Placeholder Content Image

From securing pets to building ‘insect hotels’ – here are 7 ways to attract birds to your garden

<div class="theconversation-article-body"> <p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rochelle-steven-22148">Rochelle Steven</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-newsome-117672">David Newsome</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a></em></p> <p>Home gardens can provide vital habitat for Australian birds. But there’s more to it than just planting certain types of shrubs and flowering trees.</p> <p>After decades of encouragement to include native plants in home gardens, urban environments have come to <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2351989423003700">favour certain species</a> and <a href="https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1442-9993.2006.01584.x">neglect others</a> including some of our most loved birds, such as fairy-wrens.</p> <p>Birds that thrive on nectar such as honeyeaters, and bossy birds with bold personalities such as noisy miners, some parrots and magpies, tend to dominate the scene. But it doesn’t have to be this way.</p> <p>We wanted to explore how urban gardens can best support a wider range of Australian birds. <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10531-025-03011-2">Our new review</a> of research on this topic revealed seven key considerations. These fall into two themes: reducing threats and improving habitat.</p> <p>We found there’s no point doing just the good things (such as plantings) if we don’t stop doing the bad things (such as killing insects, poisoning owls and letting cats hunt). It’s like trying to fill a bucket with a hole in it.</p> <p>So let’s acknowledge the complexity of nature and take a broader approach to attracting birds to our gardens, by ticking off the items on this shopping list.</p> <h2>1. Secure pets</h2> <p>Domestic cats kill <a href="https://www.publish.csiro.au/wr/pdf/WR19174">millions of Australian birds every year</a>. So no matter how innocent your cat looks, it remains a highly evolved predator.</p> <p>The only guaranteed way to protect birds and other wildlife from cats is to keep them contained inside or in purpose-built enclosures, 24 hours a day. You can find out about building your own cat enclosure from <a href="https://agriculture.vic.gov.au/livestock-and-animals/animal-welfare-victoria/cats/enclosures-and-fencing/building-a-cat-enclosure-attached-to-an-existing-structure">government</a> and <a href="https://catiospaces.com/catios-cat-enclosures/cat-behavior-enrichment/build-diy-catio-plan-for-your-cat/">retail</a> experts online.</p> <p>Dogs can also stop birds taking up residence in your garden. The mere <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.landurbplan.2013.10.005">presence of a dog can deter some birds</a>. Keeping dogs contained at night can reduce the level of disturbance to nocturnal birds. But if you really want to attract birds to your garden, you may choose to keep your dog inside more.</p> <h2>2. Avoid using insecticides and outside lights</h2> <p>Many flying and ground-dwelling insects are <a href="https://doi.org/10.1073/pnas.2002549117">in decline</a>. This is bad news for many birds including fairy-wrens, willie wagtails, fantails and robins who rely almost entirely on insects for food. But we can avoid using insecticides or any other form of lethal control such as bug zappers in our own gardens.</p> <p>Ideally, accept insects as a natural part of your garden. Don’t try to deter them, unless they pose a risk to public safety, such as swarming European honeybees or hordes of European wasps. You can also consider favouring native plants that naturally are resisitant to unwanted insect attack.</p> <p>Excess artificial light is also taking a toll on insects. Consider whether you really need to leave that outdoor light on all night. Review your existing outdoor lighting using the <a href="https://darksky.org/resources/guides-and-how-tos/lighting-principles/">five principles for responsible outdoor lighting</a>, ensuring all artificial light is useful, targeted, low-level, controlled and warm-coloured.</p> <h2>3. Stop poisoning raptors</h2> <p>The use of rat poison, especially those labelled as “fast action”, is <a href="https://theconversation.com/rat-poison-is-killing-our-beloved-native-owls-and-tawny-frogmouths-and-thats-the-tip-of-the-iceberg-212184">killing native owls</a> and other <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147673">birds of prey</a> at an alarming rate due to <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.06.207">secondary poisoning</a>. In other words, raptors are dying after eating rats and mice that have taken the bait.</p> <p>Many countries have regulated the sale and use of these products for this reason, but Australia is lagging behind. So if you “give a hoot” about our owls, <a href="https://kb.rspca.org.au/knowledge-base/what-is-the-most-humane-way-to-kill-pest-rats-and-mice/">switch to snap traps</a>. There are also various other effective, humane and efficient <a href="https://theconversation.com/how-to-control-invasive-rats-and-mice-at-home-without-harming-native-wildlife-180792">options</a> available, including removing unwanted fruit from the ground, keeping sheds tidy, and securing compost bins to keep rodents under control.</p> <h2>4. Prevent window strikes</h2> <p>Birds can fly into windows when they’re unable to differentiate between the glass and the surrounding environment. Strikes may be lethal upon impact or result in injury. A stunned bird is also more vulnerable to predators.</p> <p>In Australia, bird lovers can <a href="https://birdlife.org.au/preventing-bird-strike/#:%7E:text=Why%20do%20birds%20collide%20with,help%20solve%20this%20problem%20too.">reduce the risk</a> by using <a href="https://store.birdlife.org.au/product/anti-collision-bird-stickers/">decals</a> which are decorative stickers intended <a href="https://www.sureguard.com.au/page/birds-eye-view-window-strike-deflector">for windows</a>. Screens, hanging plants or mobiles can also be placed in front of windows to help the birds avoid collisions.</p> <h2>5. Create an inclusive garden</h2> <p>The diversity in Australian birds extends to their diets. Beyond honeyeaters, the nation is home to huge numbers of insectivores, carnivores, seed-eaters and fruit peckers.</p> <p>Australian gardens typically have plenty of bottlebrush and grevilleas, which <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2004.06.004">stacks the deck in the bold honeyeaters’ favour</a>. So when buying new garden plants, try catering for a wider variety of bird species.</p> <p>Choose dense shrubs with small white, yellow or blue flowers to attract insects. These bushy plants also make excellent habitat for small birds. Retaining trees ensures our larger birds have nesting sites too.</p> <p>If you get the garden design right, with a variety of plants to suit all tastes, there is <a href="https://birdlife.org.au/a-guide-to-feeding-wild-birds-in-australia/?srsltid=AfmBOooHbf9Du1CarsSg044tVUVFxfBdopOwrOmELrQWcCSdwfKv432v">no need to feed the birds</a>.</p> <h2>6. Encourage insects</h2> <p><a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-11-09/blue-banded-bee-australian-insect-of-the-year-inaugral-vote/104572938">Native bees</a> and flies play a crucial role in ecosystems, both as pollinators and food for birds.</p> <p>You can provide insects with nesting habitat in the form of insect “hotels”, food (namely flowers and other insects) and safety from pesticides. These <a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.biocon.2015.05.003">small gestures can make a huge difference</a>.</p> <h2>7. Water the birds too</h2> <p>With the <a href="https://climatekids.nasa.gov/heat-islands/">urban heat island</a> effect and growing frequency of extreme heat waves, birds are in need of reliable sources of fresh water. Offer this <a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11252-024-01530-4">crucial resource</a> in a water feature such as a bird bath or pond.</p> <h2>Whole neighbourhoods for birds</h2> <p>Your garden has never been more important for birds. Doing your bit in your own backyard can make a visible difference – you will see the birds for yourself. But true conservation gains can only be made when people work together at a larger scale.</p> <p>Why not start a conversation with your neighbour about attracting birds to your garden? Creating one garden for birds is great, but when we start talking about whole neighbourhoods for birds, that’s magic!<!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/247561/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/rochelle-steven-22148"><em>Rochelle Steven</em></a><em>, Lecturer in Environmental Management, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a> and <a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/david-newsome-117672">David Newsome</a>, Assoc. Professor of Environmental Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/murdoch-university-746">Murdoch University</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Shutterstock </em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/from-securing-pets-to-building-insect-hotels-here-are-7-ways-to-attract-birds-to-your-garden-247561">original article</a>.</em></p> </div>

Home & Garden

Placeholder Content Image

Two Aussies cop $35,000 fine for "illegal" enterprise

<p>A pair of Aussies have copped a $35,000 fine for illegally collecting masses of firewood for a black market enterprise. </p> <p>The duo were caught during a targeted patrol inside a national park in Victoria, where fallen timber is supposed to be left as wildlife habitat. </p> <p>They fled after they were approached by officers, according to Parks Victoria, but had left behind evidence of their illegal enterprise. </p> <p>Officers found records that identified the 44-year-old man and 31-year-old woman in their abandoned Commodore, as well as their sales record and social media accounts promoting their black market business. </p> <p>The pair were convicted of six charges at the Shepparton Magistrates’ Court on November 22, with the man fined $20,000 and the woman $15,000 for cutting, removing and selling firewood in the Lower Goulburn National Park in May, 2023.</p> <p>The couple faced additional charges for damaging wildlife habitat. </p> <p>On Wednesday, Parks Victoria issued a warning to the public to not fall for firewood scams and illegal wood sellers after almost 10,000 trees had been illegally felled across 462 hectares of public land last year.</p> <p>"The illegal cut and take of firewood from national parks and protected public land is theft," Andrew Dean, a Parks Victoria Senior Enforcement Officer, said in a statement. </p> <p>"Theft damages and destroys wildlife habitat and robs Victorians of the natural places they love to visit. Magistrate Zebrowski's verdict sends a strong and clear message: firewood theft will not be tolerated, and offenders will be held accountable for their actions.</p> <p>"We encourage consumers to use common sense when purchasing firewood. Any time a deal is too good to be true, it probably is."</p> <p>Fallen logs are important and a key habitat for Australian wildlife including the  marbled gecko, brown treecreeper and Peron’s tree frog. </p> <p><em>Images:  Parks Victoria</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

The hilarious winners of the 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards

<p>The winners of the 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards have been announced, with this year's finalists showcasing the funniest parts of the animal kingdom. </p> <p>The contest, which has been dubbed the '"funniest and most popular photography competition in the world", featured over 9,000 images, with judges narrowing it down to their top 45 picks.</p> <p>Despite the extensive range of hilarious snaps, it was Milko Marchetti who was announced as the overall winner of the 2024 competition for his photo, entitled "Stuck Squirrel". </p> <p>The hilarious photo shows a red squirrel entering a tree, with its legs at right angles to the trunk. </p> <p>"I have taken many, many photographs of squirrels, in many situations over the years in Italy," Mr Marchetti explained.</p> <p>"But this one struck me as really funny and such a strange position, because it is that exact moment when the squirrel is detaching its back legs from the trunk to enter its hide."</p> <p>"Whenever I show this image at the nature seminars at my local photography club, the audience always explode with raucous laughter, so I had to enter it!"</p> <p>The judges explained that Mr Marchetti's image really reflects the "enchanting" aspect of nature, as Stefan Maier, Senior General Manager of Marketing at Nikon Europe, said, "We are thrilled to celebrate Milko Marchetti's outstanding achievement in the Nikon Comedy Photography Awards 2024."</p> <p>"His image, 'Stuck Squirrel', brilliantly captures the playful and unpredictable moments that make nature so enchanting. This year's competition received a record number of entries, each one a testament to the power of photography in evoking emotion."</p> <p>"We look forward to continuing to inspire the next generation of wildlife photographers through these wonderful awards."</p> <p><em>Image credits: Nikon Comedy Wildlife / 2024 Comedy Wildlife Photography Awards</em></p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Aussie woman fined $20,000 for illegal wildlife trade

<p>A woman in Queensland has been slapped with a $20,000 fine for illegal wildlife trade. </p> <p>After a tip-off from a member of the public, officers with Queensland's Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI) attended a residence in Nambour in January, where they found and seized 18 reptile eggs and 26 reptiles — many of which were found to be in poor health.</p> <p>DETSI officers said the discovery highlights a more pressing issue, which is the "increasing trend in people seeking to profit from high prices" that "our unique wildlife" fetch on domestic and international markets.</p> <p>The woman was found in possession of a northern blue-tongue lizard, a Woma python, carpet python, shingleback lizard, inland bearded dragon, children’s python, broad-shelled turtle and Centralian carpet python, among others.</p> <p>Senior Wildlife Officer Jonathan McDonald condemned the woman's behaviour, as she didn't provide adequate care for the snakes and reptiles to stay healthy in captivity. </p> <p>"Sadly, several of the reptiles were in poor condition and needed to be humanely euthanised," McDonald said.</p> <p>"The surviving reptiles can never be released to the wild as they may have been exposed to disease while they were in captivity." </p> <p>An independent veterinary exam of the reptiles seized revealed medical conditions like necrosis, dehydration, neurological defects and general poor health. </p> <p>The woman admitted to knowingly keeping the animals without valid licences, purchasing them from unlicensed sellers and operating a reptile business. </p> <p>She also could not provide mandatory records of sale for 13 of her purchased animals. </p> <p>Globally illegal wildlife trafficking is estimated to be worth $27 billion a year, ranking fourth in the world's illegal trades after drugs, counterfeit products, and human trafficking. </p> <p><em>Images: DETSI</em></p>

Travel Trouble

Placeholder Content Image

2024 Wildlife Photographer of the Year revealed

<p>The finalists of the 2024 Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition have been revealed, with the talented photographers capturing the magic of the animal kingdom. </p> <p>The competition, run by the Natural History Museum, saw its largest number of entries yet, with 59,228 entries from 117 countries and territories.</p> <p>Shane Gross, a Canadian photojournalist, was the overall winner of Wildlife Photographer of the Year for his captivating image capturing the "magical underwater world of western toad tadpoles."</p> <p>Kathy Moran, Chair of the Jury and Editor said: "The jury was captivated by the mix of light, energy and connectivity between the environment and tadpoles. We were equally excited by the addition of a new species to the Wildlife Photographer of the Year archive."</p> <p>A few other winners included a photo of a "curious" leopard seal looking into the camera, a sleeping baby monkey, and a "wrestle" between an anaconda and caiman. </p> <p>Dr Doug Gurr, Director of the Natural History Museum said: "Wildlife Photographer of the Year's longevity is a testament to the vital importance and growing appreciation of our natural world."</p> <p>"We are delighted to feature such inspiring images in this year's portfolio - these are photographs that not only encourage further wildlife conservation efforts, but that spark the creation of real advocates for our planet on a global scale."</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;">Take a look at some of this year's best entries below.</p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"><em>Images: Wildlife Photographer of the Year</em></p> <p style="box-sizing: border-box; margin-top: 0px; margin-bottom: 1rem; color: #212529; font-family: -apple-system, 'system-ui', 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, sans-serif, 'Apple Color Emoji', 'Segoe UI Emoji', 'Segoe UI Symbol', 'Noto Color Emoji'; font-size: 16px; background-color: #ffffff;"> </p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

$22,000 fine imposed on Waratah thieves

<p>A spate of thefts of one of Australia's most iconic native plants have prompted a furious warning from authorities. </p> <p>More than 20 Waratahs have "disappeared" from the Brisbane Water National Park on the Central Coast alone, according to NSW National Parks, and thieves can risk a potential fine of  $22,000 for hacking the bright flower. </p> <p>“It is illegal to pick waratahs or any other plant in any area protected under the National Parks and Wildlife Act,” an NPWS spokesperson told <em>Yahoo News</em>. </p> <p>Rangers can issue a $300 on-the-spot fine to those caught illegally picking the flower.</p> <p>“The maximum fine under the Biodiversity Conservation Act is $22,000. NPWS is keen to receive details of anyone illegally picking waratahs.”</p> <p>Over the long weekend, locals in the Blue Mountains have hit out at "selfish" tourists for "ripping" waratahs from their stems, with images of the act posted on social media. </p> <p>“Just went to check on a beautiful double header waratah in local bushland only to find someone, well prepared with their secateurs, has cut it clean off. Beyond disgusted!” environmental conservation organisation Wild Blue Mountains said.</p> <p>“This is just not on. They had been giving joy to everyone who passed them but now they’re gone due to one person’s selfish actions.”</p> <p>Last week, NSW National Parks had installed signage about “helping protect the Waratah” to deter culprits from taking them and they've even painted some of the stems with a “non-toxic blue paint”.</p> <p>“Waratahs need to go through their full lifecycle to produce seeds, so picking them deprives the ecosystem of a new generation of plants,” NSW National Parks said.</p> <p>“These flowers are more than just a pretty face, they also provide nectar for birds and other native animals. Please leave them be so we can all enjoy more of these beautiful flowers in years to come.</p> <p>“If you want to pick something in a national park, pick your nose instead!”</p> <p><em>Image: NSW National Parks/Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Breathtaking winners of the 2024 Panoramic Photo Awards

<p>The finalists of the 2024 Epson International Pano Awards have been revealed, with the talented photographers capturing the wonders of nature in all its glory. </p> <p>The annual contest is the world's largest competition dedicated to panoramic photography. </p> <p>With over 4,500 entries from more than one thousand professional and amateur photographers across 95 countries worldwide, all of them have captured the beauty of our planet.  </p> <p>But the overall winner is Kelvin Yuen, from Hong Kong, who captured "astounding" photographs from China to Patagonia, with a drone shot of a lightning strike above  China's Guilin karst formations landing him the title of  2024 Open Photographer of the Year. </p> <p>"On the day I took this photo, I woke up at 3am and was supposed to hike up for the sunrise. However, a heavy thunderstorm struck out of nowhere, so I decided to shoot it" he said of his winning shot, pictured above. </p> <p>David Evans, competition curator has praised all the entries from the 15th year of the Pano Awards. </p> <p>"The quality of entries is astounding, and I am endlessly fascinated by the spectacular windows to the world presented by highly talented photographers far and wide," he said. </p> <p>A few other photos that caught the attention of the judges include dolphins playing in Western Australia, a sunrise over Japan's Mount Fuji, and Norway's Northern Lights. </p> <p>Take a look at some of this year's best entries below.</p> <p><em>Images: The 15th Epson International Pano Awards</em></p> <p> </p>

International Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Legal battle could separate Molly the Magpie and carers again

<p>Molly the Magpie and her friends Peggy and Ruby the Staffies captured hearts around the world with their unlikely friendship. </p> <p>In March, the trio were separated from each other, following <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/tears-started-rolling-first-glimpse-of-molly-the-magpie-shared-by-carers" target="_blank" rel="noopener">complaints </a>that his owners, Juliette Wells and Reece Mortensen, didn't hold a wildlife permit. </p> <p>After 45 days apart, Queensland’s Department of Environment, Science and Innovation (DESI) granted them a licence with <a href="https://www.oversixty.com.au/lifestyle/family-pets/first-pics-of-molly-the-magpie-reunion" target="_blank" rel="noopener">special conditions</a> so Molly could return home to her adoptive family. </p> <p>But now their licence to keep Molly has been called into question, threatening to separate them again, according to <em>A Current Affair</em>. </p> <p>"Four years ago yesterday, when we came across a little magpie, who would have thought we'd be standing in front of the Supreme Court here in Brisbane," Wells said.</p> <p>Mortensen and Wells don't even know who is challenging the Queensland government's decision to reunite the magpie with the family, as the wildlife support volunteer and magpie specialist chose to remain anonymous. </p> <p>"Molly's 100 per cent, and always has been, our focus, his well being... and we just want to just move on and just get over, get on with it," Mortensen said.</p> <p>The applicant will stay anonymous as they contest the government's decision to grant them the licence to care for Molly. </p> <p>"Every time we're in the public sight and things like that, it raises awareness for people to get out there and try and do something to help wildlife and become involved," Mortensen added.</p> <p>"That's what we want to try and do is get get as many people involved as we possibly can in helping wildlife."</p> <p><em>Image: A Current Affair/ Instagram</em></p>

Legal

Placeholder Content Image

Amateur photographer captures once-in-a-lifetime photo

<p>An Aussie photographer has captured her favourite photo "of all time", with thousands on social media praising her lucky timing. </p> <p>Chloe Sirach, who decided to try her hand at amateur photography, traversed down the cliffs near Lennox Head point, 20 kilometres south from Byron Bay, to "get some practice in and have a bit of fun" towards the end of June. </p> <p>However, what started as a relaxed day of "clicking the shutter" of her camera has now catapulted her work after she captured a large whale breaching the waves behind surfers at sunrise.</p> <p>"I lined up my shot with the surfers in the foreground... I then managed to capture the moment that everyone is now seeing all over their social media feeds," Sirach told <em><a href="https://au.news.yahoo.com/lucky-timing-sees-aussie-photographer-capture-favourite-picture-of-all-time-005429099.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Yahoo News</a></em>. "I was ecstatic and knew I'd gotten the shot."</p> <p>She explained she was absolutely delighted with the image and believes the picture "truly encapsulates the beauty of the area that I live in."</p> <p>Australia's east coast waters are notorious for humpback whales, who travel thousands of kilometres up and down the from antarctic waters, where they feed during the summer, to warmer waters where they breed during winter. </p> <p>The northern migration occurs between early May and August, before mothers and calves will begin their southern migration around late September and October.</p> <p><em>Image credits: Instagram</em></p>

Domestic Travel

Placeholder Content Image

Bindi Irwin to release children's book

<p>Bindi Irwin is releasing her debut children's book - and it involves her adorable three-year-old daughter, Grace Warrior. </p> <p>The wildlife warrior took to Instagram to share the news, saying: "Today is one of the very best days of my entire life."</p> <p>"I officially get to share with you my new children's book, <em>You Are a Wildlife Warrior!</em> Woohoo! Crikey"</p> <p>According to Bindi, the book will take readers on an "amazing journey" with her "wonderful daughter" Grace. </p> <p>"You'll explore our home, Australia Zoo and the conservation work we do all over the world," she shared.</p> <p>"I hope this book will inspire the next generation to love, respect and protect our natural world... it means the world to share our journey with you!" she added. </p> <p>The book will feature illustrations from Ramona Kaulitzki and take readers on an adventure with the mother-daughter duo. </p> <p><em>You Are a Wildlife Warrior!</em> will be available in the US and Australia on February 4, 2025.</p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8sdavsSBof/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/C8sdavsSBof/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Bindi Irwin (@bindisueirwin)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>Bindi's mum, Terri, couldn't hide how proud she was, commenting: "I am tremendously proud of you, @bindisueirwin. You are a wonderful mama and a true Wildlife Warrior! Your book is beautiful and brilliant. A fantastic, fun story for everyone!"</p> <p>Fans were quick to follow, congratulating the wildlife warrior on her latest project. </p> <p>"Well that's every child's birthday present ever sorted... congratulations Bindi, what a fantastic project!" one wrote. </p> <p>"Congratulations!!! I'm so happy I get to share a part of your world at Australia Zoo with my daughter!!" another added. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p>

Books

Placeholder Content Image

Highly-decorated conservationist dies aged 72

<p>British conservationist and presenter of <em>Wildlife SOS </em>Simon Cowell has died aged 72, following a battle with cancer. </p> <p>His charity, the Wildlife Aid Foundation, confirmed the sad news in a statement posted on their official website, saying that he died on June 9. </p> <p>"It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of Simon Cowell MBE, conservationist, founder and CEO of the Wildlife Aid Foundation, and presenter of Wildlife SOS," the statement began.</p> <p>"Simon passed away on 9th June after a brave battle with cancer.</p> <p>"Simon was one of the UK's most respected conservationists and a passionate advocate for wildlife protection and environmental causes.</p> <p>"He dedicated his life to British wildlife and worked tirelessly to ensure countless injured and orphaned animals were given a second chance in the wild through rescue, clinical treatment, and rehabilitation," the statement continued. </p> <blockquote class="instagram-media" style="background: #FFF; border: 0; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: 0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width: 540px; min-width: 326px; padding: 0; width: calc(100% - 2px);" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14"> <div style="padding: 16px;"> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="padding: 19% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: block; height: 50px; margin: 0 auto 12px; width: 50px;"> </div> <div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style="color: #3897f0; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: 550; line-height: 18px;">View this post on Instagram</div> </div> <div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;"> <div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg);"> </div> </div> <div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style="width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"> </div> <div style="width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"> </div> </div> </div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"> </div> <div style="background-color: #f4f4f4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"> </div> </div> <p style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 17px; margin-bottom: 0; margin-top: 8px; overflow: hidden; padding: 8px 0 7px; text-align: center; text-overflow: ellipsis; white-space: nowrap;"><a style="color: #c9c8cd; font-family: Arial,sans-serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 17px; text-decoration: none;" href="https://www.instagram.com/p/C8CeCrzIEv2/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" target="_blank" rel="noopener">A post shared by Wildlife Aid Foundation (@wildlifeaid)</a></p> </div> </blockquote> <p>They also said that "Simon believed that every animal matters," before ending their statement with: "His loss will be greatly felt by his loved ones, 2-legged and 4-legged, alike."</p> <p>Cowell started his foundation back in 1987. In 2005 he was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire for his services to wildlife. </p> <p>The <em>Wildlife SOS </em>star shared his terminal lung cancer diagnosis back in July 2022, and the cancer soon spread to his other organs. </p> <p>Cowell passed away peacefully surrounded by his partner Stana, his daughters Louisa and Gemma, and two pet dogs. </p> <p><em>Images: Instagram</em></p> <p> </p>

Caring

Placeholder Content Image

Incredible treasure trove of unseen royal images

<p>In a mesmerising blend of history and artistry, Buckingham Palace's newly christened King's Gallery has unveiled a captivating journey through time and royalty with the debut of "Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography".</p> <p>Opening its on May 17, this groundbreaking exhibition delves into the illustrious lineage of the Royal Family through more than 150 carefully curated portraits – some never before seen by the public eye.</p> <p>A highlight among these treasures is a poignant snapshot capturing a rare familial moment: Queen Elizabeth II, Princess Margaret, Princess Alexandra, and The Duchess of Kent cradling their newborns. Lord Snowdon, Princess Margaret's husband, immortalised this touching scene as a token of gratitude to Sir John Peel, the esteemed royal obstetrician responsible for delivering all four babies within a mere two-month span.</p> <p>In this heartfelt image, Queen Elizabeth II tenderly holds Prince Edward, her youngest offspring, while Princess Margaret, Princess Alexandra and The Duchess of Kent embrace their own bundles of joy. Accompanying this snapshot is a handwritten letter penned by Princess Margaret to her sister, affectionately addressed as "Darling Lilibet", requesting a signature on a print destined as a cherished memento for the esteemed doctor.</p> <p>The exhibition transcends mere family portraits, delving deep into the evolution of royal portraiture over the past century. Visitors are treated to a visual feast of iconic images captured by renowned photographers, including Dorothy Wilding, Annie Leibovitz, David Bailey and Rankin. Notably, the legendary Cecil Beaton's immortalisation of Queen Elizabeth II's coronation remains a cornerstone of the collection, offering a timeless glimpse into history.</p> <p>The exhibition also pays homage to the enduring allure of Princess Anne through her striking appearances on <em>Vogue</em> covers and a celebrated coming-of-age portrait by Norman Parkinson, commemorating her 21st birthday. From the timeless elegance of Princess Anne to the radiant charm of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and the spirited grace of Zara Tindall, the exhibition showcases a diverse tapestry of royal personalities spanning generations.</p> <p>Yet, it is not merely the portraits themselves that captivate visitors, but the untold stories and intimate moments woven into each frame. Delving into the depths of royal history, the exhibition reveals unseen wartime images by Cecil Beaton, illustrating King George VI and Queen Elizabeth's unwavering resolve amidst the chaos of conflict.</p> <p>As visitors explore the gallery, they are guided by a free multimedia experience narrated by Dame Joanna Lumley, offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship behind these timeless portraits. From Hugo Burnand's vivid recollections of photographing the royal coronation to the candid insights of royal photographers such as Rankin and John Swannell, the multimedia guide adds depth and dimension to the exhibition, inviting visitors to immerse themselves fully in the rich tapestry of royal history.</p> <p>"Royal Portraits: A Century of Photography" is not merely an exhibition; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of the British monarchy, captured through the lens of some of the most esteemed photographers of our time. From the grandeur of coronations to the tender embrace of a mother cradling her newborn, each portrait tells a story – a story of tradition, resilience and the timeless allure of royalty.</p> <p><em>Images: Royal Collection Trust / © His Majesty King Charles III 2024.</em></p>

Art

Placeholder Content Image

Our dogs can terrify (and even kill) wildlife. Here’s how to be a responsible owner this summer

<p><em><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/melissa-starling-461103">Melissa Starling</a>, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p>In Australia, dog ownership often goes hand-in-hand with a love for the great outdoors. Whether it’s walking on the beach, going camping, or having a barbecue in the park, we tend to keep our canine companions close as we soak up the sun.</p> <p>But many of us forget a key fact about our dogs: they are predators. Even the fluffy little 5kg ball that spends most of its time in your lap derives from an apex predator – and its predatory instincts can kick in at any time.</p> <p>And while many of our dogs don’t have the same hunting skills as their distant ancestors (who had to hunt for a living), wildlife doesn’t know that.</p> <p>The impacts of domestic dogs on wildlife aren’t well studied, and likely vary depending on the environment. Nonetheless, there’s good evidence domestic dogs, when left unobserved, can have detrimental effects in the places they visit.</p> <p>With that in mind, here are some things to consider next time you take your pup out for a bushwalk.</p> <h2>How dogs impact ecosystems</h2> <p>There are <a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0006320717305967">five main ways</a> domestic dogs can negatively impact the natural environments they visit. These are:</p> <ol> <li>direct physical harm through predatory behaviour</li> <li>disturbance through chasing and harassment</li> <li>increased exposure to diseases</li> <li>interbreeding, which can alter the gene pool of wild canid populations</li> <li>increased competition for resources.</li> </ol> <p>The good news is the last three points aren’t particularly relevant in Australia. For one thing, there’s little overlap between diseases common in domestic dogs and Australian wildlife. There’s also little resource overlap, except perhaps in some areas where feral or semi-feral dogs live alongside dingoes.</p> <p>And regarding potential interbreeding, while it was once thought this could threaten the dingo gene pool, <a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/mec.16998">recent research</a> suggests it’s not nearly as common as we thought.</p> <p>As such, the main harms Aussie dog owners should focus on are physical harms through predatory behaviour and disturbance to ecosystems.</p> <h2>Dogs can kill</h2> <p>We know dogs are capable of injuring and killing wildlife, but it’s difficult to determine how common this is, because many events go unreported. While smaller animals such as lizards, gliders and possums are at higher risk, larger species such as koalas can also fall prey to dogs.</p> <p><a href="https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0206958">One study</a> that looked at wildlife coming into care at Queensland rehabilitation centres reported dog attacks as the cause in about 9% of cases. These cases often resulted in severe injury or death.</p> <p>Dog owners should be especially wary of small, localised populations of vulnerable species. A <a href="https://ri.conicet.gov.ar/bitstream/handle/11336/202640/CONICET_Digital_Nro.29048152-7a5c-4ea2-8068-e73d42cba01d_B.pdf?sequence=2&amp;isAllowed=y">study</a> in Argentina’s Patagonia region details several cases of dogs decimating local penguin populations after gaining access to protected island areas during low tide.</p> <p>Not to mention, dog attacks on wildlife can bring risk to dogs as well. Kangaroos can defend themselves with <a href="https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-10-16/mildura-man-fights-kangaroo-to-protect-dog/102983926">their powerful limbs</a>, monitor lizards are equipped with sharp claws and teeth, and many snake species <a href="https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/queensland/dogs-twice-as-likely-to-die-from-snake-bite-as-cats-research-finds-20200519-p54ufd.html">are highly venomous</a>.</p> <h2>The impact of harassment</h2> <p>You might think it’s harmless for your dog to chase wildlife if it never manages to catch the animals it chases, but that isn’t true. Wild animals optimise their behaviours to meet their needs for foraging, breeding and resting, and being chased by a dog can disrupt this.</p> <p>For example, certain threatened bird species will nest on the beach and find foraging opportunities based on the tides. One dog forcing one bird to abandon this important activity may have a small impact. But if it happens repeatedly throughout the day, it can become a <a href="https://wilderness-society.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/04/Dogs-as-agents-of-disturbance-Michael-A.-Weston-and-Theodore-Stankowich.pdf">much bigger problem</a>. It may even drive animals out of the area.</p> <p><a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2391219/">Research</a> conducted in Sydney has shown the mere presence of a leashed dog is enough to temporarily, yet dramatically, reduce the number of bird species detected.</p> <h2>Keep an eye on your furry pal</h2> <p>Responsible dog ownership involves making sure our dogs have a minimal impact on others, including wildlife. How can we achieve this when our dogs are simply engaging in behaviours that come naturally to them, and may even be rewarding for them?</p> <p>Training your dog to have general obedience – especially to come when called – is worth sinking considerable time and effort into. This can save both your dog and any wildlife they may be after. For instance, calling a dog away from a snake is one of the most effective ways of managing snake bite risk.</p> <p>One <a href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/333344634_Applying_Social_Marketing_to_Koala_Conservation_The_Leave_It_Pilot_Program">pilot study</a> in Victoria found positive outcomes from a program that helped owners train their dogs to be more obedient around wildlife.</p> <p>That said, recall training is an art form, and recalling a dog that likes to run off and chase animals can be a huge challenge.</p> <p>Another solution is to rely on leashes when passing sensitive areas, or where there’s a risk of wildlife harassment. In Australia, many beaches that allow dogs have signs with information about vulnerable birds in the area and how to protect them from your dog.</p> <p>This could mean keeping your dog off rock platforms, leashing them when you see birds foraging on the beach, or keeping them out of fenced areas. Some areas are simply too vulnerable for dogs to run amok, so always look for signs and read them carefully.</p> <p>If you’re hiking, use a long line (a leash that’s more than five metres long) and look for signs of your dog detecting something of interest. Often their ears will come up high and forward, and they will freeze and stare intently.</p> <p>At this point, it doesn’t matter what they’re excited about: take the opportunity to leash them or shorten their leash, and get their attention before they can take off. Investing in a long leash will allow your dog more freedom without putting wildlife at risk.</p> <p>If your dog does injure an animal, you should quickly contact a wildlife rescue organisation or take the animal to a veterinary practice or sanctuary. For small animals, even minor injuries from a dog will usually require veterinary attention.</p> <p>It’s our responsibility to be respectful visitors when we’re out in nature, and to make sure our dogs are too. <!-- Below is The Conversation's page counter tag. Please DO NOT REMOVE. --><img style="border: none !important; box-shadow: none !important; margin: 0 !important; max-height: 1px !important; max-width: 1px !important; min-height: 1px !important; min-width: 1px !important; opacity: 0 !important; outline: none !important; padding: 0 !important;" src="https://counter.theconversation.com/content/214722/count.gif?distributor=republish-lightbox-basic" alt="The Conversation" width="1" height="1" /><!-- End of code. If you don't see any code above, please get new code from the Advanced tab after you click the republish button. The page counter does not collect any personal data. More info: https://theconversation.com/republishing-guidelines --></p> <p><a href="https://theconversation.com/profiles/melissa-starling-461103"><em>Melissa Starling</em></a><em>, Postdoctoral Researcher in Veterinary Science, <a href="https://theconversation.com/institutions/university-of-sydney-841">University of Sydney</a></em></p> <p><em>Image credits: Getty Images</em></p> <p><em>This article is republished from <a href="https://theconversation.com">The Conversation</a> under a Creative Commons license. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/our-dogs-can-terrify-and-even-kill-wildlife-heres-how-to-be-a-responsible-owner-this-summer-214722">original article</a>.</em></p>

Family & Pets

Our Partners