Java Finch Cages

To facilitate selection of sexes, I would need to isolate the Java Finches. What is the simplest and cost effective way to do it? ....obviously nothing good comes cheap. So, there is no other choices except D.I.Y.



A row of 4 cages that are 9" wide by 9" deep by 9" tall for approximately RM25 (rounded up) & 3 hours labour.... ah! now, gotta make another 2 & where to hang this?

- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Hwamei - molting

Good to see that molting of the female Hwamei is speeding up. She started first but the male Hwamei has overtaken her and us now growing nice tail feathers. She has now shedded
most of her tail feathers already.

Waiting anxiously for the end of molt so that I can bring the pair out to "jalan-jalan" ;-)




- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Finding Wild Shamas

Well, I have often heard that the best place to train Shamas is to hang around places with wild Shamas. After making some enquiries, I was told of a place not too far from my home - that is if I do not mind cemeteries ;-)

Ghost is the least of my concern - me thinks. With the horrible things humans can do to each other, I would fear other humans more hehehe!

The road leading to the cemetery - appears lonely....




Found a spot and hang my Shama under a tree just beside some jungle....





Was attacked by swarms of mosquitoes as soon as I hang up my Shama. With the high incidence of dengue near my area, I am taking no chances and retreated to the safety of my car.
My Shama did sing a little but no wild Shama came. Stayed around for half an hour before deciding to call it quits. Maybe another day, I would come again armed with mosquito coils. Incidently, I have tries mosquito repellent before, but it's useless in the jungle. Mosquito coil appears to be most effective.

On the way back, I just realized that a freshly dug grave was just about 50 meters behind me. That could explain the presence of a motorbike not too far from where I was but no owner in sight. Maybe he was just watching curiously at what I am doing ;-)
Otherwise, can't imagine anyone who would brave the swarms of mosquitoes other than the grave diggers :-D (....or a crazy Shama keeper)

- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Natural Food for Merbok

Saw a pair of wild Merbok hopping from branch to branch pecking at this tree like monkeys. Quite funny to see. Was thinking Merboks are ground feeders. Hmmmm maybe can pluck the seeds and feed to my Merboks at home ;-)

Wondering what tree is this ?




- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -