The Birding Life Podcast Network

In this week's episode, we chat with Bart Fokkens, the hide manager at the Mzimkulu Vulture Hide. The Mzimkulu Vulture Hide, situated 8 kilometers outside of Underberg in the Southern Drakensberg, opened to the public on the 19th of February. The hide forms part of Wildlife ACT’s Southern Drakensberg Conservation Project and was built to support endangered vulture conservation through a Vulture Safe Feeding Zone. In this episode, we hear all about vultures, the hide, Birdle, and some of Bart’s birding stories. If you want to see the hide and read about our experience in it, check out the blog section on our website – we have a write-up and photos of the hide.Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Mzimkulu Vulture Hide Blog Article https://www.thebirdinglife.com/post/mzimkulu-vulture-hide-getting-close-to-the-giants-of-the-skiesFor more information and bookings inquiries for the Mzimkulu Vulture Hide: Website - www.saveourvultures.com Email - [email protected]

This week, we delve into all things Kruger! Join me as I chat with Duncan McKenzie about the all-new Second Edition of the ‘Roberts Bird Guide – Greater Kruger National Park’ field guide. But we're not just focusing on the guide itself; Duncan shares his firsthand experiences in the park and offers valuable tips on maximizing your birding adventures in Kruger. As South Africans would say, Duncan is a 'lekker oke', making this episode a must-listen.By supporting The Birding Life’s Online Store, you're also supporting our ongoing work. If you're interested in purchasing a copy of the ‘Roberts Bird Guide – Greater Kruger National Park’, please reach out to us via email at [email protected]. We'll notify you as soon as the book becomes available and ensure it finds its way into your hands promptly!Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/

This episode marks the continuation of my conversation with Richard Flack, and if you haven't tuned in to part one, I highly recommend doing so. It lays the groundwork for much of what we delve into in this installment.In this concluding part of our conversation, we delve into camera settings, and custom setups, and uncover details about Richard's mentorship program. As mentioned in part one, what truly captivates me about these episodes is the opportunity to explore the essence of the person behind the lens. I trust you'll find this discussion engaging and leave with a renewed sense of inspiration.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/Richard Flack Website - https://theflacks.co.za

Welcome to this week's episode, the first installment of a two-part series featuring South Africa's leading bird photographer, Richard Flack. These episodes go beyond the realm of photographic advice, providing us with a unique glimpse into the life of the man behind the lens.In this initial episode, we delve into the motivations that drive Richard, explore his journey to mastery, and navigate the challenges of handling disappointment and insecurity. There's so much more to uncover in this insightful conversation.Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/Richard Flack Website - https://theflacks.co.za

There are two types of birders – those who have seen the African Pitta and those who want to see it! For those who haven’t yet witnessed the 'holy grail of African birding,' prepare for some jealousy during this episode. I will be chatting with people who have been lucky enough to encounter this iconic species. One of my guests is Mackenzie Zirota, based at the African Pitta Camp Masoka in Zimbabwe. Additionally, we'll hear four stories from birders about their experiences spotting this special species. I can't wait for you to listen to this episode!Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Links from show:Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/African Pitta Camp Masoka, Zimbabwa:Facebook https://www.facebook.com/masokapittacampEmail [email protected] +263779807261

In this, our first episode of 2024, I chatted with the team from the locally developed Bindo Birding App. This app allows you to both record and share your sightings with other birders. We find out all about the story behind the app and why the Bindo team feels that the app will add value to your birding journey.Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/Bindo Birding App https://www.bindo.app/

So, after the excitement of last week’s Rugby World Cup Episode – this week we chat about a group of birds that in South Africa are not quite as colourful as the green and gold birds we spoke about last week. But still, this is a group of birds that many birders love and often produces some amazing twitches in our region – you might have guessed it, but we are chatting about waders. I have a chat to Rick Simpson all the way from the UK, who is one of the co-founders of Wader Quest. We chat about awesome waders from around the world, work being done to conserve them, and we find out about this weekend’s Wader Conservation World Watch event. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:BirdLife South Africa https://www.birdlife.org.za/SANCCOB Adopt a Penguin https://adopt.sanccob.co.za/get-involved/adopt-a-penguin/Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/Wader Quest:Website https://www.waderquest.net/events/wader-conservation-world-watch/Email [email protected]

There is one thing that is on the lips of almost every single South African right now – the Rugby World Cup Final 2023! We go up against one of our old rivals New Zealand, or as their rugby team is more commonly known – the All Blacks. So we decided to have our own little World Cup final on The Birding Life Podcast. We got a South African birder to choose their favourite five green and gold South Africa birds, and we got a New Zealand birder to choose their favourite all black New Zealand birds. We then put these birds head-to-head –well maybe beak to beak in a scrum to see which birds would come out on top. And well…just maybe the countries birds that come out on top might be the oracle of truth as to who will lift that famous trophy. Only time will tell… Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:BirdLife South Africa https://www.birdlife.org.za/SANCCOB Adopt a Penguin https://adopt.sanccob.co.za/get-involved/adopt-a-penguin/Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/

In this week’s episode I chat to Sage Naidoo, a master’s student in the School of Animal, Plant and Environmental Sciences with the University of the Witwatersrand. He tells us all about Avian Cultural Ecosystems Project or the ACES Project, which seeks to explore the cultural values of birds in South Africa. We hear all about what the project involves and how you can get involved in it. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:inks from the show:SANCCOB Adopt a Penguin https://adopt.sanccob.co.za/get-involved/adopt-a-penguin/ACES Survey Links:Johannesburg https://forms.gle/pRTGPYrRNp6T2LXs8Cape Town https://forms.gle/fabpA8itnY7MhD2Y9Durban https://forms.gle/b4iy5RnPerL7Rnjg7Bloemfontein https://forms.gle/vxKVTL3kUvKRnvEm9

A bird app that will help you not only connect with birds but also other birders, a challenge that celebrates Heritage Month in South Africa, and an opportunity to conserve an iconic Southern African species – all this and more in this week’s episode of The Birding Life Podcast. Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:SANCCOB Adopt a Penguin https://adopt.sanccob.co.za/get-involved/adopt-a-penguin/SANSAB Heritage Challenge: https://birda.org/sansab-heritage-challengeBirda: https://birda.org/Birda Apple DownloadBirda Android Download SANSAB Link / Bird Check lists link Westerman's https://westermans.co.za/

In this, the last episode of season 7, I have a chat with Wade Lee, a birder who calls Manyoni Private Game Reserve his home. He tells us more about the reserve and how it was growing up in such a stunning piece of Africa. We also have a chat about reserves and the importance of avi-tourism, the controversial Tzaneen Waterhen, as well as finding out about Wade’s time in Ecuador.Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

This week I chat with much-loved bird author Faansie Peacock about his new book, Faansie’s Bird Book 2. We find out all about this book and why it should be on everyone’s shelf, birding with kids, Faansie playing in a rock band, his least favourite bird, and we also get an update on the Firefinch app. If you have listened to the previous episodes with Faansie, you that this is an episode you won’t want to miss. Faansie’s Bird Book 2 is available at most local book retailers, including our own online shop. So be sure to head on over and order the book after listening to the episode. Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Faansie’s Bird Book 2’, available on The Birding Life’s Online store. Order your copy today:English - https://bit.ly/FaansieenglishAfrikaans - https://bit.ly/Faansieafrikaans

This week’s guest is Roger Machin, the product marketing manager at Canon South Africa. This is a fun, relaxed chat about bird photography – the highs, the lows, and the equipment that makes it a lot more enjoyable. We chat about cameras, lenses, editing software, and photographers that make us green with envy, and we settle the raw vs jpg debate. This is a ‘lekker episode’. Oh, and in case you are wondering, this episode isn’t sponsored by Canon, so no matter what brand you use, you are going to love this chat! Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Flack's Photography Mentorship Programme https://theflacks.co.za/courses/mentorship-programme/Flack's Photography Workshops https://theflacks.co.za/courses/workshops/

This week Saturday is a day that lots of South African birders look forward to – the annual BirdLife South Africa 'African Bird Fair'.I find out all about what you can expect at this year’s Bird Fair from Andrew Wassung, BirdLife South Africa’s Communications Manager. He tells us what workshops, walks, and talks you can expect at this year's Bird Fair. All the links for the event can be found in the notes of the show. Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Links from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Bird Fair 2023 Website https://www.birdlife.org.za/african-bird-fair-2023/

Just imagine you post one of your photos on Facebook, and a few days later you look at that post, and it has more than 5 million views! We shared a photo from this week’s guest on Facebook and Instagram – and it went viral – just over 5.3 million views! So today I chat with the photographer behind the photo – Clint Ralph. He tells us all about the photo and some of the other photos that he has taken. This is a fantastic insight into the journey of one of the countries, if not one of the world’s, leading wildlife photographers. And best of all, even though this guy’s photos reach millions of people, he is one of the nicest people around. Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Clint Ralph - Email [email protected] Website https://clintralphphotography.co.zaYWP Antares Visit https://www.ywpofsa.co.za/post/a-memorable-escape-to-antares-bush-camp-and-umgede-hideAntares Bush Camp https://www.thebirdinglife.com/antares-bush-camp-safaris

This episode is the ultimate guide to birding in Northern Kruger! I chat with one of the best Kruger bird guides, Marc Cronje from Nature Travel Birding. We find out all about where to find all the sought-after species in this section of the park, including routes to travel, camps to stay at, where to get food, and even some hints on the SANPARKS rangers to do game drives with. This episode has everything you need to plan your next Kruger escape and add lots of birds to your life list.  Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Nature Travel Birding www.naturetravelbirding.comRhino Post Safari Lodge www.rhinopostsafarilodge.co.za/

In this episode, I chat with one of the best birders that I know, Joshua Olszewski. In a previous episode, Joshua smashed a scientific bird name challenge, in this episode I challenge him with a bird information challenge – so let’s see how he does. We also hear about his guiding experiences and a recent trip to Israel. As always with Joshua, we tap into his encyclopedic knowledge of birds and intricate ID features. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

In this week’s episode, I chat with Zimbabwe birder Jean-Michael Blake, who recently saw his 700 species for the region. We chat about his birding journey, guiding guests, snakes, and Zimbabwe birding, and get some tips on how to see the sought-after African Pitta.Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from the show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Jean-Michael Blake Instagram John Kinghorn (Untamed Birding) Instagram

This week we explore the magical birding that the beautiful Zululand town St. Lucia offers. We get all the inside information from an experienced guide, Ian Ferreira, who runs St Lucia Birding Tours. This is the perfect episode to help you find all the specials that the area has to offer. If you want to book a bird guide for St Lucia, be sure to send Ian a message – all the links are in the notes to the show.  Visit our online store to get your birding-related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/St Lucia Birding Tours https://www.stluciabirdingtours.co.za/

This week’s guest is one of the coolest people that I have had the opportunity to meet. I am pleased to welcome Bart Fokkens to the show. In this episode we chat about music, Splashy Fen, and of course birds. Bart is a fantastic storyteller who will draw you in with his warm personality!In this episode Bart talks about a trip that he did for Namibia last year. After hearing about this amazing birding destination, I am sure you will want to plan a trip the country. If you are looking for the best accommodation that caters for the unique demands of birders, head on over to the Namibia page on our Accommodation directory on our website. You will be spoilt with choice with fantastic destinations such as Sandfontein Lodge & Nature Reserve, OraBo River Lodge, Aloegrove Safari Lodge, Daan Viljoen Lodge, and Shametu River Lodge on the edge of the Okavango River in the Caprivi Strip. Wherever you decide to head in Namibia, we have you covered! Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Namibia Accommodation Directory https://www.thebirdinglife.com/namibia

In this episode I chat to return guest, Keanu Canto. Keanu tells us all how he keeps his passion for his local patch strong, he creates both a Tinder profile and a car music playlist, and as with his last episode, gives lots of practical advice to help birders improve their field skills.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

Narina Trogan, Eastern Nicator, Spotted-Ground Thrush, African Broadbill, and Wood Owl are just a few of the special species that can be found in and around the small Zululand town of Eshowe. Tristan Naude is a young birder whose love for birds started many years before he called this magical town home. In this episode, we will not only hear all about birding in and around Eshowe, but we will also discover what makes Tristan tick! We will hear about his bogey bird, his favourite birding books, and get tips on how you can improve your own birding. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

Last week Saturday, Birding Big Day 2022 saw birders from all over South Africa trying to see as many bird species as possible in 24 hours. The team that recorded the most species in the 50 km radius challenge was E-Birders who saw an impressive 336 species! In the 6km radius challenge, Mad Marataba Maccoas recorded an insane 172 species. In this episode I will be chatting to Emma Schonken, who was part of the Green-backed camera operators team, ho took part in the 6km challenge. Emma is a newer birder, so it’s great to hear her perspective on the day. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

This week’s guest is someone that had all the South African birders dreaming of a White Christmas! I chat to Decklan Jordaan, the young birder who this past weekend discovered a White Wagtail at Sappi Stanger on the KwaZulu Natal North Coast. This is only the second time that this species has been recorded in the region. We chat about this find, as well as other insights into birds and birding.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Decklan Jordaan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/decklan_jordaan/

In this episode we will be chatting all about Birding Big Day. I had a conversation with Jody de Bruyn who was part of 'Wat-kyk-jy', who were the winners of last year’s Birding Big Day. Jody gives lots of tips and advice for those that want to see more birds on the day.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Birding Big Day https://www.birdlife.org.za/support-us/events/birding-big-day-2022/

In this, the last episode of season 5, I will be talking to someone that I have wanted to have on the show for a long time. He has been birding for 35 years, he was one of the hosts of the 'Better Birding' webinars, and he is a fantastic person - I am pleased to introduce David Winter. We will chat about a wide range of birding topics - David's personal birding story, bird clubs, how he sees the past, the present, and the future of birding, how technology can be better used to help and grow birding, and a whole lot more! This is one of my favourite episodes that I have recorded!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Better Birding YouTube Page https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCY02DpoYa_S6EMbPqZiQukQ

In this episode we will explore one of the best tools available for those interested in South African birds, the SABAP2 website. I chatted to the projects Information Systems Specialist, Michael Brooks. Michael, who is responsible for all the IT and software development for the SABAP2 project, tells us all about what the website offers birders. He also chats about some recent updates that have been made to the website and how these will add to your enjoyment of birds.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Firefinch App: Website / IOS Download / Android Download SABAP2 Website: https://sabap2.birdmap.africa/

In this episode I will having a chat to my good friend Sithembiso Blessing Majoka. In the last episode that we did together we discussed Zulu bird names, in this episode we have a conversation about Birds and Zulu Culture. We look as some of the beliefs that surround four well-known Southern African species and how this affects their conservation.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Firefinch App: Website / IOS Download / Android Download

In this episode I will be chatting to two of the team members who were responsible for the recently released Firefinch app. Faansie Peacock is one of South Africa’s best loved bird authors, and his books have become essential items for any birder’s collection. I chat to both him, as well as Stephan Swart, the developer who helped put Faansie’s ideas onto the Firefinch app. In the chat we find out all about the app, finding out not only what the offers the user, but also the story behind the development of the app.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Firefinch App: Website / IOS Download / Android Download

In this episode we will be talking all about Cape Parrots! I chat to Susan Wishart, the Project Manager at The Cape Parrot Project. She tells us all about this special species, the threats that they are facing, as well as the conservation initiatives that are being done to conserve them. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Cape Parrot Project LinksSusan Wishart email [email protected] https://www.wildbirdtrust.com/projects/cape-parrot-project

In this episode we chat to Adam Riley about his newly released photographic guide, 'Birds of South Africa'. He tells us all about the book, as well as sharing his expert knowledge on the birds and birding in South Africa Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/'Order Birds of South Africa' - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/product-page/birds-of-south-africa

In this episode we do a virtual birding trip through magical Namibia with bird guide, Leon Marais. He tells us all about the birds, locations, routes, and everything you need to know to plan a birding trip to the country.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Lawson’s Birding, Wildlife Safaris, and Custom Safaris offers first class birding and wildlife trips to a range of countries in Southern and Eastern Africa. Contact them today to set up the safari of a lifetime - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/leon-maraisBook you Namibia Bird Trip - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/namibia

In this episode I chat to well known atlaser Pieter Verster. If you want to see more birds, while contributing to conversation - this is the episode for you!In the episode Pieter speaks about:How another atlaser inspired his journey and the importance of connecting with other atlasersHow to make the most of the SABAP2 website to plan your birding How to use the SABAP2 data to target species to grow your provincial listHow to work out how many birds you will see in an areaHow to find the birds in the pentads that you are targeting Advice to people that want to start atlasing Ideas to make atlasing even more funAnd lots more...Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:SABAP2 Website https://sabap2.birdmap.africa/Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/

The week's guest is the much-loved local birder Sithembiso Blessing Majoka.We chat all about recent Gauteng birding trip - sharing both our highlights and our lowlights. We then delve into Zulu bird names and their connection to traditional culture.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Get your copy of Birds of KwaZulu Natal and their Zulu Names https://www.thebirdinglife.com/product-page/roberts-birds-of-kwazulu-natal-and-their-zulu-names

In this episode we chat to Leon Marais about his recent trip to Maputo National Park - he tells us all what this location offers the more adventurous birder!I also chat to Karin Wiesler about 'Birds of Southern Africa - The Complete Photographic Guide' . She tells us all about the book, including the behind scenes work to put it together. She also tells us about her own birding journey. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Lawson’s Birding, Wildlife Safaris, and Custom Safaris offers first class birding and wildlife trips to a range of countries in Southern and Eastern Africa. Contact them today to set up the safari of a lifetime - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/leon-maraisGet your copy of 'Birds of Southern Africa - The Complete Photographic Guide' - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/product-page/birds-of-southern-africa-the-complete-photographic-guide

In this episode I chat to two guests.Firstly, I chat to Roger Machin, Canon South Africa's Product Marketing Manager. He chats about:The Canon RF 800mm F11 IS STM, and tells us why he feels this F11 lens is a winner for bird photographers.The Canon mirrorless journey (an interesting short Canon history story).Why he feels that photographers should make the move from DSLR to mirrorless.Programs that can assist you with post processing.The exciting R7 camera and what it offers birders.Ideal lens pairings for the R7 for bird and wildlife photography.I then chat to Cameron Pearce who was recently crowned the 2022 Safari Guide of the Year. We chat about:Birding at Ongava Game Reserve.All the details around the Safari Guide of the Year competition, including his experience with the Canon R7.Cameron's journey as both a birder and a guide.What he wishes every guest knew.How he keeps his birding skills sharp. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this episode I chat to well known South African birder, Duncan McKenzie.Amongst the topics we discuss in the show:The Wood Warbler that showed up in Phalaborwa this past week. Duncan also explains what reverse migration is.Duncan's early days of birding and how he discovered a 'brand-new' species.The delicate balance between conservation and development.The African countries that offer the most for birders and a South American country that is fantastic to bird in.The importance of the SABAP2 project and atlasing - including how it provides important data around migration and climate change.How the SABAP2 data is used.And lots more... Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/SABAP2 website https://sabap2.birdmap.africa/

In this week's episode we chat to Kayleigh from Bayala Nyala Breeders. She shares what this venue, which is situated in the heart of Zululand, KwaZulu Natal, offers birders.I also chat to Robyn Ansell, one of South Africa's best wildlife and bird artists. I find out about what shaped her journey as an artist, learn about her favorite paintings that she has done, and also find out what goes into painting birds. This show is proudly sponsored by Westerman's - For the love of birds.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Westerman's https://valemount.co.za/westermans/Bayala Nyala Breeders https://www.thebirdinglife.com/bayala-nyala-breeders

In this episode we will be talking all about Albatrosses. I chat to Andrea Angel, the Albatross Task Force Manager. We talk about what makes the group family of birds so special – with Andrea sharing some stories of encounters she has had while observing them – and about the work that the Albatross Task Force.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Albatross Task Force - https://www.birdlife.org.za/what-we-do/seabird-conservation/what-we-do/albatross-task-force/Andrea Angel email [email protected] photo Atlantic Yellow-nosed Albatross supplied by the Albatross Task Force

Due to the fact that we celebrated Youth Day in South Africa on the week that this episode was recorded, this is a Youth Episode of The Birding Life Podcast. Mark will be chatting to some of the Birding Life Ambassadors and their friends. This is a fun episode covering lots of awesome content. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This week, we celebrate our 100th Episode! Garret Skead interviews the host of The Birding Life Podcast, Adam Cruickshank. Adam shares not only the story of The Birding Life, but also his own personal birding journey. This episode allows you to get to know the man behind the voice. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Paul McCartney Carpool Karaoke - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QjvzCTqkBDQ

What do you know about the Prairie Wetland system? If you are anything like me, you probably don’t know that much about this important ecosystem – and this is what this week’s guests hopes to change through the release of a new film. I chat to Chris Dorsey, the executive director of ‘Wings over Water’ – the stunning 3D IMAX film that celebrates the magic of the Prairie Wetlands. In this episode you will hear not only about this exciting film release, but why protecting this ecosystem isn’t only important for North America, but for all of us that love birds and nature. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Wings over Water Website https://wingsoverwaterfilm.com/

In this episode I will be chat to surf writer and broadcaster, Paul Evans, all the way from Southwest France. While he very rarely goes out and sits in a hide to write down the bird species he observes, he describes himself, when he leaves the house, as 'never not birding'. He tell us a little about his journey as a birder, as well why he thinks birding is the perfect side-hobby for surfers. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Stab Magazine Article https://stabmag.com/features/surfings-dark-secret-birding/BLSA African Bird Fair https://www.birdlife.org.za/african-bird-fair-2022/De Zeekoe Guest Farm links:https://www.thebirdinglife.com/dezeekoe-guest-farmhttp://www.dezeekoe.co.za/

In this episode we are chatting all about South Africa’s endemic birds with special guest, Daniel Engelbrecht. We will look at which species are endemic to the region, discuss threats to them, and look at the best places to find them in the country. Daniel’s also gives us his five favorite South African endemic species and get an update on his nemesis bird species.   Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Kuilfontein Stable Cottages & The Paddocks - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/kuilfontein-stable-cottageswww.kuilfontein.co.za

This is our Birding Life Show for season 4, and today I am joined by Calvin Harris and Mark Heystek, who will each be telling us about an app that they have been using when they have been out birding. Calvin will be telling us about eBird and Mark about iNaturalist. These are both free apps that we believe will help you as a birder and enhance your understanding of the natural world around you. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeOrder quality coffee and make you contribution to conservation https://outlierscoffee.co.za/Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:eBird - https://ebird.org/homeiNaturalist - https://www.inaturalist.org/

Last week we looked at bird the use of play back in the field – this week we are going to look at the opposite side of the coin and look at the recording of bird calls. We are joined by special guest Rick Nuttall. Rick is an experienced birder that has been recording bird calls for many years – he tells us all about how we can get started with the recording of calls and lets us know how it will add value to our birding.  Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

On the week before this episode was released, there was post on a local Facebook group about the use of call-up or play back to lure a an out-of-range Woodland Kingfisher that had shown up at Camdeboo National Park in the Eastern Cape, to come closer. The post caused much debate around the topic – as this topic has done on many other occasions on various online forums. So, I thought it would be a good time to finally tackle the important topics of the use of call back and ethical birding on a podcast episode.I am not going to try to tell you what is best, instead I am going to have a chat with two well-known birders who have slightly different views on the topics – Lynette Rudman and Trevor Hardaker – and then I will let Andrew de Blocq the Avitourism Project Manager from Birdlife South Africa share on their stance on the use of call back, as well as ethical birding. I believe as you listen to the different guests share on these all-important topics – you will be better equipped to make better choices out in the field. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeShow Links:BirdLife South Africa Links:BirdLife South Africa Code of Ethics - https://www.birdlife.org.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/BirdLife-South-Africa-Birding-Code-of-Ethics-Position-Statement.pdfBirdLife South Africa Listers Club - https://www.birdlife.org.za/go-birding/go-birding-south-africa-listers-club/BirdLife South Africa Listers Club Badges - https://shop.birdlife.org.za/product/south-africa-listers-club/Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This week we will be chatting all about bird photography with sought-after specialist photographic guide, Andrew Aveley. In the episode, Andrew shares about how listeners can improve their bird photography, regardless of the equipment that they have. He also chats about developments in photographic equipment and let’s us know how it helps photographers in the field. We discuss software that is available to developing photos – yes, there is more available than only Lightroom and Photoshop – and some of it is available for free. This episode is packed with lots of fantastic informationVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeShow Links:Andrew Aveley Links:Facebook- https://www.facebook.com/AndrewAveleyPhotographyWebsite - https://www.andrewaveley.co.za/Wild Expressions Website - http://wildexpressions.co.zaIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaCover image taken by Andrew Aveley

This week we chat to Steve McKean, who is a part of Conservation Outcomes. Conservation Outcomes is an NGO that has been established to support land that is being developed and managed for biodiversity conservation outside of state protected areas. They Partner with BirdLife SA in KwaZulu-Natal to conserve the Blue Swallow and its habitat. Steve tells us all about the Blue Swallow and the important work that is been done to conserve it – he also tells us the locations where you can possibly get to see one of these special birds. We encourage our listeners who would like to see Blue Swallow being conserved, to support Birdlife South Africa and the important work that they are doing. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeShow Links:To support Birdlife South Africa's Blue Swallow Conservation Project https://www.birdlife.org.za/blue-swallow-conservation-project/Conservation Outcomes Website - https://www.conservation-outcomes.org/Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaBlue Swallow cover image taken by Richard Flack https://www.theflacks.co.za/

Have you ever wanted to take your birding to a deeper level? Are you feeling sea bird withdrawals after the Flock to Marion Cruise? Well then, this episode is for you, for this episode I am joined by Cape Town birder, Vincent Ward. Vincent was a guide on the Flock to Marion Cruise and is also guide for Cape Town Pelagics. As someone who started his journey as a sea bird scientist, he has a lot of experience with this group of birds. This episode is jam-packed with tips and advice, as well as lots of fascinating information. Oh, and what does it mean to become a ‘petrel head’? Well, you will need to listen to the episode to find out.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeCape Town Pelagic's Links:Website - http://www.capetownpelagics.com/Email - [email protected] and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza