Ostriches in South Australia
Ostriches, Monarto Zoo, South Australia
If I want to see some Ostriches here in South Australia I only have to drive for about ten minutes. Ostriches are not native Australian birds, of course, because they have been introduced into Australia from Africa.
The Ostriches I can see are actually in the open range Monarto Zoo near Adelaide, South Australia. The zoo features many animals from Africa, including a small flock of Ostriches.
The Ostrich is actually on the official list of Australian birds. In the nineteenth century they were brought to Australia and farmed in a number of localities. They were primarily bred for their feathers, the plumes being much in demand for decorating ladies’ hats. The fashion didn’t last and many Ostriches were released or escaped into the wild, forming small breeding colonies. I know of two such areas: the Coorong south of here and north of Port Augusta. I believe there is still a very small remnant population near Port Augusta but I never managed to see any despite living there for many years.
Colombian National Bird
This blog is about Australian Birds found in the natural environment. You wouldn’t believe the number of requests I get for advice on how to look after birds, and about caring for caged birds.
But I digress.
At the moment my family is focused very much on the South American country of Colombia. This is because our son and daughter in law are there to meet their Columbian son whom they are adopting. It is an exciting time for us; our first grand child.
Yesterday, when looking for something else – as you do – I found a reference to the Colombian National Bird. I didn’t realise that the Andean Condor was their national bird. Good choice – such a magnificent bird and truly one that is worthy of national bird status.
The bird also features on the Coat of Arms of Colombia.
National birds from around the world
No Comments »8th April, 2009; Category: Non-Australian birds
Ever wondered what the national bird of Nepal is? Or the national bird of Chile?
Wonder no more.
Someone has made a long list on Wikipedia of all the countries that have a national bird. It also has a list of the official birds of some states or territories of some countries.
Link: A list of National Birds
By the way, the national bird of Nepal is the Himalayan Monal, a large pheasant found in the mountainous regions. This is one species I was pleased to see on my trip to the area in 2006. You can read about it here and here.
A Guide to the Birds of East Africa: a review
Now for something completely different.
Over Christmas and New Year I read a book called A Guide to the Birds of East Africa: a novel written by Australian author Nicholas Drayson.
A a first glance at the front cover you might be forgiven for thinking that this is just another field guide, albeit to a part of the world with a wonderfully rich and diverse bird life. Look again. The two innocent words a novel at the end of the title bring a whole new perspective to the book.
The novel is a story of intrigue, excitement, adventure, mystery, crime and with a light touch of romance. Actually, the whole premise has romance as its basis. Not soppy romance, mind you, but the driving force of the main character and his protagonist is their love for another bird watcher.
Mr. Malik is quiet, reserved and polite in the extreme. He is not the one to ruffle any feathers, ornithological or human. But his heart holds a secret passion; he is deeply in love with Rose Mbikwa, leader of the Tuesday-morning bird walk of the East African Ornithological Society.
Mr. Malik secretly plans to ask Rose to the annual Hunt Ball. Harry Khan, a ghost from Mr. Malik’s past sweeps back into his life, and he too has Rose in his plans. When Mr. Malik unwisely blurts out his feelings at their club, a wager is arranged. Whoever sees the most birds in a week will be the one to ask Rose to the ball.
The chase is on, but not without the inevitable hindrances, intrigue, mystery and complications over interpretations of The Rules. Many birds are seen and woven seamlessly into the story which rollicks along to a satisfying conclusion.
Highly recommended.
Reference:
Drayson, N., 2008, A Guide to the Birds of East Africa: a novel. London, Penguin
Book cover: A Guide to the Birds of East Africa: a novel
Making connections between humans and nature
In these hurried and hectic times it is important for humans to, once again, get connected to nature. What better way to relax and enjoy the world than to witness the natural behavior of the animals around us unfold before our very eyes.
Birdwatching allows us all to get closer to wild nature in our own backyards and everywhere else on the planet. As you will see from this inspiring collection of thoughts, images and experiences, anyone can reconnect with nature anytime, anywhere. Just let your spirit soar! Larry Jordan
I agree with Larry Jordan, host of this week’s I and the Bird #94. Here we have a fantastic collection of links to birding blogs from all over the globe. It’s like going on a birding holiday – without the expense nor the hassles of wasting hours in airports.
Larry’s blog – A Birder’s Report – is a bird lover’s delight, complete with wonderful photos of the birds he sees.