I’m filled with heartache by the ongoing fires that are ravaging Australia, filled with anger by a government that pays lip service to climate change, and filled with admiration for the firefighters, the teams supporting them and everyone who is supporting affected people and wildlife.
Australian Magpie (Cracticus tibicen)
1/1000, f/6.3, ISO 1600
Canon 5DsR, Canon 200-400
I was about to write that this hungry young Australian Magpie is oblivious to the crisis but I took the image on Phillip Island and perhaps the birds can see the Gippsland fires as they fly and perhaps they are aware of smoke in the air.
Here are some ways you can help, with clickable links:
Victoria Warriors for Wildlife
Knitting and sewing ideas – please check with the organisation before making joey pouches, koala mitten, flying fox ‘mumma wraps’ etc
Wildlife Rescue and Protection
I was hoping to find organisations relevant to other states also impacted by bushfires but my internet is slow. Please let me know if I’ve missed an organisation important to you.
And, on top of all this, the Victorian Government is about to make a decision regarding this year’s duck shooting season. If you have a moment to send a brief email to Dan Andrews and your local MP it would be welcome and timely support for the Ban Duck Shooting campaign. We don’t need more wildlife deaths to add to 500 million believed lost to the current disasters.
Happy birding, seriously happy birding. I find comfort in the little things at times like this and I hope you do too. Seeing thornbills taking a bath, or hearing kookaburras laugh, or watching as a bedraggled Wedge-tail Eagle soared above me as I filled the bird baths.
Take care out there
Kim
~ Facebook page Kim Wormald – lirralirra Facebook group Ethical Bird Photography
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