The Washline Family
A Malachite Tale
My serendipitous encounter with a female Malachite Sunbird began as an “ordinary” moment with what seemed like just another garden bird. Yet it evolved into a profound two-month journey with her family. I bonded deeply with the Malachite Sunbirds and was privileged to witness and document the complete birthing cycle of her two fledglings—celebrating their triumphs and sharing in their fears.
The Malachite Sunbird eBook tells of my personal, boots-on-the-ground understanding of their complex language, which sparked a new appreciation for the smaller life forms living on our doorsteps. In the eBook, I share my transition from advertising to wildlife photography and the lessons learned along the way—how bird language, patience, and observation helped me capture these intimate Malachite Sunbird moments. The eBook celebrates everyday nature and how familiar birds can transform our connection to the wild.
Book Preview
Price R170.00 – eBook format Only.
All proceeds from bird book and print sales go to wildlife organisations – see organisations.
Contents
- The Washline Family memoir
- Learning bird Language
- Garden photography advice and tips
- Micro photography and garden inhabitants
- Ingenious plants and bird feeders
- Chacma baboons, predators and other threats
“Every bird, every tree, every flower reminds me what a blessing and privilege it is just to be alive.” — Marty Rubin
Clive Stewart
I consider myself fortunate to still reside amidst pockets of nature and wildlife, even as urbanization continues to encroach upon these spaces with each passing day.
Reconnecting with the natural world doesn’t require vast amounts of time or extensive travel to exotic locations to cultivate meaningful experiences. Within the confines of our gardens, smaller life forms—birds, reptiles, and insects—patiently await discovery, each with their own story to tell.
Since the dawn of humankind, animals have played an integral role in our narratives, often depicted in ancient rock art. Though we may be the authors of these stories, the stories themselves belong to the animals.
To the Animal Kingdom, both past and present—thank you for creating such a wonderful and diverse world.