Barn Owl for Saturday Critter

 

This beautiful bird is a barn owl (Tyto alba). Barn owls are easily recognisable by their distinctive heart-shaped face, pale coloring, and dark eyes. They are known for their silent flight and exceptional hearing, which makes them excellent nocturnal hunters. 

They favour open habitats like grasslands, farmlands, and marshes, where they silently glide in search of small mammals, especially rodents. Their exceptional hearing, aided by a heart-shaped facial disc, allows them to locate prey even in complete darkness. Throughout history, barn owls have held a place in folklore—sometimes revered, sometimes feared—often symbolising mystery or omens due to their ghostly appearance and eerie screech.

Fujifilm XPro2

Fujinon 16-55mm f2.8

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Verreaux's eagle-owl for Saturday Critter

 

This image was taken some years ago during a quiet visit to a bird park in the western reaches of Japan. At the time, I was in possession of only a modest point-and-shoot camera — a device of limited resolution and elementary colour rendering. As such, the original image lacked the tonal depth and fidelity the subject merited, and I found it necessary to render the frame in black and white, where its form and expression might better endure.

The subject of the photograph is the Verreaux’s eagle-owl (Bubo lacteus) — a creature of formidable presence and singular elegance. Native to the savannas and woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa, this noble raptor is the largest of all African owls, known not only for its commanding size and dusky plumage, but for the curious blush of pink that graces its eyelids — a feature unique to its kind.

In the traditions of the land from which it hails, the owl has long stood as a symbol both revered and feared — a sentinel of the night, its call said to herald omens or ancestral presence. The Verreaux’s eagle-owl, in particular, has been observed preying upon a wide range of animals, from insects to monkeys, attesting to its quiet mastery of the dusk.

Though this specimen stood in a manmade enclosure far from its native lands, there was something in its posture — still and dignified — that whispered of a vast and ancient wilderness. The artificial stone beneath its talons, the moss-slicked bricks of the park path, all faded behind that solemn gaze.

In capturing it, I sought to preserve not merely the likeness of a bird, but a fleeting brush with the wild soul of Africa, momentarily encountered beneath the skies of Japan.

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There appears to be little merit in investing for the distant future. With the advent of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI) and the rapid acceleration toward Artificial Superintelligence (ASI)—evidenced already by systems capable of self-improvement—the course of progress suggests a profound transformation within mere months. In the span of five years, it is plausible that the cost of goods and services shall diminish by half every eighteen months.

Being in my forties, it follows that by the time I reach my fifties, the cost of living may approach insignificance. Should the average individual find complete satisfaction in all material needs—indeed, everything essential—for a modest sum of approximately AUD$160 per month, the necessity of a substantial retirement fund becomes questionable.

Under present circumstances, the wisest course may be to devote one’s resources to rich and meaningful life experiences. This path is justified by two likely outcomes: either, within the next decade or so, money as we know it will become obsolete for all humanity; or, alternatively, artificial intelligence may render our existence obsolete altogether.

Ruddy Shelduck for Saturday Critter

 

The ruddy shelduck is a strikingly beautiful waterfowl known for its warm, orange-brown plumage and contrasting pale head. It’s native to parts of Asia and North Africa and is often found near lakes, rivers, and wetlands. This species is admired for its graceful swimming and distinctive, honking calls. The ruddy shelduck is also quite adaptable, thriving in a variety of habitats from high-altitude lakes to lowland wetlands. Overall, it’s a charming and elegant bird that stands out among waterfowl for its vibrant color and lively behavior.

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The recent proposal by the Australian Labour Party to impose a tax on unrealised gains within superannuation accounts exceeding three million dollars has understandably caused considerable concern. While it is true that this measure would directly affect only a relatively small cohort—given that merely tens of thousands of individuals possess superannuation balances of such magnitude—the absence of indexation to this three million dollar threshold raises important questions.

Moreover, taxing unrealised gains sets a significant precedent that may pave the way for future policy extensions, potentially encompassing unrealised increments in other asset classes, such as residential property values and equity portfolios. This prospect is troubling to many, as it challenges the fundamental principle that taxation should generally occur upon the actualisation of gains—when assets are converted into liquid capital—rather than on paper valuations. The idea of taxing wealth before it has been realised provokes substantial debate over fairness and economic prudence, with critics cautioning against the implications such a policy might have on investment behaviour and the broader economy.

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

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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

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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.

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Seagulls at Stingray Bay, Warrnambool for Saturday Critter

 

I am uncertain as to why a flock of seagulls has gathered, seemingly intent on feasting, despite the absence of fish in the shallow waters. I am simply awaiting the sunset, yet these creatures have chosen to accompany me in this moment.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

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Silver Eye for Saturday Critter

The silvereye (Zosterops lateralis), also known as the white-eye, is a small, distinctive bird with a ring of white feathers around its eyes, hence the name. This petite bird, measuring just 11 to 13 centimeters in length, is a common sight in Melbourne's gardens, parks, and bushlands. Its adaptability and varied diet make it a resilient and successful species in urban environments.

Natural Habitat and Distribution

The silvereye is native to Australia and New Zealand, with its presence widely noted across the southeastern regions of the Australian mainland, Tasmania, and the islands of the South Pacific. In Melbourne, the silvereye thrives in both natural and urban landscapes, from dense forests to suburban backyards. Their adaptability to different environments is key to their survival, allowing them to coexist alongside human populations.

Physical Characteristics and Behavior

Silvereyes are easily recognizable by their olive-green upperparts, grey underparts, and the conspicuous white ring around their eyes. They have a slender, slightly curved bill, which aids in their varied diet. These birds are highly sociable, often seen in flocks, which helps in foraging and protection against predators.

During the breeding season, which typically runs from August to January, silvereyes build small, cup-shaped nests in dense foliage. Both parents share the responsibility of incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks, which fledge about ten days after hatching. This collaborative approach ensures high survival rates for their offspring.

Diet and Foraging

The silvereye's diet is diverse, consisting of insects, fruit, nectar, and small seeds. Their feeding habits play a crucial role in the ecosystem, as they help in pollination and seed dispersal. In Melbourne, silvereyes are often seen flitting around gardens, feeding on native plants like eucalyptus and bottlebrush, as well as exotic species such as berry bushes and fruit trees.

Adaptability and Urban Living

One of the remarkable traits of the silvereye is its ability to adapt to urban environments. In Melbourne, they have adjusted well to changes brought about by human development. They are often observed in public parks, gardens, and even city centers, taking advantage of the food sources provided by ornamental plants and residential gardens.

The presence of silvereyes in urban areas also highlights the importance of creating bird-friendly environments in cities. Planting native flora, providing water sources, and ensuring safe nesting sites can help support these birds and enhance biodiversity within urban settings.

Sony A7RV + FE 200-600mm f5.6-6.3

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Red-Tailed Black Cockatoo at Healesville for Saturday Critter

 

The Red-tailed Black Cockatoo (Calyptorhynchus banksii) is a notable and distinguished species of large cockatoo indigenous to Australia. Characterised by its striking black plumage and vibrant red tail feathers, this bird species is a symbol of the Australian avifauna.

Red-tailed Black Cockatoos typically inhabit open woodlands, forests, and savannahs across Australia, ranging from the humid coastal regions to the arid interior. Their diet is primarily composed of seeds, nuts, and fruits, which they adeptly extract from a variety of native trees and shrubs. Notably, they are also known to feed on insects and their larvae, adding diversity to their diet.

The lifespan of the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo can extend to over 50 years in the wild, and even longer in captivity. These birds exhibit a strong social structure, often forming flocks of several individuals. Their distinctive, mournful calls resonate through their habitats, serving both as a means of communication and a territorial display.

Reproduction in Red-tailed Black Cockatoos is characterised by monogamous pair bonds, with nesting typically occurring in tree hollows. The female is primarily responsible for incubating the eggs, while the male provides nourishment and protection throughout the breeding period.

Panasonic G9

Leica 70-200mm f2.8 

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Red-browed Firetail at Cranbourne Melbourne

 These petite, seed-eating wonders, also known as the Red-browed Firetail, are easily recognisable by their vivid red brows and tails contrasted against their olive-green plumage.

Sony A7RV

FE 200-600mm f5.6-6.3

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Galah for Saturday Critter

 

The Galah, also known as the rose-breasted cockatoo, is one of Australia's most beloved and recognizable birds. With its striking pink and grey plumage and playful personality, the Galah captures the hearts of bird enthusiasts and casual observers alike.

Galahs are easily identified by their bright pink chests, pale pink crowns, and grey wings and backs. These medium-sized cockatoos are known for their strong, curved beaks and expressive crests, which they raise and lower depending on their mood. Galahs are highly social birds, often seen in large flocks, and are known for their acrobatic flying and playful antics.

Galahs are widespread across Australia, inhabiting a variety of environments including woodlands, grasslands, and urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both rural and suburban settings. Their ability to find food and shelter in diverse habitats has contributed to their success and widespread presence.

These birds have a varied diet that includes seeds, nuts, berries, and insects. They are often seen foraging on the ground in open spaces or in trees, using their strong beaks to crack open tough shells and extract seeds. In urban areas, Galahs may also visit bird feeders and parks, where they enjoy a range of treats provided by human admirers.

Galahs are known for their strong pair bonds and often form lifelong partnerships. They nest in tree hollows, where they raise their young together. Outside of the breeding season, they gather in large, noisy flocks that can be seen and heard across the Australian landscape. Their playful nature and social interactions make them a delight to watch.

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Kea in New Zealand for Saturday Critter

 

Someone is baiting the bird with an empty can

Sony A7RV

FE 20-70mm f4 G

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Galah from local garden for Saturday Critter

 

Loud and clear

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Keel Billed Toucan for Saturday Critter

 

A bird I spotted in a Japanese bird reserve 

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I have been resting for the past few days. Got addicted to a phone game. The hedonic treadmill.

More Seagulls at Lake Tyrrell for Saturday Critter

 

It is winter here. I don't really get to photograph much about wildlife. Sea gulls are probably like more flying rats in urban land. 

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

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White Whiskered Laughingthrush in Taiwan for Saturday Critter

 

I only learnt the name of this bird until a former mate in Perth Australia told me about it.

Extraordinarily plumaged songbird with white facial markings that lend it an almost comical whiskered appearance. Brown overall, with accents of yellow, buff, purple, plum, blue, and orange throughout the plumage. Inhabits montane forest edge with dense shrubbery or grassy cover, but often emerges out onto roadsides and paths to forage, often crossing the road close to vehicles. Moves in noisy flocks or in pairs, giving soft contact calls and harsh rattling and whistling calls when alarmed. Song, a melodic tinkling, is simple but pleasant.

Sony A7RV

Sigma 105mm macro 

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Alpine Parrot Kea in New Zealand for Saturday Critter

 

Kea was once treated as pests in NZ. In 1970, they went into extinction as the country wanted to protect their sheep grazing industry. Now, Kea is a protected species. They behave like seagulls trying to get my food all the time.

Sony A7RV

FE 70-200mm f4 G

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Galah for Saturday Critter

 

I haven't done much photography on birds lately. 

Galah is very loud. They always wake me up every morning. 

I would be on the flight back to Melbourne now. (I have to wake up at 2 am in the morning to catch the flight). 

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Rosella in Mount Dandenong for Saturday Critter

 

They are the song birds

Olympus 150mm f2

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Crested Peacock Pheasant for Saturday Critter

 

I was in one of the old trips to Malayasia. This bird was in an enclosure of a village I visited. I was using a point and shoot camera at the time. Now it is memory.

The Malayan peacock-pheasant (Polyplectron malacense) also known as crested peacock-pheasant or Malaysian peacock-pheasant, is a medium-sized pheasant of the galliform family Phasianidae. The closely related Bornean peacock-pheasant (P. schleiermacheri) was formerly included here as a subspecies, but as understood today, P. malacense is monotypic.

Their plumage is generally pale brown with small black spots and bands all over, creating the "salt-and-pepper" effect found in most peacock-pheasants. It has iridescent blue-green eyespots with a buff border on its upper wings, back, and on the 22 rectrices, a white throat running down to the centre of the breast, and a loose, pointed and upturned dark blue-green crest on its forehead. A bare facial skin surrounds the eyes with their bluish-white iris; usually pink, it becomes bright orange-red during courtship. The bill and legs are blackish.

Female plumage is duller than in males, with a vestigial crest and eyespots only on remiges and rectrices. On the wing coverts and back, they have dark dots instead, which are pointed towards the feather tip.

Young birds resemble females but have even less-developed eyespots and usually lack them entirely except on the rectrices. The downy hatchlings are pale chestnut-brown above and buff below.

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