Subdesert mesite Subdesert mesite The subdesert mesite ("Monias benschi") is a ground-dwelling bird endemic to Madagascar. It is one of three species in the mesite family Mesitornithidae, and is restricted in distribution to a small low-land region in southwest Madagascar. The subdesert mesite is a medium-sized terrestrial bird which is often described as rail-like (a family with which the mesites are sometimes placed). The species has a long and downward-curved bill distinguishing it from the other members of the family. Both sexes are greyish above and show thin white eyebrows. Both have white underparts; the male has black crescent-shaped spots on the
Shelter Island (Western Australia) the island. The total area of the island is . It was declared a Class 1A Nature Reserve in 1973. Shelter Island (Western Australia) Shelter Island is approximately due west of Albany, Western Australia. It is often mistakenly referred to as Muttonbird Island. The island is approximately off-shore from Muttonbird Beach separated by a channel that has an average depth of it is regarded as a suitable open-water dive site. The island consists of a mass of granite but has sufficient soil for plant growth and is well vegetated on top. The island supports breeding populations of flesh-footed shearwaters and