Wataru HIMENO– Author –
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Observation and Photography Tips for the Andean Cock-of-the-rock
The Andean cock-of-the-rock (Rupicola peruvianus) is an iconic bird of the South American Andes, renowned for its vibrant red plumage and unique courtship displays. During the breeding season, males gather in groups for a behavior known ... -
What is Ecotourism? Protecting Wildlife
What exactly does ecotourism refer to? And how does it protect nature and support local livelihoods? Herping also part of Ecotourism What is Ecotourism? Ecotourism refers to the activity of traveling to a destination in a way that preser... -
2025 Tailer-made Okinawa herping expeditions
Japanese mossy frog-Odorrana ishikawae (Blue morph) Okinawa Herping Expedition: Discover the Untamed Wild Okinawa is not just a tropical paradise of blue waters and sandy beaches—it’s a biodiversity hotspot, home to ecosystems and specie... -
Black-Shanked Douc Langur: Discovering Vietnam’s Wildlife Treasure
Black-Shanked Douc Langur (scientific name: Pygathrix nigripes) Exploring the dense jungles of Vietnam, we set out on a mission to encounter the mesmerizing Black-Shanked Douc Langur (scientific name: Pygathrix nigripes). With its s... -
Herping in Vietnam: Discovering the Red-necked Keelback and More
Red-necked keelback (scientific name: Rhabdophis subminiatus). When herping in Vietnam, there’s an exciting array of wildlife waiting to be discovered. Among these is the stunning and unique Red-necked keelback (scientific name: Rha... -
How to Find the Blue Ishikawa Frog: A Rare Herping Experience in Okinawa
The blue Okinawa Ishikawa frog (Odorrana ishikawae) The Okinawa Ishikawa frog (Odorrana ishikawae), also known as Ishikawa’s frog, is widely considered Japan’s most beautiful frog species. It’s a highly sought-after speci... -
Encountering the Wild Vietnamese Mossy Frog: A Herping Adventure in Vietnam
Vietnamese mossy frog (Theloderma corticale) What is the Vietnamese Mossy Frog? The Vietnamese mossy frog (Theloderma corticale) is an amphibian species native to northern Vietnam, with possible ranges extending into parts... -
Herping Japan：Ryukyu Black-Breasted Leaf Turtle
Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle (Geoemyda japonica) If you're an avid herper exploring Japan, you’ve likely heard of the Ryukyu black-breasted leaf turtle (Geoemyda japonica), one of the most elusive and stunning reptiles in Okinawa. T... -
Vietnam Herping: The Rare Morphs of the Oriental Vine Snake
During a recent herping expedition in Vietnam, I had the privilege of being guided by a local friend to a location known for its rare morphs of the Oriental Vine Snake (Ahaetulla prasina). This species, the largest of the vine ... -
Differences and Similarities Between Reptiles and Amphibians
Reptiles and amphibians are often grouped together in discussions, but they are quite distinct from one another. However, both are loved by herping enthusiasts due to their unique charm, which can sometimes blur the lines between them. I...
