Humanimals May 2022

First published in Sanctuary Cub, Vol. 42 No. 5, May 2022

join the conversation

Photo Feature

Sticky situation
Sticky situation: A parasite often relies on multiple hosts to complete its lifecycle. The sticky seed of mistletoe is excreted by birds, such as the Pale-billed Flowerpecker, and rubbed onto plants or trees, where it germinates. Mistletoes are hemiparasites, as they photosynthesise for part of their life but still depend on their host for nutrients. While they can grow on various trees, heavy infestations can ultimately harm or even kill the host. Photo: Harish N./Sanctuary Photolibrary.