Bird number: 50
Date: March 14, 2012
Wood: Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus)
Source: Woodcraft Store
There are over 700 different species of the genus Eucalyptus. Most are native to Australia, and members of the genus dominate the tree flora of Australia. Beyond that, all I know of Eucalyptus is that we had some growing in California and in Arizona. I seem to remember that there was some danger of dropping branches.
I have no way of knowing for sure what species this piece of wood is from. A little research indicates that it might be Eucalyptus marginata, or Jarrah. The color is right. Whatever it is, it’s lovely.


The wood is hard! The power carver didn’t have any trouble with it, of course, but it only took one test cut with a knife to convince me that I’d rather use power on this wood.
Sanding this piece was a real chore. I usually start with 100 grit sandpaper after I’ve done the rough carving, but this wood was so hard that I started with 60 grit. It took me a long time to get this one smooth, but the result was well worth the effort. The stuff takes an absolutely beautiful finish.
I think I have one more small piece of this, after making the bird. I’m hoping it’s large enough to make one of my hearts.
I just realized that I goofed on the numbering. This bird is numbered 50, as is the previous one carved from Macassar Ebony. I forgot to write that one down. Oh, well.