Double the impact of your donation!

For the whole of June 2025, all donations made to the Saving Marion Island’s Seabirds: The Mouse-Free Marion Project will be doubled, while matching funds last. Help us raise
R220 000 by supporting the initiative to save Marion Island’s seabirds.

The money raised this June will support our critical efforts to restore Marion Island as a safe, predator-free breeding ground for albatrosses. Past experience on other islands has proved that wildlife rebounds spectacularly following restoration.

Saving Marion Island’s Seabirds: The Mouse-Free Marion Project provides a rare opportunity for a single, decisive intervention to eliminate a significant biodiversity threat. Unlike many conservation initiatives that rely on long-term mitigation or control measures, this focused operation offers the promise of permanent restoration.

The campaign to match donations in celebration of World Albatross Day is funded through the generous support of two private donors: Charlie Pascoe, a former Marion over-winterer (M43), and www.capetownpelagics.com

Donations can be made through the MFM Project Website (by debit or credit card) or via direct transfer to the MFM bank account. 

Please send proof of payment to donations@mousefreemarion.org or contact us at info@mousefreemarion.org for more information.

ROBYN ADAMS, MFM COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER AND PROJECT ASSISTANT

Together, we can do more for birds

BirdLife South Africa’s Conservation League Donors are a driving force behind the conservation impact we make. Collectively, they contributed more than R1-million in 2024 – a vital boost to our mission to protect South Africa’s birds and their habitats.

You too can join this powerful community of supporters – and even stand a chance to win! Sign up as a Conservation League Donor before 30 June 2025 and you’ll be entered into a lucky draw to win a two-night luxury stay for two at the breathtaking Walkersons Hotel and Spa in Dullstroom, valued at R12 000.

By donating R3000 or more annually (in addition to your membership), you’ll not only support vital bird conservation work, you’ll also enjoy exclusive benefits:

• invitations to special events and priority booking opportunities;
• inspiring stories and insights from the field in our curated mailer, Conservation Connections;
• special recognition of your contribution on the BirdLife South Africa website, as well as in annual reports and financial statements;
• a Section 18A tax certificate for your donation.

And, of course, a chance to win a luxurious escape to Walkersons Hotel and Spa in Dullstroom, where serene lakes, rolling hills and tranquil walking trails offer the perfect setting for spotting endemic and migratory birds in the heart of Mpumalanga’s highlands. You can read more about Walkersons Hotel and Spa at walkersons.co.za/

The winner will be announced on 1 July 2025. T&Cs apply: www.birdlife.org.za/cld-lucky-draw

Join today and help shape a bird-friendly future. For more information contact me at Tarryn.McKechnie@birdlife.org.za

TARRYN McKECHNIE, PHILANTHROPY OFFICER

Biologgers for Bird Island penguins

Earlier this month Dr Lorien Pichegru, from Nelson Mandela University, and I visited Bird Island in Algoa Bay to conduct a field mission that aims to advance African Penguin conservation. We deployed biologgers on 10 adult penguins to track their foraging behaviour and movements at sea and fitted one bird with an animal-borne video camera and accelerometer to gain insights into its fine-scale movements and feeding activity.

In addition to this tracking work, we improved the long-term monitoring infrastructure on Bird Island by installing a new RFID antenna and recalibrating the scales on the Automated Penguin Monitoring System (APMS). The APMS plays a critical role in monitoring penguin foraging success and the health of the marine environment, as it weighs individual birds as they come and go on foraging trips. The weight data are crucial for detecting changes in the availability of the penguins’ prey (sardines and anchovies) and could act as an early warning system if prey populations begin to decline. The Coastal Seabird Project team plans to conduct fine-scale fish surveys soon to support the ecological calibration of the monitoring system, which will enable it to relate prey biomass to penguin condition and foraging efficiency.

Before leaving the island, we fitted PIT tags to more than 60 adult and fledgling penguins. The information gathered from the tags will support analyses of penguin survival and other long-term population studies. The team has already observed a significant increase in the data recorded by the APMS, thanks to the newly PIT-tagged birds.

This work was made possible through the Charl van der Merwe Trust and the dedicated support of SANParks rangers stationed on Bird Island – a true team effort for the future of this Critically Endangered species.

PHILIP FAURE, COASTAL SEABIRD PROJECT MANAGER

Secretarybird a home bird – for now

The initial aim of BirdLife South Africa’s long-term Secretarybird tracking study was to determine how young birds move across the landscape once they leave the nest. The youngsters remain near the natal nesting site for several months and progressively explore larger areas before dispersing over long distances. With this knowledge, we were able to advise developers of renewable energy projects to buffer roughly 1.6km around a Secretarybird nest. This was one of the first practical conservation actions that flowed from our research.

The third phase of the project began at the beginning of this year, and the two young birds fitted with GPS tracking devices are once again giving us a glimpse into their movements. Buckbeak, hatched near Kimberley in the Northern Cape, is the more prominent of the two. Over the first seven weeks of carrying the tracker, this young male has covered increasingly larger areas around the nest, starting at just under 25ha in the first week and reaching more than 350ha in the seventh. The parents also remain in the area, keeping an eye on their offspring while he gets to grips with the slow process of learning and gaining experience.

It’s only a matter of time before he, like others before him, will disperse. These journeys can be over vast distances. Young Secretarybirds we have tracked in the past have travelled from Gauteng to the Makgadikgadi Pans in Botswana and from Warden in the Free State all the way to Amanzimtoti. It is anyone’s guess which direction Buckbeak will choose and where he will eventually end up. All we know is that we’ll be watching him closely, increasing our knowledge to better conserve these iconic African birds.

CASSIE CARSTENS, SECRETARYBIRD PROJECT MANAGER

Birding in the Overberg for conservation

Situated in the heart of the Overberg, Haarwegskloof Renosterveld Reserve is more than just a birding destination; it’s a conservation stronghold. As the largest remaining patch of lowland renosterveld on earth, this special refuge teems with endemic and threatened biodiversity, from the Endangered Black Harrier and charismatic Southern Black Korhaan to a remarkable diversity of larks, gamebirds and flowering plants found nowhere else.

To celebrate this landscape and deepen its connection with the birding community, I will be hosting a weekend retreat from 7 to 9 November 2025 at Haarwegskloof. This is more than an ID course; this immersive experience will connect birders with the broader conservation story, showing how birding can be a tool not just for enjoyment, but for research, monitoring and advocacy.

Expect close encounters with flagship species, expert guidance in identification and field skills and hands-on learning about how citizen science, including SABAP2 and CAR, contributes to Red Listing and habitat protection. You’ll come away better equipped to make your birding count towards conservation.

The retreat is hosted in collaboration with the Overberg Renosterveld Conservation Trust, guardians of this globally important landscape. With De Hoop Nature Reserve just a short drive away, participants can explore both renosterveld and coastal fynbos, expanding their bird lists while experiencing two of South Africa’s most biodiverse habitats.

Spaces are limited and interest is expected to be high. To book, contact Sharon at bookings@overbergrenosterveld.org.za

Come for the birds. Leave with a deeper understanding of how your passion supports their future.

DR ALAN LEE, SCIENCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAMME MANAGER

Owl Awards 2025

BirdLife South Africa proudly recognises and honours the individuals and organisations that make outstanding contributions to the conservation of this country’s birds and their habitats. Each year, this recognition is formalised through the prestigious Owl Awards, which celebrate excellence, dedication and impact in bird conservation.

We are now inviting nominations for the 2025 Owl Awards!

Award categories:

• Owlet Award, presented to one rising star annually who shows exceptional promise in bird conservation.
• Owl Awards, presented to up to nine individuals or organisations making significant contributions to bird conservation or to BirdLife South Africa.
• Eagle-Owl Awards, presented annually to a maximum of two individuals or organisations in recognition of their outstanding long-term contributions to bird conservation.

Important information for nominators:

• Nominations can only be submitted by BirdLife South Africa staff, Board members, bird clubs or members of the organisation.
• The nomination must clearly state the award category (Owlet, Owl or Eagle-Owl) for which the nominee is being recommended.
• Each nomination should be approximately 400 words in length and must outline the nominee’s contributions to bird conservation and/or BirdLife South Africa.
• BirdLife South Africa staff members are not eligible to receive an Owl Award.

Submit nominations to Dr Isabel Human at isabel.human@birdlife.org.za

Deadline: Friday, 11 July 2025

The date and venue for the 2025 Owl Awards ceremony will be announced in due course.

This is your opportunity to help us celebrate the heroes of bird conservation – those whose passion and efforts are helping to protect and preserve South Africa’s precious avian biodiversity.

Let your voice be heard; nominate someone today!

Community Bird Guides stretch their wings

Two recent initiatives of BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project have highlighted the skills of its Community Bird Guides and raised the visibility of these specialist guides within the avitourism and ecotourism industries.

Community Bird Guides Lethu Nxele, Junior Gabela, Phindile Ntshangase, Sifundo Gumbi, Sakhamuzi Mhlongo and Wilfred Mchunu attended the prestigious Africa Travel Indaba held from 13 to 15 May at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban. One of Africa’s leading travel trade shows, this annual event brings together industry stakeholders from across the continent and beyond.

Thanks to sponsorship from the Department of Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal and BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project, these guides had the opportunity to engage with tourism professionals, network with industry leaders and showcase the unique birding experiences South Africa has to offer. Their presence at the Indaba highlighted the importance of local expertise in avitourism, reinforcing how community-based guiding can enrich the experiences of birding visitors. BirdLife South Africa extends its gratitude to the Department of Tourism in KwaZulu-Natal for its ongoing support of the province’s guides and its investment in growing and sustaining avitourism.

The second milestone moment came when another two Community Bird Guides, Lethu Nxele and Thabile Mthiyane, joined me on visits to Djuma Private Game Reserve and Sandringham Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger National Park. These visits were part of our collaborative efforts with WildEarth TV, an initiative designed to showcase the remarkable biodiversity and birdlife of these regions while elevating the role of bird guides in conservation and ecotourism.

By participating, Lethu and Thabile not only deepened their understanding of reserve-based guiding, but also contributed their expertise in bird identification and interpretation. In addition, they shared their knowledge of the cultural significance of birds; learned the intricacies of contributing toward citizen science through eBird; gained behind-the-scenes insight into the media and film industry; marketed themselves and their businesses on national and international live television; and demonstrated the invaluable role specialist birding guides play in enriching wildlife experiences.

You can view all recorded episodes of WildEarth’s live virtual birding safaris featuring Lethu, Thabile and John at youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlJtbGGYK3vh90yf9HHUNmwwWIFbR1Plx&si=PiK7qVNpZj77BNMa

These recent opportunities are testament to how BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project champions the integration of Community Bird Guides into the broader tourism landscape. By supporting these individuals’ exposure to high-profile events, companies and strategic partnerships, we empower them to thrive in a highly rewarding yet competitive industry. The journey of these bird guides is one of passion, perseverance and promise; they ensure that South Africa’s avian treasures are shared with the world while promoting sustainable and ethical tourism practices.

If you are interested in directly supporting BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project, specifically its Guide Training Programme, please contact me at john.kinghorn@birdlife.org.za

JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER

Two larks, one warning

With fewer than 250 individuals left, the Liben Lark is on the brink of extinction. Rudd’s Lark, with approximately 980 individuals left, could follow the same path. Both are grassland specialists, both highly sensitive to habitat loss.

In the sweeping grasslands of southern Africa, a quiet crisis is unfolding. Rudd’s Lark, one of the most threatened birds in South Africa, is struggling to survive in shrinking patches of high-altitude grassland. This shy, Endangered species is found nowhere else in the world and is extremely sensitive to changes in its environment. It relies on a delicate balance of fire and grazing to keep its habitat suitable. If the grassland is lost, damaged or poorly managed, the lark disappears.

Worryingly, fewer than 1000 mature Rudd’s Larks remain. The population is estimated at around 980 birds, making the species highly vulnerable to habitat loss, climate change and human activity. Every individual counts.

Far to the north in Ethiopia, a closely related bird, the Liben Lark, has already suffered a similar fate. Once common on the Liben Plain, it is now one of the world’s rarest birds, with fewer than 250 mature individuals left. Habitat loss due to farming, overgrazing and uncontrolled development has pushed it to the edge of extinction.

This comparison is alarming. Both species are grassland specialists, both are sedentary and both are extremely sensitive to habitat disturbance. The key difference? Rudd’s Lark is not yet in as dire a position as the Liben Lark – but without urgent action, it could be.

Thanks to the support of Birding Ecotours (birdingecotours.com/), we are tackling this problem head-on – through scientific research and biodiversity stewardship, and collaborative conservation efforts with landowners and local communities. Their support is helping to protect not only Rudd’s Lark, but the broader grassland ecosystem and other threatened species, like Botha’s Lark and the Yellow-breasted Pipit.

The decline of the Liben Lark is a powerful warning. It shows how quickly grassland species can vanish when their habitats are not sufficiently protected. We need to act now and ensure the future of Rudd’s Lark.

We must not wait until it’s too late.

MATTHEW OROLOWITZ, BIRDING ECOTOURS FELLOW OF GRASSLANDS CONSERVATION

Starting young…

In a bid to encourage young people in South Africa to engage in birding and experience wetlands for themselves, BirdLife South Africa has produced two children’s books in collaboration with volunteer contributors.

Run Until You Can Fly

‘“I wish I could fly, Mama,” Saro said. “Run until you can fly,” Mama said. So, as Sun warmed Wetland’s morning mist, Saro ran.’

What will Saro run into along the way? How will he possibly learn to fly? Join Saro, a Critically Endangered White-winged Flufftail, and his friends Oryx the otter and Gus the crane as they come across surprises together; surprises that will test the trio’s strength and friendship.

Written by Brenda Daniels; illustrated by Amy-Jane Jenkins.

Target ages 5–8.

Download your free copy at birdlife.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Run-Until-You-Can-Fly-layout-spreads_compressed.pdf

Piffy and Zenzi Go Birding

Poodles Piffy and Zenzi wonder what ‘birding’ means. On a birding day out with their human friends, the dogs discover a diversity of birds and other species inhabiting wetlands. They learn about the special adaptations to living in aquatic habitats and the vital role wetlands play in our everyday lives. Join these two cheeky pups on their birding adventure – a journey that leads to a threatened bird few have ever seen…

Written by Kirsty Kyle; illustrated by Karlien Muller

Target ages 9–12.

Download your free copy at birdlife.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Piffy-and-Zenzi-Go-Birding-layout-spreads_compressed.pdf

Limited physical copies are available to school libraries and classrooms and can be collected from BirdLife South Africa, Isdell House, 17 Hume Road, Dunkeld West 2196, Johannesburg.

For more information, please contact me at kyle.lloyd@birdlife.org.za

DR KYLE LLOYD, WETLAND CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER/ROCKJUMPER FELLOW OF WHITE-WINGED FLUFFTAIL CONSERVATION

Wetland management in southern Africa

Wetlands deliver essential ecosystem services that would require billions of rands to replicate. Yet, despite their economic value, they face ongoing threats worldwide. This is concerning for water-scarce regions like southern Africa, especially in view of climate change forecasts.

High-elevation wetlands form part of the water towers in the upper reaches of our catchments that provide, support and regulate water resources to many downstream users. The impact of destroying wetlands is obvious, but a more subtle impact comes from degradation through mismanagement.

Although the scientific understanding of wetlands and their management has improved, much of this knowledge remains inaccessible to the private and communal land users who are responsible for stewarding this ecosystem. To redress this situation, BirdLife South Africa and partners have developed simplified and illustrated management guidelines for high-elevation wetlands (above 1400m) in southern Africa’s mesic grassland regions. The guidelines are designed for managers (landowners, farmers, traditional authorities and protected area managers) and their advisers, providing practical knowledge that will enable them to balance land use with wetland conservation to benefit communities, wildlife and future generations.

Download your free copy at birdlife.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Wetland-Management-Guidelines-layout-pages.pdf

Limited physical copies are available to wetland practitioners (government officials, consultants and NGOs) and can be collected from BirdLife South Africa, Isdell House, 17 Hume Road, Dunkeld West 2196, Johannesburg.

For more information, please contact me at kyle.lloyd@birdlife.org.za

DR KYLE LLOYD, WETLAND CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER/ROCKJUMPER FELLOW OF WHITE-WINGED FLUFFTAIL CONSERVATION