Three Ticks in Two Days: Conrad Straus’s Winter Birding Challenge

A tale of determination, perfect timing, and photographic precision

We love a good birding challenge at BIRDWATCHER, but when Conrad Straus reached out on 12 June with his request for a guided trip on 24-25 June 2026, we knew this wasn’t going to be your typical outing.

The Challenge

Conrad had his sights set on three specific species to add to his Southern African bird list: Knysna Warbler, Forest Buzzard, and Half-collared Kingfisher. Birds #763, #764, and #765 on his life list.

Now, the Forest Buzzard and Half-collared Kingfisher are reasonably cooperative in our area. But the Knysna Warbler? In the middle of winter? That’s a different story altogether. This secretive forest dweller doesn’t make things easy at the best of times, let alone during the cold winter months.

But here’s where it gets interesting: Conrad had just two days to find all three species. And there was one more twist, Conrad only counts a bird if he’s photographed it. No photo, no tick. The bar was set high.

Seizing the Moment

When Conrad arrived on the afternoon of the 23rd, we took one look at the weather forecast and made a quick decision: why wait? With challenging conditions predicted, we headed out immediately.

That spontaneous decision paid off. By the end of day one, Conrad had already secured stunning photographs of both the Forest Buzzard and Half-collared Kingfisher. Two down, one to go.

The Main Event

The morning of the 24th arrived, and it was time to tackle the real challenge: the elusive Knysna Warbler. These skulking forest birds require patience, persistence, and no small amount of luck, especially in winter when they’re at their most secretive.

But fortune favors the prepared, and Conrad’s camera was ready when the moment came. Mission accomplished! All three target species photographed and officially ticked.

The Perfect Ending

With his primary goals achieved and time to spare, Conrad spent the rest of his trip doing what passionate bird photographers do best, returning to his subjects for even better images. And better images he got.

Congratulations, Conrad, on birds #763, #764, and #765! Your dedication to the craft, and that “no photo, no tick” rule, makes these achievements all the sweeter.

Looking to tick off your own target species in the Southern African region? Contact BIRDWATCHER to plan your guided birding adventure.

All images in this post photographed by Conrad Straus.