Some Birds Will Nest Just About Anywhere! |
| Birds need to nest. It is where they raise their young and find shelter. They can get quite creative about their choice of locations, however, and it can be quite surprising to see just how clever they can be when choosing a nesting place. Here are some of the surprising places you may find a bird has made a comfy home for itself.
Source…www.ba-bamail.com Natarajan |
Photography
” பல்லவ கடிகாரம் பார்த்திருக்கியா …” ?
டாக்டர் தியாக. சத்தியமூர்த்தி, தமிழகத்தின் தலைசிறந்த தொல்லியல் ஆய்வாளர்களுள் ஒருவர். தமிழ்நாடு, கேரளம், கர்நாடகம், குஜராத், டெல்லி, ராஜஸ்தானம் என இந்தியாவின் பல பகுதிகளில் தொல்லியல் ஆய்வுகளை நிகழ்த்தியவர். இந்தியத் தொல்பொருள் கள ஆய்வுத் துறை மூலம் இவர் ஆற்றிய பணிகள் குறிப்பிடத்தக்கன. தமிழகத்தில் ஆதிச்சநல்லூர், மகாபலிபுரம் போன்ற இடங்களில் இவர் செய்த ஆய்வுகள் முக்கியத்துவம் வாய்ந்தவை.
அவர் சொல்கிறார்:
சிறு வயதிலிருந்தே அவரை தரிசித்திருக்கிறேன். தொல்லியலாளரான பின்னர் அவரைப் பார்க்கப் போனபோது, “நீ என்ன வேலை பார்க்கிறாய்?” என்று கேட்டார். அப்போது கோவில்கள் திட்டப்பணியில் தொல்லியல் துறையில் செய்யும் பணிபற்றிச் சொன்னேன். “நீ மகாபலிபுரம் போயிருக்கிறாயா? அங்கு என்ன பார்த்தாய்?” என்று கேட்டார். நான் பஞ்சபாண்டவர் ரதம், மகிஷாசுரமர்த்தினி என்றெல்லாம் சொன்னேன்.
“அங்கு பல்லவர்களுடைய கடிகாரம் ஒன்று இருக்கிறதே, அதைப் பார்த்திருக்கிறாயா?” என்று கேட்டார். ஏதோ விளையாட்டுக்குச் சொல்கிறார் என்று நினைத்து, “பல்லவா காலத்தில் ஏது பெரியவா கடிகாரம்?” என்று கேட்டேன். “இருக்கு. இருக்கு. நீ அடுத்தவாட்டி போறப்போ நல்லா பார்த்துட்டு வா!” என்றார்.
மறுமுறை போனபோது, “கடிகாரம் பார்த்தாயா?” என்று கேட்டார். “இல்லை பெரியவா, எனக்குத் தெரியவில்லை” என்றேன். “அர்ஜுனன் தவம் பார்த்தியா?” என்று கேட்டார். “பார்த்தேன்” என்றேன். “அந்த அர்ஜுனன் தபஸ் சிற்பத்திற்குக் கீழே நதி ஒன்று ஓடிக் கொண்டிருக்கும். சின்ன விஷ்ணு கோயில் ஒன்று இருக்கும். பக்கத்தில் ரிஷி ஒருவர் உட்காந்து கொண்டிருப்பார். கீழே அமர்ந்து சிலர் வேதம் சொல்லிக் கொண்டிருப்பார்கள். ஒருவர் ஆற்றில் நனைத்த துணியைப் பிழிந்து கொண்டிருப்பார். மற்றொருவர் நின்று கொண்டு மாத்யான்னிஹ வந்தனை செய்து கொண்டிருப்பார். (அதில் ஒருவர் இரண்டு கைகளையும் கோர்த்து விரலிடுக்கால் உச்சியிலிருக்கும் சூரியனைப் பார்க்கிறார்) பனிரெண்டு மணிக்கு இந்த விஷயம் நடந்தது என்பதைச் சிற்பி தெரிவிக்கிறார். அதைத்தான் ‘பல்லவ கடிகாரம்‘ என்று சொன்னேன்” என்று பெரியவர் சொன்னார்.
பெரியவரின் நுணுக்கமான பார்வையைக் கண்டு எனக்கு பிரமிப்பு ஏற்பட்டது
நாமும் அதைப் பார்த்து ரசித்து வியக்கலாமா. இதோ அந்த சிற்பத்தின் நிழற் படம்
Read more: http://periva.proboards.com/thread/6348/#ixzz3ck342hmy
Source….www.periva.proboards.com
Natarajan
” Footage From Cockpit “…Plane Landing in one of the ‘Scariest ‘ Airports in the World…
There’s a belief that computers do all of the work in the cockpit, but this amazing video shows British Airways pilots conquering one of the most challenging runways in the world.
With cameras mounted in the flight deck, the clip shows a pilot’s-eye view as a BA plane approaches and touches down on the runway in Funchal, on the Portuguese island of Madeira.
It may seem like a routine event, but captains Ally Wilcox and Ian Mills had to contend with high winds and were unable to rely on the plane’s instruments as they landed at an airport nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and a hill dotted with home
click and watch the video clip below…
Captains Ally Wilcox and Ian Mills had to contend with high winds as they approached the runway
Footage from the cockpit provides a perspective that most passengers will never see as they arrive on the stunning island for a relaxing holiday.
It can be a turbulent landing, and after an extension was built in 2000 part of the runway is on stilts over the sea.
Captain Wilcox narrated the video, which was shot on a recent flight from London, telling viewers Funchal is a unique airfield because pilots cannot land a plane there unless they have special approval from Portugal’s civil aviation authority.
He said BA and Airbus have developed a bespoke plan that has been approved by authorities, which includes using banana sheds as a waypoint to navigate the ‘tricky terrain’ to the left of the runway.
Footage from the cockpit provides a perspective that most passengers will never see 
In order to land in Funchal pilots must undergo training and be approved by Portuguese aviation authorities
Only 20 BA captains are permitted to fly into Funchal, and each one had to pass a two-hour simulated training session.
Captain Wilcox said: ‘The island is very tricky because of the terrain … it means we have to fly around the bay and very close to the terrain before completing a curving approach onto the runway.’
As the airport does not have an instrument landing system, pilots must navigate around the bay visually using good judgment, he added.
Funchal is frequently included in lists of the ‘scariest’ runways in the world due to its challenges
High winds add to the degree of difficulty.
He tells viewers: ‘As it’s out in the Atlantic the wind is often strong and very variable in nature.
‘As with this approach we faced exactly that challenge with the head wind becoming a cross wind pushing us towards the terrain and here ending up as a tail wind as we landed on the runway.’
Given its location and turbulent winds, Funchal is frequently included in lists of the ‘scariest’ runways in the world.
Source….www.dailymail.co.uk and http://www.you tube.com
Natarajan
Natural Remedies for Stomach Ulcers and Heartburn….
You would never think of tomatoes as being bad for you, but they can, in fact, make things even worse for your ulcers. You’ll truly be amazed at which other health foods you should avoid to prevent acid reflux from occurring. Before we discuss the 12 natural home remedies for stomach ulcers and heartburn, it’s important to have a better understanding of the causes and symptoms between each disorder.
What are Stomach Ulcers?
Many people make the mistake of confusing peptic ulcers with heartburn, but they are far from alike, despite having similar symptoms. Ulcers consist of tiny open sores that develop on the inner lining of the stomach and small intestine areas, causing excruciating pains.
What Causes Stomach Ulcers?
Helicobacter pylori is the main bacteria infection that triggers stomach ulcers. Helicobacter pylori develops from certain medications, poor dietary lifestyle, and stomach acid buildup.
What Are the Symptoms Associated with Stomach Ulcers?
The most common symptoms attributed to ulcers are burning pains that begin at the top of your chest, eventually reaching your belly button area, and sharp pains that keep you awake at night. There are also pains that occur 2-3 hours after eating, which may provoke mild nausea. These pains generally go away after vomiting.
Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Stomach Ulcers:
- Coffee – Coffee stimulates acid production and can cause severe indigestion problems.
- Alcohol – Alcohol can irritate and erode the lining of the stomach and small intestine, triggering the ulcers.
- Spicy Foods – Certain peppers found in dishes such as Mexican chili, can trigger heartburn in a flash. Avoid spicy foods as much as possible, since they simulate acid reflux buildup and gastrointestinal pains.
What is Heartburn?
Heartburn occurs when the stomach acid backs up from the esophagus, and eventually reaches your throat area. Heartburn is a very unpleasant burning sensation that can truly leave a bad taste in your mouth. Nearly 1 out of every 5 Americans suffers from it.
What Causes Heartburn?
The common cause of heartburn is a lower esophageal sphincter, or LES, that doesn’t contract regularly. Unhealthy foods play a major contributor of heartburn, especially foods that are deep fried or cooked in grease. Overeating can also cause acid reflux buildup due to the excess amount of pressure on the stomach.
What Are the Symptoms of Heartburn?
Symptoms of heartburn or acid reflux, include a dry cough, a sore throat that causes difficulty swallowing, an increased burning sensation after digestion and tasting acid or food in the back of your mouth. These symptoms intensify the moment you lay down.
Foods and Beverages to Avoid with Acid Reflux:
- Citrus Fruits – Citrus fruits might be ideal for the common cold, but the acidity inside can cause heartburn, particularly on an empty stomach.
- Garlic and Onions – Although both vegetables are essential for a healthy dietary intake, they also wreck havoc on people suffering from heartburn.
- Carbonated Beverages – Carbonated beverages cause gastric distension, leading to acid reflux and indigestion. It’s best to stay away from sodas, and just drink mineral water instead.
- Natural Treatments for Heartburn
1) Eating a Healthy Diet – There are many foods that are extremely good for you, but bad for your heartburn. Some of these foods include; ground beef, sour cream, cottage cheese, onions, tomatoes, and citrus fruits. Make sure you avoid fried and greasy foods to prevent heartburn from occurring. Drink plenty of water in between meals and skip the carbonated beverages altogether.
2) Enzymes and Probiotics – Probiotics are often referred to as the “good bacteria”, since they promote healthy digestion. Probiotics minimize the growth of harmful bacteria, and boost the immune system. Probiotics are available in supplement form, and help combat acid reflux. It’s recommended to take a hydrochloric acid or HCI enzyme supplement along with probiotics for smooth digestion.
3) Aloe Vera Juice – Aloe vera juice has been known to treat acid reflux and other medical symptoms. It’s advisable to drink 1/4 cup of aloe vera approximately 20 minutes before a meal or whenever you experience acid reflux issues. You can even mix the aloe vera with tea or water if you don’t like the basic taste of it. Do not drink aloe vera juice if you have diabetes, kidney failure or thyroid disease. Pregnant women and children should also avoid it.
4) Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar is used to treat stomach acid buildup, as ironic as it sounds. The cider helps digestion by breaking down fats, despite the acidity factors. It is recommended to mix one or two teaspoons of the apple cider vinegar with a glass of water. Drink a glass of the cider before meals or when you feel a reflux attack coming on.
5) Baking Soda – A little baking soda is all it takes to reduce your acid reflux problems. You may not appreciate the bland taste, but you’ll feel much better afterward. Mix a half or a full teaspoon of baking soda with a glass of water.
Natural Treatments for Stomach Ulcers
1) Cabbage Juice – Cabbage is packed with an abundance of natural anti-oxidant properties that help prevent stomach ulcers. Cabbage contains vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K and folate, all essential for treating acid reflux and fighting cancer.
2) Zinc Carnosine – Zinc-Carnosine is used to treat stomach ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems. The function of the Zinc-Carnosine is to repair damaged tissues and heal ulcer wounds.
Recommended Dosage: Use for 8 weeks, with a daily dose of 75mg in divided doses.
3) Probiotics – Probiotics improve intestinal functions and help fend off Helicobacter pylori. They are also used to prevent other gastric disorders, such as diarrhea and inflammatory bowel disease, from occurring.
Recommended Dosage: Take a probiotic of 1 to 2 million CFUs daily.
4) Glutamine – Glutamine significantly reduces the amount of inflammation brought on by a Helicobacter pylori infection. Glutamine supplements can be purchased at any local health store.
Recommended Dosage: Take 2 grams of glutamine daily for stomach ulcers.
5) Ginger Root – Ginger limits the harmful helicobacter pylori from acting up. Add several slices of fresh ginger roots to hot water, and drink the ginger mixture approximately 20 minutes or so before each meal for a quick soothing remedy.
6) Deglycyrrhizinated Licorice Powder (DGL) – DGL can work wonders for peptic ulcers. They protect the inner lining of your small intestine and stomach.
Recommended Dosage: Suggested dose is 200 to 400 mg daily dissolved in 200 ml warm water.
7) Astaxanthin – These powerful antioxidants help protect the gastrointestinal or GI tract and reduce symptoms of acid reflux. The free radical scavenging activity of astaxanthin also combats against Helicobacter pylori bacterial infection.
Recommended Dosage: Suggested daily dose is 40 mg.
Bonus Recipe: How to Prepare an Anti Reflux Smoothie:
- 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
- 1 cup diced fresh papaya
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup ice
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice or water
- Mix all in a blender and drink.
Source….www.ba-bamail.com
Natarajan
” While anyone Can be a Photographer, Few Photographers Go One Step Further…” !!!
Brave Photographers |
| Photographers are known for seeing the world through a lens. While anyone can be a photographer with a smartphone, true photographers go one step further. For that perfect frame, they are willing to wait, stalk, contort and brave the elements. See to how these brave folk go to extreme lengths to show you the world in a different way.
Source…www.ba-bamail.com Natarajan |
Why this 20-yr-old set out on a 4,200 km journey on a cycle…?
The planned 43-day-long campaign called ‘Raise your Voice Against Child Sexual Abuse’ will see Muhammed Shahid cover 11 states and 96 districts.
A 20-year-old university student embarked on Wednesday on a solo cycle trip that will take him from Kanyakumari to Kashmir to raise awareness about child sexual abuse.
Muhammed Shahid, a second year Geography student from Jamia Milia Islamia University hit upon the tour idea with the support of the university authorities and volunteers of various groups working for the rights of children.
The campaign that Shahid begins from the Swami Vivekananda Kendra in Kanyakumari is expected to cover 11 states and 96 districts and is scheduled to culminate on July 12 at the University of Kashmir.
The planned 43-day-long campaign, which he calls “Raise your Voice Against Child Sexual Abuse” will see Shahid distributing pamphlets with information on the social issue.
Shahid also plans to interact with parents and students, and enact at places he stops, a street drama aimed at inspiring children to speak up and not keep silent if they face abuse.
“I got the idea of a cycling campaign when I went to a couple of juvenile homes in Delhi as a part of a program by a reputed city-based NGO. Most students I talked to had some experience to share of sexual abuse. It was then I decided to do this campaign,” he says.
“As a child I had encountered abuse so I don’t want this to happen to anyone else,” says the cycling enthusiast who thanks his parents for their full support.
The itinerary chalked up by Shahid, who hails from Kozhikode in Kerala, attempts to cover a total of around 4,200 kilometres at a daily cycling of an average of 95 kilometres to 105 kilometres.
For the past six months Shahid says he prepared by rigorously practicing for the proposed trip.
“I use to cycle almost 50 kilometres a day from 7 pm to 1 am. During weekends I used to increase the distance to 100 kilometres,” says the cyclist.
To reduce the load on the road trip the cyclist has packed only the bare essentials in a back pack that also contains a camera.
The student says he has received support from social activists, friends and other non governmental organisations.
Relief and Charitable Foundation of India, RCFI, a Kozhikode-based charity has assisted Shahid financially and the Jamia Milia University has sponsored his bicycle.
Source…www.rediff.com
Natarajan
Incredible Images from National Geographic Photos Collection….
Source……www.ba-bamail.com
NATARAJAN
“This Tiny Australian Bird Cries Wolf to Scare its Predators…” !!!
Researchers have found that the tiny brown thornbill mimics the hawk warning call to scare off predators. Image Courtesy: Thinkstock
one of Australia”s smallest birds found out a cunning way to protect its nest from predators by crying wolf, or rather hawk, and mimicking the warning calls of other birds.
Researchers from the Australian National University (ANU) found that the tiny brown thornbill mimics the hawk warning call of a variety of birds to scare off predators threatening its nest, such as the larger pied currawong.
“It is not superbly accurate mimicry but it is enough to fool the predator,” said Branislav Igic in a university statement.
A physical attack on a currawong would be no good. They are 40 times the size of a thornbill and will eat adults as well as nestlings.
“I am amazed that such a tiny bird can mimic so many species, some much bigger than itself. It’s very cunning,” Igic added.
Although vocal mimicry is widespread amongst birds, its function is rarely understood.
This study is the first to show that birds use vocal mimicry to scare predators.
The researchers stumbled across the thornbill’s deceit during an experiment on birds’ reaction to a stuffed owl.
“I was puzzled because I could hear the alarm calls of robins, honeyeaters and rosellas but I couldn’t see any,” added professor Robert Magrath, the leader of the research group.
He soon realised that the brown thornbill was mimicking the other species while defending the nest.
Many species of both birds and mammals eavesdrop on the alarm calls of other species. Natural communities form an information web about danger, the authors noted.
Source…www,ndtv.com
Natarajan
Image of the Day…Fresh Crater Find in Mars….
The High Resolution Imaging Science Experiment (HiRISE) camera aboard NASA’s Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter acquired this closeup image of a “fresh” (on a geological scale, though quite old on a human scale) impact crater in the Sirenum Fossae region of Mars on March 30, 2015.
This impact crater appears relatively recent as it has a sharp rim and well-preserved ejecta. The steep inner slopes are carved by gullies and include possible recurring slope lineae on the equator-facing slopes. Fresh craters often have steep, active slopes, so the HiRISE team is monitoring this crater for changes over time. The bedrock lithology is also diverse. The crater is a little more than 1-kilometer wide.
The University of Arizona, Tucson, operates HiRISE, which was built by Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp., Boulder, Colorado. NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, a division of the California Institute of Technology in Pasadena, manages the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter Project and Mars Science Laboratory Project for NASA’s Science Mission Directorate, Washington.
Image Credit: NASA/JPL/University of Arizona
Caption: Alfred McEwen
Source…www.nasa.gov
natarajan
” Meet this Young Man from Netherlands who is Trying to Findout a Solution Cleaning the Ocean ..”
Will the Oceans Soon Be Clean?Every year, over 8 million tons of plastic trash gets dumped into the ocean. The trash is not only unsightly, but also a serious hazard to marine life. Animals get stuck in bags and other bits of plastic; others try to eat the garbage thinking it’s food, and many end up hurt or worse. This information may cause one to ask if this is the legacy we’re leaving for future generations.
Knowing this, Boyan Slat – a 20-year-old man from the Netherlands, has been trying to find a solution. Finally, he came up with an ingenious way that will allow the ocean to clean itself (with a little help).
The plan is to set up specially-designed floating barriers in key locations around the globe. These locations are gyres – large system of circular ocean currents that are formed by global winds and the Earth’s rotation. The gyres circulate the ocean water around the Earth, making them the ideal location to trap all of the garbage.
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Take off with Natarajan 