under studio lights. Macro or close-up shots only. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER...

In this challenge, show us the beauty of ferns, just-unfurling fronds, a small fern plant or a large tree fern. A fern is a plant in the Pteridophyta family, with stems, leaves, roots and reproduces via spores. It has no seeds or flowers. (NO photos of cycads or palms which are not related to ferns, please.) The ferns (unless grown as a house-plant or in a glasshouse) should be outside in their...

This challenge is just for DRAGONFLIES, (Order Odonata, Suborder Anistera) possibly the fastest fliers in the insect kingdom. The dragonflies must be outside, on flowers, leaves, flying around, or just doing what dragonflies do; NOT under studio lights. Macro shots welcome. NO photos of Damselflies (Order Odonata, Suborder Zygoptera) please. They are usually smaller than dragonflies and will...

Show us an example of a very busy, detailed natural landscape or seascape which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. Man-made structures, (roads, buildings, bridges etc.,) should be non-existent or minimal please. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of minute details.... :-) SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

For this New Year, show us photos of new life in the world of very small creatures (arthropods) or plantlife. This might be baby insects or spiders, eggs, or tiny new plants rising from the earth. Photos taken outside in the natural environment, not under studio lights. Macro shots and close-ups only. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

It's the end of the year, so let's see some end views! We spend so much time trying to capture the faces and eyes of insects and spiders, that we often overlook the interesting and often colourful abdomens of these little creatures. Show us their rear view! Macro and close-up shots only. The creatures should be outside, on flowers, leaves, flying or sitting around, or just doing what they do;...

At this celebratory time of the year, let us see a star or stars here on earth. NOT the twinkly ones up in the sky at night, but those we see around us, in the natural environment. The star/stars might be flowers, leaves, a plant, a starfish, sparkles on the water or perhaps marking on an insect or spider.... Macro shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

In this challenge, show us an example where nature, such as plants, insects, spiders or other small creatures, has used a man-made object to its advantage. Macro or close-ups only, and outside in the natural world if possible. Large trees such as those growing at Ta Prohn in Cambodia will be DQ'd. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

In the world of small creatures, show us two or more insects and/or spiders, (or other small arthropod creatures) who encounter or confront each other. Perhaps they are just passing, or maybe eyeing off a potential mate OR their next meal. Please, for this challenge, NOT one devouring the other for lunch; NOR in the act of mating; that will be other challenges. They should be outside, on...

This challenge is all about trees which are not green! They may have red, blue, yellow, orange, or purple leaves. They may be covered in flowers, or may be showing their wonderful autumn (fall) colours. Show us part of a tree, one or more trees but without green, or a very minimal amount of green. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

Here's your chance to show us the really weird, bizarre beasties you've found in your photography forays. You may or may not know what they are, and other entrants or viewers might be able to assist. Macro shots welcome. Photos taken outside in the real world are preferred, but for this challenge, you may have had a reason for shooting it indoors. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

This challenge is to showcase those flowers which grow in the countryside, without human cultivation or attention. Your entry can be a Macro shot of a single flower, a cluster of them on a plant, or fields of flowers; alpine wildflowers, or deserts in bloom after rain.... Show us these flowers outside in their natural environment, not under studio lights. No garden flowers such as roses,...

This challenge is just about hover flies, (Syrphid Flies), NOT bees, wasps, spiders etc. Hover flies look like bees, but are much smaller, and they have very different life styles. They DON'T collect pollen on their back legs, DON'T live in hives, DON'T have bee-like antennae, and they DON'T sting. Drone flies, (Eristalinae sub-species,) with spotted or striped eyes, are also welcome to be...

Show us an example of a very busy photograph you've taken outside in the natural environment, which would make a great jigsaw puzzle. Think 1,000+ piece, devious 'drive-you-crazy' picture with lots of tiny details.... :-) Macro photos are welcome, insects or spiders also welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

This week's challenge: Spiders, in their natural environment. They should be outside, if that is where they live. However, if they live on the ceiling above your bed, then capture this image by all means.... :-) Please don't photograph them under studio lights with no realistic background. Macro shots welcome. SIZE: 1,600px MAXIMUM ON LONGER SIDE.

For this challenge: One Leaf Only. Show us the beauty in the detail of that leaf: the veins, the texture, colours, or the pattern. This could be a bright green leaf, an autumn leaf or a skeletonized leaf. There may be very minor leaves in the background, but one single leaf must be the subject of your picture. Macro Shots welcome. SIZE DOES MATTER! See below.

In this challenge show us your local bees: the carpenter, mason, blue-banded, miner, solitary bees, and any of the thousands of bee species which are not 'domesticated' Honey Bees, or Bumblebees, which had their own challenges recently. NO hover flies, spiders etc. The bee/bees must be outside, on flowers, leaves, buzzing around, or just doing what bees do; NOT under studio lights. Macro shots...

Let us see the beauty of spring blossom in your fruit trees, such as peach, almond, cherry, apricot, plum, nectarine, trees; pear, apple or citrus trees. Macro shots welcome. Show us these flowers outside in their natural environment, not under studio lights. No roses, hibiscus, daisies, etc. No, you don't have to be in an orchard, just show us the blossoms from the fruit trees. Small...

Ladybirds or Ladybugs (in the U.S.) is this week's insect challenge. These are the ever-popular good guys of the insect world, family Coccinellidae for the entomologically-minded, and aren't really bugs but beetles. There are apparently over 5,000 species, with different numbers of spots (or even stripes), and their basic colour can vary from scarlet red, to orange or yellow. Show us one or...

Many plants grow sharp prickles, spines or thorns, usually to protect themselves from predators, such as insects, birds, or animals. Show us the interesting or bizarre forms of these sharp appendages in your entries, which should be in their natural environment, not under studio lights. Macro shots are welcome. Insects or other small creatures may be present, but must not dominate the...

Let us see your best photos of those large, hairy, jumbo jets of the bee family. Just bumblebees, not honey bees, carpenter bees, native bees; NO hover flies etc. The bee/bees must be outside, on flowers, leaves, buzzing around, or just doing what bumblebees do; NOT under studio lights. Check Wikipedia for information about bumblebees. SIZE DOES MATTER: See below!

Show us the beauty and and unusual details in toadstools or mushrooms in their natural environment, not under studio lights. (No, no mushrooms sliced and diced ready for a Stir Fry or Mushroom Sauce for your steak.) Insects or other small creatures may be present in your entry but must not dominate the picture. Macro shots welcome. SIZE DOES MATTER: See below!

Gnats, mosquitos, midges, sand flies or other similar little beasties which annoy and pester us, by drilling holes in our skin and removing our precious blood, or just biting us to make us itch.... I'll also allow crane flies and other related insects with slender bodies and long legs. Show us these insects, preferably outside in their natural environment. OR you can capture their image...

Show us flower buds JUST as they are starting to open, the centre of their blooms ALMOST visible, their beauty nearly ready to display itself to the world. The flower bud/buds should be still in their natural environment, not under studio lights. Insects or other small creatures may be present in your entry but must not dominate the picture. SIZE DOES MATTER: See below!

This challenge is JUST about 'domesticated' honey bees, which live in hives and provide us with honey for our toast. One or more bees, as you please. NO bumble bees, carpenter bees, native bees.... no hover flies, wasps, flies, spiders etc etc. (They will all have their own challenge later.) The bee/bees must be outside, on flowers, leaves, flying around, or just doing what bees do; NOT under...

The bark on trees, (not the four-legged kind) can offer interesting and beautiful images. Show us texture, pattern, colour, light and shade, rough and smooth. Needless to say, the tree and its bark should be outside in its natural environment, not under studio lights! If you know the name of the tree, let us know. If there are small insects on the tree, that's okay, but they must not...

Caterpillars, one or more.... hairy ones, green ones, ones with spots or stripes, brightly coloured ones; I don't mind, as long as they are caterpillars, before they pupate and grow into moths or butterflies. Show us caterpillars on leaves, flowers, tree trunks etc. out in the real world, and not under studio lights. SIZE DOES MATTER: See below!

Flowering weeds can be as beautiful as those plants we cultivate, even though we often think of them as pests. Show us the beauty in these flowers, in their natural world. I know that a weed in one country may be a treasure somewhere else, that's okay, it is what YOU consider to be a weed where you live. Wildflowers in the countryside will be in a separate challenge later; this challenge is...

Show us ants in their natural environment, (either one or many). Get up close and personal, but try not to get bitten.... :-) The ant/ants should be outside, not under studio lights. Keep the background of your entry intact so we can see how the little fellows live and work. Interesting information about your ants would also be appreciated. SIZE DOES MATTER: See below!

Show us seeds still in their pods or capsules, after the flowers have gone. The seeds are waiting to start their life cycle again. These should be in their natural environment, still on or near the plant whether it is a tree, shrub, or grass. If insects or other small creatures are present, that is okay, but they must not dominate the shot.

Insects only; one or more. (They should have 6 legs; 8 legs are 2 too many). NO spiders, frogs, snails, cats etc. The insect must be shown to be in its natural world, not under studio lights. If you have interesting information about your entry please include it.