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Penguins, Parrots and Wine on Matiu / Somes Island

10,000 Birds

When it comes down to it New Zealand is all about islands. Somes, less interestingly, was a rich backer of the New Zealand Company called Joseph Somes (who never went near the place). The island represents one of only three places in North Island that has this New Zealand endemic. I’ll work on that.

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24 Hours (or so) in Kuala Lumpur

10,000 Birds

Living in New Zealand is fun and all, don’t get me wrong. Soon afterwards I managed a few more birds, including introduced Javan Mynas , lots of lovely Peaceful Doves , a large and impressive White-throated Kingfisher , an perky family of Oriental Magpie Robins , and a Black-napped Oriole.

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The Emotional Lives of Animals

4 The Love Of Animals

Chimpanzees and elephants grieve the loss of family and friends, and gorillas hold wakes for the dead. Paul’s family noticed that whenever he was about to have an attack, Tinker would get agitated. Caledonian crows live in small family groups and youngsters learn to fashion and use tools by watching adults.

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