The BirdLife South Africa team at the awareness-raising event in Cape Town. Dr Alistair McInnes (bottom right) was one of the speakers. The event was well attended by journalists, influencers, researchers and others who have a stake in the future of African Penguins and marine ecosystems. Nicky Stander, of SANCCOB, spoke eloquently about saving this…
Two large Secretarybird nestlings on a nest platform. Credit Cassie Carstens A Secretarybird feather near a nest is a clue to whether the nest is being used. Credit Cassie Carstens Looking for Secretarybird nests? Eyes down! Spring is here and Secretarybirds are beginning to breed in earnest. But finding their nests is no easy task.…
A chick uses its egg tooth to carefully carve its way out of its egg. Many species lay a single egg, which makes that egg a precious investment for the species’ survival. Credit Lorinda Hart Eggsamining the risk of pesticides Perfected in birds, the egg comprises a hard and protective, yet breathable shell formed around…
An AI-generated image illustrating the use of AI, BirdNET and remote acoustic monitoring devices for monitoring birds. AI and BirdNET insights We are excited to provide an update on the BioSoundSCapes project, a key component of the broader BioSCape initiative that aims to understand and preserve the unique ecosystems of the Cape Floristic Region. As…
This photo of a Secretarybird pair on a large firethorn bush near Memel in the Free State was sent in by local farmer Danie Swanepoel. Hanlie Michau, a local birder, captured this Secretarybird flushing from a possible nest tree near Marblehall on the Springbokvlakte in Limpopo. A Secretarybird on a potential nest tree near Van…
Birds of the Karoo Surveying the birds of the Karoo in 2017 and 2018 was one of the more memorable chapters of my life. The surveys were conducted on a shoestring budget, camping and biking to keep costs down and maximise effort, with long stints away from family. Most took place on private land and…
European Rollers – where do they go? BirdLife South Africa is protecting migratory birds one solar-powered satellite tag at a time. And its species of choice? The European Roller. This captivating migratory bird, a flagship species for the East Atlantic Flyway Initiative, is also a crucial indicator of ecosystem health. Individual populations have shown severe…
African Penguins forage most successfully in groups. Credit Alistair McInnes No break for penguins While conservation scientists have long been aware of, and worried by, the decline in the number of African Penguins, ongoing research indicates that the plight of this iconic species is worse than ever. The species has now lost a staggering 97%…
February Newsletter 2024 An adult Secretarybird in South African grassland. Credit Cassie Carstens The last Secretarybird in Gauteng? The grasslands of Gauteng are probably one of the most threatened habitats in the entire country. The economic heart of South Africa continues to develop at breakneck speed and the last natural pieces of the Highveld are…
Recommended avitourism service provider Bosch Luys Kloof has joined BirdLife South Africa’s network of recommended accommodation establishments. At this private nature reserve, situated near Seweweekspoort on the cusp of the Little Karoo and Great Karoo, dramatic vistas of mountains, valleys and karooveld await you. The reserve offers guided nature drives, hiking trails, 4×4 routes, mountain…