Flora and Fauna of the Folly - 18 January 2021

Flora and Fauna of the Folly 18 January 2021

Waiting for rain, no treasures today!  Thought that I would share some of the scenery of the Folly.

                                            Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelions are considered as weeds by many but they have a million uses.  The roots can be used to make coffee, much like chicory.  The leaves can also be eaten in salads.

 Dandelion and honey bee on Collard's Folly

Blue crane (Grus paradisea)

As you know the blue crane is South Africa's national bird and it is also known at the Stanley crane.

'Blue Cranes have declined in numbers due to habitat loss (urbanisation and human population growth), poisoning and power-line collisions. The population appears to be stable, but is still listed as Vulnerable in the IUCN Red List.

There are only about 25 000 Blue Cranes left in the world, about half of which can be found in the Cape Overberg. All populations of Blue Crane require ongoing and thorough monitoring, as well as the implementation of appropriate management strategies in farming areas.'

https://www.sanbi.org/animal-of-the-week/blue-crane/

I told Bryan Hillock once that I saw a blue crane down at the hockey astro.  He said, 'I saw a yellow crane busy with construction in Jeppestown.'..........😁

 

                                                     A blue crane on the hockey astro shade netting

                                 

                                                     A view of Collard's Folly with a blue crane and dandelion

                                                     patch

                       

                                         

                                                     Another view of the Folly where I find my treasures