Naturalists Register Weekly Journal Entries
A gentle meander through the garden today reveals nature’s quiet wisdom. Join me as we observe the subtle rhythms, seasonal shifts, & botanical curiosities that remind us to slow down & notice the extraordinary in the ordinary.
field Notes
Weekly observations
Natural Indicators
Bird Activity
In December, the Everton Hills area of Brisbane is bustling with birdlife as the summer breeding season reaches its peak. Both resident and migratory species are active, often raising young. The warmer weather and abundance of flowering and fruiting plants attract a wide variety of wildlife.
Peak breeding season: December is a busy time for breeding, with many resident and migratory birds actively raising young.
Fledglings: Expect to see young birds, including koels hatched in other species’ nests, leaving their nests.
Flying-fox pups: Bat pups born in October are carried by their mothers while feeding at night.
Notable Species This Week
Resident Birds
Noisy Miner
These territorial honeyeaters are still engaged in breeding and raising young.
Migratory residents
Rainbow Bee-eater
These vibrant migratory birds, which arrived in September to breed, are a common sight in December.
Ground-dwelling birds
Australian Brush-turkey
These unique, ground-dwelling birds are active in suburban areas, tending to their large mound nests.
Bats & other nocturnal fauna
Black and Grey-headed Flying-fox
These large fruit bats are present in Brisbane year-round and will be active at night, flying from their roosts to feed on nectar and fruit.
Grey-headed flying-foxpups born in October are still dependent on their mothers in December.
Insect Presence
Common Insects & Their Activity
In December in Everton Hills, Brisbane, the warm and humid conditions of summer bring a peak in insect activity. Resident species are in the middle of their breeding season, and migratory species are also active in the area.
Peak breeding season: December is a key period for breeding, with many resident and migratory insects and arthropods actively multiplying.
Termite swarming: Spring rains and warmer weather often trigger termite swarming, as they leave their nests to establish new colonies.
Increased pest breeding: Mosquitoes, cockroaches, and termites multiply rapidly.
Eucalypts: Foliage is a food source for Christmas beetles, leaf beetles, and gum leaf skeletonizers, while flowers provide nectar for bees and flying-foxes.
Native plants: Nectar from the flowers of natives like bottlebrush (Callistemon spp.), melaleuca (Melaleuca spp.), and wattles (Acacia spp.) provides food for bees and other insects.
Citrus: The Orchard Swallowtail Butterfly lays its eggs on the foliage of citrus trees, and the Bronze Orange Bug sucks the sap.
Grasses and pasture: Larvae of Christmas beetles feed on grass roots.
Various plants: Planthoppers and leafhoppers feed on the sap of a wide variety of plants.
Notable Species This Week
beetles
Ladybirds (Coccinellidae spp.)
Various species of these beneficial beetles are common in December, feeding on garden pests like aphids, scale insects, and mites.
ants
Coastal Brown Ant (Pheidole megacephala)
A small, brown ant that is common in Brisbane and can invade homes in search of food and water.
bees & wasps
Paper Wasps (Polistes humilis)
Nests are active and growing, and wasps are busy catching other insects to feed their young.
other bugs
Spiders / Anthropods
Spiders become more visible and active as they hunt for the plentiful insect population.
This includes the St Andrews Cross spider (Argiope keyserlingi) and the Redback spider(Latrodectus hasseltii).
Migratory Species
Lemon Migrant Butterfly (Catopsilia pomona)
Population explosions of these butterflies can occur after big rain events, with a flurry of yellow butterflies in the sky.
Plant Responses
In December in Everton Hills, Brisbane, the warm and humid conditions of summer bring a peak in growth and flowering for many plant species. Plants, both native and introduced, respond with vigorous growth, and many are in full bloom or producing fruit. Watering needs are high, especially during hot spells.
Notable Species This Week
Wild & suburban native plants
Trees & large shrubs
Grevillea (Grevillea spp.)
Various species of grevillea, especially those that flower through summer, will be in bloom, attracting nectar-feeding birds and insects.
Groundcovers & smaller plants
Everlasting Daisies (Chrysocephalum apiculatum)
This hardy native groundcover can flower for most of the year, including summer.
Suburban garden plants & seasonal responses
Ornamental plants
Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)
These trees are known for their vibrant blooms through summer, so they will be flowering profusely in December
Edible plants
Month Long Home Garden Planting
- Cucurbits (cucumber, melon, pumpkin)
- Capsicums
- Eggplants
- Sweet corn
- Cucumbers
- Pumpkin
- Zucchini
- Tomatoes
December ideas for begginer gardeners
Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Thrives in the warm weather and can be grown easily in January.
Chillies (Capsicum spp.)
Can be sown during January. It will be actively growing & fruiting during the summer heat.
Lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.)
Easily sown & grows vigorously during the humid summer.
Fruit Trees
Various fruit trees, such as mango (Mangifera indica) and passionfruit (Passiflora edulis), are fruiting in December.
Responses to december Conditions
Growth: Expect vigorous vegetative growth across all species due to the warm temperatures and, typically, high rainfall.
Flowering and fruiting: Many species, both native and introduced, will be flowering and producing fruit during this peak summer month.
Watering: With high temperatures, plants will require consistent watering to prevent stress.
Pest and disease: The warm, humid conditions are ideal for pests and diseases, so gardeners should be vigilant.
Weeding: Weeds thrive in the heat, so vigilance is required to remove them.
Propagation: December is a good time to propagate plants from cuttings, as the warmth and humidity can encourage rooting.
Botanical Study
plant Foraging
December in Everton Hills (Brisbane) brings high summer fruiting for many edible shrubs and volunteer garden plants. Below is one forageable species you may encounter in wild, semi‑urban & disturbed sites around Everton Hills, with practical identification, seasonality, uses & safety/harvesting guidance.
Cape gooseberry / Goldenberry Physalis peruviana (introduced)
foraging Species This Week
Cape gooseberry / Goldenberry Physalis peruviana (introduced)
Plant names: Cape gooseberry, goldenberry, ground cherry, physalis
Latin name: Physalis peruviana (sometimes P. edulis in older sources)
Growth Stage
Peak fruiting through summer, ripe golden berries often abundant on volunteers and in gardens.
Notable Features
Often escapes gardens and thrives in disturbed soils, fruit enclosed in papery husk (calyx) when ripe & easy to spot. Fresh eating, jams, drying; used in preserves, chutneys and desserts.
Identification key
- Low sprawling annual/perennial with ovate leaves
- Lantern‑like papery husk enclosing a round golden berry ~1–2 cm diameter
- When ripe, the calyx turns brown & papery and the berry is bright yellow/gold.
Urban Foraging
- Common in garden edges
- Compost heaps
- Vacant lots
- Footpath cracks
Sustainability
- As a non‑invasive garden escape in many areas, moderate harvesting reduces seed spread
- Avoid transporting seeds to new sites if control is desired
Harvesting notes
- Pick only when the calyx is dry, papery and brown and the berry inside is golden and slightly soft
- Remove husk & wash
Fruiting
- Summer fruiting
- December widely productive in Brisbane
Flavour
- Sweet‑tart
- A little tropical/tomato‑like
- Pleasant balance of sweet & acid
Smell
- Mild fruity aroma when ripe
Optimal Sunlight
- Full sun to light shade
- Tolerates poor soils and disturbed conditions
Check for safety
- Do not eat unripe green berries (these can be bitter/toxic)
- Avoid berries from sprayed sites & wash before eating
Note
- Plants self‑seed readily
- Collect ripe fruit cleanly
- Avoid dumping discarded husks where they can reseed
Processing
- Good fresh, made into jams, drying, or used in baked goods and chutneys
Species
- Introduced/ornamental escape
- Naturalised in many warm urban areas
Where to look for them
- Garden edges
- Compost heaps
- Disturbed vacant lots
- Verge cracks
- Informal gardens
Responsible Harvesting
- Take only ripe berries (papery husk browned)
- No more than ~30–40% of fruit from a single patch to leave seed for wildlife and maintain plant populations
Field Sketch
Seasonal Tasks
December in Everton Hills, Brisbane, Queensland, marks the start of summer with hot, humid weather and occasional heavy rains. This month requires focused garden care to combat heat stress, vigilant pest management, and home maintenance to ensure comfort and safety during the warmer season.
December Home & Hearth Tasks for Everton Hills, Brisbane
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Weather & Observations
Weekly Weather Field Notes
Weather Notes
Weekly Weather Tracker
| Date | Clouds | Wind | Pressure | Sunrise | Sunset | Moonrise | Daylight | Emotional Weather |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 Oct | High cirrus | Gentle southerly | 1012 hPa | 6:12 AM | 7:23 PM | 8:45 PM | 13h 11m | Luminous, porous |
Weekly Summary
This week began with warm winds and ended in soft drizzle. Cloud formations echoed internal shifts.
Note: Climatological averages provide typical weather patterns based on historical data, offering reliable general guidance rather than exact forecasts. Cloud types and wind directions can be described broadly, reflecting common occurrences rather than daily specifics. Barometric pressure averages indicate general weather tendencies but not precise changes. Precipitation values represent average amounts and frequency, acknowledging actual rainfall can vary significantly from these norms. This approach is ideal for understanding usual conditions over time, not for detailed short-term predictions.
Almanack Moon Phases
December 2025 in Everton Hills features gradually lengthening daylight hours with sunrise and sunset times shifting accordingly. The lunar cycle progresses through all phases, supporting cycles of renewal, action, and reflection. Astrological events including Venus retrograde’s conclusion and the summer solstice highlight a month of transformation, practical focus, and energetic renewal.
Moon Phases & Astrological Events This Week
December 29: Last Quarter Moon – period for reflection, releasing, and preparing for the next cycle.
Throughout December: Venus remains retrograde until December 15, continuing to prompt reassessment in relationships and values.
Mercury enters Capricorn early December, favouring practical communication and structured thinking.
Jupiter continues in Capricorn, emphasising disciplined growth and long-term planning.
Weather Proverbs
“If December be mild and fair, expect a January cold and bare.”
This saying warns that a gentle December often precedes a severe January, encouraging preparation for colder conditions after a mild month.
Source: The Old Farmer’s Almanac, 1788
Seasonal Traditions
December in 18th-century Britain and Scotland was a month rich with traditions centered on the winter solstice, the darkest time of year, and the anticipation of renewal and light. Many customs combined ancient pagan rites with Christian celebrations, focusing on protection, fertility, and community gatherings.
18 Century Days of Note – December
days of note this week
December 24 – Christmas Eve
Marked by religious observance and various folk customs, including the lighting of candles and the preparation of special foods.
It was a time of anticipation for Christmas Day and often involved rituals to protect the household from evil spirits.
Purpose: To prepare spiritually and physically for Christmas, ensuring peace and protection.
December 25 – Christmas Day
Celebrated as the birth of Christ, this Christian holiday included feasting, gift-giving, and communal worship.
Many pagan customs were incorporated, such as the Yule log and decorating with evergreens.
Purpose: To celebrate renewal, hope, and community.
December 26 – St. Stephen’s Day (Boxing Day)
Traditionally a day for charity and giving to the poor, it also involved various folk customs such as “wassailing,” where people sang and offered blessings to orchards and livestock.
Purpose: To promote fertility, goodwill, and protection for crops and animals in the coming year.
December’s traditions in 18th-century Britain and Scotland reflected a deep respect for natural cycles, blending Christian and pagan elements to celebrate light’s return, protect the home, and strengthen community ties during winter.
Monthly Phenology Notes
Frontispiece
On this month December, in the year 2025, within the precincts of Everton Hills, situated in the state of Queensland, phenological observations were diligently undertaken. The purpose of this inquiry is to document the seasonal progressions of the flora and fauna, employing the systematic rigor and nomenclatural precision established by the venerable Carl Linnaeus. These notes seek to elucidate the temporal rhythms of nature within this subtropical habitat during the height of the austral summer.
Taxonomic Identification
Melaleuca quinquenervia (Cav.), known locally as the Broad-leaved Paperbark, classified under Kingdom Plantae, Class Magnoliopsida, Order Myrtales, Genus Melaleuca, Species quinquenervia.
Ptilonorhynchus violaceus (Shaw), the Satin Bowerbird, belonging to Kingdom Animalia, Class Aves, Order Passeriformes, Genus Ptilonorhynchus, Species violaceus.
Ficus macrophylla Desf., commonly called the Moreton Bay Fig, within Kingdom Plantae, Class Magnoliopsida, Order Rosales, Genus Ficus, Species macrophylla.
Description of the Organism
Organism Field Notes
Notable organisms This month
Melaleuca quinquenervia is a medium to large tree, attaining heights of 15 to 25 meters, characterised by its distinctive papery bark, which peels in thin layers, and broad, lanceolate leaves exhibiting five prominent longitudinal veins. The inflorescences are dense, creamy-white spikes composed of numerous stamens. This species favours wetland margins and low-lying areas, often forming dense stands. It is valued for its essential oils and traditional medicinal uses by indigenous peoples.
Ptilonorhynchus violaceus is a medium-sized passerine bird, exhibiting iridescent blue-black plumage in the male and olive-brown in the female. The male is noted for constructing elaborate bowers adorned with blue objects to attract mates. This species frequents forest edges and gardens, subsisting on fruits and insects.
Ficus macrophylla is a grand arboreal specimen with a vast spreading crown and buttressed roots. Its large, glossy leaves are ovate with entire margins. The fig fruits are prominent and serve as a vital food source for numerous frugivorous birds and mammals.
Phenological Observations
Notable phenological observatiins This month
The Melaleuca quinquenervia is observed to be in full bloom, with flowering commencing approximately on December 10th and persisting through the 25th. The ambient conditions have been warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 33 degrees Celsius and frequent afternoon thunderstorms contributing to elevated soil moisture.
The Satin Bowerbird Ptilonorhynchus violaceus males are actively engaged in bower construction and courtship displays, coinciding with the peak flowering of local flora, suggesting an ecological synchronisation between reproductive behaviours and resource availability.
The Ficus macrophylla exhibits the development of mature figs, with ripening observed from mid-December, attracting a variety of avian species, including pigeons and parrots, which partake in seed dispersal.
Leaf abscission is minimal, consistent with the evergreen nature of the dominant species in this habitat.
Methodology
Notes on Methodology & Processes
notes on methodology This month
Observations were conducted twice daily, at dawn and dusk, utilising direct visual inspection aided by a magnifying lens for floral detail. Environmental parameters were recorded using standard meteorological instruments.
Behavioural observations of avian species were made with the aid of binoculars and field notes were maintained contemporaneously.
The study period extends from early November through December, with no interruptions noted.
Comparative Notes
Comparisons for the month of December
comparisons of note This month
Flowering phenophases of Melaleuca quinquenervia align closely with historical records from the early colonial period, as documented in early Australian botanical compendia.
The reproductive activity of Ptilonorhynchus violaceus observed herein concurs with descriptions by early naturalists, though a slight extension in the duration of bower construction has been noted, potentially attributable to climatic variation.
The fruiting period of Ficus macrophylla appears advanced by several days compared to previous decades, possibly reflecting shifts in regional climatic patterns.
Concluding Remarks
The phenological account for December, 2025, at Everton Hills reveals a dynamic interplay of floral and faunal cycles, with reproductive and fruiting events well attuned to the prevailing climatic conditions.
The apparent advancement in fruit maturation and avian breeding behaviours invites further longitudinal study to discern the influence of environmental change on these natural rhythms.
These observations reinforce the significance of phenology as a window into the broader ecological processes that govern life in this region, providing a foundation for continued natural historical scholarship.
Thus, these notes are presented with due deference to the Linnaean tradition, contributing to the ongoing catalogue of nature’s temporal manifestations in the southern hemisphere.
Wyrdwood Hollow
Field sketch
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