The Birding Life Podcast Network

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

This week’s guest is a songwriter, storyteller, nature lover, conservationist, podcaster, and of course a birder – I am pleased to introduce John Edmond. John has recorded four albums titled, ‘Tales of the Birdwatchers’ – on which he shares stories and information about a variety of birds – along with fun songs to help you learn their calls. This is a fun episode where we learn about John and his passion for all things nature and get a taste of songs off the albums.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeTales of the Birdwatchers Box set https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store/Tales-of-the-Birdwatchers-Box-Set-4-CDs-p444058344All songs sung by John Edmond Copyright Roan Antelope Music (used with permission)Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This episode features 2 guides, a birder, and a bird photographer that were lucky enough to go on the recent Flock to Marion Cruise. They share about their experiences on the cruise, funny moments, behind the scenes stories from the guides, and tips to separate Wandering from Tristan albatross. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeSupport the Mouse Free Marion project - https://mousefreemarion.org/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this week’s episode we once again chat to Craig and Christine Widdows, who along with their two children Wren and Finn, did a big year as a family around South African in 2021. Their story was one of the ‘feel-good’ stories of the year, with many people following their African adventure. They have travelled the length and breadth of the country, so in this week’s episode, I asked them to tell us their 5 favourite birding destinations in the country. This is a great chat with an amazing couple!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeWiddows Family Links:Instagram - @our_birding_big_year_2021Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Our-Birding-Big-Year-2021-100876491840150Birdlife South Africa Community Guideshttps://www.birdlife.org.za/go-birding/community-bird-guides/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

With all the excitement around the Flock to Marion Cruise, that is leaving in the week after this episode is released, I have a chat to the Birding Life Team, along with special guest John Kinghorn. John is one of the guides on the cruise, he has previously gone into the Antarctic waters as part of the Atlas of Seabirds project. He shares about what we can expect to see and experience on the cruise. Even if you are not going on the cruise, this episode is very informative, and you won’t want to miss it!  Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeOutliers Coffee Roasters - https://outlierscoffee.co.za/Support Birdlife South Africa - https://www.birdlife.org.za/support-us/donate/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

With Birdlife South Africa's 'Flock to Marion' cruise only a few weeks away, for this week’s episode I have a chat with Daniel Danckwerts, the acting Communications manager for Birdlife South Africa. Daniel, who is part of the Flock to Marion organizing committee, gives us all the important information to prepare for an epic Flock cruise. We also have a chat about this year’s Birdlife South Africa Bird of the Year. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeFlock to Marion Cruise Links:Website - https://www.birdlife.org.za/flock-to-marion-2022/Email - [email protected] book for the cruise - https://www.msccruises.co.za/cruise-deals/south-african-cruisesSupport Birdlife South Africa - https://www.birdlife.org.za/support-us/donate/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this episode, I have a chat with Dr Rob Little. Dr Rob is a well-known expert in South African bird, he has authored 5 books – including 'Birding in South Africa’s National Parks' and his latest book, 'Gamebirds of Africa'. We will talk about his birding and conservation journey, his love of gamebirds, and find out all about his latest book. This is a fascinating chat that you won’t want to miss! Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeSandfontein Lodge & Nature Reserve  https://cutt.ly/sandfontein-lodge or https://www.sandfontein.com/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this second to last episode of season 2, we continue to help prepare birders for the Flock to Marion cruise – a few weeks ago we looked at birding in the Cape Town area, this time we will be looking at where the Flock cruise will be ending – and look at birding in Kwa-Zulu Natal. This week’s guest is KwaZulu Natal birding guru, Michael Wright from Sustain Wildlife and Birding Safari’s. Michael will be telling us all about the five best spots to bird in the province, telling us all about the birds, as well as tips for each location. Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeRooiberg Lodge https://cutt.ly/rooiberg or www.rooiberglodge.co.zaSustain Wildlife and Birding Safari’sWebsite - https://www.sustainsafaris.com/Email - [email protected] Phone +27 83 670 1436 All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this episode we chat all about atlassing and why it’s so important. I chat to Colin Summersgill who will be telling us all about what atlassing is, how to do it, and how it will help you to grow as a birder. This is a great chat with an experienced birder, who makes so much valuable input during the episode.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeSABAP2 - http://sabap2.birdmap.africa/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this episode we will talking all about one of the biggest birding days on the calendar, Birdlife South Africa’s Birding Big Day! I will be chatting to two guests in this episode – first I will interview Etienne Marais, who was the leader of the Raiders of the Lost Lark team, which was the first Birding Big Day team to pass the 300-mark barrier for the day. He will give us lots of practical tips on how those participating in the day can see more birds. I will then have a chat with Ernst Retief from Birdlife South Africa, who will tell us all about the day and how to register and participate in the day. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the EpisodeEtienne Marais:Website - https://www.etienne-birding.com/  Facebook - Etienne BirdingEmail - [email protected] - +27633604916Birding Big Day:For information or to register - https://www.birdlife.org.za/support-us/events/birding-big-day-2021/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this episode I enlist the help of well-known Cape Town birder Garret Skead – to give us tips and locations to help plan an epic Cape birding weekend. If you are doing the Birdlife South Africa Flock to Marion cruise or even if you just want to plan a birding trip to Cape Town, this episode is packed with information.To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeAll music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this week's show we have two incredible guests – first we chat to Hans Larsson. Hans is one of the world’s best bird artists – and was involved in Peter Harrison’s ‘Seabirds – The New Identification Guide’. He tells us all about his journey and what went into painting plates for this epic field guide. We then chat to Dr. Anton Wolfaardt from the Mouse Free Marion project – in the interview he gives us insights into why this project is so important, how the mouse eradication is undertaken, and he gives us a glimpse into the amazing biodiversity found on Marion Island. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeShow Links Mouse Free Marion Project - https://mousefreemarion.org/Hans Larsson - https://www.hanslarssonbirdart.com/To order your copy of ‘Seabirds – The New Identification Guide’ https://www.lynxeds.com/product/seabirds/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This week’s guest is someone that is Aldo Berruti, who is based in a beautiful KwaZulu Natal town called Underberg. In this episode Aldo is going to be your virtual guide on a trip up Sani Pass – one of South Africa’s best birding spots. He tells us all about the birds, the spots, and everything you need to know when planning a trip. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeAll music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This week, we have an international flavour to the show – with two very special guests.First, we chat to Suzy Buttress from England. Suzy is the host of The Casual Birder Podcast, which encourages people of all experience levels to appreciate birds wherever they are found. She shares about her podcast, as well as gives us insights into her style of birding.We then chat to Freya McGregor, an Australian who lives in the United States. She tells us all about the Birdability project that looks to make birding accessible to more people – especially people with disabilities. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the show:Suzy Buttress linksWebsite https://casualbirder.com/Email [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/CasualBirderPod/Facebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/CasualBirderPodcast/Twitter Handle @CasualBirderPodInstagram Handle @CasualbirderpodcastFreya McGregor linkshttps://www.audubon.org/news/its-time-redefine-birdingWebsite https://www.birdability.org/Email [email protected] https://www.facebook.com/birdabilityFacebook Group https://www.facebook.com/groups/386227102749125Twitter Handle @birdabilityInstagram Handle @birdabilityAll music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

This week’s guest is an ornithologist, author, and 2021 Birdlife South Africa Gill Memorial Award Winner - we are honoured to introduce David Allan. This is a brilliant episode where we get to hear from one the countries leading voices in ornithology – he tells us all about his career, the books he has been a part of, as well as sharing many fascinating accounts from the field. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeAll music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In today's show The Birding Life is joined by Dan Brady who is part of the 'Forest and Birds Bird of the Year' Campaign in New Zealand. We find our more about New Zealand birds and decide on each of our own birds of the year...as well as our un-bird of the year. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeOrder quality coffee and make you contribution to conservation https://outlierscoffee.co.za/Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeLinks from the show:Bird of the Year New Zealand https://www.birdoftheyear.org.nz/All music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Episode 75 - Vultures: What's the Big Deal? - with special guest Ben Hoffman In this episode we look at why Vultures are such an important part of the eco-system and why we should conserve them. This is a fascinating chat with so much great information about these special birds.To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksRaptor Rescue - www.raptorrescue.org.zaBen Hoffman email - [email protected] Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 74 - The BirdPro App Part 2 with special guest Herman Van Den Berg In this episode we will be chatting about bird apps – and specifically the BirdPro South Africa App. I find out from Herman not only about the BirdPro App, but also about the other nature apps they offer the South African market. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksBirdPro App - http://birdproapp.com/TreePro App - https://treeproapp.com/Dragonfly SA App - https://hphpublishing.lpages.co/dragonflyapp/Royalty-Free Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 73 - Adventures in Nature with special guest Tristan Spurway Tristan Spurway has been on the show before sharing about his journey , but this time we take a different angle. We look at the other areas of nature that have opened up because of Tristan’s birding journey. We will look at his many areas of nature that excite him, as well as looking at some resources to get you started in your own journey. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksTristan Spurway Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tspurway_photography/Royalty-Free Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 72 of The Birding Life Podcast with the Craig and Christine WiddowsCraig and Christine are doing a birding big year around South African trying to see as many birds as possible with their two young children Wren and Finn. Many South African’s have been captivated by their story and in this episode, we get a first-hand taste of what life on the road has been like. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksWiddows Family Links:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/our_birding_big_year_2021/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/Our-Birding-Big-Year-2021-100876491840150Birdlife South Africa Community Guideshttps://www.birdlife.org.za/go-birding/community-bird-guides/Royalty-Free Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 71 of The Birding Life Podcast with special guest Nicolette Forbes This week’s guest is a 2021 Birdlife South Africa Owl Award winner, is one of our countries leading conservationists, and is the chairperson of Birdlife eThekwini KZN. We have a great conversation about the bird club, hear some great stories from Nicolette’s own birding journey, and hear all about the conservation work she has done with our country’s estuaries. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksRelevant Links from EpisodeBirdlife eThekwini KZN website - https://blpn.org/Royalty-Free Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 70 of The Birding Life Podcast – Twitch Fever with special guest Zach SimpsonThis week’s guest is young birding extraordinaire, Zach Simpson. In the episode we will be looking at what the thrill is around twitching and specifically why it is so attractive to younger birders. Zach shares some of his own stories from twitches he has been on, as well as special birds he discovered on his own home patch.To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksRelevant Links from this episode:Zach Simpson Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/birding_and__beyond/Royalty-Free Music sourced from freemusicarchive.org/ Artist Scott Holmes

Episode 69 of The Birding Life Podcast – The Birding Life Show – Caprivi Strip BirdingMarc Cronje from Nature Travel Birding takes us on a virtual trip to explore the Caprivi Strip, in Namibia. We discover what this special location offers birders and nature lovers. To support the work that we do: buymeacoffee.com/TheBirdingLifeTo order books at great prices from Wild Books Online Store (use the code 'Birding' for a 5% discount on your order - bit.ly/blwildbooksLinks from the Episode:Marc Cronje - Email [email protected] / Mobile +27837056436Sandfontein Lodge & Nature Reserve - https://www.thebirdinglife.com/sandfontein-lodge