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Window Onto Nature's OUR MANY BIRD SPECIES ARE A VITAL ASSET AND & BRING HARMONY TO THE GARDEN

Window Onto Nature's OUR MANY BIRD SPECIES ARE A VITAL ASSET AND & BRING HARMONY TO THE GARDEN

Author: Jill Theunissen
Date: 2022-02-23

Not only does the Sun rise, pushing back the dawn, but our many bird species announce the new day with song and joyous chorus. When planning a garden it is important to embrace nature and consider the Birds, Butterflies and species within this special precinct. The Indigenous Landscape should entertain a creative approach to invite our local birds and migratory species such as the Swallows. In a reciprocal gesture there will be removal of unwanted pests, such as caterpillars, the crickets in the lawn will disappear with the Hadedas visit with their long bills. Hadeda Ibis build a colossal, elevated nest from twigs, dried leaves, and compacted vegetation. The pair often forage together, but with a new spouse, the female insists on a new nest in a different tree!


When planting an evergreen Natal Mahogany for shade, there is a bonus inside the capsule with black seeds, covered with a scarlet aril, which attracts the Redwinged Starling feeding her brood. The scarlet aril contains vitamin A, while the large seed fills the croup of the fledgling and reduces its squawking cry. Where there is a Thorny Elm Tree, with soft fruit, the Purple Crested Lourie is seen between the branches displaying the conspicuous red in its wings. Another ideal host, the spreading Acacia Robusta offers a nesting venue for the often large colonies of Spottedbacked Weavers. The male bird is the nest builder, while the female fluttering nearby awaits her opportunity of inspection. Where not 100% the female may even reject the product. Nothing new you may say!


In an Acacia robusta, near a stream the nest building may be higher or lower. When the nests hang high on the tree, it may indicate a year of floodwater. Burchell's Coucal with orange breast plumage is often called the "Rain Bird". Its musical call in descending notes is persistent in dry periods. Creatures often pre-empt catastrophe, while we appear to remain without this natural intuition.


Where the garden offers a habitat near water the Malachite Kingfisher takes up residence, After an early morning diving exhibition into the swimming pool the pair will sun-dry their shiny turquoise plumage while resting on the patio railing. Pigeons and Turtle Doves are abundant and the cheeky House Sparrows are rarely absent. As dusk falls the short 'two who' call of the Spotted Eagle Owl announces his nightly vigil.


Where there is neglectful eradication and removal of the Alien, Lantana Camara with small berries for small birds, the population becomes excessive with insufficient predators such as Hawks and Eagles to Retain the natural balance. The NEMBA regulations requiring removal; of alien and invasive species remains essential.
A Bird Table with a Water receptacle is an exciting asset in a shelter position to invite birds. Then spread Wild Bird Seed, alternate fruits such as apples, bananas and paw-paw, and Avocado on "spoiling" days! Fresh water should be changed daily. The Bird Table becomes a unique feature of interest for family members and friends to enjoy.