Thursday, 31 July 2025

The post with links to other posts and a photo as well

 




My post with links to other posts.

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/tuesdays-4-day-early.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/youre-my-sister-poem.html

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/last-hodgepoge-for-july.htmlcc

https://jamfn.blogspot.com/2025/07/describing-me.html



                                                                      The Ugly Brooch

Some of you may recall that  I mentioned in my weekly diary post that I wasn't able to find what mum called the ugly brooch, well I found it and above is a picture  of it


Wednesday, 30 July 2025

The Nullarbor



This week we are looking at the area of Australia called The Nullarbor Plain, which means "no trees" in Latin, is a vast, arid region in southern Australia with a rich history, both for Indigenous Australians and Europeans. 

Historically, it was seasonally occupied by the Mirning and Yinyila Indigenous peoples, who knew it as Oondiri, meaning "waterless".


Europeans first charted the coast in the 17th century, but the interior remained largely unexplored until Edward Eyre’s epic crossing in 1841. The Nullarbor has since been a site of pastoralism, railway construction, and even nuclear testing, shaping its modern landscape and infrastructure.  They have a deep and continuing connection to the Nullarbor. 

The name "Nullarbor" was coined by surveyor Edmund Delissern in1865.  Pastoralists established stations along the telegraph and railway lines, and small settlements developed around these. 

The Nullarbor was used for nuclear testing in the 1950s, leading to the displacement of Indigenous populations.  The Trans-Australian Railway   completed in 1917, facilitated travel and trade across the Nullarbor. 

The Eyre Highway. A road across the Nullarbor, was completed in 1976, connecting South Australia and Western Australia. The highway is a 1,664-kilometre, it is signed as National Highways 1 and A1, it forms part of Highway 1 and the Australian National Highway network linking Perth and Adelaide.

Driving directly across the Nullarbor Plain (from Norseman to Ceduna) takes approximately 12.5 hours of non-stop driving. However, most travellers allocate 2-3 days for the journey to allow for stops at attractions, wildlife viewing, and enjoying the scenery. 



When driving across the Nullarbor people need to beware of trucks as there are triple-decker road trains which have brutal slipstreams, so slow down or pull over to let them pass. Also at night the road. turns into a marsupial rave party at night, from camels, kangaroos, dingoes and occasionally wombats. With no phone service, no other travellers, and emergency services hours away, getting into an accident could leave you stranded without help.

When camping Nullarbor, keep an eye out for scorpions, bird-eating spiders, eastern brown snakes, and death adders. Avoid setting up camp near bodies of water, high vegetation, rocks, fallen logs, or under trees. Also, remind curious kiddos that sticking hands in holes in the ground, under rocks, logs, or trees could disturb a creepy crawly!

If you run into trouble, do not leave your vehicle to search for help. Drones, planes, foot searches, and car trackers will see a vehicle and find you.

The area is known for its vast cave systems, some of which contain fossils and provide insights into the region's past climate. 

The Nullarbor continues to be a place of both natural beauty and human activity, with tourism and transport playing a significant role. 

  

Tuesday, 29 July 2025

Andean or Spectacled Bear

 


This week we are looking at the Andean Bear also known as the Spectacled Bear, this is a species of bear native to the Andes Mountains in northern and western South America. It is the only living species of bear native to South America, and the last remaining short-faced bear.

The bears are an endangered species, listed as Vulnerable, and it is illegal to kill them. The Andean bear is the last remaining short-faced bear spectacled bears are the only surviving species of bear native to South America, and the only surviving member of the subfamily Tremarctinae.

They are technically the largest land carnivore on that continent, although as little as 5% of its diet is composed of meat. South America’s largest obligate carnivore is the jaguar. Among South America’s extant, native land animals, only the Baird’s and South American Tapirs are heavier than this species. They are a mid-sized species of bear.



Overall, its fur is blackish in colour, though bears may vary from jet black to dark brown and to even a reddish hue. The species typically has distinctive, beige-coloured marking across its face and upper chest, though not all Spectacled bears have “spectacle” markings. The pattern and extent of pale markings are slightly different on each individual bear and bears can be readily distinguished by this.

They are relatively small compared to other bear species. 

Males typically weigh between 220-440 pounds and are 5.5 to 6.5 feet long, while females weigh between 80-180 pounds and are slightly smaller. They stand 2 to 3 feet tall at the shoulder. 



They have relatively large heads compared to their body size, as well as powerful claws and paws that help them climb trees and build nests.  Despite their size, they are known for their adaptability to different environments within the Andes, from cloud forests to coastal deserts. 

They inhabit mountainous regions of South America, primarily the Andes Mountains, from Venezuela to Bolivia. They are found in a variety of habitats including rainforests, cloud forests, grasslands, and even scrublands. They are known to build platform nests in trees for eating and sleeping and are generally active year-round.

They feed on fruits and bromeliads being there favored foods, but also eat berries, grasses, bulbs, cactus flowers and small animals such as rodents, rabbits and birds. Near settlements, bears sometimes raid cornfields. Andean bears climb trees and forage on the ground.

They have a lifespan of around 20yrs in the wild but up to about 38yrs under human care they have a gestation of between 160 to 255 days and can have between 1 and 4 cubs they are considered mature between 4 and 7 years.

They are the only bears are the only known to eat bromeliads. Has rings of white or light fur around its eyes. The rest of the bear's fur is black or dark brown.

Andean bears, also known as spectacled bears, are generally considered one of the least aggressive bear species towards humans. While they are capable of defending themselves if threatened, they typically avoid encounters with people and are known for their shy and elusive nature. Attacks on humans are rare, with only one confirmed human death attributed to a spectacled bear. They can run up to 30 mph.

 

 

 

 

Monday, 28 July 2025

Uzbekistan's National Things

 

This week we will wrap up stuff about Uzbekistan with some information about their national things like their national animal which is the Turkestan sand which is a nocturnal animal with long hair between its toes, which helps protect them from the hot desert sand. It is known for its resilience and ability to adapt to the challenging desert environment. 

Their national bird is the mythical Humo (or Khumo) bird. It is featured on the national emblem and symbolizes happiness, peace, and freedom. 

Uzbekistan does not have an officially declared national flower. While the tulip is widely recognized as a national symbol and represents beauty, love, and innocence in Uzbek culture, and is depicted on various national emblems, it has not been officially designated as the national flower. The cotton plant, though not a flower, is also a prominent symbol of Uzbekistan, featured on the coat of arms and as a major national crop. 


Their national dish is plov (also spelled osh or palov), a flavorful rice pilaf. It's a cornerstone of Uzbek culture and cuisine, often served at celebrations and large gatherings, and even recognized by UNESCO. 


The national drink of Uzbekistan is Tea, especially Green Tea. Due the Russian domination over centuries, Vodka is also popular here. The Uzbekistan Drinks are a must try on your Uzbekistan Tours. Tea is normally served normally everywhere including home, office, cafes, tiny stores too.

The national sport of Uzbekistan is Kurash, a traditional form of wrestling. It's one of the most ancient types of wrestling and is considered a popular amusement in Uzbekistan, often featured during holidays. 

Kurash is more than just a sport; it's deeply rooted in Uzbek culture and history. It's a martial art that emphasizes strength, dexterity, and mutual respect between opponents. The rules are relatively simple, with prohibitions against painful holds, choking techniques, and attacks below the waist.

However, football is the most popular sport in Uzbekistan. It is widely played and followed, particularly among young athletes, with increasing participation in grassroots programs and professional academies. The Uzbekistan Professional Football League is a key player in the region, and the national team is a strong competitor in Asian football.  There is also a women’s national football league.

 


 

                                             

Sunday, 27 July 2025

Week 30 of 2025

 


I had a good night slept straight threw, didn’t wake at all had 8hrs and 52mins sleep. 

We have decided we need a new vacuum cleaner as the one we have isn’t picking up stuff very well, it does a half ass job, so we may go out to Target and get a new one today. We also bought a new toasted sandwich maker.

This morning was cold, but the day warmed up, Tim even changed into shorts and a tee shirt.

We picked up the photos that were printed and Tim has hung them on the wall, but he wants one of them in a larger size which I have ordered for him.

This afternoon I had a few scotches and cokes, didn’t get drunk just a little tipsy.

BGL: 5.6

Steps: 9,666=4.90Klm’s

First day of term 3.

I had a good night slept straight threw again, had 8hrs and 2mins sleep, although the watch says I was awake for 20mins.

Sue and I drove Sam to Tafe then I went to have my mamogram I was an hour early, but I was taken in quick.

After that we called in at a local cake shop to get a cream bun each, then we stopped at the post office so Sue could go in and get me stamps, the cost of stamps has gone up again it is now $1.70 to send a local letter.

The we stopped at the plaza so I could drop a script into the chemist.

Then home, I haven’t felt like doing much for the rest of the day.

BGL:5.7

Steps:7.727=3.92Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 27min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 12C but doesn’t feel that bad at the moment.

Tim has work today which is good and Sam has school, and I have nothing.

I cleaned behind the toaster oven and behind the toilet, well as vacuuming and with Sue’s help I changed the cover on Tim’s chair. I tried the new toasted sandwich maker it is ok but for standard sandwiches I prefer the other one, the new one will be good when I have toasted spaghetti sandwiches.

I rode the scooter up to meet Sam just didn’t feel like walking.

BGL:5.5

Steps:6,101=3.08Klm’s

Another good night slept for 8hrs and 27min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 12C.

Tim has work again today, I am waiting for him to leave before I have a shower. I turned the bathroom heater on when I got up so the room will be warm when I go in for the shower.

Tim turned the heater off, so the bathroom was cold I was somewhat annoyed.

Had the pharmacist come to go over my medications, all is good he will follow up in a couple of months’ time.

Jessica discovered someone had written Fuck on her car in chalk, Tasha caught it on her security camera it was one of the neighbour’s kids.

BGL:5.4

Steps:12,083=6.13Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 10min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 7C.

Tim has work again today, but not till this arvo.

Tim and Jess went to bunnings to get extra security cameras for her house.

I went shopping with Sue which was great doing this makes me feel like I am living a normal life, like I did before Covid. I can never thank Sue enough for making me feel somewhat normal again.

The afternoon was warm.

BGL: 5.5

Steps: 8,081=4.11Klm’s

Another good night slept for 9hrs and 17min, didn’t wake at all, this morning it is 1C.

Tim will be up and off to work in an hour or so.

By 10am it had started to warm up and by midday it was 17C.

I emptied the recycle boxes into the recycle bin outside and managed to fill the bird bath with water as well as toss out bread and bird seed for them.

I walked up to meet Sam and Jess came with me she wanted to show me a couple of clips on her phone, funny stuff it also, made me laugh. So, we were both there when Sam arrived.

BGL:5.2

Steps:8,157=4.14Klm’s

Had another good night slept for 8hrs and 59min, I was awake for only 12mis, this morning it’s not as cold with a temp of 10C

Tim will be up at 6.30am as he is working all day. Jess is also working today.

It started out wet but by 10am it had fine up, a parcel arrived from Temu today more gifts and a few things for me as well.

Sam and Bailey came over to make food, Bailey gave me a cupcake which was nice.

Tim home at 6.15pm.

BGL:5.3

Steps:9,192=4.66Klm’s

 

 

Saturday, 26 July 2025

Caturday with Luca

 

Hello everyone, remember me I’m Luca the sleek, handsome black cat, it is my turn here on Nana’s blog I am very photogenic am I not.

Here are a couple of photos of me in bags, I like climbing into bags, maybe one day mum won’t notice and take me shopping with her if I hide in a shopping bag like I am in these photos.




Tuesday, 22 July 2025

Sloth Bears



Time to learn about another bear, this week we have the sloth bear, also known as the Indian bear, is a myrmecophagous bear species native to the Indian subcontinent. It feeds on fruits, ants and termites. It is listed as vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, mainly because of habitat loss and degradation. It is the only species in the genus Melursus.

Sloth bears have shaggy, dusty-black coats; pale, short-haired muzzles; and long, curved claws which they use to excavate termites and ants. A cream-colored “V” or “Y” shape usually marks their chests. Their shaggy fur does not have an undercoat, so it keeps them relatively cool in their native, warm climate and protects them from tropical insects. Sloth bears' nostrils can close completely, protecting the animals from dust or insects when raiding termite nests or beehives. They have a keen sense of smell, as well as near-sight similar to that of humans.


Adult sloth bears are missing their top two front teeth (incisors), which enables them to suck up termites and other insects with ease. Due to their diet of insects and fruit, their premolars and molars are smaller than those of other bears, but they have large canines to use for defence. It is thought that their feet are turned inward to increase digging efficiency.

They grow 5 to 6 feet (1.5 to 2 meters) long, stand 2 to 3 feet (0.5 to 1 meters) high at the shoulder, and weigh, on average, 200 to 300 pounds (90 to 140 kilograms).


They live in a variety of dry and moist forests and in some tall grasslands, where boulders, scattered shrubs and trees provide shelter. Their range includes India, Sri Lanka and southern Nepal.

They are noisy, busy animals. They grunt and snort as they pull down branches to get fruit, dig for termites and ants, or snuffle under debris for grubs and beetles.

If threatened, they will stand on two legs, brandishing their clawed forepaws as weapons. Their large canines are used for defence against tigers. Other potential predators include jackals, wild dogs, wolves, leopards and other Asian bear species.

They are considered myrmecophagous. They feed on termites, ants, also when trees are in fruit, usually during the monsoon season, sloth bears dine on mango, fig, ebony and other fruits, as well as on flowers.

Termites, dug out of their cement-hard nest mounds, and some ants are year-round staples. During non-fruiting season, insects constitute 95 percent of a sloth bear's diet. Sloth bears climb trees and knock down honeycombs, later collecting the honey from the forest floor. Beetles, grubs and other insects round out their diet. During food shortages, sloth bears will eat carrion. They also sometimes raid farm crops.

These bears adapt their sleep-wake cycle to their environment and may be on a nocturnal, diurnal or crepuscular schedule depending on how many other bears, people or predators share their habitat. In protected areas, for example, sloth bears may be more active during the day. Sloth bears are typically active for about eight to 14 hours each day, and they do not hibernate. At the Zoo, they tend to keep a crepuscular schedule, meaning they are active in both the morning and evening but sleep midday and overnight.

Theys are considered solitary, although they are occasionally seen in groups when resources are plentiful.

They only come together during breeding season. The female uses delayed implantation to decide the best time for her pregnancy and birthing. The female will then remain in a den for 6-7 months until she gives birth. The most common number of cubs is 2. After the mother and cubs leave the den, the cubs will ride on the mother’s back and cling to her long fur. No other bear species does this. As they grow, the cubs will begin to walk on the ground. The female nurses the cubs for one year and they will stay with mom for up to 2.5 years.

While not typically aggressive towards humans, can exhibit defensive aggression when surprised or feeling threatened, leading to attacks. These attacks are usually a result of the bear's defence mechanism and not predatory behaviour. Sloth bears are often involved in human-wildlife conflict due to habitat encroachment and encounters in agricultural areas.

 


Monday, 21 July 2025

Uzbekistan

 


Here we are at another Monday, I wasn’t sure I would do a post today due to feeling tired and worn out and not having a lot of motivation but here I am writing about the country of Uzbekistan, not a country I have heard of but I do like doing posts about places and other stuff I know little or nothing about.  This country has a population of around 36 million.



Uzbekistan is a Central Asian nation and former Soviet republic. It's known for its mosques, mausoleums and other sites linked to the Silk Road, the ancient trade route between China and the Mediterranean. Samarkand, a major city on the route, contains a landmark of Islamic architecture: the Registan, a plaza bordered by 3 ornate, mosaic-covered religious schools dating to the 15th and 17th centuries


The capital city is Tashkent, it’s known for its many museums and its mix of modern and Soviet-era architecture. The Amir Timur Museum houses manuscripts, weapons and other relics from the Timurid dynasty. Nearby, the huge State Museum of History of Uzbekistan has centuries-old Buddhist artifacts. The city’s skyline is distinguished by Tashkent Tower, which offers city views from its observation deck.



The official currency is the Sum, the country replaced the ruble with the sum at par in on 16 July 1994. No subdivisions of this sum were initially issued and only banknotes were produced, in denominations of 1, 3, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000, 5,000, and 10,000 sum. Further series, however, have introduced coins and a subunit, the tiyin. Because it was meant to be a transitional currency, the design was rather simplistic.



The flag of Uzbekistan is a horizontal triband with three equal bands of blue, white, and green, separated by two thin red stripes. In the upper left canton (hoist side), there's a white crescent moon and twelve white stars. The blue band represents the sky and water and is also associated with the Turkic peoples. The white represents peace and purity. The green symbolizes nature and new life. The red stripes are a symbol of the power of life. The crescent moon is a traditional Uzbek symbol, and the twelve stars represent the twelve months of the Islamic calendar and the constellations. 

Islam is the predominant religion, with the vast majority of the population identifying as Muslim. While Islam is dominant, there are also other officially recognized faiths, and the country has a diverse religious landscape.

Other faiths are also present, including Russian Orthodox Christianity, Judaism, Buddhism, there are also significant populations of Baha'is, Zoroastrians, and Roman Catholics. 



Uzbekistan's government acknowledges religious freedom, but it also maintains a system of state control over religious organizations, including registration requirements and oversight of religious literature. The Muslim Board of Uzbekistan (MBU) plays a significant role in managing Islamic affairs, and it works within a framework established by the government. 

Uzbek is a Karluk Turkic language spoken by Uzbeks. It is the official and national language of Uzbekistan and formally succeeded Chagatai, an earlier Karluk language endonymically called Türki or Türkçe, as the literary language of Uzbekistan in the 1920s.  However, many other native languages are spoken in the country. These include several other Turkic languages, Persian and Russian.



Sunday, 20 July 2025

Week 29 of 2025

 


I slept well had a good 9hrs &24 Mins and I didn’t wake at all I even had 2hrs of deep sleep.

At around 9.am I started to feel really cold and super tired but after a couple of hours I was feeling better.

Tim cooked crumbed steak and veggies for lunch, it was nice although I did have trouble swallowing twice and Tim told me to stop putting so much food in my mouth.

Tim spent most of the day outside working on the back yard and his veggie garden.

BGL:6.1

Steps:5,521=2.79Klm’s

I slept well had a good 9hrs & 16 Mins and I didn’t wake at all I even had 2hrs 54mins of deep sleep.

Tim and I went to see our GP this morning both of us had no issues with our blood test results.

I had an appointment with my neurologist it was a video appointment she has made no changes to my medication and since the dyskinesia is often and doesn’t last generally for too long, she is not worried about it but would like me to keep a record of when it happens. My next appointment is in January that one will be a face-to-face appointment.

BGL: 6.5

Steps: 3,365=1.69Klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 9hrs and 11mins of sleep.

It is a cold day been raining on and off all day.

Blain came to see me he said he and his girlfriend have moved into a hotel in Adamstown as they don’t feel like they can live with Tasha anymore, why that is I don’t know.

I went and checked the letter box I had three letters, there was one for Jess and one for Tasha.

Tim cooked chicken kiev and chips for tea and it was nice, I liked it and so did Tim.

BGL: 5.4

Steps: 6,893=3.48Klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 9hrs and 19mins of sleep and was awake for 14mins.

It is currently 4C here so pretty cold, should reach a top of 16C.

Tim is working he will leave here around 10.15am and should be home by 6.30pm.

The day did warm up somewhat and I managed to get off my ass and vacuum and get the clothes off the line and folded and put away.

Sue sent me a text about going to see our sister Jeannie tomorrow, I said that will be fine with me, it is Jeannie’s birthday on Saturday.

BGL: 5.1

Steps: 5,522

I slept all night again, getting 10hrs and 39mins of sleep and was awake for 36mins.

It is currently 2C here so pretty cold, should reach a top of 17C.

Noticed Jess car gone this morning found a text from her she is working.

Saw on FB this morning that my niece Temika is having surgery today, what 6,379the hell no one told me she was having surgery. Turns out Sue didn’t know either and Jeannie only found out a week ago when she watched Sandy’s kids.

Sue and I went to see Jeannie and give her birthday presents from me and Sue it was nice seeing her.

It seems Temika was born with something wrong with her arm and need surgery to repair it, it is a big opp they have to break the arm to rest it right, she will have pins and plates in it. I hope it all goes well.

BGL: 5.4

Steps: 6,379= 3.27klm’s

I slept all night again, getting 8hrs and 39mins of sleep and didn’t wake at all.

It’s not as cold this morning with the temp being 7C.

Jess asked if she sent over the stuff would I do a casserole for her lunch. I said yes and have already put it on to cook, I do it in the slow cooker.

Jess & Sam came down and had lunch here that was nice.

This afternoon I started getting stabbing pains in the top of my head which has turned into a headache across my forehead and behind my eyes.

BGL: 5.4

Steps:5,979=3.05Klm’s

JEANNIE’S BIRTHDAY SHE IS 57 TODAY

I slept all night again, getting 8hrs and 56mins of sleep and didn’t wake at all.

It’s a cold morning again temp is 8C.

Tim is working this afternoon and bight he thinks he will be home around 1am.

Sam came over around 7.45pm to use my toilet and then she stayed awhile, and we had a chat about her day out in Sydney with Bailey. She said she had a good day, no issues with transport or anything else.

After Sam left, I went to bed.

BGL 5.4

Steps: 5,423 = 2.76 Klm’s

 

 

Saturday, 19 July 2025

Caturday with Archie

 


Hello, everyone, it is Caturday so time to share a photo of one of the cats in my family this week we have me, Archie.

I there everyone it’s Archie here this is a photon of me trying to see what is behind here, turned out to be nothing but I had to check it out and make sure, mum told me to not try and get between the bed and the wall as I may get stuck. I think if I get stuck mum will rescue me because that’s what mum’s do.



Friday, 18 July 2025

National Anthem of Kazakhstan

 


 

This week we are looking at the national anthem of Kazakhstan.

The former State Anthem of the Republic of Kazakhstan was used as the national anthem of Kazakhstan from 1991 to early 2006. Upon independence in December 1991, the melody of the Anthem of the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic was retained; and new lyrics written and was adopted in 1992.

On 7 January 2006, it was officially replaced by "Menıñ Qazaqstanym", the country's current national anthem.

It is based on a homonymous patriotic song created by Kazakh composer Shamshi Kaldayakov and poet Jumeken Najimedenov in 1956.

Here's a translation of the lyrics:

Verse 1: 

  • From ancient times, our heroic glory has emerged,
  • They did not give up their pride.
  • My Kazakh people are strong!

Chorus: 

  • My country, my country,
  • As your flower I will be planted,
  • As your song I will stream, my country!
  • My native land – My Kazakhstan!

Verse 2: 

  • The way was opened to posterity,
  • I have a vast land.
  • Its unity is proper,
  • I have an independent country.
  • It welcomed the time.
  • Like an eternal friend,
  • Our country is happy,
  • Such is our country.

 

Wednesday, 16 July 2025

Alice Spring NT Australia

 


I have spent most of the day trying to decide what the topic of today’s post would be, and I ended up picking the town of Alice Springs.

Aussies commonly refer to Alice Springs as "The Alice" or simply "Alice".



This is one town I would like to visit one day my parents visited the Alice and enjoyed the visit, I do remember mum & dad telling me that when the bought wine from a bottle shop, they were told to make sure it was covered so it couldn’t be seen by looking in a window and to get in their car and drive to a different area. This was because some of the local aboriginals would break into the car if they saw grog inside and if they were seen placing alcohol in the car and walking away the car would be broken into.

Alice Springs is a remote town in Australia’s Northern Territory, halfway between Darwin and Adelaide, both 1,500km away. It’s a popular gateway for exploring the Red Centre, the country's interior desert region. Its 1872 origin as part of the Overland Telegraph Line (linking Darwin and Adelaide) is preserved in the vintage buildings and equipment at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station Historical Reserve.


It has an estimated population of around 28,922. This is based on the Alice Springs Town Council LGA profile, which was last updated in January 2025. The town is the major settlement in Central Australia and a significant population centre in the Northern Territory. 

The population of Alice Springs is an estimate because it is based on projections and statistical modelling rather than a direct head count. The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) uses various methods, including census data and estimated resident population (ERP) figures, to calculate population numbers, but these are subject to revision and may not perfectly reflect the actual population at any given time, especially in smaller areas like Alice Springs. 



Alice Springs was established in 1872 with the construction of the Alice Springs Telegraph Station, part of the Australian Overland Telegraph Line (OTL) connecting Adelaide to Darwin. It was originally named Stuart, but the settlement near the telegraph station was later renamed Alice Springs in 1933. The name Alice Springs was given by W.W. Mills, after Alice Todd, wife of Sir Charles Todd, who was instrumental in the construction of the telegraph line. 

The Arrernte people are the traditional owners and custodians of Alice Springs, also known as Mparntwe in the Arrernte language. They have a deep and enduring connection to the land, dating back tens of thousands of years. The Arrernte have stories and significant sites related to the creation of the landscape, including the MacDonnell Ranges.


Alice Springs is famous for its unique location in the heart of Australia, its strong Aboriginal culture and art scene, and its stunning natural landscapes, including the MacDonnell Ranges. It's also known as a hub for exploring the broader Red Centre region and for its outback character.

Alice Springs faces a complex combination of social and crime-related issues that contribute to a perception of danger. These include high rates of alcohol-related violence, property crime, and domestic violence, along with concerns about youth crime and the impact of past policies. While the town has a diverse population and attracts tourists, these issues have led to increased fear and anxiety among residents. 



While Alice Springs faces significant challenges, it's important to acknowledge that it is also a place of cultural significance, with a diverse population and a strong community spirit. Efforts are underway to address the underlying issues and improve safety and well-being for all residents. 

 

Tuesday, 15 July 2025

Asiatic Black Bear

 


This week’s bear is the Asiatic Black Bear, these bears can be found in eastern Asia including Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Cambodia, China, India, Islamic Republic of Iran, Japan, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Russian Federation, Taiwan and Vietnam.

They have long black fur with a distinct white patch on the chest that is often crescent-shaped. The fur around the shoulders and throat is particularly long, and their ears are relatively large. The tail is short and is barely visible under a long, coarse coat. The black pelage has a light beige to white “V” shape on the chest area, a small beige to white coloured crescent across the throat, and a small spot of white on the chin. The white fur on the muzzle seldom reaches the orbits of the bear. 



The size differs between males and females. Males typically weigh 110 to 150 kg, while females weigh 65 to 90 kg. The head and body measure 120 to 180 cm in length, while the tail is an additional 6.5 to 10.6 cm. The head is large and rounded, and the eyes are small. The ears are large and are set farther apart than on an American black bear. The body is heavy, the legs are thick and strong, and the paws are broad.

They are more carnivorous than their American counterparts, although only a small part of their diet is made up of meat. This includes small mammals, birds, fish, molluscs and carcasses. They also feed on grasses, fruits, berries, seeds, insects and honey. In autumn they fatten up for the winter by feeding on nuts. In northern climates they hibernate. In southern climates they do not hibernate.

Little is known about Asiatic black bears in the wild; most of what is known about their social and reproductive behaviour has been collected by observing the bears in zoos and environments other than their natural habitat.

In captive environments, the mating pattern of Asiatic black bears is classified as promiscuous. The gestation period is typically 6 to 8 months. This period includes a period of delayed implantation, where the fertilized egg floats freely in the uterus for a time before attaching to the uterine wall and developing further. 

In the wild, Asiatic black bears typically forage alone. However, during breeding season, pairs can be seen hunting and gathering together.

 


They have a lifespan on around 25yrs in the wild and around 35-40yrs in captive.

They are listed as "Vulnerable" by the IUCN, meaning they face a high risk of extinction in the wild. Their populations are decreasing due to habitat loss, poaching, and the illegal trade of bear parts, particularly bile for traditional medicine. Here are some regional estimates of numbers:

    • China: Estimates range from 16,000 to 50,000. 
    • Japan: Estimates range from 12,000 to 20,000. 
    • India: Estimates range from 5,000 to 7,000. 
    • Russia: Estimates range from 5,000 to 7,000. 
    • Iran: Around 100-200. 
    • South Korea: Approximately 40, following reintroduction efforts

They are generally considered dangerous to humans, with documented cases of both unprovoked and provoked attacks. While they are not as frequently involved in attacks as some other bear species, they are known to raid crops, damage property, and injure or kill people. Attacks are more common during late summer, coinciding with mating season. 

 


 

Week 32 of 2025

  Slept well didn’t wake at all during the night got 9hrs and 18mins sleep and the watch says I was awake for 21 minutes. It is still wet ...