BEHIND THE SCENES

The bloody-nosed beetle is a flightless, black beetle with a bluish sheen and found in southern and Central Europe. The name derives from its unusual defense mechanism: when threatened, it secretes a distasteful blood-red liquid from its mouth. They feed on bedstraw plants and can be found on grassland and heathland, and along hedgerows.  Watch him in action.

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Location: Liguria, Italy

Discrete Chaperon can be found in southern Europe from the Iberian Peninsula to Greece and in western North Africa. The forewings usually may be milky white or pinkish, with a pattern of black triangular patches.

 

Location: Liguria, Italy

Italian Wall Lizard is native to the Mediterranean basin, particularly the Italian Peninsula. It is a habitat generalist and can be found in a wide variety of ecosystems. Generally, it prefers structurally complex habitats with lush grasses and shrubs.

 

Location: Liguria, Italy

Portugues Black Millipede are native to southern Iberian Peninsula but have spread to Atlantic islands, South Africa and Australia.   When startled, they will curl up into a tight spiral or try to escape with thrashing, snake-like movements. They are herbivorous and measure between 20–45 mm long.  They are not poisonous and do not bite but to defend themselves, they will secrete a pungent smell to ward off predators.  

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Location: Liguria, Italy