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© 2024 The Illawarra Flame
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Nature notes: boys in blue, a new botanic garden & the Community Cleaneruppa and Cuppa

The boys are back in town

Along with the influx of insects and the warmer weather in general, the changing of the male superb fairy wrens into their breeding suits is a sure sign that spring has sprung! This change in plumage, the ‘eclipse plumage’ refers to the change both into and out of breeding colours and can be seen around Spring and Autumn respectively. Usually, one of the older and more dominant males will stay that striking royal blue all year round, so you know he’s the boss of the boys.

The 'eclipse plumage'. Photo: Amanda De George

From little things, big things grow

Bulli's Grevillea Park is the Illawarra’s newest Botanic Garden! Thirty years of hard work has gone into creating the park and, as park volunteer John Elton writes here in The Illawarra Flame, the garden is only going to go from strength to strength.

Photo: Illawarra Grevillea Park Botanic Garden

Community cleaneruppa and cuppa

Several communities are taking part in the Community Cleaneruppa and Cuppa come September 3rd, spearheaded by Brendan Reilly. The plan is to meet at the designated spot for your local crew, clean up the area – you know, grab any rubbish lying around – and then head off to your nearest participating cafe for a FREE coffee. Win Win. At the time of writing, Bellambi, Thirroul and Cringila all looked set to participate.

For more details head to Community Cleaneruppa and Cuppa on Facebook