Bird Song Harmonies: An Example of Mutual Cooperation
In the picturesque surroundings of Richmond Park, south-west London, wildlife photographer Lawrence Chatton recently captured a unique sight – a red-deer stag accompanied by a group of jackdaws, affectionately referred to as his 'feathered groomsmen'. This unusual friendship between the deer and the jackdaws is a testament to a symbiotic bond that benefits both species.
The jackdaws, with their keen eyes and beaks, feed on parasites such as mites, ticks, and fleas on the deer, providing a consistent food source and helping the deer stay healthier. During moulting season, the jackdaws also collect the deer's loose fur for their nests, further strengthening this mutually beneficial bond.
As we approach the festive season, Our Platform is gearing up for a bountiful issue. With 51 issues published this year, the total pages will surpass 8,200 when added together. The special Christmas double issue is now available for pickup or can be posted anywhere in the world.
This year's Country Mouse column in the print magazine marks the biggest Christmas issue the magazine has produced in its 128-year history, boasting an impressive 318 pages. Editor-in-Chief Mark Hedges emphasises the importance of friends and family in a chaotic world, expressing his gratitude towards his dedicated staff, many of whom have worked together for more than a decade.
In other news, Toby Keel, the Digital Director of Our Platform, has penned articles on various topics, including property, cars, lifestyle, travel, and nature. Meanwhile, Madeleine Silver has written an insightful piece about multi-generational living without getting on each other's nerves.
For those who have been following our quizzes, the answers to the latest one are: Countess, Hip, Cubit, Gerald Durrell, and a young eel.
Our Platform remains a relentlessly positive magazine, maintaining its position as one of the biggest and most successful in Britain. As we move forward, we look forward to bringing you more inspiring stories, insightful articles, and beautiful photographs.