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Feathers of Sabi Sabi

on Apr 23, 2019

If birding is not your thing, then that’s ok. Birding has got to be a passion, something enjoyable and if not, then it takes some practice. Me myself, I am an enthusiastic future birder to put it in terms. Birds make me happy and excited - the variety is incredible and something always spectacular to see. I have, in my guiding years, converted not-so-keen birders, to sparking an interest, to some now-keen-avid birders and all the fame goes out to each little or big bird out there.

I must say that these past few cycles, when it comes to birds, has been unbelievable. A lot of firsts for me and a few that are not so easily seen.

One safari we were admiring a bull elephant when one of my guests asked what I was listening to in the distance. With a giggle, I mentioned my enthusiasm for birds and I had heard a call of a bird I really wanted to see. My excitement spread to my guests and we headed in the direction of the calls and came across some Trumpeter Hornbills! What a site to see!

Also part of the Hornbill family, the special Southern Ground Hornbill, whose numbers are vulnerable at this time.

04Louise Murray Southern Ground Hornbill 04022019 Final

Another common name you might have heard is Roller. We often see the striking Lilic-breasted Roller out on safari which has to be one of the most beautiful birds around. Shortly after spotting the Lilac-breasted Roller, we came across a Purple Roller. What a treat to see two Roller species within proximity to one another.

Water birds are also always fun to spot when you can just sit near a watering hole and take it all in. A Knob-billed Duck appeared in the long grass for a quick view. A beautiful and unique duck allowing for an incredible sighting.

07Louise Murray Duck 04032019 Final

Here, a Wood Sandpiper prods its way looking for something to eat in the shallow water.

08Louise Murray Wood Sandpiper Final

A Yellow-billed Stork stands watch.

09Louise Murray Yellow Billed Stork Final

A pair of Greater Painted-snipes – a first for me at Sabi Sabi! A quick sighting but so worth it.

10Louise Murray Greater Painted Snipe Final

Birds of prey are always an exciting sight.

A very impressive Martial Eagle perched on a branch with a meal. One of the impressive large eagles we find here at Sabi Sabi.

A not so often seen, Long-crested Eagle, out in the open.

And the owls are just my favourite!!

We often see the Spotted Eagle-owl as well as the Verreaux’s Eagle-owl, but this cycle I was so excited to see a pair of African Wood Owls perched close to Bush Lodge.

For me, the one to take the cake is the Marsh Owl – another first for me at Sabi Sabi! With so much excitement, it was tricky to get a good photo, but I hope I can be excused this time for managing to capture the image to tell the story at the expense of image quality. Such a special sighting!!

A successful few drives I must say!

  • Blog by Louise Murray (Bush Lodge Ranger)
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