[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
When it comes to attracting a female, there are many similarities between men and bustards. For one thing, size matters!
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Unique Nests
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
If you’ve ever observed a weaver at work, you know it takes the bird time and effort to construct its nest. Now research from Botswana indicates that quite a lot of intelligence and skill also go into it.
If you’ve ever observed a weaver at work, you know it takes the bird time and effort to construct its nest. Now research from Botswana indicates that quite a lot of intelligence and skill also go into it.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Lions Roar Like Babies
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Lions are just big babies, roaring to tell others of their presence in the same way a baby cries to get attention.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Sugar Meals
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
In a world where predators are as common as crumbs on a loaf of bread, bees have to make their feeding activity as quick and effective as possible.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Mysterious Meerkats
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
How much do we actually know about meerkats? The name implies a cat, but do they belong to the feline family? They live in large groups under the ground, but how do they communicate?
Friday, October 14, 2011
It's that Simple
Smell the rain
Watch the clouds
Listen to the wind
Feel the energy
Taste the breath
Open the heart
IT's that SIMPLE
Where is Your Shadow?
Where is your SHADOW?
A soul is crying - the rain beats angrily onto heart-shaped leaves.
And then ... STILLNESS ...
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Charming Chappies
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Chapman’s Peak, or Chappies as it is locally known, towers 593 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and is one of Cape Town’s best kept hiking secrets.
Chapman’s Peak, or Chappies as it is locally known, towers 593 metres above the Atlantic Ocean and is one of Cape Town’s best kept hiking secrets.
Sunday, October 2, 2011
Saturday, October 1, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
Thursday, September 22, 2011
What the FRACK?!
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Hy-Se-Sy-Se www.hy-se-sy-se.com/what-the-frack, 2011]
Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is a method of extracting natural gas and oil from the layers of rock underneath our feet. A phenomenal amount of water, mixed with a shocking variety of chemicals with unpronounceable names, is forced down a pipe that has to first be drilled into the earth. The pressure of this action forces the liquid concoction into cracks in the shale layers of the rock, dislodging and releasing pockets of trapped natural gas and oil wells.
Hydraulic fracturing (fracking) is a method of extracting natural gas and oil from the layers of rock underneath our feet. A phenomenal amount of water, mixed with a shocking variety of chemicals with unpronounceable names, is forced down a pipe that has to first be drilled into the earth. The pressure of this action forces the liquid concoction into cracks in the shale layers of the rock, dislodging and releasing pockets of trapped natural gas and oil wells.
Killer Guides
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
It's not all milk and honey when it comes to sharing a nest with a honeyguide, especially if you happen to be the foster sibling. These brood parasites have a deadly way of dealing with any eggs left in the nest.
It's not all milk and honey when it comes to sharing a nest with a honeyguide, especially if you happen to be the foster sibling. These brood parasites have a deadly way of dealing with any eggs left in the nest.
Pigeons Will Remember You
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
How many of us would change our behaviour if we knew certain animals could remember every mean thing done to them by specific individuals? For all we know they may be holding a grudge and are going to act in revenge one of these days.
How many of us would change our behaviour if we knew certain animals could remember every mean thing done to them by specific individuals? For all we know they may be holding a grudge and are going to act in revenge one of these days.
Beautiful Damage Control
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Orb-weaving spiders do not construct silky patterns only to catch their prey, but also as a means of reacting to web damage.
Flap, Run, Fly
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Why do birds sometimes run and flap their wings up a steep hill rather than fly over it?
Why do birds sometimes run and flap their wings up a steep hill rather than fly over it?
Migration Decreases Disease
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
It has previously been assumed that migratory animals spread diseases from one area to another. But a recent study has suggested the opposite.
It has previously been assumed that migratory animals spread diseases from one area to another. But a recent study has suggested the opposite.
Sunday, July 24, 2011
Starving for Survival
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
The familiar saying “He who laughs last, laughs the loudest” applies to plants in their ability to survive as a species, even after they have been eaten!
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Brown Paper vs. Plastic: Marie Claire shows their greener side
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Hy-Se-Sy-Se www.hy-se-sy-se.com/brown-paper-vs-plastic-marie-claire-shows-their-greener-side, 2011]
Packaged in a brown paper bag, as opposed to the usual plastic, the June issue of Marie Claire appears to be an impressive environmentally friendly edition. But is a brown paper bag good enough to get the point across?
Packaged in a brown paper bag, as opposed to the usual plastic, the June issue of Marie Claire appears to be an impressive environmentally friendly edition. But is a brown paper bag good enough to get the point across?
Boring Invaders
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Previously, to get information about trees suffering an insect invasion, bits of the bark would have to be ripped from the trunk. But a new finding has revealed a less invasive way of obtaining such information.
Lion Lineage
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
It has already been suggested that lions from Central and West Africa look and behave differently to those in East and Southern Africa, but little scientific evidence has previously been presented to back it up. Recent studies, however, have now proven this difference as a result of their genetic make-ups.
Venomous Speed and a Slithering Success
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Sunday, June 19, 2011
More to this bag than meets the eye
[This article was written by Fran Siebrits and published in Simply Green Magazine in the March/April issue]
You know Woolies exceptionally well, right? But have you heard of Isikhwama? Isi-what?, you may ask. Well, hold onto your groceries, because we’re thrilled to be letting this home-spun cat out the bag.
You know Woolies exceptionally well, right? But have you heard of Isikhwama? Isi-what?, you may ask. Well, hold onto your groceries, because we’re thrilled to be letting this home-spun cat out the bag.
Barricading Bad Bacteria
When foreign bacteria decide to conquer our bodies, the environment turns hostile. War is soon declared with the influx of antibiotics allies. But the bacteria are able to counter our drugs with a more effective weapon - top of the range communication.
Humbling Himba in Namibia
The Himba people of north-west Namibia are among the few nomadic groups left in the world. I was fortunate enough to live near them in 2008 while doing nature conservation work ...
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits:
http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/humbling-himba-in-namibia/
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits:
http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/humbling-himba-in-namibia/
Mozambique Water
Beautiful photos representing the importance of water in a diversity of lives. Photos taken in Mozambique.
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits:
http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/photo-albums/mozambique-water-photo-album/
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits:
http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/photo-albums/mozambique-water-photo-album/
Capturing the Storm
No words can do justice to an approaching storm. Photographs taken in Mozambique and Namibia.
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits: http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/photo-albums/capturing-the-storm/
[To view, click the link below]
Published online by Getaway Magazine, photographs and text by Fran Siebrits: http://blog.getaway.co.za/photography/photo-albums/capturing-the-storm/
Paddling in the Richtersveld
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
An African Fish Eagle greets our eyes as we search the brilliant sky tracking its decrescendo call. Ah, we have arrived. No river trip is complete without the masters of the sky. And so, with excited anticipation, begins a four-day-three-night nomadic journey down the mighty Gariep, better known as the Orange River.
An African Fish Eagle greets our eyes as we search the brilliant sky tracking its decrescendo call. Ah, we have arrived. No river trip is complete without the masters of the sky. And so, with excited anticipation, begins a four-day-three-night nomadic journey down the mighty Gariep, better known as the Orange River.
Trail-running in South Africa's Parks
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
From the Cape to the ‘berg, from the coast to the peaks … trail-running is one of those activities that, like running and hiking, can be enjoyed just about anywhere. All you really need is a path, a good pair of shoes and your sense of adventure. Below are a few trails you might like to attempt.
From the Cape to the ‘berg, from the coast to the peaks … trail-running is one of those activities that, like running and hiking, can be enjoyed just about anywhere. All you really need is a path, a good pair of shoes and your sense of adventure. Below are a few trails you might like to attempt.
Trail-running 1-0-1
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
There are many hikers and runners out there, but trail-runners are a slightly rarer breed. I would expect it to be more popular. The sport involves running on trails used for hiking in the mountains, bringing one closer to nature and ensuring a CO2-free run.
There are many hikers and runners out there, but trail-runners are a slightly rarer breed. I would expect it to be more popular. The sport involves running on trails used for hiking in the mountains, bringing one closer to nature and ensuring a CO2-free run.
Through the Eyes of the Jellyfish
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Life is quite beautiful seen through one pair of eyes. But imagine what the world would look like through 24 eyes.
Life is quite beautiful seen through one pair of eyes. But imagine what the world would look like through 24 eyes.
Malaria Mozzies and their Foot Fetish
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
There are some strange fetishes out there, but this one has to take the cake … Malaria mosquitoes are attracted to human toes.
There are some strange fetishes out there, but this one has to take the cake … Malaria mosquitoes are attracted to human toes.
Clever Little Bumblebees
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
In nature, predators know that bright colours most likely mean danger. But it may not be the striking stripes of bumblebees that warn predators they are dangerous.
Flying predators, such as birds, are the biggest threat to a bumblebee. It may seem like the colour markings of bumblebees are solely responsible for their defence; but their shape, flight pattern and buzzing sound should probably take more of the credit.
Birds view the world differently to us. They are able to see a range of light in the ultra-violet spectrum. Because the white tip of the bumblebee’s tail reflects ultra-violet light, it is very obvious to birds, as are their bright bands.
New research involved comparing different bumblebee populations in the same environment, each with different colour patterns. If colour patterning in bumblebees is important in alerting danger, then birds would have eaten bees they had not previously encountered, therefore avoiding a nasty sting. This, however, was not the case.
So what is it then that acts as the warning bell to the bird predators? Scientists found that the way in which bumblebees fly as well as their deep buzzing sound are more important for birds in order to avoid danger.
Even though colour-pattern recognition plays a role in identification, it seems that birds do not initially notice this in the split-second when a bumblebee passes. A bumblebee’s combination of sound, flight and colour acts as a warning bell to their flying predators.
Interesting fact
Bumblebees, like birds, also see in the ultra-violet range of the spectrum. This comes in handy when detecting ultra-violet markings on flowers, invisible to the human eye.
Source: Royal Holloway, University of London (2010, May 29). How do bumblebees get predators to buzz off?. ScienceDaily.
Viewed online [http://www.sciencedaily.com¬ /releases/2010/05/100526093608.htm]
In nature, predators know that bright colours most likely mean danger. But it may not be the striking stripes of bumblebees that warn predators they are dangerous.
Flying predators, such as birds, are the biggest threat to a bumblebee. It may seem like the colour markings of bumblebees are solely responsible for their defence; but their shape, flight pattern and buzzing sound should probably take more of the credit.
Birds view the world differently to us. They are able to see a range of light in the ultra-violet spectrum. Because the white tip of the bumblebee’s tail reflects ultra-violet light, it is very obvious to birds, as are their bright bands.
New research involved comparing different bumblebee populations in the same environment, each with different colour patterns. If colour patterning in bumblebees is important in alerting danger, then birds would have eaten bees they had not previously encountered, therefore avoiding a nasty sting. This, however, was not the case.
So what is it then that acts as the warning bell to the bird predators? Scientists found that the way in which bumblebees fly as well as their deep buzzing sound are more important for birds in order to avoid danger.
Even though colour-pattern recognition plays a role in identification, it seems that birds do not initially notice this in the split-second when a bumblebee passes. A bumblebee’s combination of sound, flight and colour acts as a warning bell to their flying predators.
Interesting fact
Bumblebees, like birds, also see in the ultra-violet range of the spectrum. This comes in handy when detecting ultra-violet markings on flowers, invisible to the human eye.
Source: Royal Holloway, University of London (2010, May 29). How do bumblebees get predators to buzz off?. ScienceDaily.
Viewed online [http://www.sciencedaily.com¬ /releases/2010/05/100526093608.htm]
A Sense for Scents
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
It is common knowledge that birds, while having excellent sight and hearing, lack in the scent department. Interestingly enough, a few thousand years ago it was their sense of smell which was so heightened.
It is common knowledge that birds, while having excellent sight and hearing, lack in the scent department. Interestingly enough, a few thousand years ago it was their sense of smell which was so heightened.
Bonkers About Bananas
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Bananas are not merely a fruit, rich in vitamins and delicious anytime of the day. Of their many other uses, water purification has most recently been discovered.
Bananas are not merely a fruit, rich in vitamins and delicious anytime of the day. Of their many other uses, water purification has most recently been discovered.
Give-away Giggles
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine https://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
The piercing giggle of a hyena does not only function to add that element of danger and excitement to a camping holiday. These giggles act much the same as a Rolex watch or other brand label, identifying the social status of an individual.
The piercing giggle of a hyena does not only function to add that element of danger and excitement to a camping holiday. These giggles act much the same as a Rolex watch or other brand label, identifying the social status of an individual.
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Humpback Surprise
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2010]
Seeing as it is peak whale season, what better way to kick-off than with a new development on the research front of those gloriously magnificent mammals that roam the oceans!
Seeing as it is peak whale season, what better way to kick-off than with a new development on the research front of those gloriously magnificent mammals that roam the oceans!
A Sunny Sunday in the Muizenberg Mountains
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
When the Mother City decides she wants to reign her people with sunshine and a wind-free weekend, Capetonians take to the outdoors, lapping up one of the best tourist destinations in the world:
If the idea of a gentle morning hike with views of two oceans, a lunch of fish and chips with harbour ambience, a stroll down a quaint seaside suburb, some of the best gelato in the Cape, a refreshing swim and another unforgettable sunset are your idea of how to spend a Sunday, then if you are not living in Cape Town you better plan a visit … soon!
When the Mother City decides she wants to reign her people with sunshine and a wind-free weekend, Capetonians take to the outdoors, lapping up one of the best tourist destinations in the world:
If the idea of a gentle morning hike with views of two oceans, a lunch of fish and chips with harbour ambience, a stroll down a quaint seaside suburb, some of the best gelato in the Cape, a refreshing swim and another unforgettable sunset are your idea of how to spend a Sunday, then if you are not living in Cape Town you better plan a visit … soon!
To chew or not to chew?
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Traditional medicine, often stemming from plant sources, has been around for centuries - long before Western medicine hit the market. Many believe that natural is better, as the long line of healthy generations has proved. Nowadays, though, there are so many products on the shelves that promise to be natural and effective it is difficult to know which are genuine and which are just jumping on the band-wagon.
Traditional medicine, often stemming from plant sources, has been around for centuries - long before Western medicine hit the market. Many believe that natural is better, as the long line of healthy generations has proved. Nowadays, though, there are so many products on the shelves that promise to be natural and effective it is difficult to know which are genuine and which are just jumping on the band-wagon.
Athletic Champions
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
Although regarded as a pest by most, and classified as an external parasite by scientists, fleas have some of the best legs in the animal kingdom. Their long, hind legs are perfectly adapted to catapult themselves into the air, making them extremely good jumpers… as we have all been witness to. But the mechanics behind these impressive jumps have only recently been explained.
Although regarded as a pest by most, and classified as an external parasite by scientists, fleas have some of the best legs in the animal kingdom. Their long, hind legs are perfectly adapted to catapult themselves into the air, making them extremely good jumpers… as we have all been witness to. But the mechanics behind these impressive jumps have only recently been explained.
Great White Weakness
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2011]
According to a new study published in the Journal of Biomechanics, the jaws of adolescent great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) may be too weak to capture and kill large marine mammals.
According to a new study published in the Journal of Biomechanics, the jaws of adolescent great white sharks (Carcharodon carcharias) may be too weak to capture and kill large marine mammals.
Fireflies Blink in Synch
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine http://www.wildcard.co.za/, 2010]
According the latest study on fireflies, the blinking action performed by these winged beetles is for species recognition. Some groups of fireflies blink repeatedly in unison in a rhythmical synchronisation.
According the latest study on fireflies, the blinking action performed by these winged beetles is for species recognition. Some groups of fireflies blink repeatedly in unison in a rhythmical synchronisation.
Balding Penguins
[This was written by Fran Siebrits and published online by Wild Magazine www.wildcard.co.za, 2010]
We know that losing one’s hair is the aging process for some of us humans. But whoever would have thought that penguins may go through the same embarrassing ordeal… and not only on their heads, but all over their body!
We know that losing one’s hair is the aging process for some of us humans. But whoever would have thought that penguins may go through the same embarrassing ordeal… and not only on their heads, but all over their body!
How to Speak the Street
Klaus, our hypothetical foreigner, visits Cape Town for the first time. He has heard rumours that Capetonians are notoriously clique, but he is determined to have a good time and make some friends.
White Fire
[This poem was composed by Fran Siebrits and was published in Toast, 2010]
The white man’s conversation,
Work mostly
Eyes glance at the flames, replacing thoughtful gazes
Meat spits at the grid; ignored
Listening to the kettle calling for attention
Unnoticed
The flames glow green, the wind changes direction and the smell of dry grass arrives
Conversation is far too in-depth for this evening
The stars dance, but nobody looks up
A watchful owl in a nearby tree
Blinks disapprovingly at another wasted night ...
The white man’s conversation,
Work mostly
Eyes glance at the flames, replacing thoughtful gazes
Meat spits at the grid; ignored
Listening to the kettle calling for attention
Unnoticed
The flames glow green, the wind changes direction and the smell of dry grass arrives
Conversation is far too in-depth for this evening
The stars dance, but nobody looks up
A watchful owl in a nearby tree
Blinks disapprovingly at another wasted night ...
The Untamed Bolivia
[This article was written by Fran Siebrits and was published in Toast, 2010]
Bolivia is a land-locked country in the heart of South America. The desert areas are particularly unforgiving, but unbelievably beautiful. A few days are needed to explore this vast area. A self-sufficiently stocked, hardy vehicle and the correct equipment are essential to survive.
Bolivia is a land-locked country in the heart of South America. The desert areas are particularly unforgiving, but unbelievably beautiful. A few days are needed to explore this vast area. A self-sufficiently stocked, hardy vehicle and the correct equipment are essential to survive.
Rocking the Daisies
[This article was written by Fran Siebrits. A version of this article has been published by in The Big Issue Magazine (Cape Town, South Africa), Toast (Cape Town, South Africa) as well as Roam Magazine (England).]
Fact: Rocking the Daisies (RTD) is a green-awareness event which aims to be carbon-neutral and have a limited environmental footprint
Fact: It is the most eco-friendly music festival in South Africa
Fact: It won the first Climate Change Leadership Award earlier this year (www.clla.co.za)
This annual festival has hosted high-profile international artists. But it’s the passion of the local talent that makes the event memorable. Local South African bands perform not only for the “love of the gig”, as guitarist David from Dirty Skirts put it, but also to be part of an environmentally aware event.
Fact: Rocking the Daisies (RTD) is a green-awareness event which aims to be carbon-neutral and have a limited environmental footprint
Fact: It is the most eco-friendly music festival in South Africa
Fact: It won the first Climate Change Leadership Award earlier this year (www.clla.co.za)
This annual festival has hosted high-profile international artists. But it’s the passion of the local talent that makes the event memorable. Local South African bands perform not only for the “love of the gig”, as guitarist David from Dirty Skirts put it, but also to be part of an environmentally aware event.
Runs from the Mountain
[This article was written by Fran Siebrits and a version of it was published in The Big Issue Magazine, #169, and Toast, 2010]
Capetonians and tourists alike find solace hiking one of the many routes on Table Mountain. But have they drunk in the beauty as well as the danger?
Capetonians and tourists alike find solace hiking one of the many routes on Table Mountain. But have they drunk in the beauty as well as the danger?
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