The world of "smaller things" is far greater and more diverse than you can imagine. It's clear to see the amazing things that animals have to offer, but how often do we take a minute to look a bit closer? How often do we truly see and appreciate that flash or flitter of colour between the feet of the animals we seek out or the flying beauty that dashes between the vegetation?

Butterflies are the clear eye catcher as they flutter from plant to plant. The colours of the Green-veined Emperor (Charax) and Yellow Pansy are gorgeous.

Be quick with Scarlet Tip or they may disappear as their wings close up at rest to blend in with their surroundings.

Here's a hint - on cold, damp mornings, some butterflies become lethargic and easier to approach, if you're lucky enough, maybe one might just climb onto you to get some heat like this Citrus Swallowtail.

By looking deeper into the natural world, we are introduced to a phenomenal world of infinite colour and adaptation that once you notice, you can't help but appreciate. The vibrant aposematic colouration of some insects makes them stand out against their surroundings but helps keep them safe from predators. The bright colours and patterns are a result of evolution along with predators to advertise their unpalatability or sometimes even chemical defence to predators, avoiding becoming a meal.

The Common Milkweed Locust and Elegant Grasshopper take on the toxins from the plants they eat and use their colours to deter predators.

Others prefer to hide in plain sight by truly blending into their surroundings, taking on the characteristics of the vegetation and soils around them. It's easy to miss this spunky Crab Spider hiding on flowers while it waits for unsuspecting insects to approach the bloom.

Or this Saw-backed Locust that is almost imperceptible against the earth.

The weird and wonderful adaptations never end, with Owlflies and their clubbed antennae that are incredibly strong fliers that use their huge eyes to catch insects in flight.

So, take the time, look around and enjoy the little things, I can't stop looking myself! You never know what is looking back, like this African Barred Owlet peeking out from the hollow of a tree.