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July Newsletter 2025
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From Limpopo to China: a European Roller’s migration
The Flyway and Migrants Project is thrilled to announce a new milestone in migratory bird research: confirmation that European Rollers migrate between South Africa and China. A European Roller, fitted with a GPS tracker in Thornybush Nature Reserve in Limpopo in March 2025, has been relocated in Xinjiang, China, after completing a journey of more than 15 000km – through 13 countries – in just over three months.
The bird, affectionately named ‘Rory’ by the late Pamela Isdell, one of BirdLife South Africa’s Honorary Patrons, was found by Professor Ma Ming from the Xinjiang Institute of Ecology & Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences. Guided by BirdLife South Africa’s GPS data, Professor Ma and his team located Rory after three days of intensive searching along the rugged Tian Shan Mountains on the edge of the Gurbantünggüt Desert. Rory was near a nest, indicating that he had found his breeding ground for the season. Without Professor Ma and his team’s determination, Rory’s breeding site would have remained an abstract point on a map. Instead, our growing partnership is now offering valuable, on-the-ground insights into the habitats that European Rollers rely on in this region of China.
These charismatic and beautiful birds are familiar to many South Africans in summer, but few know about the incredible journeys they undertake each year. Their full migratory routes have remained largely unknown. That started to change in March 2024, when BirdLife South Africa began to fit European Rollers with solar-powered GPS trackers. Since then, seven European Rollers have transformed speculation into data, mapping their routes across continents in near real time. These birds have been tracked to presumed breeding grounds in Uzbekistan, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan and now China, but this discovery is the first time a tracked bird has been physically sighted at its breeding ground.
Why it matters: a call for flyway collaboration
Rory’s journey illustrates the core of BirdLife South Africa’s Flyway and Migrants project: migratory birds depend on a network of viable habitats – collectively called flyways – that stretch across borders, cultures and continents. Millions of birds use the flyways each year, but without protection their remarkable migrations, shaped over millennia, could collapse.
That’s why we track European Rollers. Across Europe and Central Asia, their populations are in decline, with local extinctions already recorded in parts of their breeding range. In response, governments under the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) adopted the Flyway Action Plan for the European Roller, calling for urgent and coordinated action across the species’ entire range.
Protecting the European Roller demands a flyway-scale approach – one that considers every phase of its life cycle: breeding grounds in the north, the critical stopover sites where the birds rest and refuel during migration and their non-breeding habitats in the south. To achieve that, international collaboration is essential; satellite tracking provides the big-picture view, but what happens on the ground matters just as much. Local knowledge and conservation action guided by collaboration across the flyway is essential to securing the future of these birds.
Professor Ma’s insights have now provided a better understanding of the threats that Rory and his chicks are facing. The landscape of the breeding ground is dominated by cotton fields, currently plagued by a pest outbreak. Drones are being used to spray pesticides that potentially pose a threat to the survival of the European Rollers and their food sources in the area.
This milestone underscores the importance of international collaboration in migratory bird conservation. BirdLife South Africa is calling on researchers, birders, conservationists and passionate individuals across Africa, the Middle East and Central Asia to join this effort. Whether their region hosts breeding, stopover or wintering sites, people can play a vital role in uncovering and protecting the full migratory story of the European Roller. By working collaboratively, scientists and conservationists across the world’s flyways can ensure that future generations will be able to look to the sky each summer and catch that unforgettable turquoise flash of a European Roller.
JESSICA WILMOT, FLYWAY AND MIGRANTS PROJECT MANAGER[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324838″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”img_link_large” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324836″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”img_link_large” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324839″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”img_link_large” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1716389221087{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story2″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324840″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”img_link_large” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324841″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”img_link_large” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
Secretarybirds’ Christmas in June
Three things are needed for birds to breed successfully: a partner, a nest and enough food to feed the nestlings. The last is possibly the most important, as parents are required to forage almost non-stop to satisfy a hungry brood. For this reason, Secretarybirds prefer to breed in the warmer months, when insects and rodents are more abundant. Nest-building starts in late winter and the eggs are laid in early spring. By the time the first rains have fallen and prey has become more readily available, the nestlings have hatched and the parents can provision them with food. South Africa’s primary breeding window is from September to February, but Secretarybirds can breed throughout the year if there is enough food.
Winter breeding is rare but it does occur, and an example of that was recently discovered near Wakkerstroom.
The new nest was found and reported at the beginning of June and on a survey visit a few weeks later, details of the nest tree were recorded. A photograph taken of the platform revealed three eggs, and a follow-up visit will be undertaken to determine if they all hatch. Good rains in the region in summer and autumn have clearly resulted in an abundance of prey. Now it’s just up to the diligent care of the adults to bring about a successful breeding attempt.
Do you know of any nest sites in your area? Please contact me with the details at [email protected]
CASSIE CARSTENS, SECRETARYBIRD PROJECT MANAGER[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1719817052360{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story3″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
CAR is about to set off…
The Coordinated Avifaunal Road (CAR) count is one of South Africa’s most important citizen science projects. Twice a year, participants drive set transects along the back roads in South Africa and record a specific selection of bird species. The summer survey takes place over the last weekend in January and the winter event at the end of July. This year’s winter survey will be held on 26 and 27 July.
The set routes are spread out across all nine provinces and clusters of them, known as precincts, are managed by a coordinator. The stalwart participants are frequently members of local bird clubs, and more are always needed. All you require is a pair of binoculars, the data sheet to record birds, some friends and a car with a full tank of fuel.
Contact your local bird club if you would like to participate or e-mail Tania Anderson ([email protected]) or Dr Sally Hofmeyr ([email protected]) for more information.
CASSIE CARSTENS, SECRETARYBIRD PROJECT MANAGER[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324842″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1719817042965{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story4″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324843″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=”” el_id=”roller”]
Join the Conversation!
Be sure to diarise Conservation Conversations on 5 August, when Odette Curtis and Rob Simmons of the Overberg Renosterveld Trust will share their research on Black Harriers. As a species with fewer than 1300 individuals and declining so quickly it may be extinct in 75 years, the Black Harrier is in serious trouble. In this talk we’ll hear untold stories about this beleaguered species and the conservation plans the newly formed Black Harrier Task Force is developing in an attempt to save it.
Register for this and upcoming talks at us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_x1mH7OlASwq3gOuav3lj_Q [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1719817030002{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story5″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324844″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324845″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
Banning agrochemicals in South Africa
In South Africa, agrochemicals are regulated primarily under the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act No. 36 of 1947. They are made up of active ingredients (the chemical part that kills, controls or repels pests) mixed with additional ingredients. Thus, one active ingredient can be used to make many agrochemical products. It is the active ingredient that determines the toxicity of the product and is regulated.
When agrochemicals are misused, they can lead to the poisoning – and even death – of non-target species. Last year, more than 20 children died from consuming tainted food from spaza shops. Highly toxic organophosphate pesticides, such as aldicarb (prohibited in South Africa since 2016), were detected and at least six deaths were attributed to terbufos (banned in the EU since 2009). This prompted the banning of terbufos in South Africa last month – a small victory in the face of an extensive challenge.
In South Africa, 192 highly hazardous pesticides that pose a high risk to human health and the environment have been identified. Of these, only 16 are partially banned or restricted in this country; the EU has banned 57. In terms of global bans, out of a list of 570 active ingredients identified by the Pesticide Action Network in 2024, South Africa has banned 20; the EU has banned 225.
June 2025 was also the deadline to phase out 28 active ingredients that have carcinogenic, mutagenic or ‘toxic to reproduction’ properties. Exemptions to these bans can be applied for and granted at the registrar’s discretion. A thorough risk assessment is required to demonstrate that the risks associated with the product’s use can be sufficiently mitigated.
The 28 active ingredients are used in approximately 346 products in South Africa and nearly 50 applications for exemption have been lodged to date. However, legal oversights have resulted in the registrar not being allowed to process these applications until amendments to the regulations have been promulgated.
The process of exemption has come under fire and has been labelled a ‘regulatory loophole to keep toxic pesticides in use’. Only time will tell if this is indeed the case. Until then, we can hope that the tide is turning in favour of removing harmful agrochemicals from South African agriculture, as has been done successfully elsewhere.
LORINDA HART, BIRDS AND AGROCHEMICALS PROJECT [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id=”signup”][vc_column][vc_row_inner content_placement=”middle” css=”.vc_custom_1668171482666{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}”][vc_column_inner el_class=”center”][ultimate_heading main_heading=”Sign up for our informative monthly newsletter”][/ultimate_heading][ultimate_spacer height=”20″]
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Make a difference with MyDifference
Woolworths has consolidated the MySchool MyVillage MyPlanet Programme and the WRewards loyalty programme into a new initiative called MyDifference. As part of this transition, existing MySchool or WRewards cards will soon be deactivated.
To continue supporting the causes you care about – such as BirdLife South Africa – you will need to switch to a MyDifference card, which is available virtually via the Woolworths app or in physical form at Woolworths stores. Please note that physical cards must be linked through the app.
To support BirdLife South Africa, simply follow these steps:
- Download/open the Woolworths app and follow the prompts to sign in or register.
- Tap ‘Loyalty’ on the bottom menu.
- Under the ‘Explore Loyalty’ section, select ‘Causes’.
- Search for ‘BirdLife South Africa’ and tap ‘Add Cause’.
- Remember to scan your MyDifference card, virtual or physical, every time you shop.
You may support up to three causes through the programme.
By selecting BirdLife South Africa as one of your causes, a portion of your spend will contribute directly to our bird conservation work across the country, at no cost to you.
Thank you for choosing to make a difference. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1719817004516{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story7″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
On the road again … to KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal was the recent focus of BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project, which continues to promote avitourism and provide ongoing support for local bird guides. Empowering People Programme Manager Nandi Thobela, Avitourism Project Manager John Kinghorn and MSc student Lance Robinson recently travelled to the province to conduct meetings with 14 of BirdLife South Africa’s accredited birding guides. These individuals, recognised for their dedication to conservation and field expertise, represent a vital part of South Africa’s growing avitourism sector.
The purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration and provide continued professional development for the guides. The sessions explored a wide range of practical and strategic topics, including:
- Sound recording for citizen science, enabling guides to contribute valuable data for research and to engage the public in biodiversity monitoring.
- The effective use of eBird and Merlin Bird ID to support accurate identification and data collection in the field.
- Strategies for mutual support, allowing guides to share experiences, address challenges and build a stronger peer network.
- Social media marketing insights to improve visibility and attract broader audiences to birding experiences.
- Enriching birding knowledge with a focus on market appeal, helping guides cater to diverse interests and expand their tourism offerings.
BirdLife South Africa is committed to creating inclusive and sustainable opportunities within the biodiversity economy. By supporting the growth and capacity of local specialist birding guides, we are nurturing a network of knowledgeable, empowered individuals who play an essential role in conserving birdlife and promoting ecotourism across the country. With KwaZulu-Natal’s spectacular natural settings and rich avian diversity as the backdrop, this road show was both inspiring and impactful. The enthusiasm, professionalism and commitment shown by each guide reinforced the immense value of investing in people as stewards of our natural heritage.
Through avitourism, BirdLife South Africa not only celebrates the joy of birding, but also fosters economic development, conservation awareness and meaningful connections between communities and the natural world. Now 25 years in, this journey is far from over; it continues to transform lives, one guide and one birding experience at a time.
JOHN KINGHORN, AVITOURISM PROJECT MANAGER [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”324849″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324847″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324848″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324850″ img_size=”full” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1716391882827{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story8″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
Keeping an eye on White-backed Vultures
Five White-backed Vulture nests in Dronfield Nature Reserve in the Northern Cape are now being monitored by remote, motion-sensor camera traps. The cameras will reveal any breeding attempts, observe the birds’ behaviour and assess threats such as egg and chick predation.
Camera traps are a powerful, non-invasive tool for studying wildlife and capturing natural behaviour without human interference. BirdLife South Africa’s Vulture Project selected remote, motion-sensor cameras to monitor White-backed Vulture nests without disturbing the birds during the sensitive breeding season. Operating silently in the background, these cameras capture rare and intimate insights into vulture behaviour that would otherwise go unseen.
These Critically Endangered birds are slow at reproducing. They typically breed only from the age of and produce just one egg per year, which makes any threats to breeding success especially concerning. A study by Johnson and Murn in 2019 investigated nest failure and predator activity at White-backed Vulture nests near Kimberley in the Northern Cape. To assess whether trends have shifted since then, BirdLife South Africa’s Vulture Project launched an updated camera-trap study to monitor any predation of eggs and chicks from the start of the breeding season.
The five cameras were installed in May. To follow our low-impact approach and avoid disrupting a potential breeding attempt, cameras had to be installed before the nest was claimed and an egg was laid. Selecting a nest that would potentially be used required a mix of experience, patience and some luck. Signs such as a lining of fresh grass, whitewash beneath the platform and the occasional sighting of an adult vulture were all promising indicators, but actual activity was rarely observed for long. Tree selection had a technical side: it needed to be of manageable height for safe access, have a sturdy branch on the northern side of the nest to ensure that the solar-powered camera could be positioned appropriately, and receive enough sunlight, eliminating the need for battery changes. And finally, a reliable cell phone signal was essential to give us remote access to the cameras without having to revisit the nests.
At 07h29 on a Sunday morning, the first camera was triggered by a sudden flurry of wings and feathers as three vultures descended onto the nest – success! Four of the five monitored nests are now active, while the fifth is regularly visited by a pair engaged in nest maintenance and reinforcing their pair bond. The footage is already proving to be both scientifically valuable and deeply engaging.
This powerful visual material will be shared across BirdLife South Africa’s platforms to help build a stronger public connection to the plight of vultures and, we hope, shift perceptions of these often misunderstood and persecuted birds.
Stay tuned to our social media pages for videos to be released.
JUSTIN HENRY, VULTURE PROJECT MANAGER [/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”324855″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324854″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324851″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324852″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324853″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1750887370871{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story9″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324857″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_single_image image=”324858″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
Youth empowerment to care for nature
At its best, environmental education teaches more than environmental facts; it gives people dignity, hope and a voice. It offers a language for understanding the natural world and the courage to become part of the solution. It shows young people that they are not just observers of change, but powerful agents in shaping a more sustainable future.
Nowhere was this more evident than in the recent Youth Capacity-building Day hosted by BirdLife South Africa in partnership with the Wakkerstroom Youth Development Centre in the highland town of Wakkerstroom. Held in celebration of both Environmental Month and Youth Month, the event brought together more than 100 young people, including Uthaka Secondary School learners and out-of-school youth from the Wakkerstroom community.
The day focused on conservation, especially the protection of Wakkerstroom’s threatened bird species and ecosystems. In line with this year’s Environmental Month theme, it also addressed the pressing issue of plastic pollution in our ecosystems and highlighted the vital role young people play in protecting and restoring their natural environment.
More than an awareness event, it was a celebration of community, creativity and opportunity. The young people listened to career talks and reconnected with the biodiversity in their own backyards. A standout moment was a powerful session led by the Conservation Department from Mangosuthu University of Technology. Its students shared inspiring stories of perseverance and passion for conservation, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.
This was a truly community-driven initiative. Contributions came from the Department of Social Development (through the Wakkerstroom Youth Development Centre), the Wakkerstroom Tourism Association, All Rise Farm and Nursery community vegetable gardener, and women in arts and crafts, who all led practical discussions on sustainable livelihoods and tourism opportunities within the area. Local creativity was alive with music and traditional dances performed by Wakkerstroom youth.
As the day drew to a close, the spirit of unity, purpose and possibility was undeniable. The young participants took a pledge to become ‘Green Guardians’ of their environment, promising to protect the birds, wetlands and grasslands that make their home so unique. This was a powerful reminder that when we invest in young people, we are also investing in the future of conservation.
ZOLEKA MKHIZE, GRASSLAND COMMUNITY CONSERVATION OFFICER[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”324859″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1750887511911{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story10″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324860″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][vc_column_text css=””]
Help us reduce fence deaths
Hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of kilometres of fencing crisscross South Africa, its job to keep animals in and people out. But these fences are a serious threat to birds, which fly or walk into them, become entangled and often die. For the past few years, a BirdLife South Africa team has been working on the development of a wildlife-friendly fence design, and the results of this study are currently being analysed.
You can help to fill one of the significant gaps in our knowledge: the frequency of fatal entanglements. When you encounter a bird that has died while snagged in a fence, please send us the details. We only need a photo, the species, the location (GPS pin), the time and date and your name. These details will be added to our database and will help us to make fences a little friendlier to birds across the country.
You can learn more or submit your information on our webpage, birdlife.org.za/what-we-do/species-conservation/what-we-do/birds-and-fences/
CASSIE CARSTENS, SECRETARYBIRD PROJECT MANAGER[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324861″ img_size=”large” add_caption=”yes” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row type=”vc_default” css=”.vc_custom_1750887596510{background-color: #ffffff !important;border-radius: 10px !important;}” el_id=”story11″][vc_column][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”324330″ img_size=”large” alignment=”center” style=”vc_box_rounded” onclick=”link_image” css=””][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/2″][vc_column_text css=””]
Waterbirds at home…
Bird photographer Thinus van Staden gets down and damp to capture images of waterbirds at their own level, and in doing so gives us remarkable insights into the birds he finds so fascinating. And that’s not all that is fascinating in the July/August issue of African Birdlife. Did you know that lovebirds once – long ago – roamed what is now Gauteng? Or that the Caprivi Strip modestly hosts some of the best birding in southern Africa? There are some pretty good birds in fynbos too, but can they adapt to rising temperatures?
On the conservation front, there’s an in-depth account of the effects of avian flu on Marion Island’s birdlife, plus good news about the Wattled Crane.
To purchase a copy of the latest issue of African Birdlife, find your nearest retail outlet by visiting birdlife.org.za/media-and-resources/blsa-african-birdlife/ [/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][/vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ultimate_spacer height=”10″][vc_column_text css=””]You can access previous entries from 2024/5 using the buttons below[/vc_column_text][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”July 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fjuly-2024-newsletter%2F|title:July%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”August 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Faugust-2024-newsletter%2F|title:August%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”September 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fseptember-2024-newsletter%2F|title:September%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”October 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Foctober-2024-newsletter%2F|title:October%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”November 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fnovember-2024-newsletter%2F|title:November%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”December 2024″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fafrican-birdlife%2Fnovember-december-2024%2F|title:December%202024%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_row_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”January 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fjanuary-2025-newsletter%2F|title:January%202025%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”February 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fjanuary-2025-newsletter-2%2F|title:February%202025%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”March 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fmarch-2025-newsletter%2F|title:March%202025%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”April 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fapril-newsletter-2025%2F|title:April%202025%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”May 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fmay-newsletter-2025%2F|title:May%202025%20Newsletter”][/vc_column_inner][vc_column_inner width=”1/6″][vc_btn title=”June 2025″ color=”primary” align=”center” css=”” link=”url:https%3A%2F%2Fwww.birdlife.org.za%2Fjune-newsletter-2025%2F|title:June%20Newsletter%202025″][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][vc_column_text]If you’d like to read our archive, you can visit our
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