Thailand History Guide » Thailand Nature

Bird’s Nest Soup (A Soup Tonic)

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:57:26 +0000

Bird’s nest soup made with traditional ingredients has long been used as a tonic in Chinese medicine, and 10 protect the body against various ailments. Recent research on the nutritional value of birds’ nest has shown the presence of a soluble glycoprotein Ihal may promote growth, tissue repair and cell division within the immune system.

Bird's Nest Soup Ingredient

Bird's Nest Soup

Building the Birds’ Nest

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:46:17 +0000

The bird makes chewing and retching movements of the bill and throat, as the saliva is regurgitated and worked around the mouth. Saliva is smeared on the edge of the nest with the sides of the bill. The nest takes shape as a pad of hardened saliva adhering to the wall. Subsequently a rim is added and material is laid down in layers until a small cup-shaped nest is finally formed.

Building the Birds' Nest

Caves

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:42:45 +0000

Besides the swiftlets, an interacting community of animals known as troglodytes may be found in the caves. Bats are abundant. Both bats and swiftlets produce guano, which is fed upon by insects such as moths and cockroaches. These insects in turn provide food for other predalors such as bugs, centipedes and geckos. The mosl common predators of the swiftlets and their nestlings are the snakes. hawks and eagles that hunt in the surrounding areas, and the eggeating crickets.

Cricket

Bat Hawk

Caves

Collecting Birds’ Nests

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:29:50 +0000

In Thailand this is carried out between February and July. Three collections are made each breeding season. Birds’ nests are usually found in the lofty and dark interiors of caves. The nest collector, armed with a small torchlight and rope, stealthily climbs up the bamboo still that leads him to the nest.

Collection Bird's Nests Tools

Collecting Birds' Nests

Birds’ Nests of Southern Thailand

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 20:07:15 +0000

Thailand is one of the major producers of edible birds’ nests, a delicacy in Chinese cuisine dating as far back as the Ming and Qing dynasties of the 17th century. The swiftlets (nok kin lom) nest in caves along the southwestern coast and on the offshore islands. They find their way by echolocation. A series of up to 20 audible clicks per second is emitted and the echoes reflecting off the walls enable the birds to maneuver in the darkness. Already an expensive delicacy, these birds’ nests could become more expensive as overcollection threatens the normal cycle of nest building.

Birds of Southern Thailand

Type of Birds’ Nests

The black nest swiftlet (Aerodramus maximus) uses its black feathers to build nests, hence the name “black nest.” In contrast, the white nest swiftlet (Aerodramus fuciphagus) builds its nest wholly with saliva.

Birds

Birds' Nests

Grades of Birds’ Nests

The price of edible birds’ nests varies according to their quality. White nests, wholly made of saliva, are more expensive. The best birds’ nests are the first ones built during the breeding season. Thicker and translucent white, they expand to almost 20 times their volume upon soaking. Second and third nests are of lower grade, appearing dirtier and thinner.

Color and Quality of Birds’ Nests

Some supposedly high-quality nests are reddish. However, the coloration bears no relation to blood and may have leached into the nest from the substrate.

Birds' Nests

Coral Reefs and Polyps

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:53:34 +0000

Coral reefs provide and important source of food and income to local Thais. Acoral polyp is a soft, almost transparent animal that builds its skeleton outside its body. Polyps feed at night by Extending their tentacles, each of which is armed with a series of stinging cells that paralyse any passing prey. The moray eel is a key predator in the reef ecosystem; it hides in crevices. lunging out to seize unsuspecting fish.

Coral Reefs and Polyps

Parrot Fish

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:47:41 +0000

Parrot fish have. large scales and a typically bird-like beak formed of fused teeth.

Parrot Fish

Triggerfish

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:45:10 +0000

Its common name refers 10 an erect spine in its dorsal fin, which cannot be released until a second spine (the trigger) is withdrawn.

Triggerfish

Emperor Fish

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:42:49 +0000

This fish has one of the largest territories of all coral-reef dwellers.

Emperor Fish

Surgeon Fish

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 19:38:45 +0000

Originating in the Indo-Pacific region, Ihis species is quite aggressive.

Sugeron Fish

Coachman Fish

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:19:19 +0000

The name of this fish derives from the long, whip-like appendages that often hang from its dorsal fin.

Coachman Fish

Green Turtle

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:06:49 +0000

Green turtles are exploited for their shell, flesh and eggs, and their numbers have been decimated wherever they occur.

Green Turle

Coral Reefs

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:02:55 +0000

The coral reef ecosystem is one of the richest habitats on earth. Coral colonies are composed of countless individuals – polyps – that feed on plankton. Although coral reefs can cover a large area, they grow very slowly: it may take 1,000 years for a reef to grow just 3 feet. When corals die, their skeletons remain and a new generation of polyps can grow on top of them. Each type of coral has its own distinctive shape, adding further to the splendor of the reef ecosystem.

Thai Silks

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:47:46 +0000

The silk industry in Thailand is now located mainly in the northeast of the country. The larvae of the Mulberry bombyx, probably the best-known Thai moth, produce silk. This moth docs not exist in the wild. Having long been domesticated, it has even lost the ability to fly.

A Mural Painting

A mural painting from Wat Phumin in Nan Province, showing a lanna lady selecting spools of yarn while working at a Thai frame loom.

Silkworms

After ecdysis the silkworms are placed on bamboo trays, known as jo, where they secrete a fibrous slime that protects them until metamorphosis.

Cocoons

The filaments are spun and eventually skeins are produced. Each cocoon yields about 2,000 feet of usable thread (mai luad), although in total a mature cocoon can contain over 1 mile of thread in about 30 layers. Silk made from thread still coaled with sericin is called raw silk. Natural silk or tussah is the silk produced by undomesticated caterpillars living in trees.

Silks Thread

The raw thread is bright yellow. Before weaving it is washed first in a herbal mixture made from the bark and leaves of the banana tree, and then in a ke solution made from a thorny vine that is commonly found on
hillsides, then dyed. Traditional dyes used include lac, indigo, krajai berries and thalang roots. To the cast of Chiang Mai, on the way
to Charoen Muang. it is possible to visil a magmlllerie (silkworm rearing house) and to taste chrysalides which have been grilled after the removal of their silk filaments.

Traditional Silk Loom

Thai Silks

Bhutanitis Lidderdali

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:17:03 +0000

This butterfly is from the northern mountain valleys. At rest, its hind wings are covered by the fore wings, hiding their magnificent colors and allowing the insect to blend with its surroundings.

Bhutanitis Lidderdali

Terinos Clarissa

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:11:55 +0000

The terinos clarissa belongs to the nymphalides family. This small butterfly is mauve, varying in shade with the angle of vision. It flies discreetly close to the ground in the deep forest and at rest it is camouflaged against the vegetation.

Terinos Clarissa

Acherontia Lachesis

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:09:54 +0000

The Acherontia lachesis, which lives in the northern mountains, is the Thai cousin of the European “Death’s head kawk moth” (A. atropos). It is a nocturnal butterfly and will risk its life to penetrate beehives to gorge itself on the honey.

Acherontia Lachesis

Papilo Arcturus

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:03:49 +0000

The black part of the wings of the Papilio arcturus as though it is sprinkled with emerald dust. This spectacular butterfly can often be seen
along mountain tracks.

Papilo Arcturus

Troides Aeacus

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:01:37 +0000

The Troides aeacus reigns in the north. Its caterpillar deters birds and insectivorous reptiles by living on a poisonous liana, the aristoloche, which protects it against predators. This butterfly has recently been
designated an endangered species.

Troides Aeacus

Sticophtalma Camadeva

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:59:27 +0000

This is the biggest diurnal butterfly in Thailand and South East Asia with a wing span of 5.6 inches.

Sticophtalma Camadeva

Atrophaneura Polyeuctes

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:56:37 +0000

A jungle butterfly that sometimes ventures into towns and villages.

Atrophaneura Polyeuctes

Life cycle of the Mulberry Bombyx

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:52:33 +0000

1-2 days Ovigenesis

10-12 dyas Hatching

15-18 Days Ecdysis

4-6 days Silk spinning

4-12 days Pupation

Life cycle of the Mulberry Bombyx

Butterflies and Moths

thailandhistoryguide — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:30:19 +0000

Several spectacular species of butterfly are found in the mountain ranges of north and northwest Thailand, near Chiang Rai, Pai, Mae hong Son, and in the national park northwest of Chiang Mai. In the cultivated zones, ricefields and rubber plantations, few species have survived the process of deforestation. The entire zone from Lampang to Chiang Mai is undergoing reforestation but the plant species being used do not prouce a habitat favorable to the reestablishment of butterfly species. Certain “cosmopolitan” species of butterfly can travel for miles cross oceans. The first explorers to arrive in Siam Found several well-known European, African and North American species.

Northern of Thailand

Butterflies and Moths

1. Doi inthanon, highest point in Thailand (8,547 feet), poor soil and cold climate where small mountain butterflies are found.
2. Chedi (6,600-8,250 feet), few cultivated areas and little highland forests. Habitat of small butterflies.
3. Chiang Mai plains, pierides and swallow-tail butterflies.
4 Mae Chaem, cultivated valley (1,580 feet) with a wide range of butterflies within the low vegetation.
5. Mae Suring rain forest (330-4,950 feet), privileged home to the most beautiful specimens in Thailand.
6. Khun Yuan (1,650-3,300 feet), a zone where rain forest butterflies live side by side with the samll valley species.

Rice Harvesting

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:03:01 +0000

The harvesting of a paddy crop marks Ihe end of a long period of hard labor and no time is lost in cutting the ripened golden stalks lest wild animals or inclement weather threaten to destroy the season’s efforts. Rice sialks are harvesled using a sharp sickle; the curter lays the stalks tenderly on the ground in his wake. Later these will be collecled and stacked, prior to lhreshing.

Rice harvesting

Ripening

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 19:00:08 +0000

Through careful management of the water level, the plants flourish, grain heads develop and swell as the sun ripens the swaying stalks. This stage of growth is the least demanding in terms of labor input, but there are always water levels to be controlled, dykes to be repaired and nursery beds to be tended elsewhere in the riceficlds.

Ripening

Transplanting the seedlings

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:57:48 +0000

Once the ricefield has been flooded and suitably prepared, bunches of bright green seedlings are transplanted from the tiny nursery beds where they were raised. This work is done entirely by hand, people laboring all day to set out row upon row of tender young plants. The softened mud base facilitates the planting process and seedlings quickly take root in this habitat.

Transplanting the Seedlings

Preparing The Land

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:53:42 +0000

The farmer and the water buffalo drag a heavy plow to loosen up the water-logged soil, and their trampling actions also help to redistribute the valuable nutrients stored in the soil. Prior to planting, a heavy log is pulled across the muddy base to prepare a firm bed for the young seedlings.

Preparing the Land

Pests in the ricefields

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:47:48 +0000

The ricefield mouse and rat are common inhabitants of all ricefields and open grasslands, feeding on fallen grain, seeds and insects. The rat may also feed on rice plants and may be a pest in granaries where the dry grain is stored.

Pests in the ricefields

Harvesting the rice and threshing

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:43:13 +0000

The long stalks of ripe corn are harvested and then beaten over a drum to dislodge the grains from the chaff. Winnowing sifts off any remaining waste while the plump rice grains are dried in the sun before being stored.

Rice Harvesting

Comb Duck

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:40:54 +0000

The comb duck is a frequent visitor to ricefields and it nests on the edges of wooded marshland. It Oies with broad wing beats.

Comb Duck

Egrets and Herons

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:39:15 +0000

The rich aquatic and terrestrial life of the ricefields attracts large numbers of herons and egrets in all seasons. Although egrets and herons usually feed alone, they often roost together, which probably assists in detecting predators.

Herons

Egret

Bright Green Seedlings

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:33:28 +0000

The bright green seedlings clustered in ricefields prior to transplanting and the sundrenched
fields of rice that await haNcsting are familiar sights in Thailand.

Ricefields

Bird of the Ricefields

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:30:49 +0000

The ricefields provide a rich feeding haven for a variety of birds. Some of the most common of these are the munias, a group of small, seed-eating birds that feed on ripening rice. These, in turn, attract aerial predators such as the black-shouldered kite and marsh harrier, which may also feed on amphibians such as frogs.

Birds of the Ricefields

Papaya Trees

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:26:18 +0000

AU available land is cultivated. Papaya and banana trees are frequently planted on the verges of the ricefields.

Papaya Tree

Life at the water’s edge

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:24:40 +0000

The ricefield provides an ideal habitat for reptiles, fish and amphibians. Many of the fields are deliberately stocked with carp and catfish, which feed on decaying plants, algae and insect larvae. Frogs also help control the level of harmful insects, thereby eliminating the use of costly and often destructive pesticides.

Eel

Fish

Frogs

Beast of Burden

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:18:13 +0000

Although mechanical means of plowing ricefields are now available, most farmers still prefer
traditional means of cultivation involving the use of the water buffalo as a general beast of
burden. Known locally as the ”Asian tractor”‘, the water buffalo is also an important source of
milk and meat for many people. Its hide is used in clothing and its dung is collected as a fertilizer or as a source of fuel for burning.

Beast of Burden

Ricefields

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 18:08:52 +0000

An extraordinary amount of human energy is invested in producing the rice crop throughout the year. Rice plays an important role in the daily lives of the people, providing the staple diet for the Thai population as well as being a major export crop. Many cultural rituals are closely tied to the cultivation of rice and complex calculations are made to predict forthcoming rainfall patterns and the bounty of future crops. Little has changed in the ric;efields of Thailand over the centuries and, in addition to providing an important wildlife refuge for a large number of species, they also remain a source of great spiritual and intellectual inspiration.

Ricefields

Rhizophora Mucronata

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:59:31 +0000

Rhizophora mucronata produces pointed spikes that form effective instant seedlings. Equipped with tiny leaves at the top end, they drop off the parent inlo the mud below
and take root al once. Apart from this unusual mode of propagation, Rhizophom mucronata produces conventional seeds as well.

Rhizophora Mucronata

Bird Species

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:56:42 +0000

The collared kingfisher (1), gray heron (2) and little cormorant (3) are bird species common in the coastal swamps and mud flats.

Bird of Mangroves Forests

Mangrove Snake

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:54:21 +0000

The mangrove snake is particularly adapted to this unusual habitat and is found just above the water level.

Mangrove Snake

The Estuarine Crocodile

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:52:14 +0000

This large estuarine crocodile is rarely seen. Forest clearance and aquaculture projects are responsible for its dwindling numbers.

Estuarine Crocodile

Cross Section of the Mangrove Coastline

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:41:06 +0000

Cross section of the mangrove coastline. The swamps are criss-crossed by tidal channels, which are often bordered by the Nipa palm. The mangrove’s enormous root syslems are the dominant feature of the habitat. It extends to the low tide mark, below which the roots cannol obtain enough oxygen for growth. Where the ground rises above high tide mark level away from the open sea, the surroundings gradually assume the character of lowland rain forest.

Mangrove Coastline

Below the water level, the mud and the roots give shelter to a plethora of marine life, including fish, crabs and molluscs.

Below The Water

Hardy Fruits of Amoora

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:36:00 +0000

Hardy fruits of Amoora calcullata and Xylocarups gremata. There are few flowers or fruits in the maqngrove forest.

Hardy Fruits of Amoora

The Fruit of the Nipa Palm

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:33:08 +0000

The fruit of the nipa palm is edible. The Nipa borders waterways in the mangrove deltas off the open sea and usually covers much of the swamp area.

The fruit of the Nipa palm

Free Form Furniture

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:29:24 +0000

Free form furniture, made from the roots of the magrove.

Free Form Furniture

Charcoal Making

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:27:25 +0000

Charcoal making is one of the many threats facing the coastal mangrove forest. Shrimp farming is another.

Charcoal Making

Crab-eating Macaques

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:23:52 +0000

Crab-eating macaques are one of the numerous mammal species living in this environment.

Crab-eating Macaques

Mangroves Forests

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 17:16:11 +0000

Mangroves and intertidal mudflats are of great conservation value in Thailand, helping sustain valuable inshore fisheries and protecting the coast from erosion. With a constant supply of water, sunlight and nutrients the rate of growth of mangrove trees is very fast. The most extensive and species-rich mangrove ecosystems are found along the west coast of the peninsula. There are also several important mangroves and mudflats on the east coast, as well as in the inner gulf, although large areas have been converted to prawn ponds. The total area of mangrove forest is about 2,300 square miles most of which are along the west coast.

A mangrove coast msouthern Thailand, covering sinking limestone ranges millions of years old. As the sea level changes, the mangrove forest cover advances or retreats.

Mangrove Forest

Nutrients Recycling

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:59:31 +0000

Different forms of plants and animals have evolved in harmony on the forest floor to recycle decaying materials such as leaves and trce trunks. returning valuable nutriems back to the soil. In time Ihese are take up by other plams. sustaining the incredible diversity that exists in the forest and thereby continuing the natural cycle that began millions of years ago. The harmony and natural balance of this network is threatened by deforestation. shifting agriculcurc and human intrusions.

Nutrients Recycling

Slow Loris

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:55:33 +0000

This is a solitary nocturnal primate with large eyes and a thickly furred body.

Slow Loris

Pangolin

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:53:54 +0000

The scaly armor plating of the pangolin allows il to roll inlo a tight ball when threatened. It feeds exclusively on allts and termites.

Pangolin

Clouded Leopard

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:51:33 +0000

Living in tall sccondaly forests, the clouded leopard is a nocturnal predator that feeds on pigs, deer, monkeys and smaller animals.

Clouded Leopard

Elephant

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:49:32 +0000

The largest land mammal in Thailand, the Asian elephant is now a rare sight, with fewer than 3,000 animals remaining. Most of them are found in the national parks of the northeast.

Elephant

Tiger

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:47:38 +0000

This is the largest member of the cat family; fewer than 250 now survive in Thailand.

Tiger

Palm Civet

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:45:39 +0000

The agile small-toothed palm civet is a nocturnal species that searches for insects, fruit and small mammals in the branches of tall secondary forests.

Palm Civet

Binturong

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:42:54 +0000

Resembling a small bear, the binturong has a bushy, prehensile tail that enables it to feed in the trees as well as on the ground.

Binturong

Nutrient Storage

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:39:59 +0000

While in temperate forests a high proportion of nutrients is held in the soil (left-hand colunms. above); in the poorer tropical soil, Ihey are held in the biomass (right-hand columns, above). Because the scarce soil nutrients are found near the surface. the roots of the trees seldom grow deeper than 26 feet.

Nutrient Storage

Layer of Tropical Forests

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:34:15 +0000

162 Feet :: Emergent Layer

The few emergent trees above the canopy are home to insectivorous bats and birds such as eagles and bornbills.

122 Feet :: Canopy Layer

The canopy is a continuous layer of foliage about 22 feet deep that supports a broad variety of animals. Mammals like flying squirrels, gibbons and macaques feed on the rich supply of fruit leaves, bark and nuts.

79 Feet :: Understory

Mammals like the peculiar binturong, pangolin and civet move freely in the understory between the ground and the upper tree layer in search of morsels and a safe place to rest.

41 Feet :: Forest Floor

At the top of the food chain are predators such as tigers or leopards that stalk their wary prey in the shade of the lower canopy and the forest floor.

Ground

The plants, insects and fungi that dwell at ground level are fed upon by mammals and birds.

Layer of Tropical Forests

Foliage

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:10:56 +0000

The leaves of the canopy can change their positions in order to catch the maximum amount of sunlight. Their drip-tips allow the rain to drain away and the waxy coating is a protection against algae and moss.

Foliage

Tapir

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 16:07:17 +0000

A shy forest-dweller, this herbivore is often found near quiet rivers and wallows, feeding on leaves and small trees.

Tapir

Pig-Tailed Macaques

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 15:21:29 +0000

These are diurnal primates, living in groups of 15-30 animals, feeding on fruit, small vertebrates and insects. They are mostly found in hill forests.

Pig-Tailed Macaques

Sun Birds

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 14:53:26 +0000

In their search for nectar, sunbirds carry pollinia from flower to flower thus acting as pollinating agents.

Sun Birds

Pollination

thailandhistoryguide — Sun, 17 Aug 2008 12:54:33 +0000

Bees and wasps are the most common pollinators of wild orchids. When the insect lands on the labellum, the pollinin adheres 10 its body. It is then transferred 10 other flowers.

Pollination : Bees

Cattleyas

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:59:37 +0000

This variety of orchids, named after William Cattley, the first horticulturist successfully to grow epiphytic orchids in England, is the most popular orchid in cultivated collections. Orchidists and breeders artificially cross pollinating species within a genus or intergenetically, can create the most dazzling hybrids, many of which are developed for the cut folower market.

Cattleyas

Dendrobrium Trigonopsis

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:55:48 +0000

As indicated in its name dendrobrium from the Greek word dendroll (tree). this aerial species grows on trees. Though its habitat ranges from lhe tropical forests of Malaysia 10 the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas, this flower is mostly found in the depth of the jungles of Thailand, Burma and Laos.

Dendrobrium Trigonopsis

Bulbophyllum Concinnum

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:52:07 +0000

A common sight in mangroves and wetlands, this flower belongs to the largest group of orchids. Its rhizomes creep on tree roots and branches. producing clusters of golden spiky petals.

Bulbophyllum Concinnum

Aerides Odoratum

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:48:44 +0000

The poetical name of this orchid, “children of the air”, refer to its epiphytic habit. Also known as the “foxtail orchid,” this fragrant flower comes in various shades of ivory, magenta and pink.

Aerides Odoratum

Pseudo Copulation

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:44:57 +0000

Some orchids produce an aroma similar 10 that of female organs of insects. thus deceiving their pollinators. Lured inlo mating with the flower, the insect shakes the pollinia out of the anther cap, involuntarily causing pollination.

Vanda Coerulea

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 18:41:46 +0000

This spectacular blue orchid native to Thailand belongs 10 the Yanda family. It grows at high altitudes between 3,300 feet and 4,600 feel, and can be found in the mountains around Chiang Mai.

Vanda Coerulea

Brown Throated Sunbird

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:21:07 +0000

Among the many resident bird species that inhabit the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve (SBWR), the sunbirds possess one of the most brilliantly coloured plumage. The bright colours are found only on the adult males with the females and young males clad mainly in varying hues of olive, green and yellow. Belonging to the family Nectariniidae, sunbirds are distributed from Africa to Asia and Australia. In Singapore, six species of sunbirds occur, of which four have been recorded at SBWR. That is about 4% of the total sunbird species worldwide. Of the four species, the most abundant at SBWR is the Brown-throated, also known as the Plain-throated Sunbird (Anthreptes malacensis). The Olive-backed Sunbird (Nectarinia jugularis) is the next most numerous followed by the Copper-throated Sunbird (Nectarinia calcostetha) and the Crimson Sunbird (Aethopyga siparaja).

Sunbirds are essentially nectar feeders, but they are also known to take small insects. Superficially resembling the well-known hummingbirds of Central and South America, sunbirds however have strong feet and legs and have short rounded wings. Sunbirds have relatively long, slender decurved bills that enable them to probe into suitable flowers for nectar.

Their nests are unusual. Generally pear-shaped, globular or oval and composed of grass, fibres and cobwebs, they are usually suspended from the ends of terminal twigs. Clutches of two eggs is typical.

The survival of sunbirds has been monitored at SBWR through ringing studies. Although very small and active, sunbirds are known to have long lives in the wild. For example, the Brown-throated Sunbird, has been known to live for at least 61 months (5 years) in SBWR while studies in other localities have revealed lives exceeding 12 years! For the other species, SBWR has recorded (between ringing and subsequent capture) durations of 60 months (5 years) for the Olive-backed Sunbird and 61 months (5 years) for the Copper-throated Sunbird.

The Copper-throated Sunbird (Nectarinia calcostetha) is one of the more interesting species. Found only in South-east Asia, they live within the mangrove forest. They are one of the few bird species that are global mangrove specialists. Nesting on mangrove trees like Avicennia alba they feed from the flowers of mangroves like the Bruguiera gymnorhiza. Males have iridescent coppery red throats with iridescent green on the crown, shoulder and uppertail. Females have white throats and are mostly decorated in grey and yellow. They are sexually dimorphic with adult males being about 10% longer and 20% heavier than adult females. Nests have been seen in the reserve between April and August and it has been known to nest from January to September in other localities.

Perhaps the most abundant sunbird at the wetland, the Brown-throated Sunbird, can be seen in all areas of SBWR. It is also the largest sunbird species in SBWR (and Singapore). Weighing in at a maximum of 14.0g, males are generally larger than females especially in terms of body length. Possessing reddish eyes (iris) when they are adults (the other three species have dark brown eyes), they have olive brown eyes as juveniles.

What about the smallest sunbird species in SBWR? Either the Crimson Sunbird or the Olive-backed Sunbird qualifies. These two species also share a common characteristic that is the exhibition of an eclipse plumage in the males. This is essentially a short-term post-breeding plumage. Whatever the plumage type, the adult male Crimson Sunbird appears like a tiny red dot amongst the vegetation. It weighs about 7.0g (about the weight of a 50 cent coin) with females being slightly lighter. The females have the dubious honour of having perhaps the dullest plumage of any sunbird in the region with only dull olive and yellow to adorn herself.

The Olive-backed Sunbird is more abundant than the Crimson Sunbird. Many of them can be seen flitting among the flowering trees at the Visitor Centre complex especially on sunny days.

There is no doubt that the sunbirds as a group add life, colour and sound to the green vegetation in SBWR and Singapore in general. Generally, to attract and encourage sunbird populations to increase, it is important to cater to their food and nest requirements. Suitable free flowering trees and plants provide abundant nectar as food. Many types of trees may also be used as nest sites while grass patches serve to provide building material for the nest. SBWR has taken these measures and the population of sunbirds at the site serve as an indicator of the success of these measures. More studies await those interested in understanding especially the population dynamics, species interactions and carrying capacities of these sunbirds at SBWR.

Brown Throated Sunbird

Cymbidium Siamensis

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 16:12:05 +0000

Cymbidium orchids, from the Greek word kymbioi, which means boat-shaped, were praised by Confucius as the “queen of all flowers’” Although such orchids occur allover Asia, this particular ivory species is native to Thailand where it grows at altitudes of between 1,000 and 2.500 feet.

Cymbidium Siamensis

Gardens in the air

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 15:22:50 +0000

Falling organic litter lodged between the tree branches forms a rich soil in which epiphytic plants such as bromeliads and orchids grow. Orchids are non-parasitic species. Their elaborate structure allows them to make the most of the supply of rainwater and nutrients without damaging their host plants.

Gardens in the air

Corybas

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 15:19:02 +0000

This terrestrial orchid named after the Corybas, the dancing priests of Phrygia, because of its helmet-shaped sepals, lives in the dark undergrowth of the rain forest. It thrives on the abundant supply of moisture and nutrients of the forest soil.

Corybas

Venus’ Slipper

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 16 Aug 2008 15:14:48 +0000

This yellow terrestrial orchid is found growing at low altitudes in limestone crevices near the coastal areas of Thailand. southern Burma and Cambodia.

Venus Slipper

Tropical Forests

thailandhistoryguide — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 18:08:26 +0000

Tropical forests are like a kaleidoscope of different worlds, They cover a of the earth’s land surface and are home to about half of the known species of animal and plant life. The forests are confined to a belt around the equator, where the stable climate, temperature and humidity permit a great diversity of vegetation and wildlife.

Tropical Forests

Constant temperature and high humidity levels favor the growth of lianas, trailing vines, lichens and epiphytes.

Tropical Forests

The buttress or stilt-like roots of the trees help support them in the shallow soil.

Tropical Forests

The dark forest floor is alive with communities of omnivorous insects such as ants and termites.

Thai Orchids

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:33:35 +0000

The orchid family is the largest of the flower kingdom, with more than 35,000 wild species and as many hybrids. Thailand’s tropical forests and mangroves. host an amazing diversity of both terrestrial and epiphytic species, presenting a vast array of shapes, sizes, vibrant colors and intoxicating perfumes. Breeders in orchid farms continually produce new hybrid species using artificial cross-pollination and propagation methods. Their creations are in great demand for the international cut flower market.

Thai Orchids

Thai Orchid

Monitor Lizard

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:24:48 +0000

The monitor lizard is a diurnal species that feeds on insects, eggs, fish, other lizards, snakes, nestling birds and small mammals.

Monitor Lizard

Green Peafowl

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:21:50 +0000

The only viable population of green peafowls remaining in Thailand is found in the Huai Kha Khaeng Wildlife Sanctuary where about 300 birds gain refuge.

Green Peafowl

Fungi

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 06:17:29 +0000

As part of the nutrient recycling scheme of the natural forest, fungi play an essential role in all forests and woodlands.

Fungi

Wild Ginger

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:07:20 +0000

One of a large number of economically valuable plants thai grow wild in the forests of Thailand, the wild ginger plant is believed to have a number of medicinal healing properties that are now being investigated.

Wild Ginger

Thailand Forest

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 05:02:58 +0000

Montane Evergreen Forest

This is typified by an open canopy with trees festooned in lichens and epiphytes. Trees are also much shorter and less straight when compared with those of lowland forest.

Hill Evergreen Rain Forest

Climbing from montane evergreen forests. an unclear transition zone of slightly smaller trees that are widely spaced apart lies at an altitude of 2,300-2,600 feet above sea level.

Evergreen Rain Forest

True evergreen rain forest exists only in the extreme southern region of peninsular Thailand, near the Malaysian border.

Tropical Rain Forest

It is one of the richest ecosystems on the planet today.

Mixed Deciduous Forest

It supports a great proportion of the country’s interesting and varied wildlife.

Bamboo Forest

Bamboo stands are present in monsoon forests and generally thrive in areas previously cleared by man, blocking out most growth beneath their lofty foliage.

Dry deciduous woodlands

Extensive dry deciduous woodlands with some dipterocarp species still occur in the north and east of the country.

Riverine Grasslands

Open patches of riverien grassland and savanna are important feeding and browsing areas for many forest herbivores. many areas of grassland were formerly forested but regular outbreaks of fire prevent woody regeneration of these ares.

Mangroves

Coastal mangrove formations help protect shorelines from erosion and also provide a safe haven and nersery ground for a huge variety of fish species.

Thailand Forest

Asian Black Bear

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:41:56 +0000

The Asian black bear is a forest dweller that feeds mainly on nuts and fruit, as well as ants, insect larvae and carrion.

Asian Black Bear

Hornbill

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:38:01 +0000

The strong and often ornate beak of the harnbill is perfectly molded for picking and cracking large fruit and seed pods from a wide range of forest plants.

Hornbill

Leaf Monkey and Gibbon

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 04:06:09 +0000

These primates dwell in the forest canopy and feed on fruit and leaves. The leaf monkey has a large, especially adapted stomach Similar to that of a cow.

Gibbon

: Leaf Monkey

Red Rhododendron

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 03:52:30 +0000

Like other Rhododendrons, this shrub blooms from late winter through the end of spring. Bright flowers grow large and grow thick… blanketing the foliage below. Though red is the dominant color, some blooms can take on shades of orange, red-orange, apricot and yellow. Red Rhododendron is also known for its potent fragrance. Red Rhododendron can grow up to 8 feet in height, with an equal width. This evergreen can work as part of a border planting plan, be used as part of a hedge growth, or be set up as a spotlight piece in your garden. This is an easy to grow, hardy variety that looks great all year-round. Plant in groups for a powerful display of color.

Red Rhododendron

Barking Deer

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 03:50:04 +0000

Also called muntjac, these solitary animals are found in woodlands, rain forests and monsoon forests with dense vegetation.

Barking Deer

Banteng

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 03:47:13 +0000

The banteng is a species of wild ox native to Southeast Asia.

Banteng

Kouprey

thailandhistoryguide — Tue, 12 Aug 2008 03:44:22 +0000

Once a widely distributed species, the douprey is today one of the most seriously threatened large mamals in the world.

Kouprey

Wild Habitats

thailandhistoryguide — Sat, 02 Aug 2008 11:06:54 +0000

Much of Thailand’s natural heritage is due to the shape of the country, a stretched ribbon of land over 900 miles long, spanning both seasonally dry zones and habitats where rain falls throughout the year. the present-day Thai landscape has been molded by the actions of various colonists in the past, with farming being the most important influence. About 20,000 square miles of the country are set aside as conservation areas (for example, northest Thailand national parks, many of which ae open to the public, offering visitors and opportunity to encounter a wide range of plants and animals within a natural environment.

Wild Habitats

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