We all spend so much time surrounded by artificial light, whether it’s our phones, TVs, or computer screens. It can become overwhelming and draining. That’s why it’s important to take a break and reconnect with nature every now and then. A simple walk in the woods can do wonders for our well-being and recharge us for another round of technology.
There are countless benefits to spending time in nature. Sometimes, though, something truly extraordinary happens. It could be stumbling upon a group of deer gracefully prancing through the trees or witnessing a breathtaking sunset that takes our breath away.
Kym Beechey, a nature enthusiast and avid photographer, had one of these remarkable experiences while exploring the Australian wilderness. She not only finds joy in immersing herself in nature but also capturing its beauty through her camera lens. And on this particular day, she stumbled upon an irresistible opportunity.
While on her stroll, Kym spotted a baby tawny frogmouth, a bird that closely resembles an owl. Excited by the discovery, she quickly took out her phone and tried to be as quiet as possible to not scare the bird away. She wanted to capture its essence in a photograph.
As Kym approached the bird to get a closer shot, something caught her eye. From a distance, it looked like the bird was smiling at her. Intrigued, she zoomed in with her camera to get a better look. That’s when she realized her mistake – it wasn’t a bird at all. It was a banksia pod.
Banksia pods are a common sight on banksia trees, which are native to southwestern Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Although they are not classified as pine trees, they have a similar appearance to pinecones. These pods crack open, often during a forest fire, to release their seeds and continue the cycle of life.
While it may not have been the outcome Kym was expecting, discovering the banksia pod posing as a “happy bird” was certainly a memorable and remarkable event. It serves as a reminder that nature has its own way of surprising and delighting us, even when we least expect it.
So, next time you find yourself consumed by screens and artificial light, take a moment to step outside and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty. Who knows what surprising encounters await you?
