A Memorable Morning Birding in Wilderness on Friday, October 10, I led a fantastic morning birding trip in Wilderness with two enthusiastic clients from Belgium, staying at Teniqua Tree Tops.
We kicked off at 6:00 AM under overcast skies perfect for birding, though not ideal for spotting every detail. Our first stop was to observe the local breeding pair of Goliath Herons in town. Perched high in the Eucalyptus trees, the pair was busy at their nest. The female was actively tending to what I suspect is a newly hatched chick, though it remained hidden, while the male stood guard, scanning for intruders. At Rondevlei, we were treated to a variety of species from the bird hide. Highlights included Black-necked Grebe, Pied and Malachite Kingfishers, Little Rush Warbler, Levaillant’s Cisticola, and Lesser Swamp Warbler. Little Egret and Grey Heron added to the show, while African Fish Eagles called persistently, though they stayed out of sight. Driving around the lake toward Wilderness and Hoekwil, we added Karoo Prinia, Neddicky, Cape Bulbul, Pin-tailed Whydah, and Paradise Flycatcher to the clients’ first South African birding list. In Wilderness, a short walk through an indigenous forest revealed the vibrant calls of Knysna Turaco, Knysna Woodpecker, and Olive Woodpecker. We also spotted a stunning, Blue-mantled Crested-flycatcher and watched breeding Peregrine Falcons tending to their vocal fledglings. Our return route via Bergplaas through farmland brought an unexpected spectacle. Behind Libertas Guest farm, Cape Crows were mobbing an adult Martial Eagle perched in towering Eucalyptus trees. The eagle briefly sought cover in the foliage but eventually took flight, pursued by the relentless crows until it vanished eastward over the horizon.
By noon, we wrapped up a rewarding morning, with my clients delighted by the diverse birdlife and dramatic wildlife encounters. A perfect start to their South African birding adventure!
