Gina Heslop
While trekking through Australia’s Popran National Park, Kym Beechey, an avid photographer, had an amusing encounter with what she initially believed to be a happy bird. She embarked on her journey to capture the beauty of wildflowers, a process that usually takes her time as she immerses herself in the outdoors. However, on this particular day, she was hopeful that luck would allow her to capture a close-up of a newborn tawny frogmouth, a bird resembling an owl.
Spotting what she thought was the perfect opportunity, Beechey excitedly reached for her phone to photograph the seemingly grinning bird perched on a limb. However, upon zooming in for a clearer shot, her excitement turned to disappointment. The cheerful bird was, in fact, a pod of banksia—a cute little seedpod resembling a happy bird.
Banksia pods, native to the southwest of Australia, are often compared to pine cones despite having no relation to conifers. They are the fruit of the Banksia tree and are known for their distinctive appearance. Bull Banksia pods, in particular, are robust and large enough for woodworking applications. Artists appreciate their appeal, and these unique pods are crafted into various art forms and even sold online.
Despite the initial misidentification, Beechey found humor in the situation and was relieved that the cute creature turned out to be a Banksia pod. This encounter added a lighthearted moment to her collection of exquisite wildflower photos. Banksia pods, with their diverse appearances, can sometimes be mistaken for other plants, showcasing the unique and varied features within the same plant species. Beechey’s experience serves as a reminder of the surprises nature can offer and the joy that comes from unexpected discoveries in the great outdoors.
