November 2024 Newsletter

Flufftail’s conservation milestones add up There have been significant leaps in White-winged Flufftail conservation in 2024. Seventeen new locations for the species have been discovered and six historical locations have been confirmed as having recently hosted the flufftail, according to acoustic surveys carried out between 2020 and 2024. Moreover, habitat suitability modelling predicts that about 24km² of White-winged Flufftail habitat remains in South Africa. These findings validate our ongoing conservation work and will help to direct targeted efforts at key sites. BirdLife South Africa’s approach has delivered impressive results: new best-practice guidelines for wetland management; a bid to declare the Tim Tilden-Davis Nature Reserve that has won overwhelming public support; and innovative wildlife-friendly fencing. In addition, our team has developed practical conservation tools that will standardise conservation approaches, empower landowners, improve habitat management and guide efforts to restore wetlands. We have also produced practical infographics for landowners and are finalising two children’s books to inspire the next generation of conservationists. Awareness projects like these books and the Flufftail Festival inform young people about the need for conservation and create an emotional connection to the White-winged Flufftail and wetlands. By engaging proactively with wind energy developments along the Eastern Escarpment we are contributing to the protection of the species’ habitat, and our expanded monitoring is revealing new insights into this Critically Endangered species. The project’s integrated framework, combining species research with wetland management, rehabilitation, protection, policy and advocacy, stewardship and awareness, provides a holistic approach to ensuring the long-term survival of the White-winged Flufftail while advancing best practices for wetland conservation across southern Africa. DR KYLE LLOYD, WETLAND CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER/ROCKJUMPER FELLOW OF WHITE-WINGED FLUFFTAIL CONSERVATION, AND DR MARLIZE MULLER, STEENKAMPSBERG CONSERVATION OFFICER

Botha’s Lark on the brink With an estimated population of only 340 individuals, Botha’s Lark is the most threatened bird in South Africa. Given this perilously low number, the species is expected to be reclassified as Critically Endangered in the near future. It depends on high-altitude grassland that is disappearing rapidly as more and more of this habitat is overgrazed and given over to agriculture and development. The lark’s needs are very specific – short, tufted grasses – and unlike other species that may adjust to changing landscapes, it is especially vulnerable as grasslands disappear. Protecting Botha’s Lark’s environment is key to its survival. BirdLife South Africa has partnered with Birding Ecotours to carry out research, raise awareness and engage in biodiversity stewardship, with a focus on southern Mpumalanga. Every tour booked with Birding Ecotours directly supports this crucial conservation effort. And thanks to Birding Ecotours’ generous financial backing, the first step could be taken: to appoint a dedicated team based in Wakkerstroom. We have begun to conduct vital research on Botha’s Lark’s population trends and habitat needs and are performing regular surveys to find the larks. This helps us to understand where they are, how they use the grasslands and what we can do to protect them. Looking forward, Birding Ecotours’ contributions will enable us to collaborate with landowners to preserve and restore the grasslands that Botha’s Lark and many other species call home. By promoting sustainable practices, we’re working to protect these critical areas. Birding Ecotours is demonstrating how ecotourism can be a powerful tool for conservation. Since every tour booked with the company contributes directly to the conservation of endangered species like Botha’s Lark, by joining a tour you’re more than experiencing South Africa’s incredible birdlife – you’re actively helping to protect it. Together we can make a difference. Every contribution counts, and with supporters like you and Birding Ecotours, we are taking steps to ensure a future for Botha’s Lark and its irreplaceable grassland habitat. Please visit Birding Ecotours and BirdLife South Africa to find out more about how you can get involved. MATTHEW OROLOWITZ, BIRDING ECOTOURS FELLOW OF GRASSLANDS CONSERVATION

Hera’s coming home! We’ve been tracking Hera, a European Roller that enjoys South Africa’s summer, since she set off on her northward journey on 30 March. We followed her progress to Uzbekistan and now, on her return passage, she is currently resting in Somalia after a long ocean crossing. At the Regional Conservation Programme, we’re thrilled at the thought of welcoming Hera back in just a few weeks and relieved that, despite some transmission issues caused by feathers blocking her solar panel, her tracker is still working! Her stopover in Somalia reinforces the country’s significance as a crucial refuelling point for European Rollers during their autumn and spring migrations – and, ultimately, their survival. It’s incredible to think that Hera, a 160g bird, travelled more than 10 000km to reach Uzbekistan, where she spent nearly two months. From there she continued to Rajasthan in India, another important stopover that is known to host more than 300 000 European Rollers during migration – just imagine the sight! She then moved further south in India before making the ocean crossing to Africa. We hope to learn more about this route as we work to fix her tracker’s solar panel for future journeys. Why Hera’s journey matters Hera’s journey isn’t just a remarkable feat of endurance; it’s a window into the health of ecosystems that support migratory birds across continents. Each leg of her migration highlights critical habitats that European Rollers depend on, helping us to pinpoint which areas need most protection. Our latest monitoring data have raised serious concerns. The 2023–2024 season saw a steep decline in European Roller sightings in South Africa, with counts dropping to just one-tenth of those in previous years. In addition, SABAP2 data suggest that the overwintering population is between 9000 and 45 780 individuals, yet 2024 recorded the lowest reporting rate for the species since monitoring began. These findings highlight the urgent need for continued monitoring, citizen science contributions and the protection of key overwintering habitats. Conserving a species like the European Roller requires protecting the entire migration route, from breeding grounds to stopover sites to wintering habitats. With ongoing research and increased awareness, we can help ensure that future generations of rollers can fly safely across continents, giving these remarkable birds a fighting chance of survival. How you can get involved

• Donate to support tracking and research. We need funds for satellite tags, monitoring technology and data analysis that make our research possible and enable us to increase our understanding of migratory routes and identify critical habitats.
• Join the citizen science community. By logging sightings of European Rollers and other migratory species on platforms like SABAP2, you contribute valuable data that enhance our understanding of migration patterns and population trends.
• Spread the word. Follow Hera’s journey on social media, share updates and raise awareness about the challenges facing migratory birds. The more people understand these challenges, the stronger our collective voice becomes in advocating for essential conservation measures.

Together we can protect the skies for future generations of European Rollers. Thank you for being part of Hera’s story and for helping to ensure that her journey – and the journeys of countless migratory birds – will continue for years to come. JESSICA WILMOT, FLYWAY AND MIGRANTS PROJECT MANAGER

Small Art for Botha’s Lark Prints with Purpose is an initiative dedicated to raising unrestricted funding for conservation through art, and on 14 November 2024 it launched a collection called Small Art for Botha’s Lark. In support of BirdLife South Africa, this project offers limited-edition, hand-coloured prints in aid of protecting, observing and studying Botha’s Lark. This isn’t just about meaningful art; it’s about actively participating in the conservation of one of South Africa’s most endangered birds. The artworks in the collection have been created by multi-medium artist Stefanie de Beer, who is passionate about conservation. They comprise 12 unique pieces, each available in a limited edition of only 28 hand-coloured prints. ‘The careful, deliberate artistry of each piece represents my hope for the future of Botha’s Lark,’ says Stefanie. ‘Each print is a symbol representing one of the 340 individuals left. I think this is a powerful way to contribute to a solution.’ The prints capture the delicate beauty of Botha’s Lark in its natural environment, bringing a piece of South Africa’s endangered grasslands into homes worldwide. ‘I hope these tiny masterpieces ignite conversations about this remarkable little bird and about conservation and research,’ adds Stefanie. The impact of the prints is already resonating with buyers. As one supporter commented, ‘Knowing my purchase helped in the efforts to protect Botha’s Lark made it even more meaningful. Every time I see it, I’m reminded of the importance of conservation.’ Through ‘Small Art for Botha’s Lark’, Prints with Purpose hopes to deepen appreciation for the species and the broader field of conservation and research. Did you know that BirdLife South Africa’s Botha’s Lark Species Action Plan aims to synthesise scientific monitoring techniques, stakeholder engagement and public awareness so that the remaining Botha’s Larks may be safeguarded, their habitat and requirements understood and protected, and the population decline arrested and reversed? Such important work is under severe time and financial pressure. By starting conversations about Botha’s Lark and South Africa’s biodiversity, Prints with Purpose is helping to build a community that values and supports the conservation of endangered species. Please join its mission to support BirdLife South Africa’s work, and don’t forget to share your purchased prints on social media with #PrintsWithPurpose (Facebook at Prints with Purpose; Instagram at Prints.with.Purpose). Tag them to ensure that each print becomes part of a larger movement, a community of conservation advocates and art lovers alike. Prints with Purpose is proud to support other conservation initiatives, including ‘Here be Hornbills’, in aid of the Mabula Ground Hornbill Project. Art has the power to change hearts, spark conversations and bring people together for a common cause. If you’re looking for a meaningful gift this holiday season, consider purchasing a ‘Small Art for Botha’s Lark’ print; each piece sold supports BirdLife South Africa’s conservation work. By supporting ‘Small Art for Botha’s Lark’, you’re not just buying art; you’re making a difference for a special little bird whose song deserves to be heard. At R1249, including VAT and national postage, the limited-edition prints are selling quickly. Don’t miss your chance to own a piece of this important conservation effort – act now to help protect Botha’s Lark! For a full catalogue, to learn more or to purchase a print, please send an e-mail to prints@stefanie.co.za or a WhatsApp to Stefanie at 079 430 7930. Let’s make a difference together, one print at a time!

Blade patterning: a potential solution for bird–turbine collisions BirdLife South Africa recognises the value of renewable energy to help address the global climate crisis and support South Africa’s transition to a green economy. However, while renewable energy is relatively benign in environmental terms, the technologies involved can affect birds and biodiversity negatively. Wind energy is of particular concern, given the potentially fatal impact when vultures, raptors and other soaring birds collide with turbine blades. These long-lived species are often already threatened with extinction due to other human pressures and may be unable to sustain additional losses from this technology. We are therefore keen to encourage the wider use of practical measures that can help mitigate the risk of turbine collisions. The patterning or painting of turbine blades is an approach that offers particular promise. Together with the South African Wind Energy Association (SAWEA), BirdLife South Africa has published a paper on the science behind blade patterning. A subsequent and very positive engagement with the South Africa Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) resulted in general approval for the approach to be applied at wind farms in South Africa. An ongoing blade patterning pilot at the Umoya wind farm in the Western Cape produced promising results, and BirdLife South Africa and SAWEA have now published Blade Patterning Guidelines to facilitate the wider application of the technique. The guidelines have been prepared with the assistance of the bird specialist community and are intended to be used by environmental practitioners to ensure that blade patterning measures are taking account of the latest available science and in accordance with SACAA’s requirements. Long-term monitoring of the wind farms at which blade patterning is adopted will, it is hoped, assist in building a deeper understanding of the science behind the approach and verify its effectiveness in limiting bird–turbine collisions. A copy of the guidelines can be downloaded from birdlife.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/SAWEA-BLSA-Blade-Patterning-Guidelines-2024.pdf JOHN GIBBS AND SAM RALSTON-PATON, BIRDS & RENEWABLE ENERGY PROJECT

A new Roberts bird app The Roberts Birds of Southern Africa birding app launched by the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund (JVBBF) boasts updated species accounts and illustrations – and everything else is brand new! The JVBBF’s vision for the app is to combine the comprehensive Roberts 7 species accounts with functionality that matches or even exceeds that of any other app currently on the market. Most significantly, the Roberts app now uses the best search engine available, new photos, clearer calls and state-of-the-art image recognition. In addition, distribution maps will be regularly updated. Live Location is a key element in correctly identifying a bird and has become a necessity for any modern birding app. Also, species accounts for migrants will have a slider showing distribution by month. Launched this month, the new app will be available for use on smartphones and tablets and can be acquired from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Due to the considerable cost of updating the app regularly to keep it current, it will only be sold as an annual subscription. There will be an opening subscription special of R260 for the first year, plus R90 for the optional image recognition. This special offer will be in place until the end of February 2025. Thereafter the annual subscription will be R325, plus R100 for the image recognition. This impressive new Roberts Birds of Southern Africa app will be further improved throughout 2025 and new photographs and calls, as well as new features, will be added regularly. For additional information, please e-mail afeather@mweb.co.za TRUSTEES OF THE JOHN VOELCKER BIRD BOOK FUND

Sunbirds can help save albatrosses! In November, the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund Trust will donate five copies of its latest publication, Roberts Sunbirds and Sugarbirds of Southern Africa, to the Mouse-Free Marion Project. These books will feature in the auction and fundraising efforts during the Flock to Marion AGAIN! voyage. Our hope is that tiny, dazzling sunbirds can contribute to saving huge, majestic albatrosses from predation by rodents on Marion Island. In addition, an original sunbird artwork produced for the second edition of Roberts Bird Guide is available for purchase, with 25% of the proceeds benefiting the Mouse-Free Marion Project. For other similar artworks, please visit robertsbirds.co.za/artwork/ INGRID WEIERSBYE, JOHN VOELCKER BIRD BOOK FUND TRUSTEE

BirdLife South Africa wins Eco-Logic Award On behalf of our dedicated team and loyal supporters, I was honoured to accept the gold award in the Nature Conservation category at the annual Eco-Logic Awards on 30 October 2024, held at the Two Oceans Aquarium in Cape Town. The award was presented by voice artist and actor Themba Robin, who was the host for the evening. This award recognises the significant impact of our bird conservation projects, made possible by the dedicated efforts of the BirdLife South Africa conservation and core teams. The Eco-Logic Nature Conservation Award honours organisations that have successfully protected, mitigated damage to or rehabilitated the earth’s biodiversity, ecosystems and natural resources. BirdLife South Africa extends gratitude to Enviropaedia and the main sponsors, particularly the Ford Wildlife Foundation, which sponsors the Nature Conservation category. The Ford Wildlife Foundation provides loan Ford Rangers to numerous conservation projects across the NGO sector and supports BirdLife South Africa’s vulture and biodiversity stewardship projects. This year’s finalists in the Nature Conservation category also included Greenpop – Reforest Fest 2025 and Two Oceans Aquarium: Marine Protected Areas Day. Nature Conservation – The Eco-Logic Awards Dr Isabel Human, BirdLife South Africa’s HR Manager, joined me at this glamorously green event. Embracing the dress-up theme, we attended as endemic Knysna Turacos, wearing stunning emerald green outfits. BirdLife South Africa is proud to receive this award and is committed to continuing the important conservation efforts to safeguard South Africa’s bird species. DR HANNELINE SMIT-ROBINSON, HEAD OF CONSERVATION

Out now – the latest issue, with checklist! After visiting the icy desert of Antarctica in September and October, the current issue of African Birdlife takes us to the more familiar deserts of Namibia and the Kgalagadi, and into the Northern Cape to look for breeding Secretarybirds. It also features the stunning work of the winners of BirdLife South Africa’s Photography Competition 2024, showcasing the talents of local bird photographers. And, as a bonus, with this issue you’ll receive a complimentary checklist for 2025 – so be sure not to miss it! To find your nearest retail outlet, visit birdlife.org.za/media-and-resources/blsa-african-birdlife/

Kamfers Dam’s water quality – a threat to bird health? Kamfers Dam near Kimberley, a vital habitat for diverse bird populations, including the endangered Lesser Flamingo, has recently become the focus of a water quality investigation initiated by Ester van der Westhuizen-Coetzer of Ekapa Minerals. The company, known for its dedication to monitoring and safeguarding the wildlife of the Kimberley region, has raised concerns about the potential impact of deteriorating water quality on the health of local bird populations. Bacterial analysis of water samples from Kamfers Dam, conducted as part of Ekapa Minerals’ ongoing environmental monitoring programme, revealed alarming levels of total bacteria, with counts reaching 97 000 000 colonies per millilitre. Although no Escherichia coli or faecal coliforms were detected, the overall bacterial load is a serious concern. Furthermore, water quality tests showed that several chemical parameters, including conductivity, chemical oxygen demand (COD) and iron, exceeded the limits set by the National Water Act 36 of 1998. The urgency of addressing these water quality issues was underscored by the autopsy results of a Cattle Egret and a Red-billed Teal from Kamfers Dam. The Cattle Egret had succumbed to bacterial septicaemia caused by Aeromonas hydrophila, a pathogen found in water. Experts believe that immune-suppression due to stress, malnutrition and possibly the high iron levels in the water may have made the bird more susceptible to infection. The Red-billed Teal, while not suffering from a clear infectious cause, exhibited signs of dehydration and emaciation, highlighting the broader health challenges faced by birds in the area. In addition to these two, up to 30 individual birds were killed, including Red-knobbed Coots, Little Grebes, Black-winged Stilts and Grey-headed Gulls. In response to these concerns, Ekapa Minerals is collaborating with local authorities and conservation organisations to address causes of the water quality deterioration and develop solutions to safeguard the birds of Kamfers Dam. As a key stakeholder in the region, the company is dedicated to transparency and collaboration in addressing the water quality challenges at the dam. Its proactive approach to environmental stewardship serves as a model for how industry can work together with conservation efforts to preserve critical habitats and protect threatened species like the Lesser Flamingo. Ekapa Minerals also generously supports Dr David Ehlers Smith’s position as the Science and Spatial Planning Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa. ESTER VAN DER WESTHUIZEN-COETZER, ENVIRONMENTAL SPECIALIST AT EKAPA MINERALS, AND DR DAVID EHLERS SMITH, SCIENCE AND SPATIAL PLANNING PROJECT MANAGER

Tracked Secretarybird is breeding The Secretarybird research rarity scale goes something like this: finding a nest is rare; finding an active nest is even rarer. But the rarest of all? Finding an active nest being used by a bird that has been tracked since 2020! This rarest of rare events has occurred for only the third time in the Secretarybird Project’s history. Our long-term tracking study began in 2013 and its goals included understanding how Secretarybirds use the landscape and habitat and where juveniles disperse to. Eighteen birds have been successfully tracked during the study, and four of the tracking units are still active. The oldest of the four birds is Ekapa, a male fitted with the GPS in October 2020 just outside Kimberley. After moving around the Northern Cape and western parts of the Free State for a few years, his home range was finally established near Jagersfontein. He first attempted to breed in 2023, but the eggs were broken and eaten by a suspected aerial predator. A move to a new nest early this year has resulted in a second breeding attempt, with two eggs being confirmed in the nest on 22 October 2024. All our fingers are now crossed that this attempt proves successful! Regardless of the outcome, however, valuable data will be collected as we closely track Ekapa’s movements around the nest. His back-and-forth trips between the nest and surrounding foraging areas will ultimately feed into updated mitigation strategies when these birds are found at renewable energy development sites. By providing data and siring the next generation, Ekapa is contributing to the species’ survival. CASSIE CARSTENS, SECRETARYBIRD PROJECT MANAGER

Arid zone bird talks scoop awards Ninety people arrived in Calvinia for the Arid Zone Ecology Forum (AZEF) 2024 and another 20 joined the proceedings online from 8 to 10 October. The Hantam Karoo town was stretched to its limits, yet the atmosphere was buzzing with energy and animated discussions about the future of South Africa’s arid zones. Three talks were dedicated to avian research. Both Best Student Presentation awards went to students working on bird species: Yusra Samsodien, an MSc student from the FitzPatrick Institute, who won for her research on Pied Crow population increases; and Wesley Gush, a PhD student from the University of Pretoria, who took second prize for his study on the impact of climate change on Secretarybirds. These awards reflect the growing recognition of the importance of bird research in the context of climate change and biodiversity conservation. The third bird talk, on the populations and trends of Karoo birds, was presented by me, with a focus on SABAP2 data. With a diverse audience whose interests ranged from soil to social sciences, I wanted to leave them with a memorable species: the Cinnamon-breasted Warbler. And who could forget ‘We still don’t know if it tastes like cinnamon’? The talk highlighted how bird monitoring data from SABAP2 have been instrumental in understanding the trends of key Karoo species, some of which are at risk due to habitat loss and climate change. It was a reminder of the importance of continued atlasing and community-driven citizen science initiatives to ensure that these trends are well documented, particularly in under-surveyed areas of the arid zone. AZEF 2024 also dedicated significant focus to the broader environmental challenges facing South Africa’s arid zones. Climate change emerged as a recurring theme and there were discussions on how shifting weather patterns and prolonged droughts are reshaping ecosystems and species’ survival. The forum was an essential platform for researchers, practitioners and policy-makers to share knowledge and foster collaboration. From the exciting talks on bird research to the broader conversations about land degradation and climate resilience, it underscored the need for interdisciplinary approaches to tackling pressing ecological and social issues. For BirdLife South Africa, the forum provided an opportunity to emphasise the importance of bird conservation within the broader framework of arid zone ecology. As the impacts of climate change continue to intensify, long-term bird-monitoring efforts such as SABAP2 will be crucial in informing conservation strategies and protecting the region’s unique bird species. After the event, I joined Stefan Theron for a short atlas bash and covered six virgin pentads. This exercise yielded exciting bird sightings, including Cinnamon-breasted Warbler, Sclater’s Lark, Black-eared Sparrowlark, Karoo Lark and Karoo Chat, as well as other endemic Karoo species. Think about joining the next one in 2025. DR ALAN LEE, SCIENCE AND INNOVATION PROGRAMME MANAGER

All photos: credit Alan Lee

We have a winner! BirdLife South Africa is thrilled to announce that Rebecca Dill has won this year’s exciting raffle prize: an 8-day/7-night birding trip to Brazil, courtesy of Rockjumper Birding Tours. The trip, scheduled for 5–12 October 2025, will take Rebecca and a lucky companion to Brazil’s incredible Atlantic Rainforest, home to some of the world’s most spectacular and diverse bird species – the ultimate birding adventure! Thank you to everyone who entered the 2024 Raffle, which supports BirdLife South Africa’s crucial bird conservation work. Thanks to your generosity, all 1000 tickets were sold, and the funds raised will contribute directly to the conservation of South Africa’s magnificent birdlife and vital ecosystems. We deeply appreciate everyone who took part, whether by purchasing tickets or by helping spread the word about this year’s raffle. Your support makes a real difference in our ongoing efforts to protect our country’s unique and diverse bird species. The winning ticket was drawn on 25 October at BirdLife South Africa’s head office in Johannesburg. It was an exciting moment, and we once again congratulate Rebecca, and wish her an unforgettable birding experience in Brazil. Our sincere thanks also go to Rockjumper Birding Tours. Stay tuned for next year’s raffle! MPHO MAGIDI, COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER

Fundraising golf event a resounding success Over the weekend of 31 August and 1 September, the Pretoria Region of the SANParks Honorary Rangers hosted its Annual Golf Event at the Skukuza Golf Club in the Kruger National Park. The event exceeded expectations, with 92 players taking part across two days of competition. This success was made possible thanks to the generous support of various sponsors, including the Kruger Gate Hotel, which made the vital contribution of accommodation. The event’s success highlights the importance of sponsorships and partnerships in ensuring its smooth execution. Every sponsored gift, big or small, plays a crucial role in making the golfing weekend possible, and the SANParks Honorary Rangers extend their heartfelt thanks to all sponsors for their invaluable support. The SANParks Honorary Rangers rely heavily on the dedication and support of their partners. By supporting this event, sponsors are making a significant contribution to the conservation of South Africa’s natural heritage and the sustainability of its national parks. This partnership directly supports the SANParks Honorary Rangers’ vision: to be a world-class volunteer organisation working alongside South African National Parks to achieve its strategic objectives. For more information about the SANParks Honorary Rangers and their ongoing conservation efforts, visit their website at sanparksvolunteers.org The SANParks Honorary Rangers offer their sincerest appreciation to all sponsors for their passion for conservation and their commitment to this worthy cause. Their contributions help inspire future participants and strengthen the foundation for future events, ensuring continued success and lasting impact. We look forward to continuing these valuable partnerships in the years to come.

Explore South Africa through the eyes of young bird lovers In The Twins’ South African Bird Tour, two young bird lovers travel across the country meeting and interacting with a variety of bird species. Each bird they meet represents a different culture or language group, reflecting the rich cultural diversity that makes South Africa unique. The book carries a powerful message: diversity in all its forms is to be celebrated and cherished. From the diversity of birdlife to the languages and cultures that shape our society, The Twins’ South African Bird Tour is a beautiful reminder of the importance of embracing differences and appreciating the variety of life around us. This inspiring story is perfect for bird enthusiasts, nature lovers and anyone who values the beauty of cultural diversity. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift or an addition to your own bookshelf, this book offers a memorable journey through South Africa’s natural and cultural landscapes. The Twins’ South African Bird Tour is now available at Shop for the Birds! Don’t miss out on this wonderful resource for learning and inspiration. https://shop.birdlife.org.za/product/the-twins-south-african-bird-tour/

Learning about salt marsh at the Berg River estuary In October we, together with CapeNature staff, led 86 learners from Grades 1 to 7 at Slimkoppies Private School in Dwarskersbos on an outing to explore the salt-marsh habitat at Rooibaai, Velddrif. The site forms part of the natural floodplain of the lower Berg River estuary and is one of the Western Cape Estuaries Conservation Project’s pilot habitat restoration sites, where we monitor the soil, water and vegetation. Philipp told the older learners about the importance of salt marsh, a blue carbon habitat responsible for the capture and storage of large volumes of carbon dioxide in aquatic environments and other estuarine habitats. Accompanied by two teachers, he guided them through the salt marsh, highlighting the transition from intertidal to supratidal vegetation and used a soil auger to show them the essential peat layer in the soil profile. He also demonstrated estuarine water monitoring techniques. Marx-Lenin Nagan of CapeNature spoke about the heritage value of the Berg River estuary and why we should conserve the habitat for future generations. His colleague, Jan Pienaar, explained about water pollution and why it is important to keep our estuaries free of plastic. He also discussed the invertebrate life found in the estuary and the illegal fishing that threatens this vulnerable ecosystem. Giselle, together with Lauren Matthews of CapeNature and accompanied by the school principal, oversaw the younger learners. Giselle provided illustrated checklists and colouring sheets of common estuarine bird species, which the youngsters enjoyed checking off and colouring. Afterwards, all the learners had the opportunity to use binoculars to look at birds and try to identify as many as possible from the checklists provided. The event was so successful that the school staff requested a similar one next year. The learners had a tremendous amount of fun being in the field, learning more about salt marsh and the estuary itself, which some of them had never visited before. BirdLife South Africa donated two Sasol Birds of Southern Africa field guides to the school, which will give the teachers the opportunity to use these guides in their teaching material. DR GISELLE MURISON, WESTERN CAPE ESTUARIES CONSERVATION PROJECT MANAGER, AND PHILIPP GRUNDLINGH, WEST COAST ESTUARIES CONSERVATION OFFICER

Rescued: an albatross far from home Having spent close to 20 years working for the protection of albatrosses and petrels, I am elated every time I see them at sea and mourn each one I collect dead from a fishing vessel. Yet it is thanks to the Albatross Task Force’s (ATF’s) work with the fishers and to the relationships we’ve built up over the years that Markus, a fisher, could call me to help him with a live albatross that had been brought in by one of the vessels. It was fortunate that the vessel docked in Cape Town, where help was on hand. The juvenile Black-browed Albatross, its bill still mostly black, was not ringed so we couldn’t tell where it came from, but we know from tracking records that most of them come all the way from South Georgia Island. One bird was recorded as having flown more than 4500km across the Atlantic in just four days! The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB) took the bird in and informed us that although it was wet, dehydrated and tired, it had no life-threatening injuries. It was X-rayed to check for any internal injuries or lodged hooks, re-hydrated and brought back to strength in SANCCOB’s large pool. A few days later, and with the help of a recreational fishing vessel, it was released back into the ocean where it quickly found its bearings and flew off. Juvenile Black-browed Albatrosses come to forage in our waters during their first 3–4 years, before they start their annual trips to a breeding colony to court a mate. Yet only when they are between eight and13 years of age do they breed for the first time! As host to these amazing birds, South Africa needs to ensure that none are killed in our waters, because every time an adult albatross dies, a chick on its home island dies with it. And it can take the lone mate years to find another partner. Despite evidence of how much work we still need to do, I am confident that the ATF is preventing thousands of albatrosses like this young Black-browed from getting killed when interacting with our fisheries. To me, albatrosses embody freedom, wisdom and untamed wildness. They rule the skies over the open oceans and remote islands, and I feel privileged to be part of keeping them safe. ANDREA ANGEL, ALBATROSS TASK FORCE MANAGER

40 years of Birding Big Day! On Saturday, 7 December 2024, birders who are participating in Birding Big Day will also be celebrating the 40th anniversary of this popular national event. As always, Birding Big Day is an opportunity for birding enthusiasts of all levels to unite and share the excitement of finding and reporting as many bird species as they can during the course of the day, all while contributing to bird conservation efforts through their participation. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a newcomer, the event promises a fun and educational experience. This year, we are thrilled to announce a special partnership with Steiner Optics, a leading brand in high-quality binoculars. Thanks to the company’s generous support, two pairs of binoculars could be won by Birding Big Day participants, simply by signing up for the event! You could win either a pair of Steiner Wildlife 10×42 binoculars (retail value R13 999) or a pair of Steiner Skyhawk 4.0 10×42 binoculars (retail value R11 999). These top-of-the-line binoculars are perfect for birding and will make an excellent addition to any birder’s gear. Don’t miss your chance to win one of these incredible prizes – all you have to do is sign up for Birding Big Day 2024. If you haven’t yet registered for Birding Big Day 2024, now is the time! Simply go to birdlife.org.za/birding-big-day-2024-entry-form/ to submit your team’s details. Please ensure that you register using the same e-mail address that you used for BirdLasser so that your team’s sightings are automatically linked. Birding Big Day is not just about counting birds – it’s also about supporting BirdLife South Africa in its vital work to conserve the country’s precious birdlife. This year, we invite participants to consider making a donation to help sustain the coordination of Birding Big Day and further our conservation efforts across the country. Donations can easily be made through the link on the Birding Big Day 2024 entry form page. Looking for the perfect Christmas gift for the bird lover in your life? We’ve got you covered! Visit our Birding Big Day 2024 Shop (https://shop.birdlife.org.za/product/birding-big-day-2024/) to purchase exclusive participant badges and other fantastic bird-themed presents. These items make the perfect holiday gifts and are a great way to show your support for bird conservation. Whether you’re competing to see how many species you can spot, to enjoy the camaraderie of fellow birders or simply to contribute to a cause you believe in, Birding Big Day 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss. We look forward to seeing you out in the field on Saturday, 7 December. Together, let’s celebrate the birds of South Africa and continue supporting the conservation of our unique and diverse birdlife! For more information, visit birdlife.org.za/support-us/events/birding-big-day-2024/, where you can also register. If you have any enquiries, please contact me at David.ehlers.smith@birdlife.org.za or bbd@birdlife.org.za DR DAVID EHLERS SMITH, SCIENCE AND SPATIAL PLANNING PROJECT MANAGER

Heartache and hope for South Africa’s birds The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) used the opportunity of the recent CBD (Convention of Biological Diversity) COP 16 to announce the latest update of its species Red List. Among the 46 300 threatened species, 12% are birds. Of these, 145 have changed status since the Red List was previously updated in 2023. They include both coastal and inland species. By categorising species based on their population status, the condition of their habitat and known threats to them, the IUCN Red List is intended to raise awareness for biodiversity protection and enable targeted conservation efforts. Its categorisation system is considered to be the global standard for assessing species’ risk of extinction, and the categories range from Least Concern through Near Threatened to Vulnerable, Endangered, Critically Endangered and, in the worst cases, Extinct in the Wild and Extinct. Species regarded as threatened are included in the categories Vulnerable, Endangered and Critically Endangered. Although the African Penguin is arguably among the most iconic species to be faced with increasing levels of threat, having been uplisted to Critically Endangered, there are several others that have changed their status in the latest report. Notably there has been an alarming decline in populations of migratory shorebirds around the globe; 16 species have been reclassified to higher threat categories. Ten of the reclassified species migrate (albeit sometimes as vagrants) to South African shores: Ruddy Turnstone, Dunlin, Broad-billed Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, White-rumped Sandpiper, Buff-breasted Sandpiper, Hudsonian Godwit, Grey Plover, Lesser Yellowlegs and Greater Yellowlegs. Included on the list of terrestrial species that have been reclassified from Vulnerable to Endangered is the beleaguered Blue Swallow. This intra-African migrant is a grassland-dependent species uniquely adapted for the misty conditions found in summer in the higher-lying mistbelt areas in southern KwaZulu-Natal, and historically Mpumalanga. With fewer than 40 breeding pairs of this species remaining in South Africa, BirdLife South Africa is working with KwaZulu-Natal’s provincial conservation authority, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and its project partner, Conservation Outcomes, to secure the remaining mistbelt grassland breeding sites and habitat for the Blue Swallow. On a brighter note, the status of the Southern Bald Ibis has improved; the species has been downlisted from Vulnerable to Near Threatened. The reversal of the decline and the stabilisation of the populations are the result of concerted conservation efforts by several groups since the 1970s, including the implementation of a national Species Action Plan that was developed by BirdLife South Africa in 2016. A highpoint in the fight to save this species has been a special project to relocate a colony of Southern Bald Ibis from its historic nesting ledges, which were inundated by the construction of the Ingula Pumped Storage Scheme near Ladysmith, to an alternative artificial nesting ledge nearby. Since relocation to the new nest site in 2016, at least four fledglings per breeding season have consistently been recorded at the site and up to 30 adults use it for roosting throughout the year. Notwithstanding the occasional success story, the overall outlook for birds remains bleak. One in eight bird species is threatened with extinction and 60% of the world’s bird species are in decline. Martin Harper, CEO of BirdLife International, says, ‘The latest IUCN Report tells us that there is a need for more action to bolster efforts to recover threatened species, more action to protect and restore more land, freshwater and sea, and more action to transform our food, energy and industrial systems.’ Read BirdLife South Africa’s press release about the latest IUCN Red List here. Factsheets presenting the latest assessments for all 11 195 bird species are available on the BirdLife Data Zone at datazone.birdlife.org/species/search and more information about the IUCN Red List categories can be found at birdlife.org/projects/iucn-red-list/ DR KIRSTEN DAY, POLICY & ADVOCACY PROGRAMME MANAGER