September 18, 2012

 This Sunbird nest is made up of leaves, twigs and even a piece of (Prop)"erty" news, 

all held together with grass and cobwebs!

The photo above was taken with the SX130.

I went back later with the SX40 to take the photo below.

It shows that the lining of the nest is silky and shiny. I wonder if it is plant material?

Although the sun was quite harsh, I am pleased with the golden glow of photos.

September 17, 2012

Lucky little Jumping Spider - I nearly stood on you!

September 16, 2012

Six birds with one apple!
Another rainy day, so I spiked an apple on the sisal pole fencing at the front porch.
I set up the tripod and waited. I normally hide behind the door, but today I stood right there in the open under the roof.  The birds were obviously very hungry and knew that I meant them no harm.
They did not mind my coming and going - I would just get 'the look' before they continued eating!
It was interesting to see how one type would come and eat, leave and then return with a mate.
The apple lasted two hours - with the Starling gobbling up the last remains!
We are very blessed to have such a variety of birds in Hluhluwe.
(so far we have had 60mm of rain this week-end)
Top row left to right: Black-eyed Bulbul, Black collared Barbet, Sombre Bulbul(?)
Front: Red winged Starling, Crested Barbet and Cape White Eye