Bicyclus anynana (ssp. socotrana)

Bicyclus anynana (ssp. socotrana)

In places Bicyclus anynana (ssp. socotrana) is commonly seen on socotra, like this one alongside the trail to Hoq cave.


Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

The parasitic Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides) is found throughout Socotra, from sea-level and up to about 700 meters. This is individual growing on the…


Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides)

The parasitic Cowpea Witchweed (Striga gesnerioides) is found throughout Socotra, from sea-level and up to about 700 meters. This observation is from the…


Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa)

Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa)

I encountered this Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa) in two locations. Only this one was in its prime, albeit the smallest. Native range is eastern Africa,…


Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa)

Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa)

My first encounter of Desert Hyacinth (Cistanche tubulosa) on Socotra. Unfortunately I was a few days late for the blossom. It is found scattered where the…


Lindenbergia sokotrana

Lindenbergia sokotrana

A beautiful Lindenbergia sokotrana, untouched by goats and in full bloom. The weeks after good winter rains are spectacular on Socotra, as the plants are so…


Lindenbergia sokotrana

Lindenbergia sokotrana

Lindenbergia sokotrana is commonly seen in in rocky places and plains below around 700 meters elevation. It is endemic to Socotra. Elevation: 348 meters.


Red-veined Dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa)

Red-veined Dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa)

The Red-veined Dropwing (Trithemis arteriosa) is one of an incredible 22 dragon- and damselfly species found on Socotra, which is quite a feat for an isolated…


Scintharista forbesii

Scintharista forbesii

Scintharista forbesii is one of two short-horned grasshopper species I encountered. Socotra is home to many species of insects, but I am focusing on flora for…


Robber fly (Subfamily Asilinae)

Robber fly (Subfamily Asilinae)

A brief encounter with one of perhaps more species of robber flies on Socotra. Elevation: 918 meters.