manta blog

秋诗篇篇

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 02:36:00 +0000

還記得以前背著白背包，邁著輕快的步伐，天真無邪地不知道天涯海角，也不知道離愁別緒是什麼滋味.

那時候的我就像浮雲一樣，到處遊蕩，行囊里裝滿了對家鄉的思念。雖然努力的向前走，但鄉愁就像影子一樣，連在夢里也揮之不去。

青春歲月里，我聽過很多關於秋天的歌，那些歌陪伴著我度過了那段懵懂無知的時光。

可惜，我來自熱帶，只能聽歌，卻無法真正體會那冷冷的秋，那足以讓人心情低落、悲傷的季節。

想起當時那顆小小的、充滿希望的心，希望有一天能親身體驗那些描寫秋天的詩句。

我想聽聽秋風如何把春水吹涼，看一看綠葉如何被染成金黃。

誰說秋天就一定愁眉苦臉呢？

煙波林野，也自有它的幽靜之美。

花落紅，花落紅，楓葉紅了，楓葉紅了，總歸是秋天到了。春天走了，夏天也走了，秋天來了，秋意濃濃。

Fall. In love.

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Sat, 29 Nov 2025 02:57:00 +0000

Part 1: Colors

“Fall in love with the colors—golden leaves and the quiet poetry of change.”

Part 2: Stillness

“Fall in love with the stillness—crisp air, soft light, and the pause between seasons.”

Part 3: The Wild

“Fall in love with the wild—deer in the dusk, birds on the wing, nature’s restless heart.”

Part 4: Yourself

“Fall in love with yourself—wrapped in warmth, walking through change, finding beauty in every step.”

A Thrilling Morning at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve After the Rain!

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 03:02:00 +0000

The overnight downpour had left the reserve fresh and buzzing with life—perfect conditions for another adventure! If there’s one thing I’ve learned from past visits, it’s that rain brings snakes out into the open. My main target today is to spot the legendary King Cobra again.

As I arrived, the early morning fishermen were already hard at work, casting their nets just beyond the reserve. But the real magic began the moment I stepped inside.

Just meters away, a majestic Great-Billed Heron—a bird typically found only on Singapore’s offshore islands—stood tall in the shallows. My heart raced as I heard its deep, resonant call for the first time. And then… another answered!

Following the echoes, I spotted two more of these elusive giants. Three in one trip?! Unbelievable!

The third heron puffed up its neck, showing off the bulge that produces those hauntingly low calls. What an incredible start to the morning!

Moving deeper into the reserve, a stunning Grey Heron stood like a statue in the water.

Just a stone’s throw away, an elegant Intermediate Egret gracefully stalked its prey.

Across the mangroves, a pair of Painted Storks added a splash of color to the scenery.

But the real surprise? Open-Billed Storks! These visitors from the north have stayed in Singapore for over a year, likely due to drought conditions back home. With plenty of food here, they seem in no rush to leave—lucky for us!

A sudden, loud call drew my attention to a tiny Ashy Tailorbird, proving that size doesn’t matter when it comes to volume!

Nearby, a cluster of Dog-faced Fruit Bats hung in their usual spot.

Buffy Fish Owl—a rare daytime sighting—watched silently from the trees. Spotting nocturnal birds in broad daylight always feels like a special treat!

Though my hoped-for King Cobra remained hidden, the reserve had another serpentine surprise in store: a stunning, emerald-green Oriental Whip Snake, sleek and perfectly camouflaged among the leaves.

No King Cobra this time, but with rare herons, storks, bats, owls, and a dazzling whip snake, this trip was nothing short of spectacular. Sungei Buloh never fails to amaze—every visit is a new adventure!

Who knows what the next exploration will reveal?

Meet the Smooth-Coated Otters at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve!

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 04:51:00 +0000

Who can resist the adorable antics of smooth-coated otters?

These sleek and sociable little creatures are a delight to spot at the Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve!

You’ll often find them hanging out in groups, sliding, splashing, and chatting away. They love to groom one another and playfully tussle—it's just too cute to handle!

These otters are fantastic hunters, feasting mainly on fish. Watching them dive and chase their dinner is like witnessing a perfectly synchronized swim team in action!

After a refreshing swim, otters enjoy rolling in dry sand to clean their fur and get rid of pesky parasites.

It's like their own little spa day—scrubbing, wriggling, and looking thoroughly happy!

Unfortunately, habitat loss and pollution make life challenging for these playful otters.

Luckily, Sungei Buloh provides them with a safe haven where they can thrive.

So, next time you're visiting, be sure to keep an eye out for their playful antics—especially those adorable sandy roll sessions! These otters truly embody the joy of the wild!

Visiting Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve: A Birdwatcher's Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Wed, 23 Apr 2025 01:02:00 +0000

If you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of migratory birds at Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, this might not be the ideal time for your visit. Most of those lovely feathered friends are already heading back to their breeding grounds up north.

But don’t worry—there’s still so much to see and enjoy!

Just before I stepped into the reserve, I spotted a charming group of three Milky Storks soaring above.

And right behind them was a graceful Grey Heron!

While I was on the Main Bridge, I was lucky enough to see another Grey Heron gliding along the river.

It was high tide during my visit, which meant lots of crabs were climbing up the mangroves, making for quite a sight!

As I strolled along the trails, I noticed several Oriental Blue Dashers buzzing around—these dragonflies are quite common in the reserve.

I also came across two Malayan Monitor Lizards engaged in a serious territorial showdown. Nature can be so intense!

Listening closely to a familiar high-pitched call, I then spotted four playful otters swimming in the river. They were such a delight to watch!

Due to the high tide, a Grey Heron was casually strolling on the grass, probably waiting for the waters to recede.

Venturing further into the mangrove area, I was thrilled to encounter a stunning Blue-Eared Kingfisher. What a beauty!

To my surprise, I also found a Chestnut-Winged Cuckoo, which is a migratory bird and likely one of the last few still hanging around Singapore.

Saw two female Lesser Dog-faced Fruit Bat nursing their baby at the usual spot.

Before I left the reserve, I witnessed a big school of Mullet Fish swimming in a mesmerizing circular pattern. I can only imagine how spectacular it would look underwater!

So even without the migratory birds, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve is still full of amazing wildlife and experiences waiting to be discovered!

My First Birding Adventure at Wachirabenchathat Park

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:32:00 +0000

I’m excited to share that I visited Chatuchak for the first time and skipped the bustling wet market to explore the nearby Wachirabenchathat Park, also known as Rot Fai Park.

As soon as I entered the park, I was thrilled to spot a Variable Squirrel!

Next up, I saw plenty of the familiar Common Myna birds hanging around.

There were quite a few Black-collared Starlings pecking at the ground, too.

I also caught a glimpse of a Pied Fantail flitting about near the lake.

You can often hear the Asian Koel, but it’s tricky to spot them out in the open.

Following the sound of the Koel led me to another cuckoo, the Plaintive Cuckoo, which reminded me a lot of the Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo I saw during my trip to Manado.

I also spotted an Indochinese Roller

and an Ashy Drongo along my walk.

After about 30 minutes of wandering, I came across an adorable Spotted Owlet!

It seems like there’s a little family of them in the park,

as I found two more at different spots.

On my way back to the lake, I was lucky enough to witness a Striated Heron catching a fish right in front of me!

Perched high on a tree branch, a White-throated Kingfisher was ready to dive in for a meal,

while an Oriental Magpie Robin was hiding beneath the leaves, seeking some shade from the sun.

Just as I was wrapping up my day, a Black-capped Kingfisher made an appearance. What a wonderful way to end my adventure!

First Visit to Wachirabenchathat Park

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 03:33:00 +0000

If you're heading to Bangkok, there's a good chance you'll find yourself wandering around the bustling Chatuchak Weekend Market. This vibrant market has it all—whether you're looking for fresh groceries, beautiful plants for your garden, adorable pets, or even unique pieces of furniture!

But if the hustle and bustle of the market isn’t your cup of tea, don’t worry! Right nearby, you’ll find not one, but three lovely parks where you can relax while your friends enjoy their shopping spree.

One of these parks is Wachirabenchathat Park, affectionately known as Rot Fai Park.

It’s a favorite spot for bird watchers, thanks to its incredible variety of wildlife. The park is a peaceful oasis that showcases the rich biodiversity of the area, making it a fantastic escape from the city's buzz. With sprawling greenery and serene walking paths, it's the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.

Just a stone’s throw away, you’ll also find Queen Sirikit Park. This beautiful park is known for its stunning flower gardens and tranquil lakes. It’s a lovely spot for a leisurely stroll, and there are plenty of benches where you can sit back and enjoy the scenery. If you’re feeling a bit more active, you can take advantage of the walking and cycling paths that wind through the park.

Then there’s Chatuchak Park, which is another fantastic green space right next to the market. This park is great for families and offers a variety of recreational facilities, including playgrounds and picnic areas.

Whether you want to go for a jog, have a picnic with friends, or just relax under a shady tree, Chatuchak Park has something for everyone.

Since I have about two hours before my next appointment, I decided to pay a visit to Wachirabenchathat Park. It’s a great way to recharge, enjoy some fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of Bangkok’s green spaces. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite spot away from the market's lively atmosphere!

Discovering the Journey of Spot-Bellied Eagle Owl Chicks

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Thu, 03 Apr 2025 06:06:00 +0000

The Spot-Bellied Eagle Owl (Ketupa nipalensis) is an incredible nocturnal bird that calls the forests of South Asia home.

When these adorable chicks are born, they rely completely on their parents for food and care right after hatching.

As they grow, they go through several exciting stages, developing their fluffy juvenile feathers and becoming more mobile in the nest. Around 6 to 8 weeks old, they start to peek outside the nest, exploring their surroundings while still depending on mom and dad for meals and safety.

I recently spotted one of these chicks perched low on a tree branch, which suggests it had just fledged!

Fledging usually happens between 10 to 12 weeks, when the little owls take their first flights. They’ll continue to rely on their parents for a few months as they learn to hunt and adapt to their new environment. This time is super important for their survival as they pick up the skills they need to thrive on their own.

These curious little ones are always on the lookout, turning their heads to follow any interesting sounds around them.

Meanwhile, the mother owl keeps a watchful eye on her chick from a higher branch nearby.

The journey of Spot-Bellied Eagle Owl chicks is truly a wonderful tale of growth and adaptation, highlighting the beautiful balance of nurturing and instinct in the bird world.

Date with a Beak: The Great Hornbill’s Unique Courtship

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 31 Mar 2025 07:11:00 +0000

In the delightful world of the Great Hornbill, courting is a lively event filled with colorful displays and delicious treats instead of typical dinners.

A stunning yellow casque on his head, trying to win over a potential mate with a feast that could rival any top-notch restaurant!

As part of this charming courtship ritual, the male hornbill takes on the role of a thoughtful chef, carefully selecting ripe, juicy fruits. His vibrant feathers shine in the sunlight as he makes his way to the female.

With a graceful swoop, he presents his carefully chosen snack, showcasing his skills like a culinary artist revealing a gourmet dish.

The atmosphere is charged with excitement as the female watches closely, not just considering the snack itself but also the effort he put into it.

If she’s charmed by his efforts—this wonderful mix of charm and tasty offerings—she’ll accept his gift, marking the start of their bond filled with shared meals and affection. This ritual goes beyond just attraction; it highlights the importance of nurturing and care in their partnership.

Unfortunately, this particular male didn’t quite captivate the female’s heart, and she turned down his offering.

Mammals Spotted at Kaeng Krachan

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Fri, 28 Mar 2025 06:47:00 +0000

During my time in the hide by the Kaeng Krachan forest, I had the pleasure of spotting quite a few mammals alongside the beautiful birds!

There were plenty of striped squirrels running around.

I couldn’t help but notice the grey-bellied squirrels leaping from branch to branch all over the place.

I also saw some northern treeshrews,

and I was thrilled to catch a glimpse of the lesser mousedeer out and about during the day.

But the highlight of my adventure? Spotting the pig-tailed macaque, the largest mammal I’ve encountered here so far! What an amazing experience!

Afternoon Visit to Kaeng Krachang Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 07:04:00 +0000

What a delightful afternoon of birdwatching I had after enjoying some delicious local Thai noodles! I noticed that the Red Junglefowl also likes to use this path to journey to and from the Kaeng Krachang forest.

Just like the earlier sighting of the Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush, the White-Crested Laughingthrush made quite a lively entrance!

I was pleasantly surprised to spot a Greater Yellownape here – what a treat that was!

Not long after, I also caught a glimpse of a Common Flameback woodpecker in the same spot.

Then, a rare treat showed up: a Ferruginous Partridge! It’s always exciting to see something less common.

It had been a while since I last saw a Black Naped Monarch, so I was thrilled to encounter one again.

The Taiga Flycatcher, a frequent visitor in this area,

followed by the Indochinese Flycatcher

and the Hainan Blue Flycatcher, made for a lovely trio of sightings.

As the light began to fade, I spotted a Brown Cheeked Fulvetta, but it was getting tricky to snap a good photo.

Just when I thought I was finished for the day and started to pack up my camera, a Grey Peacock Pheasant appeared right at the last moment! What a fantastic way to wrap up my day of birdwatching!

Afternoon Visit to Kaeng Krachang

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 24 Mar 2025 02:22:00 +0000

We rolled into Kaeng Krachang late in the afternoon after enjoying some time watching the rare Spoon-Billed Sandpiper near the Gulf of Thailand.

Since the Kaeng Krachang National Park was about to close, I decided to check out a cozy bird hide just outside the park. It was perfectly situated right in the middle of a bird migration route. Instead of wandering around chasing after birds, I thought it would be fun to relax in the hide and see what feathered friends would come my way.

As soon as I pulled out my camera, I spotted a beautiful White-Rumped Shama singing its heart out from a tree branch.

The Lesser Necklaced Laughingthrush made quite the entrance, announcing its arrival with a cheerful ruckus, and it was easy to spot them following the sound.

Not far behind was a lone White-browed Scimitar-Babbler, following in the footsteps of the Laughingthrush.

I was thrilled to see a shy Emerald Dove making its way through the area as well.

And then, brightening up my hot, lazy afternoon, the colorful Orange-Headed Thrush popped into view—what a delightful sight!

Next up was the Streak-Eared Bulbul, which I noticed hanging out in the same spot.

I also caught a glimpse of the Greater Racket-Tailed Drongo, known for its impressive ability to mimic a variety of sounds, including some metallic jingles.

Puff-Throated Babblers seemed to be quite common here, as I spotted several of them around.

After a fun birdwatching session, we took a break and headed to a local restaurant to enjoy a delicious bowl of noodles for lunch.

Shore Bird Watching in Thailand Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Wed, 19 Mar 2025 08:12:00 +0000

As I wander into the salt pan, a Brown-headed Gull gracefully glides overhead, which is such a treat to see!

I crouch down near the edge of the salt pan, eager to get a closer look at the birds enjoying their salty feast. Among them, I spot some Curlew Sandpipers.

My attention is caught by a Black-winged Stilt, its vibrant pink leg standing out beautifully against the shimmering water.

I also see a lively mix of Lesser Sand Plovers and Little Stints, and I’m really hoping to catch a glimpse of the rare Spoon-billed Sandpiper hanging out with them.

I inch closer to another big group of birds, but spotting my special target proves to be a bit tricky.

After a bit of searching, I finally see it! Can you spot it, too?

I feel so fortunate to have found the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper.

There have only been two confirmed sightings of this bird in Thailand this season, and I’m over the moon to see one!

As I excitedly snap photos, a raptor swoops overhead, startling the birds into flight.

Once things settle down and the birds return to their feeding, I realise I’ve lost sight of my target. But I’m still thrilled to have gotten a closer look at them!

Shore Bird Watching in Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 02:57:00 +0000

After a month of excitement for my trip to Tangkoko, I’m off again to Thailand for shore bird watching!

I took an early morning flight from Singapore to Bangkok with Singapore Airlines. They served a simple breakfast onboard using non-plastic cutlery, which I thought was great for the environment.

I can’t help but be amazed by the beauty of Kanchanaphisek Bridge, which I cross every time I drive through the Chao Phraya River.

My destination is a salt pan southwest of Bangkok, where I’m hoping to spot the critically endangered Spoon-billed Sandpiper.

I can already see the fishing village from here.

It’s a huge area, and I’m looking for a very small bird.

It’ll be tough to find them, but I’ll give it my best shot.

As I moved deeper into the salt pan, I saw flocks and flocks of waders.

I think the birds must have seen some raptors and took flight.

There were smaller sand plovers and bigger sand pipers among them.

Other than migratory birds, there are also many resident cormorant perched on the lone tree in the salt pan. I haven’t seen my target yet, but I’m keeping an eye out.

The records for this season’s arrivals of Spoonbill Sandpiper are only 2, so I need to have some luck to find them.

Statue of Christ’s Blessing Manado

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Sat, 15 Mar 2025 08:53:00 +0000

The Statue of Christ’s Blessing, known as "Yesus Memberkati," is an imposing and spiritually significant monument situated in Manado, the capital of North Sulawesi, Indonesia.

Rising at the peak of the Citraland residential estate, this statue offers a panoramic view of the city and its surrounding landscapes, including the vast expanse of the sea and the lush green hills that characterise the region.

The statue stands at an impressive height of 50 metres, making it one of the tallest Christ statues in the world, and serves as both a beacon of faith and a symbol of peace to the local community and visitors alike.

With outstretched arms, it embodies a welcoming and protective gesture that resonates with the essence of Christianity, encapsulating the message of love, acceptance, and hope.

Surrounding the statue is a beautifully landscaped area that enhances the overall experience for visitors.

The location of the statue on the hill, known as "Hill of the Blessing," adds to its allure, providing a tranquil retreat from the bustle of city life and serving as a reminder of the spiritual roots that underpin the local culture.

As one gazes upon this magnificent figure, it is not just the artistry that captivates but the profound message of peace and goodwill that resonates throughout the region, making it a cherished landmark that will endure for generations to come.

Trip to Tomohon Market

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 10 Mar 2025 05:08:00 +0000

The past few days have been an incredible adventure, trekking through the lush forests of Tangkoko and Tomohon. With our flight scheduled for the afternoon, we decided to make one last stop at the vibrant Tomohon Market.

Located in the heart of North Sulawesi, Indonesia, Tomohon Market is a lively hub of activity, offering a vivid snapshot of local life and culture. This bustling marketplace is a sensory delight, drawing in both residents and travelers with its diverse array of goods and vibrant atmosphere.

As you enter the market, the air fills with the lively sounds of vendors calling out to customers, the occasional clucking of chickens, and the hum of daily life.

The stalls are a riot of color, with bright red and green chilies, golden ears of corn, shiny tomatoes, and fresh cassava on display. Each item reflects the fertility of the region’s volcanic soil, showcasing the abundance of the land.

Wandering through the narrow aisles, you’ll find an astonishing variety of goods, from fresh produce to ready-to-eat local delicacies.

The market is also famous for its more unconventional offerings, such as dog,

snake,

and bat meat, which provide a glimpse into the unique culinary traditions of the area. While these items might surprise some visitors, they underscore the deep cultural significance of food in Tomohon.

Of course, more familiar items like live chickens

and fresh fish are also readily available.

But Tomohon Market is more than just a place to shop—it’s an opportunity to connect with the local community. Vendors are often eager to share their stories, explaining the origins of their products and the traditional methods used to prepare local dishes. These interactions add a personal touch to the experience, making it more than just a visit to a market.

A trip to Tomohon Market is a journey into the heart of a culture, a chance to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of a place where food is not just sustenance but a reflection of identity and heritage.

It’s an experience that leaves a lasting impression, offering a deeper understanding of the people and traditions that make this region so unique.

Target Achieved After Multiple Visits

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Sun, 09 Mar 2025 06:24:00 +0000

I’m back in Manado for the fifth time, and the Scaly Breasted Kingfisher has always been one of my top targets.

Despite missing it during my previous visit, my persistence paid off on this fifth attempt.

I finally spotted this stunning bird on the final day of my trip, fulfilling a long-held wish.

In addition to this prized sighting, I was rewarded with several bonus birds, including the Sulawesi Pitta.

While I had seen this bird before, this trip offered a much closer and clearer view.

Another delightful surprise was the Sulphur-bellied Whistler, a species I hadn't expected to encounter.

Just as our trip was winding down, we were treated to another unplanned gem—the Sulawesi Heleia. It was the perfect way to cap off an incredible and unforgettable birding adventure. What a fantastic journey!

Birding at Lake Linow - Day 5 Part 2 (Post 20)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:02:00 +0000

After our delightful lunch at Lake Tondano, we’re excited to head to another lake - Lake Linow, shaped by geothermal wonders!

Here, you’ll be captivated by the mesmerizing hues of the water, which transition from deep emerald green to striking turquoise. These vivid colors are the result of minerals and sulfur in the area, creating a dynamic and ever-changing spectacle as the sunlight shifts throughout the day.

The landscape around Lake Linow is teeming with rich biodiversity and natural beauty. We spot a Barred Rail hanging out near a pair of Little Egrets!

This lake is also home to the charming Sunda Teal,

which you’ll see gliding gracefully across the water.

It’s a special treat to observe these ducks, especially when they catch the attention of raptors soaring above.

Joining the Sunda Teals are the agile Whiskered Terns,

which occasionally dive into the water to catch fish, adding a lively energy to the scene.

Meanwhile, Eastern Cattle Egrets remain focused on their hunt,

unfazed by the activity around them as they snatch dragonflies for a quick snack.

And not to be outdone, Barn Swallows are flitting around, catching insects that are plentiful in this area.

You might even spot a bird resembling the Barn Swallow but without its distinctive breast band—a curious sight for keen observers!

We continue our birdwatching adventure from a charming café on the opposite side of the lake.

With a fresh perspective and a cup of coffee in hand,

we were delighted to spot a White-breasted Woodswallow.

As our day drew to a close, we were treated to a final highlight: the sighting of a Sulawesi Blue Flycatcher, a perfect ending to our birdwatching journey.

Before returning to our homestay, we couldn’t resist stopping to sample the "King of Fruits"—durian, from a local vendor. It’s a delicious way to support the local community while traveling. While the strong aroma of durian might be polarizing, its unique flavor is a must-try for adventurous food lovers!

Lunch at Lake Tondano - Day 5 Part 2 (Post 19)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Wed, 05 Mar 2025 06:23:00 +0000

After our adventure down Mount Mahawu, we’re off to enjoy lunch by the beautiful Lake Tondano! Nestled in North Sulawesi, this stunning freshwater lake is not only a feast for the eyes but also a key part of life and culture for the Minahasan people.

The restaurant we picked is right on the lake, giving us an amazing, up-close view.

We snagged a table at the very end to soak in every bit of the scenery.

Lake Tondano is bustling with life, especially when it comes to aquaculture. Many local families rely on farming freshwater fish like tilapia and catfish, which really helps the community thrive. We even spotted two boys diving with homemade spearguns, probably on the hunt for a tasty catch!

The lake is surrounded by gorgeous green hills and volcanic peaks, making it a vital part of the area’s stunning landscape.

We saw fishermen busy at work, gliding across the water in their traditional wooden boats.

And let’s not forget the Little Egret, which was also busy fishing too.

Plus, we caught sight of some Black Kites swooping down to hunt in the lake. What an incredible spot to enjoy lunch!

Mount Mahawu In The Day - Day 5 Part 1 (Post 18)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 07:08:00 +0000

Today was a special treat! For the first time in five days, we woke up after sunrise and got to really appreciate our cozy homestay.

As we enjoyed our breakfast, we were greeted with a lovely view of Mount Lokon right outside.

Once we finished eating, we headed off to Mount Mahawu, but the weather decided to surprise us with a little drizzle. So, we found a nice spot at the camping area to wait it out.

Nature has really claimed this place—everywhere you look, the building is adorned with vibrant green moss,

and even the paths are thick with it!

When the rain let up, we started our climb up Mount Mahawu to check out the crater.

The hike wasn’t too tough, and soon enough, we reached the top where we were rewarded with a stunning view of the crater.

We could smell the sulfur and see steam rising from it, but we chose to admire it from a safe distance.

We took a different path on our way up, and while we didn’t see many birds, we enjoyed the beautiful variety of vegetation on our descent.

What a lovely adventure!

Mount Mahawu Before Dark - Day 4 Part 6 (Post 17)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 12:06:00 +0000

After enjoying a delicious lunch at the most charming restaurant in Tomohon, we’re off to explore Mount Mahawu!

We’re greeted with stunning views of Lake Tondano, one of the must-see spots in North Sulawesi.

As we hike along the main trail, we’re excited to spot a Grey-sided flowerpecker.

Not far away, we also see a Yellow-sided flowerpecker joining the fun on a flowering tree!

As we continue our trek, I come across a sign that leaves me a bit puzzled—no idea what it means!

With the daylight slipping away, we’re having a tough time capturing a good photo of a Citrine Canary-Flycatcher.

But we keep going, determined to catch a glimpse of any nocturnal birds that might be heading out to hunt. Our patience pays off when we spot a Sulawesi scops owl!

Encouraged by that find, we’re thrilled to discover a Speckled Boobook before wrapping up our adventure for the day.

Before I hit the sack, I attempt to snap a photo of the Milky Way as the background of my homestay, but unfortunately, the clouds have other plans that night!

Birdwatching in the Beautiful Garden of Tomohon - Day 4 Part 5 (Post 16)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Sun, 02 Mar 2025 07:09:00 +0000

After we wrapped up ordering our lunch, we were super excited to see which birds would flutter by and land near the flowers around us!

The first bird I spotted was a lovely Sooty Headed Bulbul.

Not too far away, I also noticed an Eastern Yellow Wagtail—those little guys usually hang out on the ground.

Suddenly, we heard some alarm calls from the birds, and they quickly went into hiding. When we looked around, we realised a raptor had soared past the garden!

After a quiet spell of about ten minutes, the munias started to show up and began feeding again. We saw a mix of Chestnut Munias and Scaly-breasted Munias.

I got a close-up look at a Scaly-breasted Munia, but we still hadn't spotted our main target bird yet.

Finally, after a little wait, we caught a glimpse of it! It was a small bird, similar in size and looks to a sunbird. Our target was the Sulawesi Myzomela—a cute little bird with a short, downcurved bill.

The male has a stunning scarlet head!

I even managed to snap a photo of a young Sulawesi Myzomela.

You could see its dark tail and wings, which were quite striking!

Just when we were engrossed in watching the Sulawesi Myzomela, a curious skink decided to join the fun!

After lunch, we continued our birdwatching in the garden and spotted the Eastern Yellow Wagtail again, this time on the ground.

We also caught sight of a Cinnamon Bittern hanging out in the middle of a water lily pond,

and a Crimson Sunbird that looked a lot like the Sulawesi Myzomela.

Before we wrapped up our time in the garden, we were thrilled to see a Black-crowned White-eye as our last bird before leaving this beautiful garden!.

Tomohon, I Am Back - Day 4 Part 4 (Post 15)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 04:45:00 +0000

After getting to know more about the Minahasan culture at the Waruga (Minahasa Sarcophagus), we’re off to explore more of Tomohon.

But first, it’s time for lunch! We found a lovely restaurant nestled in a gorgeous garden right across from the stunning Mount Lokon, which is very much alive and kicking.

This is my second time here, and I am totally enjoying it.

It’s so nice to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature with an amazing view of the volcano.

Every now and then, colorful birds would flutter by, adding a bit of magic to our lunch.

We definitely kept our hands busy, juggling our utensils and snapping photos at the same time!

After we finished eating, we took a leisurely stroll around the garden, soaking in all the beautiful flowers.

And of course, there were plenty of birds to admire too!

I’ll be sure to share more about them in my next blog post. Stay tuned!

Sarcophagus of Minahasa - Day 4 Part 3 (Post 14)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Wed, 26 Feb 2025 05:03:00 +0000

I’ve heard so much about the vibrant traditions of the Minahasan people, so I couldn’t resist the chance to visit the Waruga, or the sarcophagus of Minahasa, while we were on our way to Tomohon from Tangkoko.

These ancient tombs are truly fascinating, holding the echoes of the past within their stone walls. Each Waruga is not just a resting place; it’s a beautiful piece of art, adorned with intricate designs that showcase the cultural identity and spiritual beliefs of the Minahasa people.

These sarcophagi are a remarkable testament to a unique burial practice that honors ancestors while celebrating life in a colorful way. Each one, carved into shapes that resemble human figures, tells the stories of noble warriors and respected leaders who once walked this lively land.

The skill involved in creating these pieces reflects the deep respect the Minahasa have for their ancestors, highlighting the close bond between the living and those who have passed on. The traditions around the Waruga encourage storytelling and the sharing of oral histories, helping each generation stay connected to their roots and the values handed down by their forebears.

Visiting the Waruga is also a wonderful opportunity for cultural learning, attracting people like me who want to appreciate the deep significance of these remarkable relics. In my view, the Waruga represents more than just a burial practice—it’s a powerful symbol of identity, continuity, and respect for the cycle of life and death woven into the rich tapestry of Minahasa culture.

Based on the Minahasa beliefs and practices, instead of burying their dead, the bodies were placed in Waruga, akin to the position of a fetus in the womb, as it is believed that they will be reborn.

It’s interesting to note that this practice was banned in 1828 by the Dutch, who were concerned about disease outbreaks and the shift to Christian burial practices.

And just a little side note—don’t confuse the Waruga with the name of a brown ibis-like bird with a “hammer-head”. They can be found near wetlands or rivers in Africa!

Tomohon, Here we come - Day 4 Part 2 (Post 13)

noreply@blogger.com (~mantamola~) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 04:27:00 +0000

After enjoying a delicious lunch, we checked out of our cozy homestay and set off for Tomohon. Since Temboan Hill Lookout was on our route, we decided to make a quick stop there before continuing our adventure.

As soon as we parked, we were thrilled to spot an Ivory-backed Woodswallow, which was a brand-new sighting for me!

Then, we listened carefully and managed to find a Sulawesi Brush Cuckoo, which looks a lot like the Plaintive Cuckoo.

Just as we were getting into the groove of birdwatching, the rain began to fall, and we were lucky enough to see the stunning Finchbill Myna.

Right above us, a male Sahul Sunbird was perched on a banana tree, in the same spot as the female we had seen yesterday.

As we walked along the path, we caught sight of a Black Sunbird with its beautiful golden crown, which tends to look greenish when the sun hits it just right.

Its back shimmered with a glossy black finish.

On that same tree, we also spotted a Black-crowned White-eye. Just before we hopped back in the car,

we had a glimpse of a White-necked Myna, adding to our birdwatching excitement.

We continued our journey on the new highway that winds through the region from east to west toward Tomohon. What a fantastic day of exploration!