Biawak

A friend struggling to release a water monitor lizard (Varanus salvator), 2nd largest lizard in the world. A delicacy in some parts of the world. A pest to some bird trappers. This fella survived to harass for another day ;-)




- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Song of the White-rumped Shama Pt.2 of 79

When discussing songs of the White-rumped Shama, maybe we should separate its song from the other sounds that it makes.... sub-song, clicking sound etc. which undoubtedly may also be a form of communication, but not its true song as it is known, which is delivered deliberately and with force. Seperate its spectacular display from its song, even though I believe its an important part of the song communication. By sound alone, a lesser Shama can be cowed into submission and stressed out sometimes to the extent of entering into a depressed state and a stress molt.

The fact that a Shama mimics sounds from its environment may be proof that the actual sound matters less but the way it is presented and strung together could be more important. Of course I am no authority on this but for now, if I were to study it, I would try to isolate the way it is presented to find a co-relation. Now, to reach statistical significance, where the hell can I find another 42 Shama licenses??? :-D

Luxury in the middle of nowhere

Bought a chair from a shop selling camping equipments recently. Took it out for a test run today.
A bit of "kiasu" according to my friend hahaha! he don't know yet I am planning to get a portable shower system ;-)

Somewhere in Serom, Johor...... testing the Spotted Dove, making contact with trappers & fellow hobbyists......



- Time you enjoy wasting wasn't wasted -

Song of the White-rumped Shama Pt.1 of 79

It has been discussed before, the song of the White-rumped Shama. But here goes my thoughts......
Why do they sing? Whether its to protect its territory, finding a mate, warning of danger, I think it all bores down to simple communication. That is the summary of its purpose (in my distorted opinion).

To the human ears, we may be marvelling at its repertoire, loudness, melody etc according to our limited hearing capability, which scientists have concluded that it is very limited indeed when compared to animals. There are spectrum of frequencies that are just beyond the human ears. Now, taking the example of the male Shama singing to attract a female. Just by voice alone (maybe not), the female would judge the suitability of the male as a potential mate. Meaning that the song of the male Shama has to communicate the vigor, health and genetic suitability as a potential mate.

In defending his territory with songs, it too must communicate the message "don't play-play or I will kick your butt". So, potentially there is more to the song that meets the human ears, I should think. Very often, a male Shama in defending its territory, does not need to resort to physical violence. The lesser male will know its place and move away. As can be attested by many Shama keepers who claimed that their Shama "jammed" after being exposed to a fierce Shama. Or a particular Shama that has a tendency to "jammed" another that is placed near it.

Decades ago, it would have been the sole territory and capability of scientists to study and dwelve into this area. With the availability of many cheap gadgets and modern computers, such studies can be placed in the hands of hobbyists.

So, did anybody do a study on vocal quality of the perfect Shama? probably yes, but I do not know. It would interest me greatly. Then it would be a great way to selectively breed for good vocals (audible or non audible) - the ones that will attract hordes of females and keep other males miles away...... trembling in fear ;-)
Yes, to know the type of vocals that communicate strength and vigor would be very helpful......