Red Browed Finches in Wonthaggi Gippsland for Saturday Critter

 

Red-browed Finches (Neochmia temporalis)

The Red-browed Finch, also known as the Red-browed Firetail, is a small, colorful bird native to eastern and southeastern Australia. These finches are popular among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts due to their distinctive appearance and social behavior.

Appearance

Red-browed Finches are small birds, measuring around 11-12 cm in length. They are most recognizable by their striking red markings: a bright red stripe (or "brow") running from the beak through the eye, a vivid red beak, and a red rump and tail. The rest of their plumage is a soft olive-green on the back and wings, with grey underparts. The red accents make them easy to identify, especially when they are foraging on the ground or flitting through dense vegetation.

Habitat and Distribution

These finches are widely distributed across eastern Australia, from Queensland down to Victoria and South Australia, often found in woodlands, forest edges, grasslands, and along watercourses. They are especially common in areas with thick undergrowth and are often seen in urban gardens and parks. Their ability to adapt to disturbed and human-altered landscapes has contributed to their stable population.

Diet

Red-browed Finches primarily feed on seeds, particularly grass seeds, but they will also eat small insects and fruits when available. They are ground feeders and are frequently seen hopping around in groups, feeding on seeds fallen to the ground. Their short, conical beak is perfectly adapted for cracking seeds.

Behaviour

Highly social, Red-browed Finches are often observed in flocks, sometimes numbering up to 30 or more birds. They exhibit cooperative behaviors, such as communal roosting and allopreening (grooming each other). Pairs form strong bonds and can often be seen perched closely together, engaging in mutual preening, as seen in your photo.

These finches are also known for their quiet and sweet-sounding calls, a series of high-pitched "tseet-tseet" notes that help flock members stay in contact while foraging or flying.

Breeding

The breeding season generally occurs from August to April but can vary depending on food availability and location. Red-browed Finches build dome-shaped nests made from grass and other fine plant materials, typically located in dense shrubs or trees. Both male and female participate in building the nest and feeding the chicks. Clutches usually consist of 4 to 6 eggs, and the young fledge after about three weeks.

I still remembered this lucky shot when the trip went to Wantage for some nice hay bale sceneries

Linking Saturday Critter 

TowerHill for Skywatch Friday

 

Tower Hill is always windy. The central island is quite special acting as a good foreground for the shot

Linking Skywatch Friday

Shi Fen Waterfall for Water H2O Thursday

 

Shi Fen Waterfall holds a special place in my heart, as I have visited it over the span of 25 years—first a quarter-century ago, then a decade ago, and now once more. Over time, the site has undergone numerous changes, including periods when access to the foothill of the falls was prohibited.

During my visit, I took great pleasure in strolling through the surrounding landscape, immersing myself in its beauty, and observing the majestic cascade of the waterfall. However, on this occasion, I did not bring a tripod, which prevented me from capturing proper long-exposure photographs.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Water H2O Thursday

Wai Xi Street Signs at night for Sign2

 

That sign reads dumpling

"Shaved Ice shop"

Apart from attending to unresolved family matters, I did not visit many scenic locations. Instead, I spent my time strolling and dining according to recommendations from various culinary magazines. The thunderstorms arrived and departed frequently, characteristic of the unpredictable weather typical of an island.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

This is linking Sign2

Bo Pi Liao Heritage buildings with graffiti for Treasure Tuesday

 

Bo Pi Liao, located in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Taiwan, is a historical and cultural gem that offers visitors a glimpse into the island’s rich past. This preserved area, known for its well-maintained Qing Dynasty architecture and Japanese colonial influences, stands as a testament to Taipei’s transformation from a trade hub to a modern metropolis. Bo Pi Liao is not only a place of historical significance but also a center for cultural education and artistic expression.

Historical Significance

Bo Pi Liao’s history dates back over 200 years to the Qing Dynasty, when it was a bustling commercial district. The area flourished due to its strategic location along trade routes, serving as a marketplace for merchants and craftsmen. During the Japanese colonial period (1895-1945), the district underwent significant changes, with the introduction of new architectural styles and infrastructure developments that blended traditional Chinese and Western influences. Later, during the post-World War II era, Bo Pi Liao saw urbanization, but many of its historical buildings were preserved, allowing future generations to appreciate its unique heritage.

Architectural and Cultural Heritage

One of Bo Pi Liao’s most striking features is its architecture. The buildings, constructed using red bricks, wooden beams, and stone carvings, reflect a blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural styles. The narrow alleys, arched corridors, and preserved shopfronts transport visitors back in time, showcasing Taipei’s commercial history.

Bo Pi Liao is also home to the Heritage and Culture Education Center of Taipei, which provides exhibits and interactive displays about the city’s history. Through these exhibits, visitors can learn about Taipei’s evolution from a traditional market town to a modern urban center. The area often hosts cultural events, including art exhibitions, traditional performances, and educational workshops, further enhancing its role as a cultural hotspot.

While waiting in line for what was reputedly the finest congee in Taipei, as praised in various magazine reviews, I unexpectedly wandered into this historic district. Though the congee itself did not prove to be particularly remarkable, the accompanying dishes were quite delightful.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

Melbourne Murals for Mural Monday

 

Certain murals indeed evoke deep emotions, and exploring different painting styles allows me to appreciate and learn from them.

Regarding my time in Taipei, I am finally overcoming the effects of jet lag. However, I find myself feeling less adept at adjusting to new environments. Additionally, I have been inundated with a considerable number of work-related emails, which has been rather distressing. The constant demands of others can be quite overwhelming.

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-4

This is linking Mural Monday

Cape Woolamai for Sunday Best

 

I have visited this place numerous times, and this particular visit is from the past. Each time I come here, I inevitably acquire a new injury.

The Pinnacles of Phillip Island are a striking natural rock formation located within the Cape Woolamai region, one of the island's most scenic and rugged landscapes. These towering granite structures, sculpted by centuries of wind and ocean erosion, rise dramatically along the coastline, offering breathtaking views, especially at sunrise and sunset when the rocks are bathed in golden light.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sunday Best

Frankston Pier Gull for Saturday Critter

 

The rented portal Wi-Fi is suboptimal, hindered by the thick concrete walls of the apartment, which obstruct signal transmission. As a result, accessing the unreliable Blogspot platform remains inconsistent.

The seagull, in turn, met my gaze.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Saturday Critter

Tenby Point Reverse Sunset for Skywatch Friday

 

Tenby Point is a small coastal village located in the Bass Coast Shire of Victoria, Australia, nestled along the eastern shoreline of Western Port Bay. Geographically, it lies east of Corinella, northeast of Coronet Bay, and southwest of Grantville. The village is characterized by its linear layout, comprising four main streets: Guy Road along the southern boundary, Bayview Avenue extending through the town, Marine Parade to the north, and Park Lane on the western side. As of the 2016 census, Tenby Point had a population of 184 residents.

The coastal landscape surrounding Tenby Point is notable for its alternating headlands and embayments, backed by active cliffs and bluffs formed from the Baxter Formation. This geological structure contributes to the area's dynamic shoreline, where headlands intercept the eastward drift of beach materials, leading to the formation of temporary cuspate forelands and recurving spits. These features highlight the ongoing processes of coastal erosion and sediment deposition that have shaped the region over time.

A significant historical landmark in Tenby Point is the remnants of an old jetty, visible along the beach. While specific historical records detailing the jetty's construction and usage are limited, such structures were commonly built in coastal Australian towns during the late 19th and early 20th centuries to facilitate maritime activities, including transportation of goods and fishing. The presence of these remnants offers a tangible connection to the village's past interactions with maritime trade and local industry.

The broader region encompassing Tenby Point has a rich history tied to early European exploration and settlement. The adjacent town of Corinella, for instance, was established in 1826 as a military outpost, serving as one of Victoria's earliest European settlements. This outpost aimed to deter French territorial claims and to establish a strategic presence in the area. Although the settlement was short-lived, it marked the beginning of European interest and subsequent development in the region.

Today, Tenby Point remains a serene residential area, appreciated for its natural beauty and tranquil environment. The village's coastal setting and proximity to other towns in the Bass Coast Shire make it a modest yet integral part of the region's tapestry, reflecting both its historical roots and ongoing connection to the maritime landscape.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

Linking Skywatch Friday and Blau - die Farbe des Monats März

Ingalalla Falls for Water H2OThursday

 

This is one of the rare waterfalls in Southeast Adelaide. After much effort, Joel and I finally arrived at the site, only to discover a stagnant pond with no visible outlets near the waterfall. The air was heavy with the stench of decay, and swarms of mosquitoes hovered above the water. Disgusted by the scene, Joel refused to remain for a long exposure shot of the waterfall.

Despite the unpleasant conditions, I chose to capture the image nonetheless, as a testament to the effort it took to reach this secluded place.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Water H2O Thursday

Fengjia night market Signs for Sign2

 

Clams bake and grill Sign

This sort of game is popular in Asia

Calamari roast 

Strolling through a night vendor market is not particularly conducive to weight loss. However, I take great pleasure in wandering through such places, camera in hand, with my wide-angle lens capturing the lively atmosphere. To avoid the incessant nuisance of scam calls, I make use of a different SIM card while abroad.

Despite my travels overseas, Joel remains in regular contact with me via Signal. He appears rather enthusiastic about the prospect of starting his own podcast, though I sincerely hope he does not. His intensely private nature is well-founded, and only a true friend could engage with his perspectives without passing judgment.

Street photography serves as a sport for me, and as such, my frames often include various signs encountered along the way. 

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Sign2

I am currently enjoying the third season of The White Lotus and have reached the fourth episode. Additionally, I am planning an overnight trip to Shifen, a region renowned for its picturesque waterfall and vibrant night market. However, as my mobile plan is limited to only one gigabyte of data per month, I must rely on public Wi-Fi to access the blog.

Wufeng Lin Family Garden, Middle Taiwan for Treasure Tuesday

 

Last year, I shared a brief post about this remarkable place. As I am currently in Taiwan attending to my mother’s affairs, I will be adding more photographs from that trip.

The descendant of this esteemed family home continues to play a significant role in the island’s political sphere. In light of this, I shall refrain from commenting on the political landscape of what is often regarded as a renegade province of China.

What captivates me most are the intricate Chinese ornaments and sculptures. In my youth, I failed to appreciate such cultural heritage, instead dreaming of traveling to New York or exploring Norway’s towering mountains. Yet, as the years have passed, I have developed a profound appreciation for the traditions and artistry inherent to my own ethnic background. It is curious how life unfolds.

Even during this visit, I found myself deeply drawn to the beauty of abandonment in urban exploration.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

Linking Treasure Tuesday

During our visit to my mother's hometown, Zhongli, there were numerous matters to attend to. We reunited with our cousins and learned the sorrowful news that our nephew had recently taken his own life at the age of 35. Amidst the solemn atmosphere, my brother happened upon an old eatery specialising in Hakka cuisine, where we shared a delightful meal.

Among the traditional dishes, I shared a photograph of stir-fried pig intestines prepared with ginger, white vinegar, and fermented soybeans. Joel, as always, reacted with exaggerated discomfort, dry heaving at the mere sight of the dish when I sent it to his phone. Undeterred, I shall now present it here for all to appreciate.

The junction between duodenum and jejunum 

Gluten ball soup with spring onion and shallows (chicken bone stock)

Melbourne murals for Mural Monday

 

Some of the strange murals witnessed in Melbourne

Panasonic G9

Leica 12-60mm f2.8-6

Linking Mural Monday

Mum sustained some facial bruising and kneecap strain. And some teeth chipped in. That gave me a fright. 

Frankston Pier, Melbourne for Sunday Best

 

These photographs were taken during my visit to Frankston Pier with Joel last week. The weather was quite warm, and not wishing to travel far, we chose this location, which was a mere forty-minute journey.

Seeking to capture artistic compositions, I focused on the subtle details of the area, as there was little activity at the time. I found particular interest in the fishing enthusiasts gathered along the pier and the weathered, rusted nails embedded in the jetty.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

This is linking Sunday Best

I am utterly weary after disembarking from the plane. Moreover, my mother suffered a fall, requiring me to take her to the emergency department.

Black kite (Milvus migrans) for Saturday Critter

 

Posting an old image from previous trip to Japan. 

The Black Kite (Milvus migrans) is one of the most widespread birds of prey, found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia. This medium-sized raptor is known for its adaptability, scavenging habits, and graceful flight. Unlike many birds of prey that primarily hunt live prey, the Black Kite is often seen soaring over urban areas, fields, and waterways in search of carrion, small animals, and even human scraps. Its intelligence, agility, and ecological role make it a fascinating species worthy of study.

Physical Characteristics

The Black Kite is distinguished by its dark brown plumage, with lighter underparts and a slightly forked tail, which helps in its effortless gliding and maneuvering. It has a wingspan ranging from 150 to 180 cm, making it an efficient flier that can cover vast distances with minimal energy. The bird’s hooked beak and sharp talons make it well-suited for catching prey and tearing flesh, although it often prefers scavenging over active hunting.

Habitat and Distribution

Black Kites have an extensive range that spans several continents. They thrive in diverse environments, including forests, wetlands, grasslands, and urban areas. Their presence in cities is particularly notable, as they have adapted to human activities by scavenging waste and feeding on food scraps. Some populations of Black Kites are migratory, traveling long distances in search of favorable climates and food sources. For instance, European and Central Asian Black Kites migrate to Africa and South Asia during the winter.

This is linking Saturday Critter

No 16 Beach, Rye for Skywatch Friday

 

Joel has never been fond of this place, yet I insisted that he accompany me. The site is well known for its Dragon Head rock, which I have shared photographs of on several occasions. This remarkable formation is only visible at the lowest tide of 0.1 meters. Unfortunately, I misread the tide charts online, and by the time we arrived, the tide was already at a medium level, steadily rising towards full tide.

To make matters worse, we unexpectedly encountered a photography group led by an individual with whom Joel had previously clashed. This unfortunate coincidence greatly aggravated his temper. However, we still maintained amiable relations with some members of the group, allowing for a few pleasant exchanges despite the otherwise tense situation.

Sony A7RV

FE 14mm f1.8 GM

Linking Skywatch Friday

During time away, I will not be active on commenting and posting. 

Flinders Blowhole seascape for Water H2O Thursday

 

This marks another visit to Flinders Blowhole with Joel before my journey to Taiwan to attend to family matters. During our visit, Joel discovered an additional section of this area, featuring numerous sea caves. We plan to explore them further upon my return from overseas.

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Water H2O Thursday

Fitzroy Signs in Melbourne for Sign2

 

Fitzroy is such a cultured suburb. I avoid visiting the area at night. Joel and I often played snooker there. 

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

This is linking Sign2