#and this often extends to other pigeon species

[bluefeatheredvelociraptor]

Pigeons and parrots are fantastic birds! Both groups are full of birds with great personalities, curious and charming in their own right! No group is better than the other!

Pigeons and parrots deserve love and respect 🕊️🥰🦜

I reject the false dichotomy between Pigeon Lovers and Parrot Lovers

Both are amazing, both are wonderful, both are perfect

Reblog if you too love BOTH pigeons AND parrots!

[pigeon-behavior]

Did you know the gold standard for pet pigeons is pigeons raised by their own parents?

That's right! Unlike the common practice of hand-raising that is performed for parrots (we won't get into those ethics here), hand-raising is the LAST thing you want to do with pigeons.

But what is so bad about it? What problems arise? What's the alternative?

Behold, I will tell you.

The most immediate issue that arises with hand-raising over parent-raising is the success rate of making it to adulthood. Pigeons have several biological traits that makes this process extremely difficult for us to adequately copy.

Most birds feed their young the same way. You know exactly what I'm talking about, because even if you haven't seen it in person, you've seen pictures, or even cartoons! Most baby birds open their beaks up as wide as they can go, and mom and dad reach in there to supply food. Hand-raising baby birds with this trait is easier.

Pigeons do not do this. The parent takes the child's beak in their own before barfing up the goods. Pigeon babies (squabs) seek food with a closed beak as a result. And they really, really do not like you trying to pry it open to get food in there.

Most emergency hand-raising or supplementing of columbids is done through specially engineered methods that help mimic this style of eating, but even that isn't perfect.

Columbids (pigeons and doves) are one of three groups of birds that produce this really amazing thing called 'crop milk.' The other two are penguins and flamingoes. Weird combo, isn't it. Maybe not!

It's thought that crop milk originated to feed the young of these species due to their heavily specialized diets and circumstances. Flamingoes are extremophiles who ingest things like brine shrimp and algae. Penguins live on a varying diet of seafood, often in very inconvenient locales. Pigeons (ours at least) are granivores, and grain is typically hard for young animals to make use of. But even the fruit eating pigeons are like this. So what is the huge advantage of crop milk?

With crop milk, you don't have to change your diet or find unusual food items to feed your offspring. With crop milk, your offspring gets an enormously nutritious meal right out the gates, with all the fats and proteins and carbs they could want, pre-made and ready to go. With crop milk, both parents can produce this super meal and extend their chances with this investment cost. All of these groups have very small numbers in their clutches at a time. Some species of penguin only raise one chick a year. To my knowledge, flamingoes also go one at a time. Columbids like rock doves (our pigeons) and mourning doves are capped at 2 per clutch, unless an accident happens. We will get to that.

Here's the rub.

Baby pigeons are one of the fastest growing birds on the planet. The crop milk is a big, big factor in that.

What happens if a 3rd baby is born in those nests, by the way? Usually nothing good. 2 babies are perfectly balanced to receive their parents efforts. 3 is enormously taxing on them and draining on them physically. Responsible breeders do not let their birds have 3 babies on accident. It can lead to deaths.

We don't have an adequate crop milk replacement yet. Even things marketed for this purpose fail. I know breeders who have desperately worked on improving their methods when a baby pigeon NEEDS intervention, and they've made improvement, but it still isn't perfect.

There's a scientific paper that details the gut microbiome transfer between parents and child in pigeon crop milk. It's hard to know how vital that bacteria is. Even if a crop milk substitute could be made with enough protein and fat and less sugar, would there still be a probiotic gap in it?

It is not unusual for a baby pigeon who misses out on parental crop milk to die. Sometimes two weeks later, when you thought maybe they would make it. They get this odd, dried, purple tint to them and most don't pull through past that. We call it FTT, or failure to thrive. There's no other reason they pass - it's not disease. They just stop.

No breeder worth their salt will take a baby to be hand-raised. It's dangerous for the baby. And, it impacts their mental development.

Pigeons that are raised by humans successfully become what we call human imprints. This means they don't really know they are a pigeon. They think they are like their parent - the big ape!

Imprints are NOT desirable among domestic species, or arguably at all, but pigeons are domestic so we'll stick there.

Pigeons who think they're people don't understand why we won't listen to them. So they ramp up their social signaling to 11. They bite as hard as they are capable of, which you can find out is pretty hard actually. They can't be housed with other pigeons. Not only do they have the tendency to be violent, but other pigeons don't like imprints. They tend to sense something is 'off' about them. This can lead to grouping up on one bird. And there's no fixing this. The bird can't be taught otherwise past a certain age. Their owners can find them extremely frustrating.

Don't make this mistake if you don't have to.

So what's the alternative, then?

Parent-raised babies who are socialized by humans, but left to grow up in the nest the majority of the time. Companion-bred birds from ethical breeders will be this. And it works.

Allowing the pigeon to maintain its social identity while introducing them to the fact that people can be great too is the best of both worlds. I personally used my parents as part of the socialization process - feeding the whole family in my lap to help show the babies that there was nothing to be afraid of.

And socialization can get very thorough. Everyone has their own method. But its the best chance you have of an out-of-box friendly bird. Especially from people who actually know their lines and have cultivated good stock.

Long story short, don't try creating imprints for no reason. They'll be messed up, you will be frustrated, and you could end up killing the bird.

I hope that was informative!

If you enjoy my posts, please consider tipping me on ko-fi!

[valentine-cafe]

. ˚◞♡  𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒂𝒓𝒚𝒊𝒆𝒍𝒖𝒔 9948e — the devil in angel's robes◞ ₊˚

⊹ ۪ ࣪ ᥫ᭡ “  keep looking at me like that and I'll have to kiss you breathless. hmm? oh, nothing mi amanecer — you look pretty today, ” ꒱

. ˚◞꒰verse꒱ (ex) 9948e

. ˚◞꒰face claim refs꒱  ( x ) ( x ) ( x ) ( x )

. ˚◞꒰species꒱ high angel

. ˚◞꒰ethnicity꒱ mexican-indian ( awadhi-tamil )

. ˚◞꒰age꒱ 24

. ˚◞꒰gender꒱ genderfluid

. ˚◞꒰mbti꒱ i/enfp

. ˚◞꒰aliases꒱ ángel ligero, angel of light, the auric guardian, the scarlet sabre, the gods’ lapdog ( mocking, demons ), devil in angel’s robes ( the massacre, takeya ), messenger pigeon/little pigeon ( derogatory, from other admirals )

. ˚◞꒰appearance꒱

𖹭. medium-length, layered and slightly curly brown hair that extends just past his shoulders

𖹭. amber eyes with maroon undertones. wears winged eyeliner on his upperlids

𖹭. bronze skin, has gold speckles all over his shoulders and arms. androgynous and delicate. ethereal, yet with some sharper features here and there. beauty spots all over the left side of his face

𖹭. 6’2” ( 187 cm ) in height with a slender figure comprised of some lean muscles

𖹭. two, grand pearly white wings with spotted gold specks

𖹭. mini wings behind his ears

𖹭. often wears long, flowy gold or red robes. is not afraid to show a lot of his skin at times

𖹭. often has red painted lips and in general red undertoned makeup

𖹭. sometimes wears golden belly chains

𖹭. sometimes wears a gold-chained veil with little white jewels on the lower half of his face

𖹭. a gold nose ring that connects to a piercing on his ear by a thin gold chain

𖹭. golden triple lobe and helix piercings on both ears

𖹭. a single gold vertical ring piercing on his bottom lip

𖹭. lots of gold jewellery such a gold bangles that link together with chains, gold chains and a gold hairpin that holds his hair up at times

𖹭. navel piercing and lorum piercing that turns into a clitoral piercing when he is in female form

. ˚◞꒰personality꒱

𖹭. serene, elegant and above all has a rather calm exterior. always seems rather free-spirited

𖹭. kind-hearted and a compassionate being who seems sweet in nature. a being of wisdom despite his youthful countenance

𖹭. graceful, composed and has a certain effortlessness in everything that he does. a particular cool confidence even in that sweet smile of his

𖹭. has a certain charm to him and a charisma that has many head turning

𖹭.particularly dutiful and takes his responsibilities with pride

𖹭. do not be fooled, because behind that kind façade he can be especially deceptive. with a silver tongue and wit that one wouldn’t expect from such a kind looking face

𖹭. lets people believe that he is harmless and mistake his kindness for weakness. beings of corruption quake in his presence; for they know that behind those eyes of an angel lies a devil

𖹭. has a curiosity that he doesn’t always show and a certain yearning for the unknown

𖹭. behind that angelic smile and justice-seeking front, lies quite the cunning angel with a darker side he tries to hide. with twisted desires he is often ashamed of

𖹭. can have violent tendencies which he makes sure to take out on his opponents. yet retains his elegance all the same. even with his sword bloodied and kind eyes crazed

. ˚◞꒰with a lover꒱

𖹭. a very touch-starved, so expect to always have his hands on you. be it holding your hand, hugging you from behind, draping a wing over you

𖹭. scoops you up during random times of the day and is extremely physically affectionate

𖹭. numerous kisses along with cuddles through the day and affirmations of his love for you through acts of service as well

𖹭. enjoys helping you put in whatever way that he possibly can. while he is a very busy person he likes taking care of you. helping you out in the morning or even cooking for you whenever he gets the chance

𖹭. will fluster you at any point that he can. especially with his seemingly unintentional flirting. also lots of shameless touches. will cup your face and kiss you breathless until you’re whining for him

𖹭. dances you around the balcony of his citadel or stargazes with you whenever he has the chance

𖹭. always sure to bring you something back from the vast worlds and realms he travels to, as he is ever the type to spoil you

𖹭. can be quite possessive as a result of being alone for so long. should he feel as though someone is getting a bit too close for comfort, he has a habit of snatching your waist from behind and pressing kisses to your neck all while keeping eye contact with the perpetrator — or perhaps getting you to wear some of his signature jewellery

. ˚◞꒰strengths꒱

𖹭. wings: has a pair of wings that enable him to fly and can use them in combat

𖹭. elemental light: allows him to cast projections of light and manipulate it on a physical standpoint

𖹭. light magic: able to cast certain spells and incantations in regards to light magic

𖹭. swordsmanship: an excellent swordsman that has even some of the gods’ heads turning

𖹭. combativity: highly skilled in the ways of combat, both on a ground level and aerial

𖹭. shape-shifting: the ability to shift his appearance in whatever way he may wish

𖹭. pájaro luminoso: able to channel his powers into a burst of energy and turn into a large, elegant bird made of pure elemental light and fire

. ˚◞꒰weaknesses꒱

𖹭. dark magic: as he is a being of light, he is extremely susceptible to such things as dark and black magic. it weakens his abilities depending on the severity of it

𖹭. corrupt beings: similar to the dark magic point, corrupt beings tend to put his soul at unease. should these corrupt beings be of higher power to him, they can affect him in very negative ways and weaken his abilities

. ˚◞꒰relationships꒱

𖹭. zhào jìngy��: ward, boyfriend ( future )

𖹭. alessio agresta arias: ward, boyfriend ( future )

𖹭. copper resentment ( zhào talisen 164 ): close friend

𖹭. emerald mania ( alessio agresta 164 ): close friend

𖹭. talisen zhào: close friend ( earth 781)

𖹭. nadir gods: parents ( raised him )

𖹭. some zenith gods: parents ( raised him )

. ˚◞꒰story꒱

a glitch.

the favourite of the gods; raised by the hands of the divine — that is what makes our beloved angel, rishen, stand out. a high angel who carries out his duties with a smile of serenity. be he aiding the gods personally or sent out on missions across the multiverse.

an exceptional swordsman who only continues to grow in skill. a being of duty who works his way through admiral ranks, despite great critique. all while balancing his duties as a guardian angel to his would-be fated others.

an angel who yearns not only for love but for the truth of the underworld around him. secrets and mysteries he continues to uncover. a feeling in his chest that feels all to tight. buried by his incessant urge to protect and carry out his responsibilities.

yet beneath all those glimmers and smiles of kindness dwells a creature even he himself does not recognise. a swell of darkness that gnaws at his soul. bleeding out into his sharp smiles and eyes stares. a true devil in angel’s robes.

. ˚◞꒰extra꒱

𖹭. while he is not able to directly interact with the material plane, he can do so by taking on the form of certain animals — usually takes the form of a snow tit

𖹭. he is genderfluid and plays into this by swapping through different genders’ anatomy. his natural androgyny helps a lot with this

𖹭. he is omnilingual yet prefers the language of his cultures: spanish ( latin american ), hindi and tamil

𖹭. due to his pure nature and closeness to the gods, he is often sought out by evil beings who seek to turn him

𖹭. this however does not mean that rishen does not have his own dark thoughts, he has plenty yet tries to keep them to himself

[captainswaglord500]

Razortail/Pinetail/Chichilen

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Chordata

Class: Reptilia

Clade: Archosauromorpha

Clade: Crocopoda

Order: Rhynchosauria

Family: incertae sedis

Genus: Acanthocaudasaurus

Species: A. tahuretensis (“Tahureti spiny-tailed lizard”, “Tahureti” being a demonym for the historical region of Tahuret, a jungle and dry forest kingdom in northern Xenogaea)

Temporal range: Holocene to recent (10,000 kya - present); genetic divergence suggests a probable Miocene origin (10 mya - present).

Information:

A member of the rhynchosaur clade, this reptile’s placement within its own family is a contentious topic, in part due to its mix of basal and derived features. There are three competing theories regarding this, however: the first is that the razortail is a basal rhynchosaur which has convergently evolved derived rhynchosaur features (such as a partially beaked jaw), the second is that it is a derived rhynchosaur which has re-evolved several atavistic traits (such as the more slender, lizard-like build of earlier members of the clade), and the third and most widely-accepted theory being that it represents an early offshoot of the lineage leading to more derived forms, a so-called “missing link” between the two. Alas, this is not the only thing which makes this species quite unique compared to other members of its clade: an unusual example of an omnivore coming from an ancestrally herbivorous lineage, the razortail’s diet is best described as “indiscriminate”. Its main food sources consist largely of palm fronds, fallen fruits, nuts, seeds, large arthropods, small vertebrates (though it especially takes a liking for the multituberculates which share its habitat), and even eggs, the latter of which it actively seeks out. Individuals living in cities have been observed to even go after stray dogs and cats, as well as feral pigeons. Scavenging is also frequent, and cannibalism is documented but rare. Of course, with such indiscriminate dietary habits comes a high ecological pressure for competition, and as such, the razortail is fiercely territorial and reactive. However, while it extends such aggression towards its own kin mercilessly, rarely if ever tolerating the company of other razortails outside of its small hunting group, known as a caravan, with other animals, it is the embodiment of the phrase “its bark is worse than its bite”: it tends to flee from threats it does not believe it can successfully intimidate, though it may puff itself up and hiss and gurgle towards those it believes it can intimidate, throwing its spiny tail in front of it to add to the display. If approached or handled further, it may lunge forward, hissing and gurgling even more loudly, and will only bite if all else fails. The bite of this animal is deceptively strong, and can be strong enough to sever fingers and toes. That said, the amount of provocation it takes to get to this point is extreme, and to get bitten by this animal practically requires you to go looking to get bitten. Unfortunately, this animal often lives near human settlements, in part due to the easy source of food that is refuse piles and in part due to its acquired liking for coconuts and bananas, crops imported during medieval times by Austronesian sailors. As such, its relationship with the native inhabitants of the region is complicated, being simultaneously valued for its prowess for hunting the multituberculates and rodents which commonly eat crops but also detested or its own proclivity towards eating these crops itself. 

Despite being only around the size of a Komodo dragon, this animal’s reputation far precedes it in the jungles and dry forests (and increasingly the neighboring grasslands) it calls home: this animal’s tendency to square up against significantly larger troodonts, dromaeosaurs, and even hyaenodonts has earned it the moniker of the “bulldog lizard” in some areas. Alas, this animal also squares up against rauisuchids and medium-sized theropods. So reviled is this creature by the animals it shares its ecosystem with, that dinosaurs which have lost chicks to razortails will abandon entire nests and start anew. Nonetheless, this animal is also preyed upon by the most brazen predators, its catalogue of predators including large theropods, amphicyonids, saber-toothed cats, prestosuchids, phytosaurs, hyaenids, hyaenodonts, oxyaenodonts, marsupial lions, sparassodonts, and humans. As such, this animal’s mottled, vibrant green and brown coloration is an adaptation which allows it to blend in with the foliage of its home. Another unique adaptation this animal has is its metabolism: a rare example of a heterothermic non-archosaurian diapsid, the razortail is able to inefficiently moderate its own internal temperature. However, as this is energetically costly, it typically relies on the surrounding environment to regulate its body temperature. With superb eyesight, the razortail is cathemeral and is able to be active in both the high afternoon sun and the pitch black of the midnight, hauling itself into the trees with its powerful forelimbs to sleep in the branches when not foraging or socializing. Able to run at speeds of up to 30 mph, this animal is also well-adapted for running fast in short bursts, something which aids it both in hunting and in fleeing from predators. This species appears to be uniquely resistant to the venom of many hymenopterans and snakes, the venom only knocking it unconscious for an hour or two before being metabolized. As such, it has little if any issue feeding on the nests of bees and wasps and is one of the few animals which control venomous snake populations. Some evidence suggest it engages in a form of commensalism with some species of therocephalians living in the same region as it, the more endothermic and muscular therocephalians serving as the brute force needed to make the kill while the razortails serve as the speed needed to corral prey into waiting jaws. This animal is quite versatile as well, and can regenerate damaged body parts with ease, even being able to regenerate parts of its eye if damaged. This species is one of the most successful in Xenogaea from a conservation standpoint, numbering nearly 2 million animals and counting, and its adaptability has allowed it to colonize previously uncharted territory for its species over a relatively short period of time, with most evidence pointing towards this species undergoing a distributive radiation. Likewise, this species’ presence in its native range is likely vital to the spread of the Xenogaean jungle pine, an araucarian conifer species found throughout the northern stretches of the Isle of Perils, as the razortail eats the cone by first crushing them before consuming them, spreading a few stray seeds on the ground in the process and allowing others to pass through its bowels to be excreted in its urea. Another thing to note about this bizarre creature is that the teeth at the front of the lower lip are fused into an exposed, bony plate whereas those on the top are concealed by lips.

In the winter months, when the tropical air is cooler, these animals are one of the few to make love. Congregating in massive groups, the males, whose hormones turn their throat pouches a vibrant blue and red during the mating season, are drawn in by the pungent pheromones the female produces, which are often described as having a strong mushroom-like smell. Though the female will mate with as many males as possible to ensure the fitness of her clutch, males will still fight one another for mating rights. Mating usually occurs on the ground, but maybe also occur in the trees, and the males will usually bite down gently on the back of the female’s neck to prevent her from struggling during copulation. After the female has mated with as many viable males as possible, she will chase away any other suitors aggressively. In a few weeks, she will lay a clutch of 20-30 leathery-shelled eggs in a small burrow at the foot of a tree, which she will guard ferociously, continuously adding and removing dirt as needed and only leaving the burrow for short periods to eat and drink, something which is risky, given that other razortails might eat her clutch. Sex determination is based on temperature, with the colder eggs producing males and the warmer eggs producing females. In roughly 5 weeks, the eggs will hatch and the young are cared for by the mother for roughly a year, after which they are big enough to fend for themselves. Full size is reached at 5 years old and sexually maturity at 7 years old, and in the wild, the young may live to nearly 20-25 years old, whereas in captivity, they may live as long as 30-40 years old. Homosexual behavior is extensively documented in this species, with both males and females engaging in same-sexual copulatory behaviors such as mounting. In fact, an estimated 50% of razortail sexual encounters are same-sex. 

As touched on earlier, this species has a long and highly-complicated relationship with the native inhabitants of the region: simultaneously treated as a savior from pest animals which feed on cash crops and as a nuisance for feeding on said crops itself, captive-bred razortails appear to be undergoing a form of domestication, the first instance of true domestication ever being documented in a nonavian and non-archosaurian reptile. These captive-bred razortails are stockier, have larger eyes, and appear to be undergoing greater encephalization than their wild-born cousins. In captivity, they are used as pest control and guard dogs, their aggression deterring large predators and humans looking to do harm alike. However, its tendency to see other domesticated animals as potential prey make it extremely difficult to keep in close quarters with other pets, especially birds and rodents. Hence, most house-trained razortails are either kept alone, kept with a companion, or sleep outside. Captive-bred specimens are often given a very diverse diet, with the most highly-recommended diet consisting of mice, fish, crab (used as a substitute for the giant invertebrates it normally hunts), lettuce, celery, tomato, avocado, mango, peanuts, bananas, and strawberries. Likewise, this species is exceptionally emotionally intelligent, forming a similar level of emotional connection to its caretakers as dogs, chirping, grumbling, and rumbling to convey happiness to its owner. Its flesh is variously considered a delicacy in some areas, its taste supposedly being gamey and not unlike goat meat. That said, it is tough and sinewy, which makes it difficult to cook properly. Though fossils of this species are quite young, only going back to the very beginning of the Holocene around 10,000 years ago, genetic divergence when comparing its genetic sequence to close relatives indicates its lineage likely originated around 10 millions years ago in the Miocene.

[guntraders]

Shop Firearms Australia | Gun Traders

Introduction

Thinking about buying a firearm in Australia? You're in the right place. Whether you're a seasoned shooter or a newcomer, understanding the ins and outs of the Australian firearms market is crucial. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from the history and laws to choosing the right firearm and where to buy it.

History of Firearms in Australia

Firearms have a storied history in Australia. Early settlers brought guns for hunting and protection, and they played a significant role in the nation's development. Over the years, legislation has evolved significantly, particularly after key events like the Port Arthur massacre in 1996, which led to major reforms under the National Firearms Agreement.

Understanding Australian Firearm Laws

Australia's firearm laws are among the strictest in the world. Here's a brief overview:

Current Regulations

To own a firearm, you must comply with stringent regulations that vary by state and territory. The common thread is a focus on safety and responsible ownership.

Licensing Requirements

Obtaining a firearm license requires thorough background checks, including criminal history and mental health assessments. You'll also need to complete a firearm safety course.

Where to Buy Firearms in Australia

Physical Stores

Brick-and-mortar gun shops are a reliable option. They offer the advantage of seeing and handling the firearm before purchasing. Knowledgeable staff can also provide guidance.

Online Retailers

Buying firearms online is becoming more popular. Reputable sites offer a wide selection and can ship to your local licensed dealer for pickup.

Gun Shows and Auctions

These events are a great way to find unique or vintage Shop Firearms Australia. They also provide an opportunity to network with other enthusiasts and experts.

Popular Firearms in Australia

Handguns

Handguns are strictly regulated, often reserved for sport shooting and professional use. Popular models include the Glock 17 and Smith & Wesson M&P series.

Rifles

Rifles are widely used for hunting and sport shooting. The Ruger 10/22 and Tikka T3x are favored among enthusiasts.

Shotguns

Shotguns are versatile, used for hunting birds and small game. The Benelli M4 and Remington 870 are top choices.

Choosing the Right Firearm

Purpose

Identify your primary reason for owning a firearm: hunting, sport, or self-defense. This will narrow down your options significantly.

Size and Weight Considerations

Ensure the firearm fits comfortably in your hands and isn't too heavy for extended use.

Brand Recommendations

Stick to reputable brands known for reliability and safety. Glock, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and Benelli are excellent choices.

Ammunition and Accessories

Types of Ammunition

Choosing the right ammunition is just as important as choosing the firearm. Match the ammo type to your firearm and intended use.

Essential Accessories

Invest in a good gun safe, cleaning kit, and protective gear. These items are crucial for maintaining your firearm and ensuring safety.

Firearm Safety Tips

Proper Handling and Storage

Always treat a firearm as if it’s loaded. Store guns in a locked safe, separate from ammunition.

Safety Training and Courses

Take a certified safety course to learn proper handling, storage, and emergency procedures.

Hunting with Firearms in Australia

Legal Game Species

Australia offers diverse hunting opportunities. Popular game includes deer, wild boar, and waterfowl.

Best Hunting Spots

New South Wales, Victoria, and Tasmania are renowned for their hunting grounds.

Hunting Seasons

Know the hunting seasons for different game species to ensure you’re hunting legally.

Sport Shooting in Australia

Popular Shooting Sports

Sports like target shooting and clay pigeon shooting are popular. They require skill and precision.

Clubs and Organizations

Joining a club like the Sporting Shooters' Association of Australia (SSAA) provides access to ranges, competitions, and a community of enthusiasts.

Maintaining Your Firearm

Cleaning and Maintenance Tips

Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Follow the manufacturer's guidelines and use quality cleaning supplies.

Professional Servicing Options

Periodically, have your firearm inspected and serviced by a professional to ensure it’s in top condition.

Joining a Firearm Community

Benefits of Being Part of a Community

Networking, shared knowledge, and support are key benefits. Communities also advocate for firearm rights and provide a collective voice.

How to Find and Join Clubs

Look for local clubs through the SSAA or other reputable organizations. Attend meetings and participate in events to get involved.

Legal Considerations for Firearm Owners

Transporting Firearms

Transport firearms unloaded, in a locked container, and separate from ammunition. Follow state-specific regulations.

Reporting Requirements

Report lost or stolen firearms immediately to the police. Keep your license and registration up to date.

Future of Firearms in Australia

Emerging Trends

Technological advancements in firearm safety and design are ongoing. Stay informed about new developments.

Potential Changes in Legislation

Legislation can change. Stay updated on potential reforms that may impact firearm ownership.

Conclusion

Owning a firearm in Australia comes with significant responsibilities. From understanding the strict laws to choosing the right firearm and maintaining it properly, there’s a lot to consider. Whether you’re interested in hunting, sport shooting, or simply collecting, being informed and prepared is key to a safe and enjoyable experience.

Read More:-Shop Firearms Australia

[worldoftime]

The Secret Lives of Urban Birds: Adapting to City Life

As cities expand and human populations grow, urban environments are increasingly becoming home to a variety of wildlife. Among the most adaptable and fascinating of these urban dwellers are birds. Birds have not only survived but thrived in cities, demonstrating remarkable flexibility in their behavior, diet, and nesting habits. This article explores the secret lives of urban birds and the strategies they use to adapt to city life.

Urbanization and Bird Adaptation

Urbanization presents a unique set of challenges and opportunities for birds. The transformation of natural habitats into concrete jungles can lead to loss of traditional nesting sites, changes in food availability, and increased exposure to pollutants. However, many bird species have found ways to overcome these challenges and exploit the new resources that cities offer.

One of the most notable adaptations of urban birds is their ability to find and use alternative nesting sites. Pigeons, for instance, originally cliff-dwellers, now nest on the ledges of buildings. House sparrows and starlings often use holes in buildings, streetlights, and even traffic lights as nesting sites. This ability to utilize man-made structures has been crucial for their survival in urban environments.

Dietary Flexibility

Urban birds exhibit a high degree of dietary flexibility, allowing them to take advantage of the diverse food sources available in cities. Pigeons, crows, and gulls are particularly known for their scavenging habits, feeding on discarded food, garbage, and even pet food. This opportunistic feeding behavior not only helps them survive but often leads to population booms in urban areas.

In addition to scavenging, many urban birds have developed unique foraging techniques. For example, some species have learned to time their visits to cafes and restaurants to coincide with meal times, taking advantage of crumbs and food scraps left by humans. Others have been observed using tools or manipulating urban objects to access food. The innovative ways urban birds source their food highlight their cognitive abilities and adaptability.

 Behavioral Adaptations

Urban environments can be noisy, crowded, and polluted, yet birds have adapted remarkably well to these conditions. One significant behavioral adaptation is changes in vocalization. Many urban birds sing at higher pitches and volumes to be heard over the constant din of traffic and human activity. Some species, like the great tit, adjust their song patterns, singing at different times of the day when noise levels are lower.

Another behavioral change is in their activity patterns. Urban birds often become more active during early mornings or late evenings when human activity is minimal. This temporal adjustment helps reduce competition for resources and minimizes the risk of human-related threats.

Reproductive Strategies

Reproductive success is crucial for the survival of any species, and urban birds have adapted their breeding strategies to thrive in city environments. Extended breeding seasons and multiple broods per year are common among urban bird populations. The abundance of food and relatively mild urban microclimates contribute to higher reproductive rates.

Additionally, urban birds often show increased parental care. Studies have shown that some species, like the urban blackbird, spend more time feeding and protecting their chicks compared to their rural counterparts. This increased investment in offspring ensures higher survival rates in the challenging urban environment.

 Human-Wildlife Interactions

The relationship between urban birds and humans is complex and multifaceted. On one hand, birds benefit from the resources provided by human activities, such as food and nesting sites. On the other hand, they face risks from collisions with buildings, pollution, and human disturbances.

Public perception of urban birds varies widely. While some species like pigeons and crows are often seen as pests, others like robins and sparrows are cherished for their song and presence. Education and awareness campaigns can help foster a more positive relationship between humans and urban birds, emphasizing the ecological benefits they provide, such as pest control and seed dispersal.

 Conservation and Management

As urban areas continue to grow, it is essential to consider the conservation and management of urban bird populations. Creating bird-friendly cities involves measures such as preserving green spaces, planting native vegetation, and providing safe nesting sites. Urban planning can incorporate bird conservation by designing buildings with bird-safe glass to reduce collisions and ensuring that public spaces include features that support bird life.

Community involvement is also crucial. Citizen science projects, such as bird counts and monitoring programs, can engage the public in conservation efforts and provide valuable data for researchers. By fostering a sense of stewardship and appreciation for urban wildlife, communities can contribute to the protection and thriving of urban bird populations.

Conclusion

The secret lives of urban birds reveal a remarkable story of adaptation and resilience. Despite the challenges posed by urbanization, birds have found ways to coexist with humans, transforming cities into vibrant ecosystems. Understanding and supporting the needs of urban birds not only enriches our urban environments but also reminds us of the incredible adaptability of wildlife in the face of change. As we continue to shape our cities, it is vital to consider the needs of these avian inhabitants, ensuring that our urban landscapes remain welcoming and sustainable for all forms of life.

[redux-iterum]

Random thought: Does ThunderClan ever memorize the breeding seasons of birds that they hunt, in order to avoid killing, say, a pigeon foraging on the forest floor, that might have a nest with chicks that it would otherwise return to? I could definitely see ThunderClan imposing temporary hunting bans on certain species, depending on the time of year. (It could also be a good way to reinforce their more regimented culture, and demonstrate their specialization in hunting and managing forest prey.)

They're not so specific that the mating seasons of every bird species in the forest is tracked, but they do have a general idea of when to leave nests and some birds alone. This usually comes in the form of "oh, no, I saw a wren on a nest yesterday, don't touch any of those around here" or "hey, we haven't seen a lot of rooks recently, have we? I'll tell the deputy to limit the rook hunting". This does extend to every prey animal, of course. More often than not, limits (like with most of the other Clans) are set in place when one area has been low on prey for a few days and should probably be left alone so prey comes back. It's just a question of what needs preservation at the moment.

[theramseyloft]

Cognition and Sociology Research

When I was raising doves I found some research papers about pigeons categorizing things and learning the equivalent of words the way human children do.

At the time, I just thought it was neat. 

But when we got the most pitiful pigeon I have ever seen into wildlife rehab (I'm their columbid specialist), 

I built off of that research and started talking to him, like you would a nonverbal three year old. 

 Entirely on his own, he started alerting me for anxiety attacks, and even worked out how to bring me down from bad ones if he couldn't warn me fast enough. 

He knew I was diabetic before I did, and also started alerting me for blood sugar spikes all on his own.

I'm an autistic woman with ADHD, PTSD, and pretty severe social anxiety.

My two biggest fears in public are anxiety attacks and over-stimulation.

Those of you with mental illness are aware that panic attacks and anxiety attacks are two different things.

A panic attack is a sudden reaction to a specific stimulus. 

 An anxiety attack is more of a straw that broke the camels back after a prolonged build up of stressors. 

From my perspective, they feel exactly the same.

Because I am not aware of the build up of stress until I have that last straw moment, an anxiety attack can hit me out of nowhere, for absolutely no reason I am capable of discerning in the moment.

It makes going anywhere alone absolutely terrifying because I have no way of knowing when or if or even why I may suddenly have an anxiety attack.

Under enough duress, I can’t function.  Like my brain just shorts out.

I get hit with a wave of exhaustion. All the energy drains out through the soles of my feet, and I'm just.. so deeply tired I could just crumple up where I stand. 

Blood sugar spikes feel, to me, exactly like that stressed out shut down.

Ankhou can read that build up, and differentiate between anxiety, blood sugar, and just plain physically tired.

If I am actually just tired, Ankhou will wait for me to get comfortable, snuggle in with me, and join the nap.

When he becomes aware that I'm approaching the degree of stressed that preceeds an anxiety attack, he gets on my shoulder or in my lap and leans against my cheek or preens my hand: Letting me know I need to relax and providing me a soft stim to relax come down with.

If he stands on my chest and stretches to be eye level, that't my warning that I need to immediately find a place to sit down and pet him to prevent myself from shutting down entirely.

If he has not gotten to me soon enough and I am fully shut down, he gets in my lap and gently preens the underside of my forearm until I respond to stroke him.

If I'm having a blood sugar spike, he will do absolutely anything in his power to prevent me from falling asleep! He'll start by preening and nudging my hands to pet him. If I don’t respond, he bites my fingers. 

If I don’t respond to that, he bites the back of my hand. Then the soft tender bit between my fingers, then my inner elbow, then my ear, then my cheek... 

And then if absolutely nothing else will rouse me, he will bite my eyelid.

If absolutely nothing will get me to respond, he'll find who ever else is in the house and throw himself at their office or room door until they come check on me.

And I got to thinking: If a feral literally off the street would do that on his own...

What would happen if I selectively bred the birds most comfortable around and interested in people? 

And gave them very basic training? Like responding to their name, loading eagerly into a carrier, comfortably wearing a harness, responding to a few simple commands like Step up...

At the time, I was raising show pigeons.

And one of the highest criteria for working with a breed was its tractability and docility.

So I already had this collection of the breeds that were easiest to handle, most physically fit, with the best parents instincts like tight setting of eggs and chicks and excellent feeding responses...

Letting them blend would mean I wouldn’t have to keep pairs penned anymore!

So I laid out sand on the floor to make cleaning easier, got them nest boxes and stacked them to the wall.

Got them shelves with hardware cloth supporting comfy rubber mats I could take out and hose off.

And let them pair up as they would.

I have a cap of 10 mature breeding pairs. 

 When a keeper baby hits 6 months, the adult of the same sex that is either least healthy, least friendly, or has the worst parenting record gets retired and adopted to their permanent home as a pet.

That's the only influencing I have over pairings. 

 The birds can otherwise do and bond as they please. 

 Babies who do not enjoy any aspect of the training program are not forced to continue. I just mark them as pet instead of potential therapy bird.

I record everything they do. 

 Who they pair with, how well they parented the babies, how the babies developed, who wants to sit with me, under what circumstance. 

 How treat motivated are they? 

How much and where do they like to be petted? 

How keen are they to sit with me with no treat reward vs. treat time? 

 Upon reaching maturity, does any of that change? 

 Pigeons are a very unusual sort of social among the columbidae. 

 Most other birds,  including the vast majority of dove and pigeon species, see fully self feeding fledgelings as new competition for resources and drive them out of their territory. 

 They can feed off a rich ground together, but only watch out for and cooperate with their current mate. They do not seek out other birds’ company, they just happen to be in the same place at the same time.

 Rock doves and their domesticated descendants' flocks are strikingly human like extended families.

Parents, grandkin, aunts, uncles, children, cousins, grand children: all live together year round in a nesting site that functions kinda like a human tribe or village.

Babies only ever leave the flock to start a new one when there are not enough resources to support the number of birds.

When they fledge and leave the nest, their dad takes over the bulk of their care. He feeds them, shows them where to find food, water, and nest material, and teaches them how to integrate into pigeon society.

When to be assertive so they don’t get crowded out and can get what they need, and when to defer to the status of an older, bigger bird to avoid being injured in a fight.

The rest of the flock will usually haze a peep the first day it's down: Basically each taking heir turn to assert "I'm older and bigger, and I out rank you." Knowing where they are in the chain of command makes things like coordinating flock foraging parties around avoiding predators and navigating changing weather conditions go smoothly when it's time to venture forth from the nesting grounds.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150609213053.htm

Pigeon society is democratic. 

 Every fully fledged bird has a say in where they go and what they do on missions. 

 The individual that knows the best places to find food, water, or nest material will lead the mission out to get that thing, and the bird who is best at navigating leads the foraging party back home afterwards.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/04/100416214045.htm

Pigeon flocks are a meritocracy. 

 A mission leader earns that status by actually being the best at that specific task, and if some one else gets better at it, the flock will follow that bird instead.

https://www.audubon.org/news/in-homing-pigeon-flocks-bad-bosses-quickly-get-demoted

This one isn’t pigeon specific, but pigeons are SUPER communicative, and it would not surprise me to find that this applies to pigeon peeps as well. 

https://www.mnn.com/earth-matters/animals/stories/baby-birds-communicate-eggs-hatch?fbclid=IwAR39CYrHAfFM6nAP8Rq3TvOox1p5vcb3Z87xqjPoiYNCwMoRvuQaWCeSFjs

 Maybe less because their parents sit on them constantly, but I have seen evidence for peeps hatching with anxiety during a stressful time for the flock. 

Pigeons, like baboons, are capable of higher level cognition.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/02/090212141143.htm

In fact, their brains are wired a lot like ours!

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/07/130717095336.htm

Facial recognition is as important to them as it is to us, and it functions the same way ours does.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/07/130717095336.htm

Like corvids, and unlike most parrots, pigeons recognize themselves in mirrors.

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/06/080613145535.htm

I have seen evidence that they can differentiate a mirror from a photo and a video, and can recognize themselves in a video with significant delay.

This degree of self awareness is why their name is the first concrete thing my babies learn.

When a baby reaches a week of age, it gets a name and observes the older birds at treat time in my lap. 

 I greet each individual by name and give them a safflower seed held between thumb and forefinger. (Making my hand look more bird head shaped than the usual talon or snake head shape that hands present to birds on an instinctive level) 

 There are often individuals in a flock who will feed any peep that toddles up and begs. By doing treat time this way, I take on this "auntie" roll for my flock and emulate the comfort of being fed by a big, protective parent. 

 When the baby starts to peck and beg me for seeds, I greet it by name and pop a safflower seed into its mouth just like the adults. 

 That baby learns that its name specifies that I am addressing it, and no other bird, and associates being addressed by name with getting something good. 

The end result is a baby who knows and eagerly responds to their name.

The information in these three studies: 

proving that pigeons categorize like we do https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/04/140402095107.htm

They learn the equivalent of words the way human children do https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/02/150204184447.htm

And pattern map with enough nuance to differentiate a word from an acronym the same number of letters. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/09/160919111535.htm

 was the basis of my linguistic training with Ankhou. 

 Language is a pattern of matching words to objects, places, individuals, actions, and concepts. 

 Pigeons are communicative, social learning pattern mappers, already wired to map the pattern of language by the same mechanic as a human toddler. 

 My job is to feed Ankhou the pattern by which humans vocally communicate and let him do with it what pigeons do best. 

https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2017/12/171204144805.htm

Pigeons understand abstracts like time and space.

Ankhou understands the abstract concepts of choice and consent, and is capable of giving me a clear yes or no answer.

And the exciting thing is that he isn’t special in that regard. 

 All pigeons are wired to learn language this way, and with patience and consistence, any of them at any age can be taught. 

 It's just easiest for babies who were raised with it.

Pigeon society is close enough to a big, extended human family that an individual pigeon can integrate easily into a human flock.

The more easily they can communicate with us and we can with them, the more easily they can integrate and the closer bonds they can form with their partner.

So the bulk of our research here at The Ramsey Loft is centered around decoding pigeon communication, pushing to see how much of ours they can be taught, what environment and methods are most conducive to teaching them, how big a part genetics play, and how accurately those traits can be selected for.

[dansnaturepictures]

22/07/19-Winchester and Big Butterfly Count at Lakeside again 

As I said in my posts over the weekend it was always my intention to do an additional big butterfly count over Lakeside the country park near our house to my successful one on Saturday morning there tonight. If nothing else to compare numbers and species seen on an early afternoon there to an evening. It was always gonna be a morning on the weekend and I did Saturday so the first chance I got. But looking at the forecast Friday it appeared it would be the weekend one one where the sun was in and out a bit and the Monday evening one a solid sunny one. But it turned out the other way round with my count on Saturday the sun being more out than in in what turned into a wonderful afternoon for weather. Its wonderful conditions as I write this bit of the blog text but as I cut across Lakeside on my way home from work the sun was only just really starting out today and when it was in it felt somewhat cooler although very hot when it was out.

I decided to take any pictures I wanted to during this by taking my spare bridge camera (Lesser quality for butterflies than my DSLR but still manageable) in my work bag once more. After all I did well I think with my DSLR during the count on Saturday and I have photographed most of the species that would likely be involved well enough lately and this year with my DSLR anyway. This meant I could simply start the 15 minute count as soon as I got into the country park on my cut through on my way back from the railway station to home. Rather than walking through the whole area in question, back home to get my camera and binoculars, and then back to the area like previous years. I did use my old/spare binoculars that live in my work bag too tonight. 

It meant though I had my spare camera in my work bag for lunch time. So I took the first three pictures in this photoset of a flower bed in Abbey Gardens where I ate lunch, the King Alfred Statue from there and a sunflower at Winchester Cathedral near a lovely bee friendly planting patch they have. Wildlife I saw on lunch today included; Jackdaw, Feral Pigeon, Robin, Large White, Small White and Banded Demoiselle. 

This evening’s count then was one that featured fewer individual butterflies than Saturday with 36 to Saturday’s 42 and fewer species just about with 7 to Saturday’s 8. But I still find this very impressive as I only saw 22 individuals on either of my two Lakeside counts last year. I had so much fun watching these butterflies again. The Gatekeeper and the Meadow Brown were the two most numerous like on Saturday, though perhaps the slight difference in conditions showed with Gatekeeper down from 22 to 17 between the days and Meadow Brown 9 to 6.

Covering a wider area as I said I might than Saturday I got to walk through the bit I call Marbled White meadow, taking the fourth picture in this photoset of one here. Overall I had a better night for seeing this species which had rivalled Gatekeeper and Meadow Brown’s the big hitters in these here figures three years ago and dropped so much it seems, with four seen to Saturday’s one. Large White also went up from Saturday from 2 to 4 and Small Skipper remained the same with 3 seen again. Brown Argus remained in the running which I am so thrilled with, 1 seen like I did on Saturday and on my second count here last year the only times I’ve seen any here before. 

As I walked round I took fifth picture in this photoset of a young Woodpigeon. Two species I lost from Saturday’s eight were Ringlet and Speckled Wood which I didn’t see tonight. But as shown by the sixth and seventh pictures I took today in this photoset I gained a species from Saturday and saw a beautiful Red Admiral. This as one of my favourite butterflies is one I always take pleasure in seeing, especially during the Big Butterfly Count. I felt in aw of it to see it and importantly it is a target species for the count obviously so felt a crucial one to get in. By way of doing one of my wildlife sightings summaries in a different way, I obviously mentioned all the butterflies I saw tonight and besides the Woodpigeon the only bird I saw was Herring Gulls. 

After four fantastic fifteen minutes of counting butterflies this extended weekend period which I looked forward to so much, I shall probably curtail my butterfly counts for 2019 now. Especially for Lakeside, as even with a heatwave seemingly coming again, it can feel a bit like groundhog day and I got two smashing counts in. My plans next weekend possibly make it a little more difficult to do the counts, but I feel I have really done my bit in terms of the ones I completed and the posts I did promoting it. Including my regular social media and at work by word of mouth and on Yammer. Here’s one more: https://www.bigbutterflycount.org/ I do have a little rule though with myself that as I have said so often this has been a sensational year of Painted Ladies. I want the array of places I have seen them at to include one where I tell Butterfly Conservation about it via this survey. So should I see one before 11th August when Big Butterfly Count ends I will do 15 minutes of counting or tie in some from 15 minutes prior. Even if this is over Lakeside on a cut through, and if so I may not be taking pictures during it. 

I have had so much fun building up to the Big Butterfly Count and doing the ones I did. They say do it “as many times as you like” and my packing the first weekend with them is as much as I would like to do barring Painted Ladies and any other target species I might get to see. But the butterfly season is far from over and I don’t have to be counting them to really enjoy them and feel like I am spreading awareness for certain species and showing my love for these insects. Thanks for all your support for my Big Butterfly Count tweets and posts.

[a-dinosaur-a-day]

Ptilonorhynchus violaceus

By Joseph C. Boone, CC BY-SA 4.0

Etymology: Feather Bill

First Described By: Kuhl, 1820

Classification: Dinosauromorpha, Dinosauriformes, Dracohors, Dinosauria, Saurischia, Eusaurischia, Theropoda, Neotheropoda, Averostra, Tetanurae, Orionides, Avetheropoda, Coelurosauria, Tyrannoraptora, Maniraptoromorpha, Maniraptoriformes, Maniraptora, Pennaraptora, Paraves, Eumaniraptora, Averaptora, Avialae, Euavialae, Avebrevicauda, Pygostaylia, Ornithothoraces, Euornithes, Ornithuromorpha, Ornithurae, Neornithes, Neognathae, Neoaves, Inopinaves, Telluraves, Australaves, Eufalconimorphae, Psittacopasserae, Passeriformes, Eupasseres, Passeri, Euoscines, Climacterides, Ptilonorhynchidae

Status: Extant, Least Concern

Time and Place: Within the last 10,000 years, in the Holocene of the Quaternary Period 

Ptilonorhynchus, the Satin Bowerbird, is primarily known from the Eastern coast of Australia 

Physical Description: The Satin Bowerbird is a large bird, reaching about 32.5 centimeters in length and up to 290 grams in weight - making it about the same size as the common Rock Pigeon. The Satin Bowerbird is a bulky passerine, with a medium-length, pointed bill and a fairly long body, and a long tail. This bird is sexually dimorphic, with the males having a very distinct appearance. The males are black in color, but the feathers have a distinct iridescent blue sheen over them, while the underbelly and thighs are less glossy than the rest of the body. Their eyes are vividly purple, while the legs and bill are more pale in color. The females, on the other hand, are much more dull in color - they are brown, with some olive-green tint to the underfeathers and back feathers, with longer tails and pale yellow underbellies that are striped across. 

By Streetsweeper, CC BY-SA 2.0

The juveniles are usually brownish olive, with browner black feathers. The males look like females for the first three years of life, though their wing feathers are more pointed; in the fourth year they become darker, as the feathers over the body slowly transition from green to darker black and shiny. By the sixth year the males have an odd patchwork of blue-black feathers and green ones; they reach full maturity at about eight years of age. The females, on the other hand, become mature within three years.

Diet: The Satin Bowerbird feeds mainly on fruit, but it will supplement its diet with flowers, leaves, nectar, seeds, and insects. The hatchlings almost entirely insects brought by the parents, especially scarab beetles and cicadas.

Behavior: Satin Bowerbirds feed at all levels of the tree canopy, plucking fruit from high up off of the ground and gleaning animals from lower levels. They usually don’t use fly over techniques to find animal-based food. They will forage alone, or with their families; though they do join mixed-species flocks. In the winter, they form flocks of up to 200 individuals, which fly together to find plants in pastures and gardens. They, in general, do not migrate; some that live in the woods will travel to more open habitats during the winter. The males often do leave their bower locations during the non-breeding season. 

By Summ, CC BY-SA 3.0

The most interesting thing about Satin Bowerbirds, of course, would be their mating behaviors. Male Bowerbirds create stick houses, called bowers, that they decorate to attract mates. The Satin Bowerbird is one of the best known of these dinosaurs, and their bower behavior has been well studied. Young male Satin Bowerbirds will use a variety of blue, yellow, and shiny objects to decorate their bowers, but they transition to more blue objects as they age. Oftentimes, the males will use the same bower sites for over 30 years - they are attached to their bower sites and will remain with them, though they aren’t territorial besides defending their particular bower site. The male makes the bower by placing sticks upright, making two separate towers of sticks that curve towards each other; he then will add grass straw to the ground of the bower as foundation. Then, the male will continue to add twigs until they meet and intermesh above the grass foundation. The grass straw on the ground does extend beyond the walls, though sometimes the bower will have a third wall, creating another path through the bower house. Sometimes, these structures can have more than 2000 sticks making up the walls.

These bowers are then decorated by the males - usually with what we would consider junk, but obviously, the Bowerbirds don’t feel the same! The items they grab can range from ballpoint pens, to straws, to caps, to flowers and berries, and even clothing - sometimes even skulls. Sometimes, the males will also paint the inside of the bower walls with charcoal, foliage, bark, and fruit. The objects are usually chosen by what catches the male’s eye, and over time he learns from experience what will attract a mate. The females will visit the bowers, and use the decor outside of the bower to determine their choice of mate. The males will also dance to woo the females, but they can be interpreted as threats rather than displays sometimes. First, the male buzzes while rapidly opening and closing its wings, picking up decorations and strutting directly in front of the female. Then, the male will mimic the female’s vocals, and raise and lower himself on his legs and comes towards the females with decorations in its bill. 

By Joseph C. Boone, CC BY-SA 4.0

The female decides whether or not to accept the male’s courtship in three steps. First, she visits bowers before nests are built, while males are absent, to judge the bowers without male interference. Then, the female visits the bowers before nests have been built while the males are present and displaying. Finally, the females will visit a limited number of bowers after nests have been born, and usually narrows down to a single male for copulation. Younger females make their decisions mostly based on the bowers; older females, on the mating displays. When that decision has been made, she will crouch and vibrate her wings, and raise her rump so that the male can mate with her.

The nests take about two weeks to build, by making a saucer of sticks and twigs and green leaves. Usually, these nests are built high up off of the ground, though sometimes closer to the ground. The height is mainly dependent on the density of vegetation. The clutch is usually 1 to 3 eggs, which is incubated for about three weeks by the female alone. The male, meanwhile, will solicit more females with his bower. The females will continue to take care of the young for three more weeks, usually by chasing away predators and competitors from within the species. They’ll even do a broken-wing distraction while mimicing predators in order to distract antagonistics. Both sexes live between 20 to thirty years in total.

Ecosystem: The Satin Bowerbird mainly lives in the rainforest, especially along the edges, and dry woodlands as well. The bower sites are usually dispersed evenly through woods and rainforests. The young are usually fed upon extensively, but the adults are not typically threatened quite as extensively.

Other: Subfossil Satin Bowerbirds are known, but they all exist within the Holocene - thus, they do not significantly extend the time range of this species.

~ By Meig Dickson

Sources under the cut 

Coleman, S. W., G. L. Patricelli, G. Borgia. 2004. Variable female preferences drive complex male displays. Nature 428 (6984): 742 - 745.

Frith, C. & Frith, D. 2019. Satin Bowerbird (Ptilonorhynchus violaceus). In: del Hoyo, J., Elliott, A., Sargatal, J., Christie, D.A. & de Juana, E. (eds.). Handbook of the Birds of the World Alive. Lynx Edicions, Barcelona.

Higgins, P. J., J. M. Peter (eds.) Handbook of Australian, New Zealand and Antarctic Birds, Volume 6: Pardalotes to Shrike-Thrushes.

Jobling, J. A. 2010. The Helm Dictionary of Scientific Bird Names. Christopher Helm Publishing, A&C Black Publishers Ltd, London.

[normal-thoughts-official]

ID: A single slide titled "Bird Tongues: the topic you didn't know you were interested in". It has text and a few illustrations, as follows:

Eating

Hummingbirds and woodpeckers are known for their long tongues. Both rely on the support of a highly developed hyoid apparatus. The hyoid is a bone in many animals that helps support the tongue. In these two birds, the hyoid sits in a mobile sheath that wraps around the skull and extends to the tip of the tongue. When the tongue ejects, the hyoid slides outwards and allows the tongue to reach farther than it normally would.

[The illustration is a two-part image showing a bird's head, and some sort of solid surface with a hole inside of which is a maggot. The bird's tongue is shown in full. In the first drawing, the tongue fits inside the bird's beak, and you can see that inside its body it wraps around its skull, almost outlining its head, with the innermost tip going as far as where the top part of the beak starts. In the second drawing, the tongue is extended beyond the beak to fit into the hole and touch the maggot. In that case, the innermost tip has retracted to about the top of the bird's head, with the rest still wrapping around the rest of the skull]

Some bird species use their tongues for other purposes. Flickers have a barbed, sticky tongue that can pull ants out of an anthill. Some birds - notably robins, waxwings - have a forked V midway on their tongues to help manipulate and swallow large food like berries.

[Another two-part illustration. It shows a bird with a forked V midway through their tongue, seemingly connected to nothing. In the first image, the bird is holding a berry on the tip of its tongue. In the second image, the berry has slid into the forked V, fitting the empty part behind it]

However for other birds, tongues just aren't needed. Birds that catch small prey at high speeds (swallows, nightjars) simply open their mouths and let the food fly into their esophagus. In these species, the tongue is either reduced or nearly gone.

Taste

Compared to mammals, bird tongues possess few taste buds. Some species also have taste buds on the inside of their bill.

Drinking

Most birds use their tongues to lap water like cats and dogs do. Others can scoop up water as they fly over freshwater lakes and rivers. Oceanic (pelagic) species can drink saltwater directly - they have organs that can extract the salt from their blood and excrete it. However regardless of the method used, most birds must tip their heads back in order to move the water from their mouths to their stomachs.

A few exceptions exist: Pigeons and doves can drink by suction and don't need to tip their heads back, and hummingbirds have a grooved tongue that draws nectar. They then retract their tongue, drink the nectar, and extend it again - up to 20 times per second.

[Illustration shows a hummingbird's head, and beside it, two cross-sections of its tongue. They show a tongue that looks like two parallel tubes connected on the side, with an open part at the top. In the first cross-section, the "tubes" look almost perfectly round and are filled until about the middle with nectar. It is labeled "expands to fill with nectar". In the second cross-section, the "tubes" are flattened and look like an oval shape that's longer on the sides. It is labeled "Empties and compresses"]

A handful of species don't drink at all. Hawks, desert species, and the aforementioned hummingbirds obtain all their water from their diets.

Vocalizing

While tongues, lips, and teeth are key in producing many of the sounds utilized in human communication, birds rely mostly on their throat musculature and a vocal organ called the syrinx. Speech-mimicking birds like parrots often move their tongue while vocalizing, but the extent to which this affects their speech is unknown.

[The credits say alithographics, and there is a list of references. Each reference link has been embedded in the words below]

Link

Link

Link

Link

/end ID

Science Fact Friday: Everything You Never Wanted to Know About Bird Tongues

[valentine-cafe]

˖⁺. ﹙ the devil in angel's robes. ﹚:  rishen aryielus 9948e .𖹭 ݁

. . . he's a fairytale !! 🍒 : “  keep looking at me like that and I'll have to kiss you breathless. hmm? oh, nothing mi amanecer — you look pretty today,  ”

꒰ verse ꒱ (ex ) 9948e

꒰ species ꒱ angel

꒰ ethnicity ꒱ mexican-indian

꒰ age ꒱ 25

꒰ gender ꒱ genderfluid ( physically switches body genders )

꒰ mbti ꒱ enfp

꒰ alias ꒱  ángel ligero, angel of light, the auric guardian, the scarlet sabre, the gods’ lapdog ( mocking, demons ), devil in angel’s robes ( the massacre, takeya ), messenger pigeon/little pigeon ( derogatory, from other admirals )

꒰ story ꒱ 

a glitch.

the favourite of the gods; raised by the hands of the divine — that is what makes our beloved angel, rishen, stand out. a high angel who carries out his duties with a smile of serenity. be he aiding the gods personally or sent out on missions across the multiverse. despite all the critque from those around him - he holds his head up strong

an exceptional swordsman who only continues to grow in skill. a being of duty who works his way through admiral ranks, despite great critique. all while balancing his duties as a guardian angel to his would-be fated others.

an angel who yearns not only for only love but for the truth of the divine lands around him. secrets and mysteries he continues to uncover. a feeling in his chest that feels all to tight. buried by his incessant urge to protect and carry out his responsibilities.

yet beneath all those glimmers and smiles of kindness dwells a creature even he himself does not recognise. a swell of darkness that gnaws at his soul. bleeding out into his sharp smiles and eyes stares. a true devil in angel’s robes.

 

꒰ appearance ꒱

medium-length, layered and slightly curly brown hair that extends just past his shoulders

amber eyes with maroon undertones. wears winged eyeliner on his upperlids

bronze skin, has gold speckles all over his shoulders and arms. androgynous and delicate. ethereal, yet with some sharper features here and there. beauty spots all over the left side of his face

6’2” ( 187 cm ) in height with a slender figure comprised of some lean muscles

two, grand pearly white wings with spotted gold specks

mini wings behind his ears

often wears long, flowy gold or red robes. is not afraid to show a lot of his skin at times

often has red painted lips and in general red undertoned makeup

sometimes wears golden belly chains

sometimes wears a gold-chained veil with little white jewels on the lower half of his face

a gold nose ring that connects to a piercing on his ear by a thin gold chain

golden triple lobe and helix piercings on both ears

a single gold vertical ring piercing on his bottom lip

lots of gold jewellery such a gold bangles that link together with chains, gold chains and a gold hairpin that holds his hair up at times

navel piercing and lorum piercing that turns into a clitoral piercing when he is in female form

 

꒰ personality ꒱

serene, elegant and above all has a rather calm exterior. always seems rather free-spirited

kind-hearted and a compassionate being who seems sweet in nature. a being of wisdom despite his youthful countenance

graceful, composed and has a certain effortlessness in everything that he does. a particular cool confidence even in that sweet smile of his

has a certain charm to him and a charisma that has many head turning

particularly dutiful and takes his responsibilities with pride

do not be fooled, because behind that kind façade he can be especially deceptive. with a silver tongue and wit that one wouldn’t expect from such a kind looking face

lets people believe that he is harmless and mistake his kindness for weakness. beings of corruption quake in his presence; for they know that behind those eyes of an angel lies a devil

has a curiosity that he doesn’t always show and a certain yearning for the unknown

behind that angelic smile and justice-seeking front, lies quite the cunning angel with a darker side he tries to hide. with twisted desires he is often ashamed of

can have violent tendencies which he makes sure to take out on his opponents. yet retains his elegance all the same. even with his sword bloodied and kind eyes crazed

 

꒰ with a lover ꒱

a very touch-starved, so expect to always have his hands on you. be it holding your hand, hugging you from behind, draping a wing over you

scoops you up during random times of the day and is extremely physically affectionate

numerous kisses along with cuddles through the day and affirmations of his love for you through acts of service as well

enjoys helping you put in whatever way that he possibly can. while he is a very busy person he likes taking care of you. helping you out in the morning or even cooking for you whenever he gets the chance

will fluster you at any point that he can. especially with his seemingly unintentional flirting. also lots of shameless touches. will cup your face and kiss you breathless until you’re whining for him

dances you around the balcony of his citadel or stargazes with you whenever he has the chance

always sure to bring you something back from the vast worlds and realms he travels to, as he is ever the type to spoil you

can be quite possessive as a result of being alone for so long. should he feel as though someone is getting a bit too close for comfort, he has a habit of snatching your waist from behind and pressing kisses to your neck all while keeping eye contact with the perpetrator — or perhaps getting you to wear some of his signature jewellery

 

꒰ strengths ꒱

wings: has a pair of wings that enable him to fly and can use them in combat

elemental light: allows him to cast projections of light and manipulate it on a physical standpoint

light magic: able to cast certain spells and incantations in regards to light magic

swordsmanship: an excellent swordsman that has even some of the gods’ heads turning

combativity: highly skilled in the ways of combat, both on a ground level and aerial

shape-shifting: the ability to shift his appearance in whatever way he may wish

pájaro luminoso: able to channel his powers into a burst of energy and turn into a large, elegant bird made of pure elemental light and fire

 

꒰ weaknesses ꒱

dark magic: as he is a being of light, he is extremely susceptible to such things as dark and black magic. it weakens his abilities depending on the severity of it

corrupt beings: similar to the dark magic point, corrupt beings tend to put his soul at unease. should these corrupt beings be of higher power to him, they can affect him in very negative ways and weaken his abilities

 

꒰ relationships ꒱

zhào jìngyí: ward

alessio agresta arias: ward

copper resentment ( zhào talisen 164 ): close friend

emerald mania ( alessio agresta 164 ): close friend

talisen zhào: close friend ( earth 781)

nadir gods: parents ( raised him )

some zenith gods: parents ( raised him )

 

꒰ extra ꒱

while he is not able to directly interact with the material plane, he can do so by taking on the form of certain animals — usually takes the form of a snow tit

he is genderfluid and plays into this by swapping through different genders’ anatomy. his natural androgyny helps a lot with this

he is omnilingual yet prefers the language of his cultures: spanish ( latin american ), hindi and tamil

due to his pure nature and closeness to the gods, he is often sought out by evil beings who seek to turn him

this however does not mean that rishen does not have his own dark thoughts, he has plenty yet tries to keep them to himself

[featherwurm]

(A variety of individual centaurs.)

Centaurs – The Unnamed World of the Four Schools

Culture:

Generally matriarchal, any group/village/city of centaurs tend to view themselves as a singular 'family' unit, at least from a social perspective (one looks out for one's family, and loves and values them for all they are and do). Views on marriage are dim (although having a singular preferred partner is common) and there is no real concept of a nuclear family. Children are raised by any and all available adults, and  major public works are executed in the same fashion.  As most groups are not terribly large, to maintain genetic diversity, any adult wishing to have children will generally leave their home and mesh with another centaur group or return with a mate.  Centaurs are also known to leave the groups that raise them if their personality, habits, or needs are not a mesh for their extended 'family', and will seek out a more suitable group (this is considered a social norm).

Centaurs are socialists in the extreme, relying on looking out for the group as a whole when making decisions.  There is personal liberty; however, when it comes to big considerations, the group comes first.  The Matriarch of any given group will help to guide the overall structure and flow of the clan/family/city etc.  Personal decisions that glorify the individual are deeply frowned upon, and proven greed faces severe punishment. Decisions that can be seen as greedy are: hoarding a resource needed to sustain life (food, water, safety) or denying others access to this through any means, causing unnecessary ecological destruction for self-interest; causing unnecessary harm to any individual for self-gratification, etc.

As has been mentioned, some other species cultures view Centaurs as hedonistic.  This likely owes to the general love of sex, music, dancing, food, drink, and little fear of the result of any of those things.  Centaurs have no particular taboo on sexual characteristics, and embrace them as part of their natural existence.  Prophylactics are common in their use, so sex for pleasure is considered highly normal.  Centaurs love celebrations and gift-giving as well, and long happy merriment is common in most months.

However, it is not all debauchery. Because of their social structure, there is great stigma placed on social faux-pas, especially in making a conversational partner deliberately uncomfortable.  Centaurs want the group to be harmonious, and it is highly uncouth to deliberately provoke argument, cause an unnecessary scene, or generally upset other parties present in a deliberate manner.

Centaurs are generally known to like bright colors, decoration in all manner and aspect, and are very highly interested in art and creativity.  Any practical considerations accounted for, clothing is generally dedicated to pure decoration when weather allows.  Tattoos, piercings, scarification, and body painting/hair dyeing are all popular forms of bodily modification.  Homes are generally equally decorative.  Often peaceful and prosperous, centaurs generally bring decorative art into everything they do.

In addition to their love of art, Centaurs are known to produce exemplary doctors, pharmacists, and surgeons capable of working on a variety of sapient species when their training has allowed for it.  This is generally thought of as a result of Centaurs tremendously complex body and their social nature. All other sapient species' body plans seem rather more simplified (although with their own quirks) from the Centaur's hexopod body plan.  Centaurs place great value on study that improves their lives and health, and most groups freely trade this information with each other.  Discoveries in medicine travel quickly across various centaur cultures, as they all pride themselves on their study and understanding.  This is so well known that Centaur physicians are welcome in most every society across the globe.

(A general example of centaur architecture as seen around a vacant elven ruin)

Most structures have interesting accessibility, depending on the need of their use.  Centaurs generally have a lot of public, open spaces, and their accessibility to different ages and abilities is quite open.  When one is not sleeping or needing quiet time alone, most areas are considered to be in the public use, with communal kitchens, bathing spaces, crafts workshops, libraries, hospitals, theater, etc.  Individuals will generally have a space called their own, with accessibility unique to their need, which may be shared with close family members.  This space always has room for sleeping, and often room for personal grooming, and some space for quiet reflection.  Some may also have a more private kitchen and bathing area, but this is not common when overall city construction allows for it.  Size of this area will vary by individual.  Privacy is possible, as the spaces can be closed off (generally a close family grouping will have theirs near each other), but they can also be opened to allow free access.  Public spaces can be closed off to protect from weather, but otherwise generally remain open.  There is no fear of theft or destruction of personal items.*

Centaurs are generally both hunter/gatherers and farmers.  Farms take the form of hanging gardens and are common to most cities, their size and content varying quite a bit depending on the diet of the local area.  Farmed fowl of various kinds, particularly pigeons and doves are found in most cities.  Some Centaurs will also take to herding cattle, sheep, goats and other stock as well, although this is less common and only occurs where the terrain allows.  Pets are popular and loved, but have to be adapted to an arboreal lifestyle.  Birds (ranging across all species,) arachnids, and insects are the most common, and some species of small mammal have been domesticated as well (domestic squirrels and rats are popular in temperate forests).  Cats show up in some cities, but dogs will belong almost exclusively to herders or those living in low-lying forests.  Frogs, bats, primates, snakes, and other animals, while often a part of the diet, also show up as pets.  Some species of frogs have been bred for domesticated use as hallucinogens.

(Tyia and a group of golden spiders, which are domestic and are used to produce a fine and rare cloth from their silk.  The baskets are full of spiders being transported to a new location.)

* At least from other centaurs, animal access to items that may be tempting is, of course, taken into consideration when building. 

Centaur Origins - Centaur Philology - Centaur Culture - Centaur Traditions

[livingcorner]

Fruit Bat: Facts & How to Get Rid of Them – Pest Wiki

Fruit bat identification

This fruit bat comes in the category of the Megabats which are also referred as the Flying Fox. They are of different sizes and shapes, and their habits depend on the location where they exist.

Appearance and size

There are a variety of bats which are different in sizes and shapes. Research has shown that there are about 900 bat species available from the Malayan flying fox to megabats. The fruit bats are a bit different from the usual bats found because of their long nose and pointed ears. Their big eyes are big as compared to other bats. These bats are mostly found in Africa, Asia, and Middle East areas. They grow up to the size of 5.7 to 9 inches in length. While flying, they can extend their wings and look large. They have an unyielding and sturdy pair of feet. These feet help them to hang upside down on a tree. In the dark, they can locate their prey more accurately as compared to the day time.  If they are surrounded by so many people, they get a sense f security from the objects around them.

You're reading: Fruit Bat: Facts & How to Get Rid of Them – Pest Wiki

【Read more about Bats】

Food and eating habits

The diet of fruit bat is very different from other mammals.  The fruit bats are fond of eating every kind of fresh fruit. They love eating bananas, dates, and avocados. They also like the slurp of the nectar found in different fruits.  A bunch of banana is said to be the best meal for them. They love sitting on tree top where fresh fruits are there.  When bats are finished eating the sticky yellowish grains are stuck with their furs.  They are also known as nectar-eating bats. These bats are carnivorous and feed on small insects. They keep consuming different insects due to which the environment remains clean. They can easily spot insects and rodents from a great height in no time. They crush their food with the help of their sharp teeth. They live the nectar which is inside the fruits.  They like spending their time either searching for food or sleeping all day long.  They like a clean environment; they are mostly seen grooming their long furs.

Read more: How to Keep Pigeons Away from My House | Fantastic Pest Control

Habitat and distribution

The fruit bats are available in different kinds of habitat. They usually prefer living in the habitat which is humid as well as tropical. They like the habitat which is adapted to drier places. They also sometimes live in dense foliage and caves.  Fruit bats are highly tailored to their environment. Their habitat keeps changing according to the seasons. They rest during the day time and go for at night. These mammals can sense their prey from a long distance. They also travel very long distances in search of food. However, after feeding they come back to their place.

Lifecycle

Bats have the capability to fly about 30 miles in one hour. When they are younger, their mother looks after them. They depend on their mother unless they have not learned to fly and search for their food. Mostly you will found fruit bat in brown or black color, but there are some white fruit bats as well. Approximately a bat can live up to 35 years or less. This living span is the highest in all members. It is also said that they live in large colonies where there are eight females and one male bat. They create very strong bonds. Even while eating fruits if they get sticky, they wash their furs.

Relationship with humans

Bats usually don’t interact with humans too much. They often live in places which have no direct contact with humans. However, bats can enter the houses of human through roofs and chimney. They often tend to destroy the structure of the house. They are often the reason to block water pumps and the stagnant water. They make a sound of chirp which is heard by young people.  Along with the chirping noise, they also make rustling noises. The thing that annoys the human most about these bats is that they deposit their urine and dropping where ever they are flying. In some parts of the world, their dropping is used as fertilizers.  The health threat related with this mammal is called rabies. They also carry disease along with them.  They directly don’t harm humans. They usually fly into their houses through opens doors and windows. They do not harm people but often bite them if they get scared.

Fun facts

Here are some fun facts about Fruit Bats:

It is a studied fact that without pollinator services of these fruit bats the economic conditions can likely take a serious hit. They play an essential role in the process of pollination.

The mothers carry their babies along with them. As they have a habit of traveling from one camp to another, they do not build their permanent nest. Unless the young one does not become independent, they keep clinging to their mother’s belly.

The younger ones feel more heat as compared to the elder fruit bats. To beat the heat the keep fanning them while resting. If this does not work, they find a cool and shady place for them and lick themselves to keep cool.

Many bats are well known for the high emitting sound frequency. The advantage of this is that they can easily stalk their prey. These are the only mammals who are active at night.

There are some fruit bats which are just 2.5 pounds in weight, just the size of a pineapple. They can live for 35 years. This life span is the longest among all the flying creatures.

They carry Rabies because of which their bite can be potentially dangerous.

Bats have the ability to eat almost 1200 mosquitoes in just one hour. They help to keep the bug population in check.

Fruit bats travel to the south in the winter seasons, and some fruit bats hibernate in winters. They have the capability to survive in cold temperatures.

The mother bats can the ability to look for their babies among several of other bats. They can do this with the help of their scents and crispy voices.

Bats usually produce one pup in one year. The development of this pup is vulnerable to extinction.

The largest fruit bat is the flying fox. It can spread its wings up to feet.

They can smell the type of fruit they want and look for it. They do not depend on echolocation to communicate to locate food.

Fruit bat control

There are many exclusive methods to get rid of fruit bats.  Bats are present almost all around the world. They usually prefer night and quite places to survive. They have an acute hearing sense which helps them to make placed in attics. These controls have proved to be very effective.  Following are some DIY and Green solution for the Fruit Bats:

Annoying objects

First look for the place where the bats are getting in and out. Once you get to know about the space where the bats are coming and going, you are all done?  If you find a fruit fall on the ground inspects for the place. Look at the fallen fruit, does it have marks of sharp teeth.  Try to pick the fruits a bit early when they become ripen. You can also use bird netting.  The other way to get rid of these fruit bats is that you can place some strange and unusual looking objects near your garden. You can use objects that continuously move and make annoying noise to irritate these fruit birds. These objects can be a strip of aluminum foil, CDs that shine in sunlight, wind chimes or wind socks. All these objects are very effective.

Read more: Slaters (Woodlice) – Control of Slaters in Gardens.

Netting is extremely an effective method to get rid of bats

By using the netting, you can protect a large area from the destruction of bats. Select the size of net accordingly to see effective results. The nets which are available in the market are well constructed and help to protect the area against. A strong and powerful net can prevent tearing. They have long lasting effects and good results.

Ultrasonic bat repellents devices

You can also use transonic pro bat repellents. It is best for indoor protection. They are extremely silent for the humans; however, they emit such frequencies which navigate with the echolocation of the bats.  This device does not physically harm the bats, but it just annoys and irritates them.  These devices make such noises which encourage them to leave and look for a much quieter place. These devices are very easy and simple to use. They help you to get rid of bats very easily and without working out. This device I also well received by the satisfied customer all around the world. They do not make any fuss, and it is best among the fruit bat control.

【Read more about Bat Control】

Source: https://livingcorner.com.au Category: Garden

source https://livingcorner.com.au/fruit-bat-facts-how-to-get-rid-of-them-pest-wiki/

[loveanimalstory-blog]

City-dwelling sea snakes are changing colors for a strange reason

Normally, people and sea snakes don’t swim within the same waters. The slithering creatures prefer hanging calls in remote areas. They also tend to be venomous, so humans don’t normally seek them out. But turtle-headed sea snakes are a special story. They don’t have long fangs or potent venom like their snake compatriots. Instead, they need tiny fangs and typically chow down on fish eggs. They also live fairly on the brink of human cities, like Noumea, the capital city of the French territory New Caledonia within the Pacific. The fact that they're common and comparatively easily accessible makes them an honest target for research. Rick Shine, an evolutionary biologist at the University of Sydney, started studying these snakes almost 20 years ago. “We’ve been ready to conduct far and away from the foremost detailed ecological investigation of any “true" snake (one that never comes out on land) that has ever been attempted,” says Shine in an e-mail. Over the course of his work with these watery reptiles, Shine noticed a difference between the turtle-headed snakes that lived near cities like Noumea, and therefore the same species that lived elsewhere. The snakes near the cities were darker, with fewer distinctive stripes along with their bodies. during a study authored by Shine and published today in Current Biology, he explains that the foremost likely culprit is pollution. “These sites are right beside the most important city in New Caledonia, in order that they get all types of urban pollution—basically everything that's produced during a city and discarded into the drain,” Shine says. Biologists have observed this color change in response to pollution for an extended time. Arguably the foremost famous example of this is often the Peppered Moth. During the economic Revolution in Europe, the Peppered Moth took on a darker color to blend into the new sootier background. Other invertebrates made similar changes over time. But during this case, sea snakes aren’t having to cover during a dirtier environment. “We don’t think camouflage is vital,” Shine says. “Camouflage mostly works if individuals stay still. In contrast, the snakes move about frequently, passing over live coral and coral rubble. There are not any 'black' backgrounds,” Shine says. Instead, Shine thinks that the change in color could be thanks to the very fact that the darker melanin can bind to toxic trace elements within the snake's body. When the snake sheds its skin, it also gets obviate pollutants build up in its body. The darker the skin, the more pollutants the snakes can excise from its system. “It had never occurred to me that an animal could rid its body of contaminants during this way,” Shine says. But, he notes, there's a minimum of one other vertebrate who uses an equivalent adaptation to form life a touch less toxic in a populated area. “The only examples invertebrates seem to be pigeons in cities and our sea snakes in polluted reefs,” Shine says. “in both of these cases the pattern may reflect the power of melanin to bind trace-elements and thus help the animal expel those pollutants from its body when it sheds its feathers or sloughs its skin.” But simply because these sea snakes have found how to measure with our trash doesn’t mean that they're endlessly adaptable. Shine says this study should function as a reminder that although animals can show remarkable plasticity, that does not mean we should always treat these changes as benign. “Living systems are resilient, and therefore the sea snakes are rapidly adapting to oceanic pollution, says Shine. "But there’s a limit thereto resilience; if we keep treating the ocean as a restroom, we'll lose many of the spectacular creatures that depend upon it.”

[maxmollon]

(via Book Review: Donna Haraway’s Staying with the Trouble – The Chart)

“Think we must! We must think!” — Stengers and Despret, Women Who Make a Fuss1

It has never been clearer than now that we must “stay with the trouble” and actively seek possibilities for recuperation even as we are anxiously learning the great depths of the trouble we face. This is a book concerned with exactly that, with teasing out effective methodologies for moving forward in contemporary times through invention, collaboration, exploration, play, and a willingness to take on the risky business of “follow[ing] the threads where they lead.”2

Donna Haraway, radical thinker of A Cyborg Manifesto fame3, envisions the Anthropocene — along with its aptly named partners the Capitalocene4 and the Plantationocene5 — as a (brief) geologic boundary event, and encourages us to think of a bigger name encompassing all “the dynamic ongoing sym-chthonic forces and powers of which people are a part, within which ongoingness is at stake”.6 She terms this era the Chthulucene. Having nothing to do with Lovecraft’s “misogynist racial, nightmare monster” Chtulu, this Chthulucene (note spelling) is an era of multi-species worlding and “sym-poietic” thinking and making together. Anthropologist, multispecies feminist theorist, environmentalist, and distinguished professor emerita in the History of Consciousness department at the University of California, Santa Cruz, Haraway proffers the action of reaching out and “making kin” as a way to establish new lines of “response-ability” between living beings. She draws actively on new thinking in the sciences and arts to present possible methodologies for inhabiting our world at present.

Already, you’ll see I’ve run through a handful of knotty neologisms; Haraway delights in language, bumping colloquialisms against high theory, breeding slang with scientific taxonomy — part of the pleasure of reading this text is her “bumptious” linguistic methodology: experimental, creative, rich, chewy, and rhythmically vital — thinking new worlds demands thinking new language. If you’re like me, you’ll want to follow and participate in these new inventions as you enter and occupy this terran text. Using the tools of what she terms “SF” — speculative fabulation, speculative feminism, science fiction, science fact, string figures, so far — Haraway imagines and invents new ways of “living and dying” in our multispecies world. Messy and imperfect, and actively generative, this co-fashioning methodology invites new perspectives on the depths of our connections to each other, our notions of independence, and the inseparable threads we must follow and affirm in perilous times.

Haraway delights in language, bumping colloquialisms against high theory, breeding slang with scientific taxonomy — part of the pleasure of reading this text is her “bumptious” linguistic methodology: experimental, creative, rich, chewy and rhythmically vital — thinking new worlds demands thinking new language.

For we are utterly and hopelessly entangled in this story. The first chapter looks at multispecies storytelling through the lens of string figures as metaphor and engaged games of giving and receiving, and at practices of recuperation via the possibilities of making something together (“sympoiesis”). String figures — the games of making patterns with loops of string between players — enact a rich history of storytelling through physical thinking enacted between two people. Haraway recognizes the complexities of this tool and the possibilities of failure — of dropping a thread, of getting caught in a story that doesn’t function — in the “risky comaking” practices of SF. Deeply challenging our ideas of individuality, the Chthulucene demands we engage sympoiesis, making together, rather than autopoiesis, self-making. Throughout the book, she investigates the work of interdisciplinary artists and scientists who are inventing new ways of working together and with other species, and who are developing new sensitivities and means to fostering collective response-ability.

For example, Haraway introduces her reader to PigeonBlog, the work of artist Beatriz da Costa, her students, and the racing pigeons that flew as part of a Seminar in Experimental Critical Theory at the University of California Irvine and in electronic arts festivals in San Jose, California. Homing pigeons, with their fanciers, artists, and engineers, were engaged to “collect and distribute information about air quality conditions to the general public.”7 Through the informed, careful, and pigeon-loving practices of their fanciers and interested others, a small data collection backpack was created for the pigeons that allowed the gathering of data in order to generate “further imaginative and knowing action” in multiple disciplines and beings. Da Costa “took seriously questions about the cosmopolitics and material-semiotics of collaboration for animals in art, politics, or science. Who renders whom capable of what, and at what price, borne by whom? But she asked ‘Is human-animal work as part of political [and art] action less legitimate than the same type of activity when framed under the umbrella of science?'”8 The project made visible the limited government collection data that focused its attention away from known pollution sources and thus pollution levels, often in working-class communities, near to the ground at the level where humans and other species live and breath.

In a later chapter, Haraway investigates the utter entanglement and disturbing truths regarding both the need of and the production methods for DES and Premarin: hormones for the changing female animal body, human and other “critters”. DES, now a known poisonous synthesized cancer-producing hormone marked unsafe for humankind is prescribed for her aging companion dog. And Premarin, a hormone she once took, is produced by the labor of countless pregnant mares (don’t ask what happens to the foals) via the “animal-industrial complex” and currently relied on by many menopausal women to ease the difficult passage through declining levels of estrogen. In each case, Haraway’s investigation navigates the webbed network of relationships between humans and other “critters” and refuses to turn away from the troubling implications, positive opportunities, and seeming infinite intersections infecting multiple beings. This lack of innocence might inspire new means to multispecies recuperation, she says. “Call that utopia; call that inhabiting the despised places; call that touch; call that the rapidly mutating virus of hope; or call that the less rapidly changing commitment to staying with the trouble.”9

In the times of “The Dithering,”10 this is a call to arms: the many tentacular arms of the octopus and spider, the chthonic sea creatures, and the webbed, interconnecting rhizomic roots of mycelium. The Chthonic beings of the Chthulucene are beings of the Earth whose living and dying are all very much “at stake” together. “Coral and lichen symbionts11 also bring us richly into the storied tissues of the thickly present Chthulucene, where it remains possible — just barely — to play a much better SF game, in nonarrogant collaboration with all those in the muddle,”12 she notes. This collaboration demands we join forces and make kin in order to rejuvenate refuges that allow species continuance and possible flourishing. Haraway draws on the “science art worldings” of new Inupiat story making practices, Navajo weaving at Black Mesa, Arizona, and the Crochet Coral Reef project coordinated by the Institute for Figuring, among others, to seek new models for staying with the trouble and recuperating spaces of refuge. Her call to “Make kin, not babies!” is a call to extend the web of connections beyond those ties of ancestry or genealogy in order to invoke and practice a deep responsibility to many others; she reminds us, “all earthlings are kin in the deepest sense.”13

Haraway’s investigation navigates the webbed network of relationships between humans and other “critters” and refuses to turn away from the troubling implications, positive opportunities, and seeming infinite intersections infecting multiple beings.

“What happens when human exceptionalism and the utilitarian individualism of classical political economics become unthinkable in the best sciences across the disciplines and interdisciplines? Seriously unthinkable: not available to think with.”14 Throughout the book, Haraway urges us to think. Referring to the work of social anthropologist Marilyn Strathern she notes, “it matters what ideas we use to think other ideas with.”15 We need new ideas and new ways of thinking, new kinds of stories to think with, because the old ones are failing us as is evidenced not only by the inequities and mania of our resource extracting current economies, the Great Acceleration, and radically increasing human population numbers16, but also made visible within the day-to-day laboratory models of contemporary scientific practices that no longer sufficiently address contemporary conditions. Haraway affirms that speculative fabulation, speculative feminism, and science fiction help us think anew.

The final section of Staying With the Trouble entails a work of feminist speculative fiction, created together with filmmaker Fabrizio Terranova and science philosopher Vinciane Despret, concerning a human-butterfly symbiont. The task entertained by the text is to think ahead five generations, something you immediately sense the gravity of as our predicted event horizons for ice-cap melting, sea-level rise, and species extinctions continue to shrink. In this work, SF inventions are woven into the fabric of a story that imagines our reality based from within current knowledge and experience, culling potential from our current stories to create new ones in stark contrast to the excesses of neo-colonial resource extraction methodologies on a shrinking planet. Cobbled together, and eschewing notions of easy futurist saviors or various head-in-the-sand technofixes — “we cannot denounce the world in the name of an ideal world”17 — Haraway’s inventions take a functional, sited, materialist viewpoint on future possibilities based on working intently with the present moment.

We need new ideas and new ways of thinking, new kinds of stories to think with, because the old ones are failing us.

This is a book that focuses on processes, on possibilities, and on methodology as a commitment to “ongoingness”. It also focuses on situated imaginative revisions to working within the present: staying with the trouble. Outcomes are unknowable; the story is not yet written. This is praxis: engaged “tentacular” thinking; working together with an understanding that it is all unwritten. Embracing our collective conditional futures — our multi-species futures — and thinking together towards something that seeks possibilities for recuperation and rejuvenation, a process of living and dying together in a deeply stressed system evidencing massive extinction events and cascading systemic environmental break downs — is of utmost urgency. This is a text that embraces presence and alert attention to this moment — sticking it out in the here and now to trouble the waters of entrenched capitalist models that collectively contribute to ongoing destruction of the very systems that sustain us in all their rich and challenging complexity.

Inspiring, to say the least. And we are in deep need of it.

Staying with the Trouble: Making Kin in the Chthulucene, by Donna J Haraway. Duke University Press, 2016, 296 pages, paper, $26.95, ISBN# 978-0-8223-6224-1

Used throughout the book, via Isabelle Stengers and Vinciane Despret (Women Who Make a Fuss), via Virginia Woolf (Three Guineas) and through Maria Puig de la Bellasca, (“Politiques féministes et construction des savories)

Staying With the Trouble, pg 3

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/A_Cyborg_Manifesto

Some feel it is more apt to call our era the Capitalocene rather than the Anthropocene, calling into attention an “historical era shaped by relations privileging the endless accumulation of capital.” (John Merrick, http://www.versobooks.com/blogs/2360-jason-w-moore-anthropocene-or-capitalocene)

A term for the “devastating transformation of diverse kinds of human-tended farms, pastures, and forests into extractive and enclosed plantations, relying on slave labor and other forms of exploited, alienated, and usually spatially transported labor.” Scott Gilbert, https://studylib.net/doc/13485101/anthropocene–capitalocene–plantationocene–chthulucene-…

Staying With the Trouble, pg 101

Donna Haraway, Staying with the Trouble; Making Kin in the Chthulucene(Durham and London: Duke University Press, 2016), 21.

Haraway, Trouble, 23.

Haraway, Trouble, 114.

Haraway, Trouble, 102. A term introduced by Kim Stanley Robinson in his book, 2312 in 2012.

symbiotic interpenetrating ecological assemblages

Haraway, Trouble, 56.

Haraway, Trouble, 103.

Haraway, Trouble, 57.

Haraway, Trouble, 12.

Human population (currently 7.3 billion) predicted to reach 9.7 billion by 2050, and 11.2 billion by 2100 by the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs in 2015. http://www.un.org/en/development/desa/news/population/2015-report.html

Haraway, Trouble, 12.