By Romy Stephens
A local photographer is offering families the chance to observe and learn about birds in their backyards while in isolation.
Selby’s Kathie Thomas has lived in the Dandenong Ranges for over 10 years and is a keen nature photographer.
She released Words on Birds earlier this year and said it would be a great book to help educate children and entertain families stuck at home.
“Initially I thought it might be for my grandchildren but when I shared photos of the first print copy on the Hills and Dandenongs Facebook group, many people were interested and wanted to order copies for their children or grandchildren,” she said.
“With our current restrictions it is good to hear and see that families are learning together about our local birdlife in their own gardens and reserves close by.
“At the back of the book is a table so that the children can record what bird they’ve seen, where and when.”
Mrs Thomas said she began creating the book in February while unwell (not Covid-19 related) and needing to keep her mind focused on something else.
“I must have been thinking on birds and my grandchildren when the thought came to me to write a book for children,” she said.
“I gradually went through my photos and started sorting them into alphabetical order by bird’s name – started with over 50 birds but knocked it down to just 40 and began writing what I knew about them, and researching to confirm my thoughts were factual.”
It’s been over 10 years since the grandmother of eight has published a book and this is her first aimed towards children.
To find out more, visit www.dandenong-ranges-photography.com.au/wordsonbirds.
