Rainbow Bee-eaters (Merops ornatus)
Known to the Noongar people as "birranga", the bee-eater's Aboriginal Dreaming story tells how the birds came into being when a rainbow shattered and its colourful shards fell to earth. They can often be seen perched on telephone lines, fences and bare branches, from which they dart forth to snap up passing insects such as honey bees, native bees, blowflies and dragonflies.
馃搷Darwin, New Territory, Australia
馃摳 @alec.brennan
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A FISTFUL OF SILVEREYES
(credit to biologist Dan Baldassarre, who took the photo in 2012 that I used as reference. he caught these birds in Australia while banding another species. no birds were harmed in his grip and this is a typical restraint technique)
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BOTD: Blue-Billed Duck
^Image credit: JJ Harrison
Blue-Billed Duck聽(Oxyura australis)
The Blue-Billed Duck is endemic to Australia, preferring to live in both natural and artificial wetlands. They are almost entirely aquatic, having difficulty walking. They are omnivorous, eating invertebrates as well as the fruit, seeds, and buds of aquatic plants.
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These fluffy muppets were right outside my apartment all afternoon! Living in Australia is awesome ^___^ I love Tawny Frogmouths, they鈥檙e such muppets and it鈥檚 not common to see them during the daytime. And then one noticed I was watching and started glaring at me which I found very amusing.
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Double-barred Finches聽(Stizoptera bichenovii), family Estrildidae, near Canberra, Australia
photograph by Ben Milbourne
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An introduction to Biooz The fauna of Australia
Welcome to our brand-new blog, where we will embark on an exciting scientific journey through the incredible and diverse world of Australian fauna. Here, we'll delve into the remarkable and sometimes peculiar creatures that call the Land Down Under home. From the iconic kangaroo and koala to the more obscure marsupials, reptiles, birds, frogs, and insects, in this blog we will leave no stone unturned in our quest to explore the fascinating tapestry of Australia's wildlife.
Australia is a land like no other, boasting a unique and extraordinary ecosystem that has evolved in isolation for millions of years. It鈥檚 a vast landscape, which ranges from lush rainforests to arid deserts and expansive coastlines, these landscapes provide a rich and diverse habitat for a wide array of animal species. In this blog, we'll journey through this breathtaking country, uncovering the mysteries of its wildlife.
What to Expect from this blog
Here's what you can expect from this blog:
In-Depth Profiles: We'll take you up close and personal with the iconic and lesser-known creatures that roam this continent. Discover their fascinating biology, behavior, and unique adaptations to the Australian environment.
Conservation Insights: Australia is home to many endangered species facing various environmental challenges. We'll shed light on conservation efforts and the importance of preserving these incredible animals and their habitats.
Natural History: Get ready to journey through time as we delve into the evolutionary history of Australian fauna. We'll explore how these creatures have adapted to their surroundings over millions of years.
Travel and Wildlife Spotting: For the intrepid travelers among us, we'll share tips and locations to experience the Australian wildlife firsthand. Whether you're a local or planning a future trip, this blog will help you make the most of your adventures.
Q&A and Community Engagement: We encourage questions and discussions from our readers. Curious about a particular species or want to share your own wildlife encounters? We'd love to hear from you and foster a sense of community in our exploration of Australia's fauna.
Join Us on This Remarkable Journey
Australia's fauna is a treasure trove of biodiversity, and we're excited to take you along as we unravel its many mysteries. Our mission is to foster a deep appreciation for these unique animals and raise awareness about the challenges they face in an ever-changing world.
So, whether you're a seasoned biologist, an avid wildlife lover, or just someone with a curious mind, join us in our quest to explore the remarkable world of Australian fauna. Together, we'll gain a greater understanding of the incredible creatures that make Australia a truly special place. Stay tuned for our upcoming posts. Welcome to the adventure!
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BOTD: Tawny Frogmouth
^Image credit: JJ Harrison
Tawny Frogmouth聽(Podargus strigoides)
The Tawny Frogmouth is an unusual-looking bird often mistaken for an owl. During winter, their food supply shrinks drastically, and as a result they often enter torpor, a state similar to hibernation which slows energy conservation by slowing metabolism and heart rate. Torpor is different to hibernation, because it only lasts for typically a few hours, rather than entire seasons.
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