The Hausa language, the fish Lates niloticus is called the giwan ruwa 'water elephant', and with good reason! Adults are some of the largest freshwater fish in the world, coming in at a fantastic 2 m (6 ft 7 in) long and 200 kg (440 lb) in weight. With sizes like that, it's no wonder that this species was used in ancient Egyptian ritual worship of the godess Neith.

Sad to see the tree go but at least the birds will get to enjoy it!

There’s lots of different ways to disinfect branches but here’s my method of choice:

1) ensure the tree is a non-toxic wood raised without pesticides

2) select relatively clean branches, no mould, bug holes, rotting wood

3) remove the bark (optional) some trees are prone to mould hiding under the bark so I opt to remove it, some clean branches may be safe to leave the bark on. A pressure washer removes most of the bark quickly and effortlessly!

4) soak the branches in bleach, scrub if you’re keeping the bark on. This kills bacteria and viruses that may be lingering in the wood. You want the bleach to fully saturate in to the core of the wood. Small branches can be put in a bucket to soak, large ones will need to be sprayed or wiped down frequently until fully saturated. Leave for 24hrs.

5) rinse and soak in clean water to remove the bleach

6)leave in the sun for UV sterilization for 3-5 days (kills left over bacteria and any remaining bleach). Small branches can be baked in the oven for a quicker process. (200F for 30 - 60 minutes the thicker the wood the longer the time. Ensure it’s thoroughly rinsed out before baking, you don’t want bleach fumes spreading in the house.)

7) inspect the branch to ensure it’s clean, there should be no bleach smell remaining, moss, lichen, dirt, or fungus. You’re good to go!