SENTOSA - PART 13

Across the road from the Heritage Tree are some Schefflera actinophylla trees with developing inflorescences of red flowers. In fact, after scrutinizing at the flowers high up on the tree, I spotted a pair of Asian Glossy Starling (scientific name: Aplonis panayensis) birds well camouflaged against the dark green background of leaves.

The first time I had an encounter with these birds was when I managed East Coast Park. They were seen feasting on the berries of a Fig Tree then. From the moment I laid eyes on them, I find them sinister looking, especially with their black glossy plumage and red eyes. So I never took a liking towards them.

http://www.naturia.per.sg/buloh/birds/Aplonis_panayensis.htm

SENTOSA - PART 2

This Swietenia macrophylla is a Heritage Tree. Looking at the size and amount of epiphytes e.g. Epiprenum aureum, Vernonia elliptica, Bulbophyllum vaginatum, Platycerium coronarium, on its trunk, I wonder how long it has lived here. We were told that when the tree sheds its leaves, that is when complaints come pouring in. Why couldn't people just appreciate the tree for what it is truly is - our very own heritage? This is probably one of the last giants in our urban jungle. At this age, only bracing can help to keep it together.

There is also a Schefflera actinophylla growing at the tree fork.

UMBRELLA TREE

The photos of this beautiful flowering Schefflera actinophylla was also taken at the water feature area at SBG's HQ on 8 Mar 10.

It is quite an interesting tree with its palmate leaves and bright red flowers.