Page 24 - aug20

gardening for birds the bold .. .. and the beautiful
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A tribute from Harold to a couple of my mom’s favourite
birds. Whenever my mom had the chance to spot any bird in

the garden or outside, she became as enthusiastic as I’ve ever
seen her. She especially loved to hear and see the garrulous

Red-eyed Bulbul in the garden, and thrilled whenever the
beautiful Violet-backed Starling crossed her path.

What the Red-eyed Bulbul lacks in looks, he makes up in personality. He is the
busy-body of the bush, always chattering and looking for food. Their food is
fruit and insects, as well as nectar and flower petals. These characters are
monogamous. Some would describe his call as “Frik du Preez” or “Wake-up
Gregory”. Both sexes are alike and proud of their bright red eyes, which give
them an advantage over the drabber Dark-capped Bulbul.

At the other end of the “good looking” stakes is the male Violet-backed Starling.
If ever there was a bird to take your breath away when first seeing it, then this
would be it. Magnificent and spectacular are two adjectives which hardly do his
plumage justice. This is definitely one of the elite lookers of the bush, always
smartly turned out and ready for an occasion. Sadly, his female partner is drab,

24 Red-eyed Bulbul