Author: Finn Oakley

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Finn Oakley

Finn Oakley is an avid nature and science blogger, lending his expertise to Discvr.Blog for over three years. He previously worked for Nat Geo Channel and desperately wants to revisit Peru. Also loves Aussie bites.

• Is the Dragon Blood Tree dangerous? Separating fact from fiction

  

  Native to the Socotra Archipelago in the Arabian Sea, the Dragon Blood Tree, scientifically known as Dracaena cinnabari, is an evergreen species that can live for hundreds of years. Its distinct umbrella-like canopy and intriguing red resin, known as “dragon‘s blood,” have made it a subject of folklore and scientific curiosity alike. But what everyone wants to know is, is the Dragon Blood Tree dangerous?

  The Chemical Composition of Dragon’s Blood Resin

  Far from being hazardous, the tree’s red resin is a complex mixture of compounds, including flavonoids, sterols, and tannins. Historically, this resin has been harvested for its medicinal properties, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. Therefore, under proper handling, it’s generally considered safe for humans.

  Ever seen a tree that bleeds? 🌳💉 https://t.co/VFiqYgOJpB pic.twitter.com/IfnmQQJQnY

  — Discvr.blog (@DiscvrB) September 19, 2023

  Historical Uses

  1. Wound Healing: The resin’s antiseptic properties have made it popular for topical application on wounds and abrasions.
  2. Gastrointestinal Health: Historically, people have consumed it in small quantities to treat digestive issues like ulcers.
  3. Anti-inflammatory: Used in traditional medicines to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
  4. Cosmetic Uses: Because of its astringent properties, skin care products use it to help tighten and firm the skin.

  The Tree’s Role in Wildlife

  The Dragon Blood Tree serves a crucial ecological function in its natural habitat. Its unique canopy design helps it collect water in an arid environment, supporting its own life and that of the surrounding wildlife. Furthermore, no research indicates that the tree is dangerous to animals or plants in its native ecosystem.

  How It Supports Wildlife

  1. Water Collection: The canopy’s unique design captures moisture from mist and fog, helping to sustain a variety of plant and animal life.
  2. Nutrient Recycling: The tree’s leaves decompose to enrich the soil, aiding other plant species.
  3. Habitat Provision: Birds and insects often use the tree for nesting and shelter, enhancing biodiversity.
  4. Food Source: The tree’s fruits and leaves serve as a food resource for certain species.

  

  

  

  

  Risks to Humans: Myth or Reality?

  While any substance can become harmful in excessive amounts, moderate interaction with the Dragon Blood Tree and its resin has not been shown to cause adverse effects in humans. Its resin has even been used historically in dyes and varnishes.

  The Real Danger: Human Activities

  The Dragon Blood Tree is not inherently dangerous; its real threat is from human activities like overharvesting and habitat destruction. Such actions have pushed this marvel of nature onto the vulnerable species list, raising concerns about its long-term survival.

  Conclusion: Is the Dragon Blood Tree Dangerous?

  To sum it up, the Dragon Blood Tree is not dangerous to humans or wildlife. Its unique resin offers medicinal benefits, and the tree plays a vital role in its ecosystem. The actual danger stems from unsustainable human activities that jeopardize its existence.

  So, for those pondering the question, “Is the Dragon Blood Tree dangerous?”—the evidence clearly points to no. Instead, the pressing concern should be protecting this ecological wonder for future generations. Act now by supporting conservation efforts and sharing this article to raise awareness.

  Take Action: How to Protect the Dragon Blood Tree

  It’s not the tree that’s dangerous—our unsustainable actions are. To protect this natural wonder, consider supporting organizations focused on its conservation:

  • Socotra Conservation Fund
  • World Wildlife Fund – Socotra Branch
  • Global Trees Campaign

  Finn Oakley

  September 19, 2023

  Nature

  trees, Yemen

• Is Daisugi Real? The Ancient Japanese Tree-Growing Technique

  

  The Japanese forestry method for harvesting wood, daisugi (meaning “cedar table”), goes as far back as the 14th century to solve a seedling shortage in Kyoto. Yes, Daisugi is real, not a hoax. Let’s explore the ancient Japanese technique for growing trees out of trees.

  The 700-year-old technique involves pruning a tree’s branches like giant bonsai trees. In doing so, the mother tree provides a stable platform that supports the birth of new uniform saplings growing perfectly upward and knotless on top.

  Therefore, the ancient method creates fresh timber — more than a dozen trunks — while preserving the original tree itself. The timber itself is even thicker than standard cedar. Its perfect pole-like shape makes it ideal for use as roofing on top of Japanese teahouses.

  Why did Japan stop using the Daisugi wood technique?

  Daisugi is a sustainable forestry method without cutting down trees. However, the ingenious forestry technique is no longer used as it takes several years of active care and maintenance.

  Japan gradually reduced its reliance on daisugi primarily due to technological advancements and changes in construction materials. With the introduction of modern sawing techniques, machinery, and imported timber, the demand for labor-intensive daisugi wood decreased. Additionally, newer construction materials like steel and concrete began to replace wood in many structures, further diminishing the need for daisugi.

  

  Is Daisgu wood real or a hoax?

  To reiterate, daisugi wood is real, not a hoax. This ancient Japanese technique produces high-quality Kitayama cedar shoots, known as “taruki,” which are as good as timber from fully grown trees.

  How Daisgu works

  Daisugi involves precise pruning of Kitayama cedar trees to generate shoots that can be harvested without felling the entire tree. Skilled artisans manage the growth of the trees, ensuring a sustainable and efficient yield.

  

  Where to see Daisgu in Japan

  You can see Daisugi most prominently in the Kyoto Prefecture, especially in areas around Kitayama. It’s a living testament to early sustainable forestry and a must-see for eco-conscious travelers.

  Upon touching Daisgu wood, you’ll notice that it’s also denser and stronger than standard timber due to its knot-free structure that enhances its durability, outperforming cedar.

  More about the 14th-century seedling shortage in Kyoto

  Rapid urbanization and population growth in 14th-century Kyoto led to an urgent need for high-quality timber. As the capital of Japan, Kyoto needed vast amounts of wood for constructing temples, palaces, and homes. However, the rate of tree felling outpaced the natural replenishment of seedlings. The mountainous geography of the region further limited available arable land for new tree plantings.

  To tackle this problem, the Japanese developed the daisugi technique. This sustainable forestry practice involves carefully pruning Kitayama cedar trees to produce high-quality shoots, known as “taruki.”

  These shoots offer nearly the same quality as whole, naturally-grown trees but can be harvested without cutting down the entire tree. In this way, the daisugi technique provided an innovative solution to Kyoto’s seedling shortage, offering a lesson in resource management that remains relevant today.

  One more reason the Japanese embraced this method in the 14th century was for its aesthetic appeal. The architecture style known as sukiya-zukuri (数寄屋造り), distinguished by its elegant simplicity and integration with nature, emerged as the preferred design for samurai and noble homes during this era.

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 18, 2023

  Architecture & Design, Featured, Nature

  design, forest, history, japan, Plants, trees

• Slovenia’s Bled Island: Unveil the enchanting oasis of a lifetime

  

  Bred Island is a small tear-shaped island floating in the middle of Lake Bled in northwestern Slovenia. Nestled in Lake Bled’s emerald waters, this idyllic isle is a living fairy tale framed by the Julian Alps.

  The island is home to the Pilgrimage Church of the Assumption of Mary, a 170-foot tall Baroque structure. Built in 1534, this church is a historical landmark and a favored local wedding venue. A local custom requires grooms to carry brides up 99 stone steps to the church door.

  Bled Slovenia Island Church

  Founded in the 9th century and rebuilt in the 17th, Slovenia’s Bled Island Church melds Gothic and Baroque styles. Its 171-foot freestanding bell tower is a Romanesque marvel.

  Inside, a gilded altar showcases art from the 14th to 18th centuries, complemented by intricate frescoes. A 16th-century “wishing bell” adds folklore charm, promising to grant wishes to those who ring it.

  What to do on Bled Island

  Tourists enjoy hiking around the lake and rowing in its peaceful waters during the summer. One can also reach the island by Pletna boat or, dare we say, by swimming there.

  During the winter, the frost over the island looks like a scene from a Disney movie. The mountains and forests surrounding the lake add to the picturesque view of the church.

  Bled Island is Slovenia’s sole natural island, a top tourist attraction, and its cliffside medieval castle. In the summer of 2023, Slovenian NBA star Luka Doncic hosted a Lake Bled 3-on-3 tournament on a floating court. The competition was part of the launch of Doncic’s new Nike Jordan shoe, ‘Luka 2 Lake Bled,’ inspired by the lake.

  Straight out of a fairy tale, we can see why this little island is a real treasure.

  🏀🌊 Slovenia dazzled the world at the Luka 2 Bled sports event! 🌟 A floating basketball court on Lake Bled set the stage for an unforgettable tournament with young basketball talents. #ifeelsLOVEnia #Luka2Bled
  
  More: https://t.co/X4tsYymDsG pic.twitter.com/D1JutwHpcd

  — Feel Slovenia (@SloveniaInfo) September 17, 2023

  Fascinating Facts About Slovenia’s Bled Island

  • Location: Situated in Lake Bled, in the Julian Alps of Slovenia.
  • Church of the Assumption: The island’s iconic 17th-century church blends Gothic and Baroque architectural styles.
  • Wishing Bell: The church houses a 16th-century bell said to grant wishes to those who ring it.
  • Traditional Pletna Boats: The island is typically accessed by pletna boats, a Slovenian flat-bottom boat operated by oarsmen.
  • 99 Stone Steps: A climb of 99 stone steps leads to the church, a favorite newlywed tradition.
  • Historical Layers: The island’s first church dates to the 9th century and has seen multiple renovations.
  • Pilgrimage Site: Apart from tourists, the island attracts pilgrims due to its religious significance.
  • Natural Beauty: Surrounded by emerald-green waters and framed by the Julian Alps, the island offers stunning scenic views.
  • Bled Castle Views: The island offers a unique vantage point to view Bled Castle, perched on a nearby cliff.
  • Dragon Legend: Local myths suggest that the island was formed by fairies who vanquished a dragon (related: The Dragon Eye Stone Mine) that used to reside in the area.
  • Seasonal Activities: The island offers diverse events, from summer concerts and winter ice skating to floating basketball courts.
  • Wedding Venue: Popular for weddings, Bled Island features the groom carrying the bride up 99 steps to ring the wishing bell.

  

  

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 17, 2023

  Nature, Travel

  bridges, church, islands, Slovenia, Travel

• Halloween animal costumes, the best for kids 2023

  

  Halloween is just around the corner, and it’s time to start thinking about your costume or the kids there. If you’re looking for inspiration, why not choose an animal costume? Animal costumes have always been a popular choice for Halloween, and this year is no different. Here are some of the best animal Halloween costumes in 2023 for your kids.😸

  1. Pete the Cat

  Are you looking to make a DIY Pete the Cat Halloween costume for kids? Pete the Cat is a lovable character that has won the hearts of children and parents alike. Ideal for trick-or-treating or a school Halloween party, this easy-to-make Pete the Cat costume is a must-try this holiday season. Let’s dive into the materials and steps to create this fabulous kids Halloween costume.

  Quick DIY Pete the Cat Halloween Costume for Kids

  What You’ll Need:

  • Blue fleece onesie or sweatsuit
  • Red fabric
  • Four yellow buttons
  • Fabric glue
  • White and black felt
  • Blue craft foam
  • Sewing kit or machine

  Steps:

  1. Blue Onesie: Use a blue fleece onesie as the base.
  2. Red Shoes: Cut red fabric into shoe shapes and glue them onto the feet of the onesie.
  3. Yellow Buttons: Glue 4 yellow buttons down the front of the onesie.
  4. Face: Cut white and black felt for eyes and nose. Glue them onto the hood.
  5. Ears: Cut the blue foam into triangles and sew or glue them onto the hood.
  6. Optional: Add a toy guitar for extra flair.

  Craft this easy DIY Pete the Cat Halloween costume for kids in no time, and prepare for a fun-filled trick-or-treating experience!

  

  2. Baby Shark Costume

  Does your little one love to sing and dance along to the viral “Baby Shark” song? Why not make their Halloween extra special with an adorable and easy-to-make Baby Shark costume? Follow this quick guide to create a DIY Baby Shark Halloween costume that’s perfect for kids and keeps the festive spirit alive. Let’s dive into the essentials!

  What You’ll Need:

  • Gray or blue onesie or sweatsuit
  • White and dark gray fabric
  • Fabric glue
  • White felt
  • Black felt
  • Red felt or foam (for the tongue)
  • Elastic band
  • Sewing kit or machine

  Steps:

  1. Shark Body: Use a gray or blue onesie as the costume base.
  2. Belly: Cut white fabric into a shark belly shape and glue it onto the front of the onesie.
  3. Gills & Fins: Cut dark gray fabric for the gills and fins. Glue or sew them onto the sides and back of the onesie.
  4. Eyes: Cut white and black felt circles to make eyes. Glue them onto the hood.
  5. Mouth: Cut red felt or foam for the tongue and white felt for teeth. Glue them inside the hood to create the shark’s mouth.
  6. Tail: Cut gray fabric into a shark tail shape, fill with stuffing if desired, and attach to the back of the onesie with an elastic band.

  

  3. Panda Costume 

  Who can resist the adorable allure of pandas? Their black and white markings make them one of the world’s most recognized animals, perfect for a delightful and easy Halloween costume for all ages. This quick guide will walk you through creating your DIY panda costume for kids or adults. Let’s get crafting!

  What You’ll Need:

  • White onesie or sweatsuit
  • Black fabric
  • Fabric glue or safety pins
  • White and black felt
  • Elastic band
  • Optional: Black Face paint

  Steps:

  1. Panda Base: Start with a white onesie or sweatsuit representing the panda’s white fur.
  2. Black Patches: Cut black fabric into shapes to mimic a panda’s black legs and arms. Attach these to the onesie using fabric glue or safety pins.
  3. Ears: Cut black and white felt into circles. Glue the black circle onto the white one and attach these to an elastic band to create a headband.
  4. Eyes: Cut out black circles from the black fabric and glue or pin them around the eyes of the hoodie or headband.
  5. Optional Face Paint: To complete the look, use black face paint to add nose and eye markings.
  6. Optional Tail: Cut a small circle from black fabric and attach it to the back of the onesie to represent a panda’s stubby tail.

  Whip up this simple DIY Panda Costume in no time and prepare for a cute and cuddly Halloween celebration!

  

  4. Lion Costume

  Embrace the lion’s strength, bravery, and power this Halloween with an easy-to-make lion costume perfect for kids and adults. Whether trick-or-treating or attending a costume party, this quick guide will help you stand out and make a statement. Let’s unleash your inner roar!

  What You’ll Need:

  • Brown or golden onesie or sweatsuit
  • Brown, golden, and dark brown felt or faux fur
  • Fabric glue or hot glue gun
  • Elastic band
  • Brown face paint (optional)

  Steps:

  1. Lion Base: Start with a brown or golden onesie or sweatsuit as the lion’s body.
  2. Mane: Cut pieces of brown, golden, and dark brown felt or faux fur to create a mane. Glue these around the hood or collar of the onesie.
  3. Tail: Cut a long strip of golden or brown felt, roll it up, and attach a tuft of dark brown felt or faux fur at the end. Glue or pin this to the back of the onesie.
  4. Ears: Cut smaller circles from golden and dark brown felt. Glue the dark brown circles onto the golden ones and attach them to an elastic band or directly to the hood.
  5. Optional Face Paint: Use brown Face paint to draw a nose and whiskers to complete the lion look.

  

  5. Bunny Costume

  Bunnies are cute, cuddly, and always a hit with kids. A bunny costume is an excellent choice for those who want to keep things simple and classic. Plus, the outfit is easy to assemble with just a few accessories.

  What You’ll Need:

  • White or gray onesie or sweatsuit
  • White and pink felt
  • Fabric glue
  • Elastic band
  • Fluffy cotton ball or white fabric for the tail
  • Hairband
  • Sewing kit or machine (optional)

  Steps:

  1. Bunny Body: Choose a white or gray onesie as the foundation of the costume. This will serve as the bunny’s fur.
  2. Ears: Cut two pieces of white felt into long ear shapes and two smaller pieces of pink felt for the inner ear. Glue the pink felt onto the white, then attach them to a hairband using fabric glue or stitches.
  3. Tail: Attach a fluffy cotton ball or a piece of white fabric at the back of the onesie to serve as the bunny tail. You can use fabric glue or an elastic band to secure it.
  4. Paws: For added effect, cut small circles from white felt and glue them onto the front of the onesie to mimic paws.
  5. Face: Optional but cute, you can use safe, washable face paint to draw on a pink nose and some whiskers.
  6. Footies: If your onesie doesn’t come with foot covers, you can make your own with extra white or gray fabric, mimicking the look of bunny feet.

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 16, 2023

  Animals

  birds, cats, Halloween

• Why Mwanza Flat-headed Rock Agama is the Spiderman Lizard

  

  The Mwanza Flat-Headed Rock Agama is a small lizard found primarily in the Mwanza Region of Tanzania. The male lizard, which has a flattened head, is also known as the ‘Spider-Man’ agama because of its bright red and dark blue coloration and its ability to easily climb vertical surfaces.

  Unlike the vividly colored male, the female Mwanza Flat-Headed Rock Agama is more subdued in appearance, sporting earthy brown tones.

  The Mwanza Flat-Headed Rock Agama grows to a maximum length of about 12 centimeters (5 inches). The short, rounded snout is a distinctive feature of this species and gives it a unique appearance among agamas.

  Although it is primarily diurnal (active during the day), the Mwanza Flat-Headed Rock Agama is also busy at night.

  An agile lizard, the Spider-Man agama can quickly run around and ascend up and over surfaces to chase insects, spiders, or worms. It can’t spin webs nor does it fly yet like the Draco Volan lizard.

  Mwanza Flat-headed Rock Agama Habitat

  Native to the rocky landscapes and semi-arid regions of Mwanza, these lizards prefer environments where they can blend in and scale easily. The terrain aids their unique climbing abilities and provides a natural playground for their agile pursuits.

  Are Mwanza Flat-headed Rock Agama for sale?

  The idea of owning a Spider-Man Agama, also known as the Mwanza Flat-Headed Rock Agama, can be quite enticing, especially given its striking resemblance to the iconic comic book character. But is it possible to keep this colorful lizard as a pet? Yes and no, with some caveats.

  Checking local and national regulations is crucial before considering bringing one into your home. Some jurisdictions restrict owning exotic pets or require special permits, so legal clearance is your first step. Exotic pet retailer Backwater Reptiles sells the male lizards for $50 each.

  Once you’ve navigated the legal landscape, the next hurdle is creating a suitable environment for your new pet. The Spider-Man Agama is native to Tanzania’s Mwanza Region’s rocky, warm landscapes. To mimic this habitat, you’ll need a well-equipped vivarium with rocky structures and heat lamps to simulate their natural climate.

  Diet is another critical factor to consider. These agile, diurnal creatures have a diet primarily consisting of insects, spiders, and worms. A consistent and varied supply of these food items and essential vitamins and minerals is vital for their well-being.

  Finally, remember that Spider-Man Agamas can be skittish and may require time to adjust to human interaction. They are active and agile, often moving swiftly in their environment. These unique lizards can live up to 10 years with proper care, including regular veterinary check-ups.

  Photos of the Mwanza flat-headed rock agama, also known as the Spider-Man agama

  

  

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 15, 2023

  Animals, Nature

  lizards, spiders

• Baatara Gorge Waterfall: Why it’s Lebanon’s best-kept secret

  

  Like Peru’s Waterfall of the Bride, the Baatara Gorge Waterfall is one of Lebanon’s best-kept secrets. Located in the Tannourine Cedars Nature Reserve, the waterfall is accessible via a short hike through the forest on the Lebanon Mountain Trail. The views from the top are breathtaking, and the waterfall is an impressive sight.

  This hiking route is well-maintained and marked, making it suitable for hikers of all experience levels. As you journey through the forest, the trail offers intermittent glimpses of the rugged mountainous terrain, a teaser for the grand spectacle that awaits. Finally, upon reaching the viewpoint, you are greeted by the breathtaking sight of the Baatara Gorge Waterfall.

  The Baatara Gorge Waterfall is one of the most beautiful sights on Earth

  The triple-leveled natural cascade drops 837 feet into the Balaa Pothole, a 160-million-year-old sinkhole of Jurassic limestone also known as the Cave of Three Bridges (see also Croatia’s Cetina Cave Spring). The natural bridges stand suspended over the chasm descending into Mount Lebanon.

  “The greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places,” British novelist Roald Dahl once wrote. He could well have been describing the Baatara Pothole, a scene of otherworldly beauty reminiscent of Lord of the Rings. During the spring melt, water floods down the cliffs of the Baatara Pothole, adding to its enchanting allure

  How did the Baatara Gorge waterfall form?

  Over millions of years, mildly acidic rainwater sculpted the Baatara Gorge waterfall in Lebanon’s Tannourine area. The rainwater, infused with dissolved carbon dioxide, seeped through fractures in the region’s limestone. This persistent action hollowed out the stone, eventually transforming cracks into vast underground channels. As these channels matured, their roofs gave way, laying the groundwork for what we now recognize as the initial gorge.

  But the artistry of erosion didn’t stop there. In a sequence of geological brushstrokes, the water carved out not one but three natural bridges at varying elevations. Come spring, melting snow cascades down a sinkhole, plummeting 837 feet into the Baatara Pothole—a cave crafted from Jurassic limestone. The result? A breathtaking waterfall that captures the imagination of geologists, nature lovers, and tourists alike.

  Certainly, adding a time frame to the stages would provide additional context. However, it’s important to note that these time frames are approximate and based on geological estimates:

  Stage of Formation	Geological Process	Outcome	Approximate Time Frame
  Initial Stage	Mildly acidic rainwater permeates limestone	Formation of underground channels	Millions of years ago
  Middle Stage	Erosion of the channel roofs	Creation of the initial gorge	Hundreds of thousands of years ago
  Advanced Stage	Continued water erosion	Carving of three natural bridges at different elevations	Tens of thousands of years ago
  Current Phenomenon	Melting snow in spring	Waterfall dropping 255 meters (approx. 836.6 feet) into Baatara Pothole	Present Day

  The best time to visit Baatara Gorge Waterfall for optimal views

  While the waterfall is a sight to behold year-round, the winter months can be less accessible due to snowfall and slippery trails. Plan your visit for the most captivating experience during the late spring months, particularly April and May. This is when the snow from the surrounding mountains melts, filling the waterfall to its brim.

  The cascade is at its most robust, and you’ll witness the water dramatically plunging into the Balaa Pothole. Seasonal flowers around the area also bloom during this period, adding colorful accents to the lush greenery.

  The Tannourine Cedars Nature Reserve welcomes visitors from April to November and is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The cost of admission is 5,000 LBP.

  How to reach Baatara Gorge Waterfall from Beirut

  Reaching the Baatara Gorge Waterfall is relatively straightforward, though the journey can be a bit challenging. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to reach this stunning natural wonder from Beirut.

  • Location: The Baatara Gorge Waterfall sits at an altitude of 1,150 meters, 76 km (or about 47.2 miles) from Beirut.
  • By Car: Rent a car in Beirut for the most convenient way to get to the waterfall. The drive usually takes around two hours.
  • By Taxi: Another option is to hire a taxi in Beirut. Ensure the taxi waits for you for the return journey, as taxis are hard to find in Tannourine. The nearest hotel is back in Beirut.

  Baatara Gorge Waterfall photos

  

  

  

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 12, 2023

  Nature

  Baatara gorge, bridges, Featured, Lebanon, Rocks, water, waterfalls

• The beauty of Madagascar’s giant Baobab trees

  

  The Grandidier’s Baobabs (Palmate adansonia) are giant trees indigenous to Africa. Nicknamed the “mother of the forest,” this species of Baobab tree is predominantly found off Africa’s mainland in the island country of Madagascar. It joins the fiery flowering plant Delonix regia as native to the country.

  Baobabs can live up to 800 to 1000 years with their unique ability to act as water storage tanks. The trees can store up to 32 gallons of water in their thick trunks.

  Baobab’s survival and longevity

  The heart of many African remedies and folklore, the iconic Baobab is often called the “Tree of Life.” Both the animals and locals tap the trees for H20 during the dry season. The resilient trees are also resistant to termites and fire.

  

  

  The 80-plus foot trees average a circumference of 108 feet and appear “upside down” since the tops of the trees look like roots. They also feature on a 250-meter path called the Avenue of the Baobabs in Madagascar’s Menabe region. The tree is famous for producing surreal white, bat-pollinated flowers as well.

  “A Caliban of a tree, grizzled, distorted old goblin with the girth of a giant, the hide of a rhinoceros, twiggy fingers clutching at empty air and the disposition of a guardian angel,” once wrote the Australian novelist Ernestine Hill about the Baobab’s immensity.

  Unfortunately, baobab trees are at risk of extinction due to climate change, with more than ten thousand disappearing yearly.

  

  

  Is there more than one type of Baobab Tree?

  Nine species of Baobab Trees primarily grow in Madagascar, mainland Africa, and Australia. Madagascar is home to six exclusive species. Mainland Africa hosts Adansonia digitata, while Australia has Adansonia gregorii. The ninth species, Adansonia kilima, grows in both mainland Africa and Madagascar.

  The nine different species of Baobab Trees

  Species Name	Native Region	Notable Characteristics
  Adansonia digitata	Mainland Africa	Long-lived, iconic “upside-down tree” appearance
  Adansonia grandidieri	Madagascar	Tall, slender trunks, often called “reniala”
  Adansonia madagascariensis	Madagascar	Thick trunk, produces large fruit
  Adansonia perrieri	Madagascar	Endangered, limited to a few locations
  Adansonia rubrostipa	Madagascar	Bottle-shaped, sometimes called “fony baobab”
  Adansonia suarezensis	Madagascar	Small to medium-sized, limited to northern regions
  Adansonia za	Madagascar	Wide trunk, drought-resistant
  Adansonia gregorii	Australia	Also known as the “boab,” similar to A. digitata
  Adansonia kilima	Africa, Madagascar	Similar to A. digitata but adapted to mountainous regions

  Finn Oakley

  September 10, 2023

  Nature, Travel

  Africa, Madagascar, Travel, trees

• The beautiful yet feisty Lilac-breasted roller bird, Africa’s most colorful bird

  

  The plumage on the lilac-breasted roller bird is gorgeous. The creature sports eight different colors to give it the impression of a mesmerizing rainbow. It may just be Africa‘s most colorful bird.

  Native to sub-Saharan Africa and the national bird of Botswana and Kenya, the lilac bird is known to perch on treetops by the roadside to pounce on rodents and insects moving about on the ground.

  An aggressive little fluff—especially when intruders get too close to their nest—the African Lilac-breasted roller birds are also renowned for the rolling flight pattern that sees them dip and dive from high in the sky in torpedo-like motion.

  

  

  

  More Lilac-breasted roller facts

  Appearance

  The Lilac-breasted Roller is a visual symphony of vibrant colors. It boasts a lilac breast, cyan head, and wings with contrasting shades of blue and turquoise. With a size ranging from 11-12 inches and a wingspan of 20-23 inches, it’s hard to miss this avian spectacle.

  What Lilac Breasted Roller eats

  Predominantly insectivorous, the Lilac-breasted Roller preys on grasshoppers, beetles, and other small arthropods. They are also opportunistic feeders, occasionally supplementing their diet with small reptiles and even rodents.

  Breeding

  Breeding season typically occurs between September and April. The female bird usually deposits 2-4 eggs inside a tree cavity and then incubates them for a period of roughly 19-20 days. Both parents participate in feeding the fledglings until they are ready to leave the nest after about 19-20 days post-hatching.

  Behavior

  The Lilac-breasted Roller performs acrobatic flight displays during courtship or territorial disputes and usually lives alone. However, you can occasionally find it in pairs. They perch conspicuously on trees or poles to spot their prey, swooping down to catch it with remarkable precision.

  Habitat

  The bird thrives in open woodland and grassland areas, often near water bodies but avoiding desert and dense forests. It ranges throughout Eastern and Southern Africa, spanning from Ethiopia to South Africa.

  Geographical Distribution

  The Lilac-breasted Roller inhabits mainly sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from the north in Ethiopia and Somalia to the south in South Africa.

  Availability for Sale

  In many parts of Africa, capturing and selling wild Lilac-breasted Rollers is illegal. Despite this, some people still trade them in the exotic pet market. In short, these birds are hard to breed in captivity. You’ll best admire them in their natural habitat.

  Finn Oakley

  September 9, 2023

  Animals, Nature

  Africa, birds

• Why Autumn 2023 is the best season

  

  As the air grows crisp and the days shorten, a collective sigh emanates from the natural world—one of relief, perhaps, or even contentment. This change heralds the arrival of autumn, a season that, despite its transience, leaves an indelible imprint on our senses and sensibilities. The virtues of autumn are many, transcending mere aesthetics to permeate our lives’ cultural, emotional, and even gastronomical spheres. Here, we explore why autumn has earned its exalted status as the season of unparalleled charm and depth.

  A comfortable climate

  Summer’s stifling heat dissipates as autumn sets in, replaced by a climate that is nothing short of invigorating. The temperate weather is a sublime match for various outdoor endeavors, whether a Sunday morning run or an impromptu picnic. The Earth’s tilt disperses sunlight more evenly, creating a temperate climate ideal for exploration and reflection. This scientific phenomenon is as poetic as the season itself.

  Beautiful landscapes

  To say that autumn is visually stunning would be an understatement. The foliage transforms into a riot of colors, a phenomenon scientifically known as senescence. This natural process, driven by the decreasing amount of daylight and temperature, triggers a display that is both a botanical marvel and a feast for the eyes. Poets and artists have long sought to capture this fleeting beauty, but the true power of autumnal hues lies in their ability to inspire awe and contemplation in even the most casual observer.

  The harvest’s cornucopia

  Autumn brings a bounty of fresh produce, filling farmers’ markets and grocery aisles. Apples, squash, and root vegetables dominate the landscape, lending themselves to dishes that comfort the soul as much as they please the palate. This seasonality is no accident; the Earth’s biological clock ensures that the most nutrient-rich foods are available when needed, serving our bodies and culinary imaginations.

  Rituals and celebrations

  Playful masquerades at Halloween and solemn gatherings at Thanksgiving imbue autumn with deeply rooted traditions in history and culture. These celebrations are not just social constructs but intricate tapestries woven from threads of communal memory and collective gratitude. These rituals offer grounding and a sense of belonging in an increasingly transient and impersonal world.

  A philosophical season

  Above all, autumn serves as a metaphor for the impermanence and beauty of life itself. Just as the leaves must fall, so must all things pass. 

  As the season declines, it reveals a unique beauty one can only appreciate when facing impending dormancy.

  Conclusion

  Autumn defies simple categorization. It is both an ending and a precursor, a time of visible change that prompts us to ponder the subtler transformations occurring within and around us. The meteorological, aesthetic, gastronomical, and even existential elements of autumn merge into a singular experience that enriches our lives, asking for nothing in return but our mindful presence.

  In an era of perpetual busyness and ephemeral digital distractions, autumn offers a respite and a lesson: that in slowing down, savoring simplicity, and observing the natural world, we may find the deepest form of enrichment.

  Why Autumn 2023 is the best season — takeaways

  • Comfortable climate: Autumn offers a temperate climate perfect for various outdoor activities, thanks to the Earth’s tilt providing even sunlight.
  • Beautiful Landscapes: The season transforms the landscape into a colorful spectacle, capturing the essence of natural beauty through senescence.
  • The Harvest’s Cornucopia: Autumn brings a bounty of nutrient-rich foods like apples, squash, and root vegetables, serving our culinary needs and health.
  • Rituals and Celebrations: With festivals like Halloween and Thanksgiving, autumn provides meaningful traditions that offer a sense of community and belonging.
  • A Philosophical Season: The transience of autumn is a metaphor for life’s impermanence, offering beauty in decline and prompting existential reflection.

  

  Finn Oakley

  September 8, 2023

  Nature

  autumn, weather