Leaflets of Philippine Botany

Mention of N. sibuyanensis in a 1911 issue of Leaflets of Philippine Botany. Forests clear up to 5000 feet altitude, the upper forests becoming low stocky trees. Along this ridge, I was obliged to cut my own trail to nearly the uppermost apparently insurmountable central summit mass. I believe by making a camp at 4500 feet, a small mountaineering party can make it to the summit. Possibly a little reconnoitering will be necessary before a passable course can be found. All water for camping purposes must be taken along from the valley. My exploration work was therefore confined to the lower region, chiefly along the two already mentioned rivers. 

The vegetation along these rivers proved exceedingly interesting to me, because of its diversity. The Pauala River proved by far the most interesting and novel. This is mainly due to part of the summit vegetation having been washed down and disseminated as botanical floats along its course. Such evident examples are Vaccinium gitingensis Elm., Nepenthes sibuyanensis Elm. and Decaspermun grandiflora Elm. Along this same river were found quantities of Xanthostemon verdugo- nianus Naves which was never seen along the Patoo river. 

The fig flora of Sibuyan is poor and disappointing. Likewise, the ferns, orchids, mosses and palms. Yet otherwise, I am surprised at its novel character, many groups run over fifty percent new, and the writer is certain that there are still remaining many unknown species in the unexplored dense stocky forest region above 5000 feet elevation. The study of my collection brought out very strongly the close relationship of the Sibuyan flora to that of the flora on the east coast of Luzon along the Pacific ocean, especially from Atimonan to Casiguran of Tayabas province.

Song Thrush Sounds

 The Singing Maestro: Song Thrush

Adorned with brown feathers speckled with intricate patterns, the Song Thrush is a small bird known for its tuneful prowess. Their melodious songs have earned them the title of "singing maestro" among bird enthusiasts. With a distinctive yellow eye-ring and a speckled chest, the Song Thrush presents a picturesque sight while serenading the surroundings.

Dawn Chorus: The Morning Serenade

At the break of dawn, nature awakens to a symphony like no other—the dawn chorus. It is during this time that Song Thrushes contribute their melodious tunes to the chorus, marking their presence with remarkable clarity. The tranquil ambiance of the morning serenade, orchestrated by various bird species, is heightened by the enchanting songs of the Song Thrush.

Musical Repertoire: Song Thrush Songs

The Song Thrush possesses a diverse repertoire of songs, each serving a unique purpose. Their songs are not only a delight to the human ear but also vital for their survival. Males often sing to establish their territories and attract potential mates. These songs contain a distinct rhythm and melody that echo through the woodlands, announcing their rightful presence.

Imitation Mastery: The Versatile Song Thrush

One of the remarkable abilities of the Song Thrush is its talent for mimicry. They have the skill to imitate other bird species, showcasing their versatility as singers. From the melodious tones of the Blackbird to the musical trills of the Nightingale, the Song Thrush effortlessly mimics a range of sounds, creating a symphony of diversity within its own songs.

Breeding Season: Love Songs in the Air

During the breeding season, the Song Thrushes' songs take on a new meaning. The male serenades potential mates with elaborate melodies, expressing his desire and suitability as a partner. The enchanting love songs fill the air, creating an atmosphere of courtship and excitement among these charming birds.

Regional Variations: Songs Across the Globe

Just as human languages have dialects, Song Thrush songs exhibit regional variations. Different populations of Song Thrushes have their unique musical dialects, making their songs distinct to specific regions. This fascinating phenomenon adds a touch of cultural diversity to the avian world, further highlighting the complexity of their melodious language.

Environmental Influence: Adapting to Urbanization

As urbanization expands, the Song Thrushes adapted remarkably well to city life. Their ability to thrive in urban environments showcases their resilience and adaptability. However, the increasing noise pollution and loss of green spaces present challenges for these songbirds, affecting their singing patterns and overall well-being.

Conservation Efforts: Protecting the Musical Avian

To ensure the continued existence of the Song Thrush, conservation efforts are paramount. Loss of habitat, pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to their populations. By preserving their natural habitats and creating awareness, we can safeguard the future of these melodious creatures.

Song Thrush in Literature: Inspiring Art and Culture

Throughout history, the mesmerizing songs of the Song Thrush have inspired artists, writers, and musicians. Their melodious tunes have found their way into poems, novels, and musical compositions. From Shakespeare's sonnets to classical symphonies, the enchanting songs of the Song Thrush have left an indelible mark on the creative world.

Therapeutic Melodies: Song Thrush Sounds for Well-being

The melodious songs of the Song Thrush have a profound impact on human well-being. The calming and soothing nature of their tunes contributes to stress relief and relaxation. Listening to their therapeutic melodies can transport us to a tranquil state, providing solace in the midst of our busy lives.

Birdwatching Delight: Listening to Song Thrushes

For avid birdwatchers, encountering a Song Thrush is a moment of delight. With their distinct appearance and melodious songs, Song Thrushes are a joy to observe. To enhance your birdwatching experience, listen to their tunes in woodlands and gardens during the early morning hours. Their singing can transform a simple outing into a magical adventure.

Appreciating Nature's Symphony: The Song Thrush Legacy

The legacy of the Song Thrush lies not only in their beautiful songs but also in the deeper connection they forge with nature. Their melodies remind us to pause and appreciate the intricate symphony of the natural world. Let us embrace the enchanting tunes of the Song Thrush and cherish their presence in our lives.

Conclusion

In the realm of avian music, the Song Thrush reigns as a masterful composer. Their melodious songs elevate our spirits, infusing the air with enchantment. However, as their habitats face increasing threats, it is our responsibility to protect and preserve these musical marvels. Let us listen, appreciate, and take action to ensure that future generations can revel in the poetic beauty of the Song Thrush's sounds.

FAQs

1. How long can Song Thrushes sing continuously?

   • Song Thrushes can sing for extended periods, often serenading their surroundings for several minutes without pause.

2. Can Song Thrushes imitate human sounds?

   • While Song Thrushes are primarily known for imitating other bird species, some individuals have demonstrated the ability to mimic simple human sounds.

3. Do Song Thrushes have regional accents in their songs?

   • Yes, Song Thrushes exhibit regional variations in their songs, showcasing unique musical dialects across different populations.

4. Are Song Thrushes considered endangered?

   • Currently, Song Thrushes are not considered endangered. However, their populations face threats due to habitat loss and environmental changes.

5. What other birds are known for their melodious songs?

   • Several other bird species, such as the Nightingale, Blackbird, and Mockingbird, are renowned for their melodious songs. Each brings its unique charm to the avian choir.

Sand-tracing pendulum drew weird squiggly lines.

The pendulum, which is used for sand tracing, recorded the seismic activity during the 6.8 magnitude earthquake that hit Olympia, Washington in 2001. Scientists believe that the squiggly lines traced by the pendulum captured the intensity and duration of the quake's most intense trembles. This demonstrates the ability of a simple instrument like a sand-tracing pendulum to capture and record seismic activity. The information gathered by the pendulum can help scientists better understand the characteristics of earthquakes and improve earthquake prediction and mitigation efforts.

Bees of the genus Tetragonula construct tall nests that spiral clockwise

Bees of the genus Tetragonula construct tall nests that spiral clockwise, their geometry astonishing for years. Similar mathematical algorithms appear in how mollusks make nacre (mother of pearl and how crystals form in a spiral. This phenomenon is known as the Fibonacci sequence, which is a series of numbers where each number is the sum of the two preceding ones. This sequence is found throughout nature and is commonly seen in the arrangement of leaves on a stem, the branching patterns in trees, the curve of waves and spirals in shells and pinecones, and even the patterns in hurricanes and galaxies.

The Fibonacci sequence and its associated mathematical patterns are thought to be a result of the optimization of growth and efficient use of available resources in nature. It has been proposed that this pattern allows for maximum exposure to light, efficient use of space, and a reduction in crowding and competition among growing organisms.

Overall, the Fibonacci sequence and its related mathematical patterns in nature are a testament to the elegance and efficiency of mathematical principles in the natural world, and they continue to fascinate scientists and mathematicians alike.

17 year old Juliane Koepcke survived the LANSA Flight 508 plane crash in 1971

Juliane Koepcke, a 17-year-old German-Peruvian woman, became famous for her remarkable survival story after the crash of LANSA Flight 508 in 1971. The flight was traveling from Lima, Peru to Pucallpa, Peru when it was struck by lightning and crashed into the Amazon rainforest. Koepcke was the only survivor of the crash and spent 10 days in the jungle before being rescued by local lumbermen. Despite suffering from serious injuries, she managed to survive the jungle's harsh conditions and eventually made a full recovery. Her story has been widely documented and serves as a testament to the power of human resilience and determination in the face of extreme adversity.

Keeping track of up to 100 babies is a daunting task, so scorpions will carry them around on their backs

Keeping track of up to 100 babies is a daunting task, so scorpions will carry them around on their backs. Scorpions are not known to carry baby scorpions on their backs. Scorpions are solitary creatures and generally do not interact with their offspring after they have hatched from their eggs. The young scorpions must fend for themselves and are not carried or cared for by their parents. It is important to rely on scientifically accurate information when making statements about the natural world.

Redwing Bird Call and Song

The Redwing (Turdus iliacus) is a small thrush found throughout Europe and Asia. The redwing's call is a loud, clear, and melodious "tsee-tsee" or "tseep", that can be heard in the spring and fall migration and in the breeding season. The alarm call of the redwing is a sharp, high-pitched "sree" that is given when the bird is disturbed or threatened. This call is usually repeated several times in quick succession.

The redwing's song is a series of melodic, flute-like notes that are often described as "liquid" or "warbling." The song usually consists of a series of clear, high-pitched notes, followed by a series of lower-pitched notes. The redwing's song can be heard in the breeding season and is usually given by the males as they defend their territory.

The redwing's vocalizations are an important means of communication for the bird, and they play a crucial role in attracting a mate and defending territory. The alarm call is an effective way to alert other birds of potential danger, and the song is used to attract a mate and establish territory during the breeding season.

It's important to note that it's illegal to hunt, trap or kill redwing birds, it's protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which makes it illegal to pursue, hunt, take, capture, or kill migratory birds.

10 most beautiful birds in the world

1. Peacock: With its vibrant colors and ornate tail feathers, the peacock is considered one of the most beautiful birds in the world. Found in India and Sri Lanka, the male bird, or peacock, has a distinctive blue-green plumage with a long train of colorful "eye" feathers.
2. Golden Pheasant: This bird is found in the forests of central China and has a bright red head and breast, a golden-yellow crest, and a long tail of golden and green feathers.
3. Birds of Paradise: Found in New Guinea and nearby islands, birds of paradise are known for their colorful plumage and elaborate courtship displays. Some species have elongated tail feathers or head plumes that can be up to several feet long.
4. Hummingbirds: These tiny birds are found in the Americas and are known for their brightly colored plumage and ability to hover in mid-air while feeding on nectar.
5. Blue Jay: Found in North America, the Blue Jay is known for its bright blue plumage and crest on its head. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from forests to suburban areas.
6. Australian King Parrot: Found in the eastern regions of Australia, the Australian King Parrot is a brightly colored bird with a red head and breast, green wings and tail, and a blue back.
7. Hoopoe: Found in Europe, Asia, and Africa, the Hoopoe has a distinctive crest on its head and a long, thin bill. Its plumage is a combination of pink, brown, and black.
8. American Goldfinch: Found in North America, the American Goldfinch is a brightly colored bird with a yellow head, wings, and tail, and a black cap on its head. They are often seen flitting among thistle and other wildflowers.
9. Baltimore Oriole: Found in North America, the Baltimore Oriole is known for its bright orange plumage and black head. They are often seen in wooded areas and gardens.
10. Great Egret: This bird is found in many parts of the world, it has distinctive white plumage and black bill, and it is known for its graceful and elegant appearance.

These are some of the most beautiful birds in the world, but many other birds also have unique and colorful plumage that makes them stand out.

Zelkova serrata Japanese zelkova

 The habit of this species, typically vase-shaped, with branches diverging at 45° angles to the central axis, is similar to that of the American elm (Ulmus americana), but without dignity and grace. Dark green, strongly serrated, 2-to-5-in.-long leaves give way to yellow, golden bronze, and reddish purple fall colors. The brown bark on young trees has a polished, almost cherry-like quality, becoming gray and exfoliating with age, somewhat like that of Chinese elm (U. parvifolia). Adaptable to varied soils and climates. Displays reasonable tolerance to high heat and drought. Resistant to Dutch elm disease and the elm leaf beetle. Makes a fine street and park tree and is now a major player in the shade-tree market from Chicago to Atlanta to the West Coast, a success that in large part relates to the introduction of superior forms. Seedling zelkovas usually grow like a rabbit’s hind legs—crooked and uneven; they are respectable trees, however, if properly pruned. Grows 50 to 80 ft. high, similar spread.

CULTIVARS AND VARIETIES

City Sprite is a compact oval- to vase-shaped outline; 24 ft. by 18 ft. J. Frank Schmidt & Son introduction. A diminutive form for underwire planting. ‘Goshiki’ has irregularly cream-marked, -speckled, and -splashed leaves. A collector’s plant. Green Vase® is a superior cultivar with upright-arching branches, resulting in a more graceful tree than Village Green™. Excellent dark green foliage turns orange-brown to bronzy red in fall. Faster growing than Village Green™. Grows 60 to 70 ft. high, 40 to 50 ft. wide. ‘Musashino’ is upright, narrow columnar- vase-shaped; medium green leaves turn yellow in fall. Early leafing, the first zelkova to leaf at Milliken Arboretum, usually by mid to late March. Estimate 45 ft. by 15 ft. Good choice for tight planting areas. ‘Ogon’ (‘Aurea’, ‘Bright Park’) sports yellow leaves in spring, eventually green, and amber-gold-brown winter stems and trunk; attractive accent. Slow-growing in Georgia trials. Village Green™, one of the first-named selections, is still justifiably popular. The crown is more dense and stiff than that of Green Vase®. The old trees that I observed were equal in height and width. The leathery, dark green foliage may develop a wine-red fall color. At maturity, probably smaller than Green Vase

A Kite for Mankind

National Geographic’s second president, scientist Alexander Graham Bell, had an estate on Cape Breton Island where he conducted experiments. Writer Catherine Dunlop Mackenzie remarked on the broad range of his research in a 1920 National Geographic article. Among his innovations: were a high-speed hydroplane boat (it went 70 miles/113 km an hour), an outlook tower composed of stacked tetrahedral cells, and special twin-bearing sheep stock.

But perhaps most remarkable, Mackenzie wrote, was Graham’s collection of huge, manbearing kite structures. Graham was an aviation pioneer, fascinated by the idea of mechanical flight since his boyhood. In 1907, he sent one of his giant kites 168 feet (51 m) aloft over Bras d’Or Lake on Cape Breton Island, with U.S. Army officer Lt. Thomas E. Selfridge attached. Though Selfridge survived that experiment, he died just months later in one of Orville Wright’s flying machines, earning him the grim distinction of modern aviation’s first fatality.