Wings of change in Women’s Month

South Africa’s skies are alive with colour, song and the rustle of wings. Beneath this beauty lies an industry of immense value: avitourism, a cornerstone of the ecotourism sector and a vital contributor to the national economy. In fact, South Africa is considered one of the world’s top birding destinations, drawing international visitors eager to see everything from the spectacular Narina Trogon to endemic rockjumpers and sugarbirds. These travellers don’t just take photographs; they bring essential revenue to local communities, support small businesses and create jobs in regions where opportunities are scarce. Within this thriving sector lies a story of both challenge and triumph – the story of women in avitourism.

BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project is dedicated to nurturing talent in the bird guiding industry through its training programme for bird guides. This initiative provides aspiring guides with the skills, knowledge and accreditation to lead world-class birding experiences, all while supporting conservation and community development. But within this programme there is a sobering reality: out of the many accredited guides nationwide, only nine are women.

And yet, what a remarkable nine they are. Each one has crossed barriers and risen above societal expectations to become a force in conservation, education and tourism. Each is a community leader and role model for young people and has become a skilled ambassador for South Africa’s birds and their habitats.

Coupled with this, women often bring qualities to guiding that resonate with both domestic and international tourists. They show empathy and listen attentively, enriching the guests’ experience. Many can weave storytelling into science, transforming a bird sighting into a moment of connection and wonder. These skills, combined with exceptional bird knowledge and field craft, result in memorable experiences that linger long after the binoculars have been packed away.

But their journeys have not been without challenge. Women in guiding often face a double burden; they work in an industry still dominated by men and have to navigate societal expectations around family, safety and mobility. For some, operating in remote areas brings additional layers of complexity, from logistical barriers to cultural perceptions. And yet they persist. They adapt. They innovate. They find allies, mentors and one another. And they prove that resilience can be as vital a tool as any field guide or pair of binoculars.

The impact of BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project on these women cannot be overstated. By training, mentoring and recognising them as professionals, the project not only builds technical skill, but also fosters confidence and career longevity. It creates opportunities where there were none, and in doing so shapes ambassadors for both tourism and conservation. Each booking they secure, each tour they lead and each guest they inspire becomes part of a much bigger story – one where the economic and ecological benefits ripple far beyond the immediate encounter.

The global appetite for responsible and sustainable travel that supports local communities is growing and birding is perfectly positioned to meet it. Birders are among the most conscientious and engaged of all ecotourists, often staying longer, travelling further and spending more than the average visitor. They seek authenticity, sustainability and a meaningful connection with the environments they explore, which is exactly what these nine guides deliver.

Yet if South Africa is to remain competitive in the global birding market, we must ensure that avitourism reflects the diversity and talent of the nation itself. This means not just celebrating the women already succeeding, but actively creating pathways for more to join them. Expanding training opportunities, increasing visibility and fostering an environment of safety and support will be critical to closing the gender gap. BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project is leading that charge. By investing in guides, especially female guides, we are also investing in communities, conservation, sustainable travel and the future of ecotourism in South Africa. Every trip booked with one of our accredited birding guides helps safeguard our natural heritage while empowering those who protect it daily.

How can you support and join in celebrating the remarkable impact these nine women are making? Simply book your birding adventure with one of them! You can also support our efforts by donating or entering into a partnership with us. Your contribution strengthens the network that is elevating women, growing communities and ensuring our birds remain a living treasure for generations to come.

In the words of one of our remarkable guides: ‘Every bird I show a guest is a reminder that I am not just telling a story; I am part of one.’ Let’s ensure that story continues to soar.

JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER

Bird with experts at the South African Bird Fair

One of the highlights of this year’s South African Bird Fair will be a number of expert-led bird walks, guided by our Accredited (Community) Bird Guides and other highly skilled professionals. These talented experts bring a wealth of local knowledge, years of birding experience and a passion for sharing the wonders of South Africa’s birdlife. On these walks, you will have the chance to sharpen your identification skills, discover new species and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature that fill the spectacular Pretoria National Botanical Garden.

Adding to the experience, BirdLife Northern Gauteng’s bird-ringing team will conduct fascinating demonstrations for all those attending these guided walks. This is your chance to see conservation science in action, learn about the vital role that bird ringing plays in research and monitoring and get up close to some of our feathered friends in a way few people ever do.

Whether you join for a guided walk and a bird-ringing demonstration or simply to meet and chat with our knowledgeable bird experts and guides, the South African Bird Fair is your chance to immerse yourself in the wonder of birds and the people working to protect them.

Date: Saturday, 6 September 2025

Time: 05h50 (walks will begin from 06h00)

Venue: Pretoria National Botanical Garden, Gauteng

Come for the birds, stay for the experience – and leave with a deeper connection to South Africa’s incredible birdlife and how we are conserving it.

MPHO MAGIDI, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Working together to restore estuarine habitat

As BirdLife South Africa’s West Coast Estuaries Conservation Officer, I am working closely with the Botany Department at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) to investigate how soil composition changes before and after reed-marsh restoration. The study focuses on a heavily eroded and degraded bank in the lower reaches of the Berg River estuary, where a pilot re-vegetation project is under way. In May, reed cuttings were planted across sections of the site to trial the establishment of reed marsh.

During a site visit in May, Prof. Anusha Rajkaran and BSc (Hons) student David Riffel from UWC collected soil samples ahead of the planting. David is now analysing these samples to determine their organic carbon content and their texture and composition. His findings will provide valuable insight into the ecological impact of establishing reed marsh both at this site and across the region. They will also support efforts to restore critical estuarine habitats for waterbirds along the West Coast by identifying site-specific soil conditions and informing the selection of native plant species for rehabilitation.

BirdLife South Africa extends thanks to our UWC colleagues for their continued support and collaboration. This partnership will advance our understanding of estuarine ecosystem functioning and contribute to the conservation of South Africa’s estuaries and vulnerable waterbird habitats.

Watch this space for upcoming results and restoration milestones!

PHILIPP LOUW GRUNDLINGH, WEST COAST ESTUARIES CONSERVATION OFFICER

Turn ABSA Rewards into real-world conservation impact

Do you bank with ABSA? Your Rewards cash-back can help protect South Africa’s birds and their habitats.

Donating is simple:

Open the ABSA app and log in;
Scroll to the ‘Absa Rewards’ section;
Select ‘Spend’, then ‘Donate to charity’;
Choose BirdLife South Africa and enter the amount you’d like to donate.

Thank you for supporting bird conservation with your ABSA Rewards!

TARRYN McKECHNIE, PHILANTHROPY OFFICER

Ready to head to Ecuador?

BirdLife South Africa, in partnership with Rockjumper Worldwide Birding Adventures, invites you to enter our annual Jackpot Birding Raffle and stand a chance to win a 7-day/6-night birding escape for two to the spectacular Eastern Andes of Ecuador, valued at R150 000.

This unforgettable trip takes place 15–21 February 2026 and includes return flights from Johannesburg. You’ll explore habitats from snow-capped volcanoes to pristine cloud forests, with expert guides helping you spot Ecuador’s most fascinating and rare bird species.

Highlights include:

Sword-billed Hummingbird, Andean Cock-of-the-rock and the San Isidro ‘mystery’ Owl to mention just a few;
Searching for rare species like the Crescent-faced Antpitta and Red-rumped Bush-Tyrant;
Breathtaking scenery, incredible biodiversity, fine dining and friendly people.

Only 1000 tickets are available and they’re selling fast!

Cost: R650 per ticket

Entries close: 12h00 on 17 October 2025 (or when sold out)

Draw: 24 October 2025 at BirdLife South Africa’s head office (Isdell House)

All proceeds go directly to support BirdLife South Africa’s vital conservation work.

Don’t miss your chance to win this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Buy your ticket now before it’s too late!

TARRYN McKECHNIE, PHILANTHROPY OFFICER

The magic of birding in Bitou

Birding in the Bitou region offers an exceptional opportunity to experience South Africa’s diverse birdlife across a range of habitats, from indigenous forest to wetland and shoreline. It’s a chance to engage directly with nature, learn about local ecosystems and enjoy the many species that make this area a top destination for birders.

Between 24 and 31 October 2025, the Bitou Birding Festival invites birders and nature enthusiasts to explore one of South Africa’s richest biodiversity hotspots, where coastal, riverine, fynbos, forest and marine ecosystems converge. Whether you’re visiting from far away or live along the Garden Route, this festival encourages you to slow down, listen closely and connect with the area’s incredible birdlife.

The week-long event features guided walks through some of Bitou’s most productive birding habitats, hands-on bird-ringing demonstrations by qualified ringers, ‘birding by canoe’ along peaceful rivers and even an exhilarating pelagic birding trip. Designed to observe birds when they are most active in the early morning, the schedule also allows time for personal exploration and spontaneous discoveries. For those who prefer to chart their own course, a self-drive map highlights key birding hotspots across the area, which birders can follow at their own pace.

The festival hub, Kwendalo, will host a range of talks and activities, from beginner-friendly birding courses to photography workshops and discussions about avian conservation. A standout theme is the connection between birding and well-being, an area that is gaining increasing attention as research reveals how the simple act of observing birds can improve mental health, reduce stress and spark joy. The Bitou region provides countless opportunities for these restorative moments, where birdsong and natural beauty quietly work their magic.

What makes the Bitou Birding Festival unique is this strong connection to birding and nature. Birding here isn’t just about ticking species, but rather about being fully present. It’s noticing the subtle flutter of a sunbird in the canopy, the graceful lift of a heron as it takes flight from the reeds or the chorus of birdsong as the morning unfolds.

Beyond the birds, the festival celebrates the people and landscapes that sustain them. Local guides and volunteers bring a wealth of knowledge to every outing and the venues reflect the festival’s commitment to sustainability and ecological awareness. Accommodation options, available on the festival website, offer peaceful stays immersed in bird-rich environments, where binoculars are as essential as your morning coffee.

Whether you’re after lifers or simply curious about what’s out there, the Bitou Birding Festival promises a week of wonder, connection and calm.

For more information and to secure your tickets, visit bitou.birdingfestival.co.za

JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER

Birding and buffaloes don’t mix

As many BirdLife South Africa members are aware, birding trips (and courses) in Nylsvley Nature Reserve have had to be cancelled due to the presence of buffaloes in the reserve and the danger this poses to visitors.

Nylsvley Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1974, designated as one of South Africa’s first Ramsar sites in 1978 and today is among the country’s most important birding destinations. Known to attract a variety of waterbirds, the reserve’s floodplain is a critical breeding ground that supports up to 20 000 birds when full.

The exceptional diversity of bird species attracts hundreds of birders to the reserve annually, making avitourism an important source of revenue for Nylsvley and surrounds. Unfortunately, the number of visitors has been steadily decreasing since the Limpopo Department of Economic Development, Environment and Tourism (LEDET), the managing authority for the reserve, moved 16 buffaloes into it in late 2024. This action is controversial, particularly since there was no prior public consultation and no management measures were put in place to ensure visitors’ safety. BirdLife South Africa and other stakeholders have asked the LEDET for an explanation for its decision to relocate the buffaloes and have raised questions about the implications for Nylsvley as a premier birding hotspot.

On 7 August 2025 a meeting was convened at the reserve and attended by BirdLife South Africa’s CEO, Mark Anderson, and representatives from the LEDET, Friends of Nylsvley, the Waterberg Development Initiative and Wildlife Ranching South Africa. The LEDET officials explained that the buffaloes had been donated to emerging wildlife farmers but were relocated to Nylsvley because their condition began to deteriorate. One of the justifications for introducing the buffaloes into the reserve is to increase grazing there. The benefits associated with grazing notwithstanding, questions were posed about the impact of the buffaloes on reedbed vegetation and why alternative grazing species that would pose less risk to visitors were not considered.

Another concern raised by stakeholders relates to the management plan for the reserve, which makes no provision for dangerous wildlife. The only measures the LEDET has taken to cater to the presence of the buffaloes is to introduce revised indemnity forms and to offer armed guides whom visitors can hire at their own cost.

BirdLife South Africa has serious concerns about the LEDET’s actions and the implications for birders and other visitors to Nylsvley. In addition to the obvious danger to people, there are questions about whether the LEDET’s decision-making to date has taken into account the health and well-being of the buffaloes. As was suggested at the meeting, it would be preferable if the buffaloes could be moved onto nearby private reserves, but the LEDET officials claimed that the Public Finance Management Act would pose obstacles and that it would take too long to get permission from Treasury.

In the absence of a clear decision regarding the way forward, the LEDET officials promised to provide feedback to stakeholders by the end of August. We are consequently appealing to the birding community to use this time to place pressure on the LEDET to remove the buffaloes from Nylsvley Nature Reserve. We also want to urge our members to insist on consultation with stakeholders, including Friends of Nylsvley, BirdLife South Africa and the Waterberg Development Initiative, regarding the general management of the reserve.

All protected areas in South Africa are national assets and fall under the umbrella of the public trust doctrine. This doctrine imposes a duty on government departments and agencies, as custodians of South Africa’s biodiversity, to sensibly manage and perpetuate the public enjoyment of the country’s nature reserves.

Please address your comments or your objections to the presence of buffaloes in Nylsvley Nature Reserve to Ms Tinyiko Malungani at the LEDET (malunganitp@ledet.gov.za) and cc Friends of Nylsvley (Trevor Cowie, trevor30749@gmail.com) and me (kirsten.day@birdlife.org.za).

DR KIRSTEN DAY, POLICY & ADVOCACY PROGRAMME MANAGER

Birding in the Karoo with Rick Nuttall

Back by popular demand, Rick Nuttall – ornithologist, naturalist and former director of the National Museum, Bloemfontein – will again present his extremely popular four-day, three-night Karoo Birds and Birding course for those who perhaps missed the opportunity in 2024 and earlier this year. Rick, a renowned expert on the birds of central South Africa, has a particular interest in avian ecology and behaviour and his classes, lectures and presentations are highly regarded by his peers.

Two courses are being held, on 27–29 November and 1–3 December 2025, in the Khoisan Karoo Conservancy, where participants will enjoy outstanding Karoo hospitality from hosts PC and Marisca Ferreira.

The course includes:

Three nights’ accommodation at BirdLife South Africa Recommended Establishment, New Holme Nature Lodge;
Wholesome home-cooked Karoo meals, including a bush braai;
Five illustrated talks on the birds of the Khoisan Karoo Conservancy and the Great Karoo, presented by Rick Nuttall;
Daily early morning and afternoon birding excursions;
Two night drives to search for some of the Karoo’s most elusive nocturnal mammals (aardvark, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, Cape porcupine and black-footed cat);
A guided walk to view ancient Khoi etchings and learn about their fascinating history;
The stunning starlit Karoo night sky.

In addition, a portion of the proceeds from your participation in the course will be donated to ensure that selected BirdLife South Africa Community Bird Guides will also have an opportunity to participate. BirdLife South Africa is working with the Karoo Khoisan Conservancy to provide further training opportunities for this network of highly skilled professionals.

Be sure not to miss out – spaces are limited!

JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER

Hidden hotspots: South Africa’s OECMs

When we think of conservation, national parks and nature reserves often come to mind. But what if we told you that some of South Africa’s most important bird habitats aren’t formally protected at all, and yet they still exist? This is where a relatively new area-based standard called Other Effective area-based Conservation Measures (OECMs) can play an incredibly important role.

An Other Effective area-based Conservation Measure is defined as ‘a geographically defined area other than a Protected Area, such as a nature reserve or national park, which is governed and managed in ways that achieve positive and sustained long-term outcomes for the in situ conservation of biodiversity, with associated ecosystem functions and services and, where applicable, cultural, spiritual, socio-economic and other locally relevant values’ (https://iucn.org/our-work/topic/effective-protected-areas/our-philosophy-protected-and-conserved-areas/oecms ).

OECMs can be important biodiversity areas on communal, private or government-owned land that aren’t officially declared as protected areas but are still managed in ways that support long-term conservation. For example, a farm where the landowner maintains natural grassland for livestock, but that same grassland also happens to be perfect for endangered birds like Botha’s Lark, Rudd’s Lark or the Blue Swallow. Importantly, marine areas can also be OECMs. An estuary or offshore area that is protected by a coastal community for fishing can also benefit flamingos, terns and even African Penguins, and can thus qualify as an OECM. These are examples of potential OECMs that can be recognised and can contribute to South Africa’s conservation targets.

Birders should care because many of South Africa’s rarest and most beautiful birds live outside protected areas. In fact, nearly half the country’s unprotected Key Biodiversity Areas – places critical for species’ survival – could fully or partially qualify as OECMs. That means birders exploring farmlands, natural areas in timber estates, estuaries or even the marine environment on a pelagic trip, might be in an OECM without even knowing it.

OECMs are often managed by farmers, communities or private landowners who care deeply about their land or marine resources. Through biodiversity stewardship agreements they commit to sustainable practices, such as rotational grazing, wetland protection or sustainable fishing, that benefit both livelihoods and biodiversity. It’s conservation without boundaries while supporting livelihoods.

South Africa’s grasslands are home to some of the country’s most threatened birds, yet only a very small portion of this habitat is currently formally protected. OECMs help fill the gap. Similarly, estuaries like those of the Berg River and Klein River are vital stopovers for migratory birds and many can be safeguarded when they’re recognised as OECMs.

BirdLife South Africa, in partnership with Conservation Outcomes and with backing from the WWF Nedbank Green Trust, is supporting the systematic roll-out of the OECM concept throughout South Africa, guiding its implementation based on international standards, criteria and guidelines. This project builds on the successful OECM pilot project done by BirdLife South Africa in the Western Cape. Key to its success is working with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment and SANBI (South African National Biodiversity Institute) to formally recognise and report OECMs as part of South Africa’s conservation estate. This helps the country meet international biodiversity targets while celebrating the unsung heroes of conservation – everyday people protecting extraordinary places.

So next time you’re out birding and see a Secretarybird or a flock of flamingos or hear a lark’s melodic call in an unexpected place, take a moment. You might just be in an OECM – a place where birds and people co-exist in harmony.

Birders can play a surprisingly powerful role in supporting and sustaining OECMs. There are several ways to get involved and make your birding count for biodiversity.

You can share your sightings by contributing to bird data platforms like BirdLasser, SABAP2 or eBird. These records help conservationists identify areas rich in birdlife that may qualify as OECMs. Your sightings could spark interest in biodiversity stewardship and even trigger formal recognition of a site as an OECM. If you bird on farms or community lands, talk to landowners about the birds you see and why they matter. Your enthusiasm could even lead to a formal biodiversity stewardship agreement.

Your story can be told by using your photos, blogs or social media to showcase lesser known birding spots that are thriving thanks to local care. Places like estuaries, wetlands or grasslands that lack formal protection but are rich in birdlife can be highlighted.

You can also support Biodiversity Stewardship initiatives by joining or donating to organisations like BirdLife South Africa (birdlife.org.za) or Conservation Outcomes (conservation-outcomes.org) that work directly with OECMs. These conservation organisations help landowners manage their land sustainably and navigate the OECM recognition process.

Increasing one’s knowledge and advocating for a cause is another way to contribute. You can do this by attending local conservation workshops or webinars on OECMs, advocating for the inclusion of OECMs in local biodiversity plans or bird atlases or even encourage your bird club to adopt an OECM site for monitoring or awareness.

Very importantly, you can respect and reinforce good practices. When birding in OECMs, follow ethical birding guidelines. Stay on paths, avoid disturbing nesting sites and respect local customs. Your responsible presence reinforces the value of conservation-friendly land use.

Birders are often the first to notice when a patch of land, estuary or seascape is special. By sharing what you see and supporting those who care for these places, you can help ensure that OECMs are sustainable refuges for birds – and for future birders!

STEVE McKEAN, OECM PROJECT MANAGER

Hunting down Red Data Book species

Earlier this year, while editing the 2025 Red List of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Eswatini, I was struck by a bleak trend. Many of KwaZulu-Natal’s forest bird species, including the Spotted Ground Thrush, Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, Green Barbet and Neergaard’s Sunbird, had slipped into more threatened categories or had been listed as threatened with no improvements from earlier assessments. At the same time, numerous waterbird species were declining, a pattern I could not ignore. The site that came up repeatedly for their conservation was iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a refuge for Swamp Nightjar.

So this trip became something of a pilgrimage. I wanted to experience the landscapes and species behind the Red List, but I also wanted to see if the birds I was writing about were still there. At the same time, I would contribute to the citizen science projects that had been so valuable in enabling the Red List team to make informed decisions.

From my home at the south-western edge of the Baviaanskloof I crossed the Eastern Cape, pausing at Port Alfred and Butterworth to contribute to SABAP2. This province is notoriously poorly covered by the SABAP2 project, and my submission resulted in out-of-range forms for Familiar Chat, African Harrier-Hawk and African Darter. Rivers bore the scars of recent lethal floods, with plastic tangled high in the trees and roadside dumping continuing unchecked. I wondered if better protection of wetlands may have offset flood damage in a previous era – barren land and increasing expanses of concrete exacerbate run-off.

At Port Edward, bird-ringing and forest birding were on the itinerary with BirdLife South Africa colleague David Ehlers Smith. Umtamvuna offered a rewarding hike, but despite the company of my expert and experienced companion, we dipped on Spotted Ground Thrush.

Umlalazi Nature Reserve gave me a glimpse of what conservation can still achieve. A night walk through the mangroves revealed a Mangrove Kingfisher sleeping peacefully near the boardwalk, and by day a Palm-nut Vulture posed for birders on the beach.

I’d chosen Umlalazi as the launch site to get to oNgoye Forest, South Africa’s only site for the Endangered Green Barbet. But Google Maps led us to the ‘wrong’ side of this small forest patch and a full morning of exploring the trails produced no sign of one. Later, at the Dlinza boardwalk in Eshowe – a real conservation gem – I failed to confirm Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon, getting onto a passing flock of Columbidae too late to be sure. It was a sobering day with neither target species acquired. As a consolation, a morning walk at Umlalazi on the day of departure produced a Half-collared Kingfisher (Vulnerable) that plunged into the mangrove waters, a bright flash of reconciliation. Some birders told us of a site for Southern Banded Snake Eagle, but I was pressed for time and betted, wrongly, on picking this up further north.

St Lucia, gateway to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, brought some relief. At Sugar Loaf campsite, a Green Twinspot foraged near the tents and a Livingstone’s Turaco added a burst of colour, but both are listed as Least Concern. With local bird guide Themba Mthembu, I ventured further, picking up other regional specials such as Rudd’s Apalis and Woodward’s Batis. We also found two regional Red Data Book species, African Jacana and White-backed Duck, in a seasonally flooded pan. African Jacana were common, so I was reassured we’d assessed them correctly as Least Concern.

Themba spotted a Neergaard’s Sunbird (Vulnerable) in a forest patch of the Eastern Shores section but I missed it, and it remained beyond my reach for the rest of the trip. Themba has contributed his story to the Rosy-throated Longclaw account, but said we wouldn’t have a chance for it that day. He pointed out potential locations for Swamp Nightjar, but I failed to track one down during both night and dawn visits to the indicated sites. A morning walk delivered Black-throated Wattle-eye as the consolation.

Mkuze Game Reserve was a personal highlight for additional KwaZulu-Natal specials, producing Pink-throated Twinspot and a juvenile Martial Eagle (Endangered). But at Kosi Bay, where I’d budgeted three nights to track down specials, birding hopes again dimmed. A hundred Trumpeter Hornbills made a mighty impression, but there were no Southern Banded Snake Eagles, no Rosy-throated Longclaws and the lala palms, crucial for Lemon-breasted Canaries, were absent. A walk in the nature reserve revealed an unexpected joy: an overwintering African Pygmy Kingfisher. But it was no substitute for the many missing species.

Pongola was a low point, its endless sugarcane fields stretching to the horizon under a smoke-choked sky. The return drive to Johannesburg passed through what were once grasslands; now plantation forests dominate. Coal-fired power stations cast a haze across the landscape and coal trucks crept along the roads like endless army worms, stalling traffic and making for treacherous driving.

In Johannesburg, I ended the trip with a sighting of Cape Vultures gliding over the Hennops River hiking trail, survivors, for now, from the nearby Magaliesberg colony. A huge conservation effort allows them to continue to grace our skies.

I set out to see South Africa’s threatened forest and waterbirds. I planned my trip, visited the right habitats, consulted expert guides. And yet I dipped time after time. Not for lack of trying but because, in many cases, the birds are no longer there.

There were bright spots. Umlalazi and Dlinza nature reserves are being managed well. Local guides like Themba Mthembu are making a difference. But in other places, such as oNgoye and Kosi Bay, the pressure from unsustainable land use, pollution and limited enforcement is overwhelming. The situation at Ndumo, which I did not reach on this trip, is of international concern.

What I witnessed confirms what the Red List tells us. Species are slipping away. Habitat is shrinking. Plastic, plantations and pollution are displacing wildlife in even our most iconic protected areas. But these are not reasons to give up in despair; they are calls to action. Conservation can still succeed. The birds are telling us what they need. We just have to listen – and act while there is still time.

DR ALAN LEE, SCIENCE & INNOVATION PROGRAMME MANAGER

A fresh look for BBD

Our extended BirdLife International family has done some rebranding of late and this has motivated us to put a fresh coat of paint on our Birding Big Day logo for 2025. Following the font design of BirdLife International and inspired by our flagship citizen science project, the Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2 (SABAP2), the new logo has a flash of colour on the ‘i’ of ‘Big’. This represents the legacy colour scheme on the area coverage page of SABAP2, which allows users to quickly assess how many times a pentad (the 5×5 latitude-longitude grid system that geographically stratifies the SABAP2 project across our region) has received a full protocol card.

A full protocol card is essential for us here in the Science & Innovation Programme, as it represents a minimum of two hours of survey effort (and up to five days) across all habitat types within the pentad, ensuring good coverage and an accurate representation of the birds present. The more times a pentad receives a full protocol survey, the more it changes colour on the coverage map. Our minimum scientific goal is to turn every pentad ‘green’ as this means it has received four full protocol surveys, which is the magic number for statistical analysis; anything less than four and we are unable to perform advanced analyses. You will also see that the dot above the ‘i’ is blue and has a check mark – this means we have gone past the magic green status!

So the new logo is not just a pretty colour scheme, but is grounded in the scientific approach we take to conserving birds. Birding Big Day is one of the most important events in our calendar, as hundreds of teams change the colour of pentads across the entire country, our database increases and our ability to conserve our precious birdlife is strengthened. To get involved, or for more information, please visit the SABAP2 website (sabap2.birdmap.africa/) or contact me at david.ehlers.smith@birdlife.org.za

We look forward to your participation in Birding Big Day 2025 on Saturday, 6 December and hope you bask in the knowledge during the day that you’re not only having fun, but also making a huge contribution to citizen science and bird conservation!

DR DAVID EHLERS SMITH, SCIENCE AND SPATIAL PLANNING PROJECT MANAGER

Test your skills at the South African Bird Fair!

There will be a new competition at the South African Bird Fair on 6 September and we’re inviting you to take part. Open exclusively to fair attendees, this friendly contest takes place within the confines of the beautiful Pretoria National Botanical Garden, a haven for a rich variety of birdlife.

Using the BirdLasser mobile app (available on Apple and Android), your goal is to record more than 25 bird species during the event. Track your sightings in real time and see how you rank on the live leader board. Every participant who records more than 25 species will be entered into a draw to win exciting prizes.

But this challenge is about far more than just winning. Every bird you record contributes to vital conservation efforts, helping us protect the amazing species that call the botanical garden home.

So grab your binoculars, download the BirdLasser app and get ready to bird up a storm!

Participation is free, but spots are limited. Make sure to register by adding this ticket to your cart to secure your place in the challenge. Don’t miss this chance to combine fun, competition and conservation at the South African Bird Fair.

Stay connected with BirdLife South Africa

To follow BirdLife South Africa on Facebook and join our WhatsApp channel, all you need to do is scan the QR codes above. By connecting with us, you’ll get:

Updates on upcoming events like the South African Bird Fair;
Inspiring stories from our conservation projects;
Birding tips and guides from our expert team;
Exclusive content and community conversations.

Joining our online community is the perfect way to stay inspired and involved. Scan the QR codes now and be part of the BirdLife South Africa family!

You made the Photography Competition a success!

The 2025 BirdLife South Africa Photography Competition received an inspiring range of entries, each one telling a unique story of our feathered treasures, from rare sightings in the wild to the everyday charm of backyard visitors. Your photographs not only showcase artistic talent, but also help raise awareness about the importance of bird conservation.

Even if you didn’t submit your own entry, you can still take part by voting in the People’s Choice category. A selection of entries is displayed for public voting at birdlife.org.za/photocomp2025/. Voting closes at midnight on 31 August.

The winners will be revealed at the 2025 South African Bird Fair on Saturday, 6 September 2025 at the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. Join us for the official awards presentation, where we will display the winning images and celebrate the photographers who captured them. It will be a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow bird and photography enthusiasts, explore the Bird Fair exhibits and be inspired by the passion of our community. If you haven’t booked tickets yet, they are available at birdlife.glueup.com/event/south-african-bird-fair-2025-114668/. We can’t wait to see you there!

Once again, thank you for sharing your talent and helping us promote the wonder of birds through photography. Your work is a powerful reminder of why we continue to protect these incredible creatures and their habitats.