Sunbird

The call of the variable sunbird (Cinnyris venustus), tew-tew-tew-tew-tew, is a common sound in equatorial Africa. These flashy little avians perch in the highest branches of the trees and are not shy in announcing their presence.

The male, shown here, is brilliant. His blue-green "metallic" head and nape is contrasted by a yellow belly.

The needle-like curved beak of the sunbird is perfect for extracting nectar from flowers, as is its tubular tongue.

I spotted this one enjoying the sprinkler in the yard of our lodge, just outside Arusha, Tanzania.

Stilt

I spotted this Black-winged Stilt in the slapping waves of Lake Magadi in Ngorogoro Crater, Tanzania. The sharp beak, black-white contrasting feathers, and long spindly legs make this bird memorable--and well suited for mud foraging.

Lake Magadi is a soda (or alkaline) lake, favored by stilts and other African waders.

(I wish you could see how goofy long his legs are. You would know why he is called a "stilt"!)

Regal Bearing

The grey crowned crane (Balearica regulorum) has an elegant bearing. Its body has grey, white, and chestnut feathers, common enough, but its head is simply regal. That white cheek patch contrasts its black head and red wattles. Topping everything is an explosion of stiff gold feathers. What a crown!

Reduction of habitat in the last 50 years has had severe consequences for this species. It is now on the endangered list, with perhaps only 35,000 individuals left in the world

Without intervention, this African species could go the way of its American cousin. In the 1930s there were only 15 Whooping Cranes known in existence. Since that time the “Whooper” has made a slow comeback from the brink of extinction.

The grey crowed crane reminds me to live beyond myself today. Beauty—like truth and justice—pull us toward the peaceful pleasure of God.