Sunday, April 30, 2023

Are there Squirrels in Thailand?

Hold on to your nuts! In this blog post, we’re answering the age-old question: Are there squirrels in Thailand? While this might seem like a silly topic, it’s actually important for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike. In this article, we’ll explore the fascinating world of Thai squirrels, from their habitat and behaviour to their cultural significance.

So if like me, you’re curious about these bushy-tailed creatures and want to learn more about the squirrels of Thailand, keep reading! The short answer is yes! There are squirrels in Thailand, and In this article, we will explore the different types of squirrels found in Thailand, their population, habitat, and conservation efforts.

While Thailand is known for its tropical beaches, opulent royal palaces, and ancient ruins, it is also home to a diverse range of wildlife. Among the many fascinating creatures that inhabit this beautiful kingdom are squirrels. Yes, you read that right – squirrels! My wife’s nickname is squirrel in Thai, and we have a lot of squirrels running around our food forest. So I thought I’d write a post about tree dwelling rodents. It would be rude not too.

One of the most common squirrels found in Thailand is Finlayson’s squirrel, also known as the variable squirrel (Callosciurus finlaysonii). This species of rodent belongs to the Sciuridae family and can be found not only in Thailand but also in Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam. Finlayson’s squirrel is known for its striking appearance, with fur colours ranging from black and white to various shades of brown and grey. When I first saw one, I thought it was a chipmunk, but they are only found in North America, silly me! Anyway, we have a lot of these little critters running around.

Black Squirrel Thailand

black squirrel Thailand

Another notable squirrel species in Thailand is the black giant squirrel (Ratufa bicolor), which is actually one of the largest squirrels in the world. These arboreal rodents can grow longer than one meter, with around 60 centimetres being the length of their tail. The black giant squirrel inhabits the forests of East Asia, including Thailand, and is known for its impressive size and agility.

Squirrel Thailand

In addition to these two prominent species, Thailand is home to several other types of squirrels, such as the grey-bellied squirrel (Callosciurus caniceps), western striped squirrel (Tamiopes macclellandii), Cambodian striped squirrel (Tamiops rodolphii), and Low’s squirrel (Sundascurus lowii). The country also hosts flying squirrels like the Indochinese flying squirrel (Hylopetes phayrei) and the red giant flying squirrel (Petaurista petaurista).

red giant flying squirrel

The diverse squirrel population in Thailand can be attributed to the country’s rich and varied habitats. From dense forests and mountainous regions to urban parks and gardens, these adaptable creatures can thrive in various environments. However, like many other wildlife species, squirrels in Thailand face threats such as habitat loss, deforestation, and human encroachment.

Squirrels in Thailand are known for their love of durian fruit – a notoriously pungent treat that many humans can’t stand.

Conservation efforts in Thailand are focused on preserving the natural habitats of squirrels and other wildlife. National parks, protected areas and my permaculture food forest have been established to safeguard these ecosystems and promote biodiversity. Additionally, environmental organisations and local communities and schools work together to raise awareness about the importance of wildlife conservation and sustainable practices.

In conclusion, I can attest Thailand is indeed home to a diverse range of squirrel species, each with its own unique characteristics and adaptations. These fascinating creatures play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance and contribute to the country’s rich biodiversity. As we continue to learn more about these remarkable rodents, it is essential to support conservation efforts and protect their habitats, and your nuts for future generations to enjoy.

Have you spotted any squirrels in Thailand? Let us know in the comments below.

Are there Squirrels in Thailand?

 

The post Are there Squirrels in Thailand? appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.

Wednesday, March 29, 2023

Save Money – Live Better

Say ‘Hello’ to My Little Side Hustle

If you are a loyal visitor to ThinglishLifestyle.com (thank-you) and live in the UK, I’ve got an exciting side hustle I want to share with you. This aims to help you save money and live better. Introducing… BIGPriceDrops.com.

NEVER MIND BIGPriceDrops

At BIGPriceDrops we write about financial topics with near universal appeal but often from a contrarian perspective. The data and our focus is geared towards residents of the United Kingdom. And with friends and family in England telling me of the recent increases in fuel prices and now the introduction of rationing, our site launch is timely to say the least.

BIGPriceDrops (BPD) provides daily deals, discounts, and contrarian views on saving money and investing. So, if that sounds kind of interesting to you, you’re in the right place.

About BIGPriceDrops

From cutting grass and washing up, to stocking bars and doing a morning paper round while in my early teens at school. Just as far back as I can remember, I’ve always hustled and found ways to make money, save money, learn along the way, and have fun.

As an adult my first real business venture was a specialist sportswear store in my hometown. Later, I moved to London and started a production company. I transitioned that company to a local search marketing company around the time of the 2008 financial collapse. It was in this catastrophic era that I got interested in Austrian economics and free market capitalism. Later I found out I was an Arnarcho-capitalist.

I’ve made money and lost money, been in debt and now live debt free. I mention this to demonstrate that if I can master personal finances and be liberated from the shackles of the government and banks, so can you. And on BIGPriceDrops we explain why now is a critical time for you to get out of debt and take a contrarian approach to saving for your future. Social (in)security, pensions and even your bank savings are all at great risk today.

But I don’t expect you to take what we say as gospel either. We rigorously research and fact check our data and encourage our readers to do their own due diligence or at the very least read past the headlines the lame-street-media publish.

As I’ve been running a successful digital marketing agency first in London and then in Singapore since 2008, I know the importance of updating website content. This is particularly true in the current financial climate. Things are rapidly changing and what was true a few months back, can quickly change as new information comes to light or central bank and government policies change. For these reasons, we update our articles as and when new information comes to light so you can trust you have the latest information at hand to make informed decisions.

BIGPriceDrops Daily Deals - Save Money - Live Better

Features and Benefits of BIGPriceDrops

At the time of writing, we have published over 100 blog posts that provide a wealth of information on how to save money. These blogs provide information on shopping online, parking at airports in the UK, buying food and a whole lot more.

If you are looking to purchase items online check out our Daily Deals page. We developed a proprietary custom plugin and API integration with Amazon.co.uk to conveniently display all the latest deals on our Daily Deals page. This saves you time searching for deals on Amazon.

In Daily Deals you’ll find everything from Wi-fi Range Extenders to Puma Low Top Sneakers and from Biodegradable Baby Wipes to Microsoft Office 365 and everything in between.

If you buy, we make a small referral commission from Amazon at no extra cost to you. So you save time and money and we get a small kick back to support site development and maintenance.

For your convenience, Daily Deals is updated twice a day, so you can be confident you are getting the most attractive deals on a wide variety of goods available to you.

BIGPriceDrops has a Facebook page and we have recently introduced a private forum on the website. This is where our growing community share ideas, tips and deals with each other without the fear of some arbitrary ban or draconian censorship.

We also have a free newsletter that keeps you informed of upcoming developments, exclusive deals and the latest news.

Save Money – Live Better

I invite you to check out BIGPriceDrops.com and see for yourself what we have been busy building these past few months. We will continue to do so and would love for you to be a part of it.

If you find value in the articles, save on deals, or meet like-minded people in the forum community, let us know in the comments below.

And if you like what you see and believe your friends and family may benefit from what we publish, share BIGPriceDrops with them too. This will enable us to grow, save money, and live better together.

As always, thanks for reading.

Perry

Save Money – Live Better – BIGPriceDrops

 

 

The post Save Money – Live Better appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.

Thursday, March 23, 2023

The Most Common Birds of Thailand: A Field Guide for Farmers and Birdwatchers

baby bird - common birds of Thailand

Common Birds of Thailand

In this blog post, The Most Common Birds of Thailand, I want to share with you some of the most commonly encountered feathered friends I spot on my permaculture farm. I’ll highlight their unique characteristics and behaviours, and exploring their significance to the ecosystem.

I’m no twitcher or an expert on birds so it’s been fun learning more about them to write this post. I do however enjoy them eating, singing and raising their little families on our permaculture fruit farm and food forest.

So without and further ado, let’s get off to a flying start with some of the most common birds of Thailand

Common Kingfisher

Blue-winged Pitta

I’m always excited to see the Blue-winged Pitta (Pitta moluccensis) on my property. It’s a small, stocky bird with brightly coloured plumage and a distinctive blue wing patch. They have a dark green head, back, and tail, and a yellow breast, belly and throat. They are around 20-25 cm in length.

I used to think pitta’s were kingfishers but I think I’ve identified this bird correctly now. I’m sure the internet will let me know if I’m wrong!

Blue-winged Pittas are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, and they are native to Southeast Asia. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, and small animals. They are active during the day and are often seen foraging on the forest floor or in bushes. They are also known for their loud calls, which are heard more often than seen. They are also known for being elusive and difficult to spot, as they often stay hidden in dense undergrowth.

Blue-winged Pittas are typically found near freshwater sources such as rivers, streams, and ponds, as well as along coastlines where they can prey on small aquatic animals. They are solitary birds although I do see a couple together on the road up to our house occasionally. I think that is during the breeding season.

They spend most of their time perched on branches overlooking the water, waiting for prey. They are active during the day, but I’ve noticed they tend to be more active at dawn and dusk, when it’s cooler, the light is lower and prey is more active.

Blue-winged Pittas play a key role in controlling the populations of small aquatic animals, preventing them from becoming too numerous and damaging their ecosystems. They are also important indicators of the health of freshwater systems and coastal areas. As they are a sign of clean water and healthy ecosystems and are affected by pollution, their presence or absence can be used to gauge the overall health of an area’s environment. We do our bit of conservation to preserve their habitat so it is possible to help ensure the survival of this important species for future generations.

Blue-winged Pittas also have an important role in the food chain (easy to see), as they are a food source for larger predators such as snakes, birds of prey and mammals. Also the fish and other aquatic animals that they prey on are important food for other species such as herons. This makes the Blue-winged Pittas not only a beautiful addition to the garden, but also a vital link in the ecosystem, helping to maintain balance within the food chain.

Drongo Bird on a Wire

Black Drongo

The Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) is a medium-sized bird with a glossy black plumage and a very long, forked tail. They have a distinctive fan-shaped crest, which they can raise or lower depending on their mood. They have a metallic sheen to the black plumage that gives them a glossy appearance. They are around 28-30 cm in length.

Black Drongos are found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and cultivated areas. They are highly adaptable birds and can be found in both rural and urban areas. They are active during the day, and I often seen from my office window perching on the wires. They are known for their aerial acrobatics, chasing and catching insects on the wing, often in pairs. Black Drongos are also known for their mimicry, often mimicking the calls of other birds and animals.

Black Drongos play an important role in controlling insect populations, as they are known to feed on a wide range of insects including mosquitoes, flies, and beetles. Additionally, as a perch hunter, they also provide valuable pest control services in agricultural fields and gardens. They also have a role in ecosystem service by pollinating the flowers and act as a seed dispersal agent. Black Drongos are considered beneficial to farmers and gardeners alike.

Asian Koel

Koel

The Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus), also known as the Asian Koel and Nok Kawow in Thai is a large and distinctive cuckoo bird with a glossy black plumage and a long tail. The male Koel has a metallic green sheen on the head, back and wings. The female is duller and browner, with a pale underbelly. The Koel is about 40cm in length.

Koels are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, woodlands and orchards. They are migratory birds, which migrate to tropical Asia from Australasia for the breeding season. During this time, they can be found throughout Thailand and are heard more often than seen. Usually outside my bedroom window just before sunrise. They are known for their distinctive and loud calls, and are active during the day. They feed on fruits and insects.

Koels play an important role in controlling the populations of certain insects, as they feed on fruits, insects and arthropods. They also have a role in seed dispersal and play a part in pollination. Koels are culturally significant in many areas, and their distinctive calls are often incorporated into traditional music and folklore.

They are also valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking plumage and vocal abilities. They are a brood parasitism cuckoo which is rare among bird species. However this could affect the host species as they are known to lay eggs on other bird nests, and the chicks are fed by the host, which can lead to a depletion of resources.

Great Egret

Great Egret

The Great Egret (Ardea alba), also known as the Great White Egret, is a large and stately waterbird with a white plumage, a long, thick, pointed yellow bill and long legs. The great egret’s wingspan can reach up to 4.5 feet (1.4 m). They are around 90-100 cm in length.

Great Egrets are typically found near freshwater and saltwater bodies such as rice fields, rivers, ponds, marshes, estuaries, and mangroves. They are active during the day and typically hunt for fish, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals by stalking through shallow water or standing still and waiting for prey to come within reach. They are also known to feed on amphibians, reptiles, and small mammals.

I often surprise them near our ponds. They fly off, circle back around and perch in a tree and wait for me to disappear, before they return.

Great Egrets play an important role in controlling the populations of small aquatic animals, preventing them from becoming too numerous and damaging their ecosystems. They are also important indicators of the health of freshwater ecosystems. They are valuable to birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking white plumage and feeding behaviour. They are also vulnerable to habitat destruction and pollution, which highlights the importance of preserving wetlands and other habitats.

Kite - Birds of Thailand

Brahminy Kite

The Brahminy Kite (Haliastur indus) is a medium-sized bird of prey with a distinctive reddish-brown plumage and a white head. It has a deeply forked tail and a broad wingspan. They are around 50-55 cm in length. To me they look like the American Bald Eagle but smaller is size and weight.

Brahminy Kites are found in a wide range of habitats including coastal areas, forests, ponds and grasslands. They are highly adaptable and can be found in both rural and urban areas. They are known to be opportunistic feeders and are often seen scavenging for food, as well as hunting for small animals such as fish, reptiles, and mammals.

They are also known to feed on carrion, and I often find myself following them in my truck down the twists and turns or the country roads where I live as they look for road kill. They are active during the day and I’m fortunate to  see them most days soaring in the sky, while I’m walking the dogs.

Brahminy Kites play an important role in controlling the populations of small animals and insects, as well as maintaining a balance in the ecosystem. They also help to control the population of rats and squirrels, which can be a problem in agricultural areas.

The best place to see them on mass in Trat is at Konpludthin Fishing Park, a lake side restaurant that feeds them offal from a boat. Maybe a hundred Kite skim the water to take the bait. It’s great to see this spectacle.

Common Myna

Common Myna

The Common Myna (Acridotheres tristis), also known as Indian Myna, is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive brown plumage and a black head with a distinctive yellow patch behind the eye. It has a long, curved beak and a short tail. They are around 25-30 cm in length.

Common Mynas are found in a wide range of habitats, from forests to urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in many different environments. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, and human-provided food. They are active during the day and often seen in flocks. They are also known for their intelligence and ability to mimic sounds, including human speech.

Common Mynas play an important role in controlling the populations of insects, but they can also have a negative impact on the ecosystem, as they can outcompete native bird species for food and nesting sites. They are also known to damage fruit crops (it’s true), and can be a nuisance to humans with their loud calls and tendency to nest in buildings.

Large-billed Crow

Large-billed Crow

The Large-billed Crow (Corvus macrorhynchos), also known as the Jungle Crow, is a large and distinctive member of the crow family with a glossy black plumage and a long, thick bill. They have a wingspan of around 80-90 cm and are around 45-50 cm in length.

Large-billed Crows are found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in many different environments. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, small animals, and carrion. They are active during the day and often seen in flocks. They are also known for their intelligence and problem-solving abilities.

Large-billed Crows play an important role in controlling the populations of insects and small animals, as well as cleaning the environment by scavenging on dead animals and other waste. They also help to control the population of rats, which can be a problem in agricultural areas. They are also considered as an indicator of the health of the ecosystem, as they are highly adaptable to human-altered environments.

However, they are also known to be a nuisance to humans with their loud calls, tendency to nest in buildings and can cause damage to crops. They are also known to have a negative impact on native bird species, as they can outcompete them for food and nesting sites. Despite this, they are valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists. They also have a symbolic role in some cultures.

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

The Eurasian Tree Sparrow (Passer montanus) is a small, sparrow-like bird with a distinctive black and white striped head, a reddish-brown back and wings, and a gray-white underbelly. They have a wingspan of around 20-25 cm and are around 14-16 cm in length.

Eurasian Tree Sparrows are typically found in open woodlands, gardens, and cultivated areas, as well as in urban and suburban environments. They are active during the day and can often be seen flitting through trees and bushes, searching for food. They feed on a variety of seeds and insects, and are known to be opportunistic feeders. They are also known for their lively and sociable behaviour, often forming flocks with other sparrow species.

Eurasian Tree Sparrows play an important role in controlling the populations of insects, as well as helping to disperse plant seeds. They also provide aesthetic value and interest for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. They are considered as a garden bird, and their population decline in recent years is a concern for conservation as I can attest. As a boy I recall seeing flocks of common sparrows in England, but unfortunately nowadays, I only see one or two at most at any time.

Oriental Magpie Robin

Oriental Magpie Robin

The Oriental Magpie Robin (Copsychus saularis) is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive black and white plumage, and a long, graduated tail. They have a black head, back and wings, and a white belly and rump. The male has a black throat and the female has a white throat. They are around 20-25 cm in length.

Oriental Magpie Robins are typically found in a wide range of habitats, including forests, gardens, and cultivated areas, as well as in urban and suburban environments. They are active during the day and can often be seen perched on branches or wires, singing beautiful and melodic song. They feed on a variety of insects, berries, and fruits. They are also known for their lively and sociable behaviour, often forming flocks with other bird species.

Oriental Magpie Robins play an important role in controlling the populations of insects, as well as helping to disperse seeds of plants. For this reason they are also considered beneficial to farmers and gardeners. They also provide aesthetic value and interest for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts. They are also considered as a garden bird, and their population is stable and are not considered endangered.

Swan Goose

Swan Goose

The Swan Goose (Anser cygnoides) is a large waterfowl with a long neck and a heavy, barrel-shaped body. They have a white plumage with black primary feathers, and a black and white head. They have a wingspan of around 160-180 cm and are around 90-110 cm in length.

Swan Geese are typically found in freshwater wetlands, such as marshes, ponds, and rivers. They are migratory birds and can be found in Thailand during the non-breeding season. They are known to feed on a wide range of aquatic plants and animals, such as roots, shoots, leaves, seeds, and insects, as well as small fish, molluscs, and crustaceans.

We have 2 at the farm named “Dollar’ and ‘Euro”. They are quite the characters and very vocal. Most times they protect our flock of ISA brown chickens, but on occasion attack and even kill them.

Swan Geese play an important role in controlling the populations of aquatic plants, trimming the grass and fertilising the soil. They are also valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking plumage and feeding behaviour. They are considered as a vulnerable species due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution. We consider them as pets and part of our farm family.

Jungle Fowl

Junglefowl

The Junglefowl (Gallus gallus), also known as the Red Junglefowl, is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive red and orange plumage, and a long, graduated tail. The male has a red and orange plumage with a green and blue head and a long white tail (Dollar nipped the tail off the cock in the picture above). The female is smaller and has a more subdued brown plumage. They are around 60-70 cm in length.

Junglefowl are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, and they are native to Southeast Asia. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, and small animals. They are active during the day and are often seen foraging on the forest floor or roosting in trees. They are also known for their loud calls, which are heard more often than seen.

We have adopted (or they adopted us) two jungle chickens. One lives in our permaculture food forest and the other on our farm and they take care of our free-range hens. Both are strikingly handsome with flamboyant plumage and tail feathers.

Junglefowl play an important role in controlling the populations of insects and fruits, as well as helping to disperse seeds of plants. They are also considered as an indicator of the health of the ecosystem, as they are highly adaptable to natural environments. They also have a cultural significance in many areas and have a symbolic role in some cultures.

They are considered as a vulnerable species due to habitat destruction, hunting, and pollution. They are also considered as an ancestor of domesticated chickens, which have been domesticated for thousands of years. That chicken story actually started in Thailand. Who would have thought!

White-crested Laughing Thrush

White-crested Laughing Thrush

The White-crested Laughing Thrush (Garrulax leucolophus) is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive white crest and a black and white plumage. They have a black head and back, white underparts and a black tail. They are around 25-30 cm in length.

White-crested Laughing thrushes are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, and they are native to Southeast Asia. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, and small animals. They are active during the day and are often seen in flocks foraging on the forest floor or in bushes. They are also known for their loud calls and chatter, which are heard more often than seen. They are often seen in a large flock of 15 to 20 birds most evening on the farm, especially after irrigating or during the fruit season. They are known for their lively and social behaviour and are fun to watch.

White-crested Laughing thrushes play an important role in controlling the populations of insects and eating fallen fruits, as well as helping to disperse seeds of plants. They are also considered as an indicator of the health of the ecosystem, as they are highly adaptable to natural environments. They are also valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking plumage and vocal abilities.

These birds are one of my personal favourites on the farm. They are really social bird and fun to observe.

Zebra Dove

Zebra Dove

The Zebra Dove (Geopelia striata) is a small, plump bird with a distinctive white and black striped plumage. They have a white face with a black crown and black stripes on their white breast and back. They are around 25 cm in length.

Zebra Doves are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, and they are native to Southeast Asia. They are also commonly found in urban and suburban areas, and are often seen in parks and gardens. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including seeds, fruits, and insects. They are active during the day and are often seen perched on branches or wires, singing melodic cooing call.

They are highly adaptable to human-altered environments and I often see them near the chicken run sponging a free meal and have got quite use to my presence. They are considered as a common species, not endangered.

Shrikes

Shrikes

Shrikes (Laniidae) are a group of birds that belong to the family Laniidae. They are known for their distinctive hooked beak and strong, hooked talons which they use to capture and impale their prey. They have a wide range of plumage patterns and colours, but most have a similar body shape and size, around 20-30 cm in length.

Shrikes are typically found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are active during the day and are known to be fierce predators, hunting and catching a wide range of prey such as insects, small mammals, reptiles, and other birds. They are known to impale their prey on thorns or barbed wire before eating it, a behaviour known as “larder hoarding.” They are also known for their territorial behaviour, and will defend their territories against other birds.

They are considered as a common species, not endangered. They are also valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking plumage, hunting behaviour and vocal abilities.

Swifts

Swifts

Swifts (Apodidae) are a group of birds that belong to the family Apodidae. They are known for their aerial abilities, spending most of their lives in the air and only landing to breed and roost. They are small to medium-sized birds, with a sleek, streamlined body and long, narrow wings. They can vary in size and colour depending on the species, but most have a similar shape and size, around 15-25 cm in length.

Swifts are typically found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are active during the day and are known to fly at high speeds and make acrobatic manoeuvres in the air while hunting for insects. They are also known for their aerial courtship displays, where they fly in tight formation with other swifts. They are also known for their loud calls, which are heard more often than seen.

I’ve noticed swifts feeding more during heavy rains and electrical storms. My guess is the rain disperses a lot of insects from the trees and the swifts are more than happy to dine a-la-carte on them.

Greater Coucal

Greater Coucal

The Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis) is a large, crow-like bird with a distinctive glossy black plumage and a long, graduated tail. They have a long, curved bill and a distinctive red eye. They are around 45-50 cm in length.

Greater Coucals are typically found in a wide range of habitats including forests, grasslands, and urban areas. They are active during the day and are known to feed on a wide range of food, including fruits, insects, small animals, and even small reptiles and amphibians. They are known for their loud calls and for their secretive behaviour, often staying hidden in dense undergrowth. You didn’t hear this from me though, right!

Olive-backed Sunbirds

Olive-backed Sunbirds

The Olive-backed Sunbirds (Cinnyris jugularis) are small, brightly coloured birds with a distinctive olive-green plumage on the back, and a metallic sheen on the head, throat and breast. They have long, curved beaks and a distinctive long tail. They are around 10-15 cm in length.

Olive-backed Sunbirds are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests and urban environments. There are many similarities between sunbirds and hummingbirds, despite being unrelated and inhabiting different ecosystems. Africa and Asia are home to sunbirds, while the Americas are home to hummingbirds. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including nectar, insects, and small fruits. They are active during the day and are often seen flitting around flowers and bushes. They are also known for their melodic calls and are often heard before they are seen.

Olive-backed Sunbirds play an important role in pollination of plants by collecting nectar and transferring pollen between flowers. I often observe them feeding on the ‘bird of paradise’ flowers outside my office window early in the morning.

They are highly adaptable to natural and human-altered environments. They are considered as a common species, not endangered. They are welcomed by gardeners and also valued by birdwatchers and ornithologists for their striking plumage, vocal abilities, and their role in pollination.

Black-naped Oriole

Black-naped Oriole

The Black-naped Oriole (Oriolus chinensis) is a medium-sized, brightly coloured bird with a distinctive black nape and yellow plumage. They have a black head, a bright yellow body and wings, and a long, graduated tail. They are around 25-30 cm in length.

Black-naped Orioles are typically found in tropical and subtropical forests, and they are native to Southeast Asia. They are also commonly found in gardens and cultivated areas. They are known to feed on a wide range of food, including nectar, insects, fruits, and small animals. They are active during the day and are often seen flitting around flowers and bushes, or perched on branches and wires. They are also known for their melodic calls.

Perry and a bird of Thailand

Thailand is home to an incredible diversity of bird species, and whether at home or on my farm, I am fortunate enough to see many of these birds on a regular basis. From the vibrant plumage of the Blue-winged Pitta to the melodic calls of the Black-naped Oriole, these birds bring a sense of wonder and beauty to my daily life.

Hopefully I’ve highlighted some of the most common birds that can be found in Thailand. From the majestic Great Egret to the cheeky and chatty White-crested Laughing thrushes, each of these birds has its own unique characteristics and plays an important role in the ecosystem.

In addition to their ecological significance, these birds also hold cultural and symbolic importance in many areas. The Junglefowl, for example, is considered an ancestor of domesticated chickens, while the Black-naped Oriole is a symbol of good luck and prosperity.

Overall, this article has highlight the beauty and diversity of just some of the common birds of Thailand that can be found on my organic farm. We go out of our way to provide a safe haven and encourage more wild life.

I hope that it has provided an appreciation for the birds that share our world and the important role they play in our ecosystems. Whether you’re a seasoned birdwatcher or just starting to explore the world of birds, I encourage you to take a closer look at the birds in your own backyard and appreciate the wonder and joy they bring to our lives (even that annoying vocal Koel outside my bedroom window at 6am every morning).

If you liked this post, consider giving it a tweet! Cheers!

Young Sun Bird - birds of Thailand

The Most Common Birds of Thailand: A Field Guide for Farmers and Birdwatchers

 

 

The post The Most Common Birds of Thailand: A Field Guide for Farmers and Birdwatchers appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.

Thursday, December 22, 2022

Skydiving in Thailand – Fully Alive at 55

For my birthday this year, Katae and I bought a pair of one-way plane tickets. Yes, we got to take off and cruise at 13,000ft, that’s 4KM above the surface of the planet, but we had to make our own way back down to earth without the aid of the Wright brothers ingenuity. Fortunately we had some assistance from the DropZone skydiving posse in Rayong.

In this blog post I’ll share my experience of skydiving in Thailand.

Perry and Katae at DropZone Thailand

What Does a Tandem Sky Dive Feel Like?

In a word – insane! A tandem skydive scrambles all your senses and logic as you question and experience the exhilaration and adrenalin overdose of it! It’s hard to comprehend and actually put into words the real feelings just before you step out of the plane and during the free fall decent.

Let’s say the feeling of free falling through the air at high speeds is indescribable. Once the parachute is deployed, you feel a sense of peacefulness as you float down to the ground. That is until my instructor pulled some stunts and the G-force takes more than your breath away.

The view from above is also breath taking, as you’ll get to see the world from a completely different perspective. Overall, a tandem skydive is an unforgettable experience that combines the thrill of adventure with facing your fears and the beauty of nature.

Perry and Katae flying to the drop zone for their first skydive in Thailand.

DropZone Thailand

We did out sky dive at DropZone in Rayong, Thailand which is an exceptional place too as you also get views of the coastline and island of Koh Samet. It was a beautiful clear day with hardly a cloud in sight to impede our views.

We did a free fall for 20 or 30 seconds reaching terminal velocity within about 10 seconds. Terminal velocity is the maximum speed that an object can reach when falling through the air, and it is determined by the object’s weight, surface area, and the air resistance. For a human skydiver, the terminal velocity is typically around 120 mph (195KMP). All the while taking in the view of the underside of the plane and the ground several times as we rolled before levelling out.

Once the parachute was successfully deployed you slow down very quickly, much quicker than I imagined. Then you get to experience the sensation of weightlessness. The view from the altitude of about 9000 feet is breath taking, quiet and as a quintessential Englishman, time to talk about the weather.

There was also a great sense of relief and freedom before thoughts turned to landing.

The moment of truth or a leap of faith. Leaving the aircraft.

What is the Chance of a Parachute Failing to Deploy?

The million dollar question before skydiving is of course “What is the chance of a parachute failing to open properly?” Actually it’s very small. Modern parachutes are reliable and highly-engineered pieces of equipment, and they are designed to open automatically in most cases.

In fact, the rate of parachute malfunctions is less than 0.001%, which means that the chances of a parachute failing to deploy are extremely low. Of course, as with any piece of equipment, there is always a small chance of failure, but skydivers reduce the risk by regularly inspecting and maintaining their parachutes. Being in a fatal accident on the roads of Thailand is magnitudes higher.

It was interesting and reassuring to see the camaraderie between the skydivers who check each other’s rigs on the flight and communicate with hand signals much like divers. It also comforting to know you’re in good hands with these professionals.

It’s also important to note that DropZone Thailand is licensed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and a United States Parachute Association (USPA) Group Member.

Perry in free fall approaching terminal velocity

Is 50 to Old to Skydive?

Not at all. Age is not a barrier. You can skydive at any age as long as you have reasonable health.

As an aside, an interesting observation I made over the course of a few days in Rayong was the amount of people still living in fear and wearing surgical masks, even between bites at dinner.  We’re talking north of 70 percent of people muzzled! On the flip side, the international crowd at DropZone, where everyone lives life to the full, was not wearing masks.

If you are looking to face your fears, live your life to the fullest or simply for a unique and unforgettable experience, I can highly recommend skydiving in Thailand with DropZone.

We had an absolute blast and we ticked off another item on our bucket list.

tandem skydive above beach in Rayong, Thailand - birds eye view.

Cost of Skydiving in Thailand

DropZone in Rayong offer three tandem skydiving packages at different price points:

  • Economy – 8,700THB
  • Deluxe – 11,700THB
  • VIP – 14,300

Licensed jumpers can fun jump from 1,100THB

Skydiving school starts at 133,000THB and Accelerated Free Fall (AFF) is 70,000THB

best skydiving in Thailand

You can find DropZone Thailand at the following address:

95 M.4, Chakphong,

Klaeng District,

Rayong 21190,

Thailand

Or via their website here.

Skydiving in Thailand – Fully Alive at 55

The post Skydiving in Thailand – Fully Alive at 55 appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.

Friday, December 9, 2022

Permaculture and The 8 Forms of Capital

Permaculture is a design philosophy and set of principles that focuses on creating sustainable and self-sufficient systems that mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature. One of the key ideas in permaculture is the concept of capital. This is the resources and assets that we have at our disposal to support and sustain our lives and communities.

In this article we will explore the 8 forms of capital and how they relate to permaculture.

Financial Capital

The first form of capital in permaculture is financial capital, which is the money we have available to invest in our permaculture systems and projects.

Financial capital allows us to purchase land, tools, materials, and other resources that we need to establish and maintain our permaculture systems. It also allows us to pay for professional services and support, such as consulting, design, and education.

Human Capital

The second form of capital in permaculture is human capital, which is the knowledge, skills, and experience that people bring to their projects and communities.

Human capital is what allows us to design, implement, and manage our permaculture systems, and it’s what makes us valuable to other permaculture practitioners. Investing in our own human capital – through education, training, and hands-on experience – can help us become more effective and successful permaculture practitioners.

Perry with oversized gourds

Social Capital

The third form of capital in permaculture is social capital, which is the networks and relationships that we have with other people who are interested in permaculture.

Social capital can be informal, like the connections we make with other permaculture practitioners at local events and workshops. Also, it can be formal, like the relationships we have with permaculture organisations and groups. Social capital is what allows us to access resources, information, and support that we might not otherwise have access to.

Cultural Capital

The fourth form of capital in permaculture is cultural capital. This is the shared values, beliefs, and norms that shape our behaviour and guide our decisions in the context of permaculture.

Cultural capital is what defines permaculture communities and gives us a sense of belonging and connection. It’s also what allows us to understand and communicate with other permaculture practitioners, and it helps us navigate the complexities of sustainable design and implementation.

permaculture ceremonial cocoa

Natural Capital

The fifth form of capital in permaculture is natural capital, which is the Earth’s natural resources – including soil, water, air, and biodiversity – that we rely on to establish and maintain our permaculture systems.

Natural capital is what allows us to grow food, medicine, and other useful plants and animals in our permaculture systems, and it’s what provides us with a rich array of ecosystems and habitats to support our well-being.

Investing in natural capital through conservation, restoration, and regenerative practices can help us create more sustainable and resilient permaculture systems.

Intellectual Capital

The sixth form of capital in permaculture is intellectual capital, which is the knowledge and information that we create and accumulate through our permaculture experiences and practices.

Intellectual capital includes things like permaculture design plans, plant and animal lists, soil tests, and other technical information that we use to manage our permaculture systems. It also includes the expertise and know-how that we develop through research and experimentation.

Intellectual capital is what allows us to innovate and adapt to changing conditions, and it’s what enables us to improve and optimise organic systems over time.

Spiritual Capital

The seventh form of capital in permaculture is spirit capital. This is the values, beliefs, and principles that guide our actions and inform our decisions in the context of permaculture.

Spiritual capital is what gives us a sense of purpose and meaning in our permaculture work. It’s also what allows us to connect with the deeper significance and beauty of the natural world.

permaculture and the 8 forms of capital

Physical Capital

The eighth form of capital in permaculture is physical capital. This is the buildings, structures, tools, and other tangible assets that we use to establish and maintain our permaculture systems.

Physical capital is what allows us to turn our permaculture designs into reality, and it’s what enables us to create the material infrastructure that supports our permaculture practices.

Investing in physical capital – through construction, renovation, or the purchase of upgraded tools and equipment – can help us grow and expand our ecological systems, and it can also make our permaculture practices more efficient and effective.

A World of Abundance

We live in a world where we are led to believe our wealth is only measured by financial capital or lack thereof (scarcity mentality). As we have shown, there are a total of 8 forms of capital and the world is an abundant and wonderful place. We are wealthy beyond our wildest dreams so don’t let the powers-that-shouldn’t be tell you otherwise.

Permaculture and The 8 Forms of Capital

The post Permaculture and The 8 Forms of Capital appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.

Monday, December 5, 2022

Hydroponics 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Hydroponics and How it Could Transform Your Life

What is Hydroponics

In this guide to hydroponics, you’ll learn everything you need to know to get started growing vegetables without soil.

Hydroponics is a type of gardening that does not use soil for growing plants. Instead, they are suspended in a water-based mineral and nutrient solution.

The water is fed from a reservoir from which it is continuously replenished. This prevents the plant’s roots from drying out. A pump recirculates the nutrient-rich water through the plant’s base to feed them.

The use of hydroponics to grow a wide variety of plants including herbs, vegetables, flowers, algae and other aquatic plants is also called “soilless gardening,” “hydro-gardening,” or, more technically, “submerged culture.”

The advantages of hydroponics include:

  • Less time needed to maintain the plants
  • No need for pesticides or herbicides
  • Much higher yields in smaller spaces
  • No fish needed

 

Butterhead Lettuce

Butterhead Lettuce

The Benefits of Growing Food in a Hydroponic System

A hydroponic growing system can be used both indoors and outdoors, and it is often more efficient than traditional farming methods as it uses less water and no pesticides.

As we know, in hydroponic gardening, plants don’t need soil to grow but they still need light, water, nutrients, oxygen, temperature control and space.

Plants can be grown in horizontal and vertical hydroponic setups depending on the space you have available and the type of plants you want to grow.

Unlike aquaponics, hydroponics does not require fish in the system. A nutrient solution is added to the water to feed the plants. A PH meter water tester can be used to test the water to ensure that it is the right balance for your crops.

Ideas for Your Own Hydroponic Garden on the Cheap

Hydroponic gardening is not just for professionals. Anyone can make their own hydroponic setup at home or on a budget with some basic supplies and equipment.

First, you need to pick a container for your hydroponic garden. A suitable option would be an old fish tank or large plastic tub with a lid that will fit snugly over the top.

Next, you need to decide where you want your hydroponics setup. If you have a basement or garage with some direct sunlight, this is your most suitable option. Otherwise, if you live in an apartment with scant to no natural light, think about growing indoors with artificial lighting.

Lastly, pick out a small fish tank pump, plants and nutrients that are right for your water garden size and budget.

When I first set up our NFT hydroponic system at home, I raised 3 or 4 varieties of lettuce to experiment with. This was to see which grew best for us in our location and environment. You too can have fun experimenting with growing different plants with hydroponics.

The 2 Main Types of Hydroponic Systems

There are two different types of hydroponic systems that can be used for home gardening.

Aeroponics

Aeroponics is a type of hydroponic gardening system where plants grow in an air or mist environment and do not use any soil. Instead, they use a nutrient solution as their growing medium.

This is also called “air-pruning” because the roots are not submerged in water and instead just get sprayed with a nutrient solution set on a timer.

The plants need to be grown indoors because there is no soil for them to grow in and require constant attention from their gardener.

The benefits of aeroponics are that it uses less space than traditional methods, it has better water retention, and it allows for faster growth rates.

Nutrient Film Technique

With the recent popularity of hydroponics in the agriculture industry, a new form of this method has emerged called Nutrient Film Technique or NFT (not the Bored Ape variety).

This is a type of hydroponic system where plants grow without soil but instead get all their nutrients from water and air. It is an efficient method of growing plants because it requires less space, produces plants faster and uses less water.

The first step in the process is to design the system. NFT systems typically have a tank that holds water and nutrients. The nutrient solution is pumped into a growing channel, where the flow can be controlled depending on how much is needed.

In this kind of system, plants grow above the tank which makes them easier to manage and keep track off. Plants get their nutrient-rich water from a pump that keeps the solution circulating throughout the system. This is done by pumping it up into the channels, then gravity feeds the water back to the holding tank in a continuous loop.

Plants take up the water and nutrients they need to grow. A small amount is also lost to evaporation, but on the whole, very little water is needed compared to regular farming practices.

More advanced and industrial hydroponic systems use ultraviolet light to sterilise water in the root area, preventing bacteria build up which could be harmful to plants.

Home Hydroponic System

Adding Solar to Hydroponics

Unlike aquaponics which is a closed loop system, hydroponics needs a pump and energy to power the pump. The pump used in most home hydroponic systems is a small fish tank pump. These pumps are low-cost and consume hardly any energy.

However, it is possible to add a solar pump to your setup to power or part-power the water flow through the system. The pump needs to run 24/7. Therefore, to reduce energy costs it is possible to power your pump during the day from a small solar voltaic panel and switch to the grid during the night. This will give you approximately 50% power savings.

Aquaponic lettuce pom pom

My Home Hydroponic System

I invested in a 5 step hydroponic hobby set from a supplier in Thailand called FA Fresh Farm.

In hindsight it is way too big as we only grow salad for our own needs. In most cases a smaller hydro bobby set would suffice saving time, money and space.

We still use FA Fresh Farm to buy lettuce seeds and sponge plant starters. However, we found we could get our A’s & B’s nutrient solution from local garden shops now.

Guide to Hydroponics in Thailand

Final Words on Hydroponics

Hydroponics is a sustainable, natural farming method that can be used on a small or large scale to create an edible food source. It is not only beneficial for the environment and animals, but feeds many people healthy, chemical-free food.

Hydroponics 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Hydroponics and How it Could Transform Your Life

The post Hydroponics 101: A Beginner’s Guide to Hydroponics and How it Could Transform Your Life appeared first on Thinglish Lifestyle.