South Africa Kruger Extension III 10th February to 14th February 2016 (5 days)

Southern Ground Hornbill by Greg de Klerk Trip report compiled by tour leader: Greg de Klerk

Top 5 birds as voted for by participants: 1. Stierling’s Wren-Warbler 4. Bateleur 2. Green Wood Hoopoe 5. African Pygmy Kingfisher 3. Southern Carmine Bee-eater Top 5 mammals: 1. Leopard 2. Klipspringer 3. Cape Porcupine 4. Sharpe’s Grysbok 5. Greater Kudu

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Tour summary

The Rockjumper Kruger Extension took us through the incredibly diverse habitats of the renowned Kruger National Park. At a touch over two million hectares, the park hosts a massive variety of birdlife and also large mammals, including the sought after ‘Big 5.’ Our stay here allowed us to explore the open grasslands, Acacia savanna, broad-leaved woodland and granite outcrops which characterise the central region of this wonderful reserve and provided us the opportunity to connect with many special species.

Spotted Crake by Greg de Klerk Our morning started off briskly with some great garden birding at our overnight accommodation. Here we connected with Red-headed Finch, Colourful Southern Red Bishop, Southern Masked Weaver, Red-eyed, Laughing and Ring-necked Dove, Karoo Thrush and a single Speckled Pigeon. Before departing Johannesburg, we connected with a regional rarity in the form of a Spotted Crake parading itself for onlookers at a small pan near a residential estate. Once everyone was happy, we then departed for Kruger National Park. The long easterly drive allowed us to connect with some familiar species like Long-tailed Widowbird, Amur Falcon, Helmeted Guineafowl, Hadada Ibis, Black-winged Kite, Common Buzzard and good flocks of Red-billed Quelea in the grasslands. Our arrival at Orpen Gate produced a Black-bellied Bustard, White-backed Vulture and some Cape Starlings while the road to Satara turned up Crowned, Senegal and Blacksmith Lapwing. As we arrived at camp a Gabar Goshawk was witnessed catching a Bat near the reception to complete a good days birding. We settled excitedly into our accommodation anticipating a great morning ahead.

Our morning started with a drive in the direction of Olifants restcamp. We were fortunate to add Crested Francolin, Natal and Swainson’s Spurfowl, Hooded, Lappet-faced and White-headed Vulture while a family of Southern Ground Hornbill showed beautifully with the parents feeding and interacting with a sub-adult. The mammal highlight of the morning was undoubtedly a pair of secretive and inconspicuous Sharpe’s Grysbok feeding near a small thicket while a Honey Badger foraging near camp came in a close second. On arrival at Olifants, we connected with White-browed Robin-Chat, Violet-backed Starling, Grey-headed and Orange-breasted Bushshrike, Little Sparrowhawk, Brown-headed Parrot and the colourful trio of Purple, Lilac-breasted and European Roller. We then followed the course of a river which turned up many excellent birds like a couple of breeding plumaged Yellow-billed Stork, African Openbill, Woolly-necked Stork, Marabou Stork, Black Crake, Three-banded Plover, Wood and Common Sandpiper, Common Greenshank, Collared Pratincole, Squacco, Grey and Goliath Herons, Great and Little Egret, Reed Cormorant and a vocal pair of African Fish Eagle. Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill by Greg de Klerk

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Moving away from the permanent watercourse, we traversed an area of dry Acacia Savanna, locating Kori Bustard, Red- crested Korhaan, a single stunning Secretarybird and a Buffy Pipit. We then found a small pod of Hippo in a rapidly drying mud puddle and they were joined by a lovely Saddle-billed Stork. A few metres later and we were suddenly in awe as three large male Lion stared at us from their concealed position before moving away to a more comfortable spot. After a small afternoon siesta we started with a bang, locating an African Scops Owl, Verreaux’s Leopard by Greg de Klerk Eagle-Owl and a Pearl-spotted Owlet while also connecting with the much desired Southern Carmine Bee-eater and Double-banded Sandgrouse. The comical Southern Yellow-billed, Southern Red-billed and African Grey Hornbills kept us entertained while a Mosque Swallow also captured our attention flying above a small herd of African Elephant feeding in a riverbed. A good dinner that evening was followed by a special night drive which produced some rare nocturnal mammals; African Civet, Common Genet, Spotted Hyena, tenacious Honey Badger and a White-tailed Mongoose all putting in an appearance.

The following morning dawned beautiful and clear. From our base at Satara we turned south, heading for Skukuza rest camp. An African Harrier-Hawk, Brown Snake Eagle, Martial Eagle and a Lizard Buzzard added to our raptor count while Burchell’s Coucal, African Palm Swift, Brown-Hooded Kingfisher, Eurasian Golden Oriole, Golden-tailed, Cardinal and Bearded Woodpecker all showed well. Although we were hoping to connect with a Leopard, it was not to be, with more male Lion, African Elephant, African Buffalo and White Rhinoceros taking centre stage for the mammals. A wholesome breakfast in the company of African Green Pigeon, Purple-crested Turaco, Cape White- eye, Black-collared Barbet and Yellow-breasted Apalis was enjoyable. We then headed off in search of a few more species in the broad-leaved woodland where there had been concentrated rainfall. Here we finally connected with a lovely young Leopard in a riverbed. We also added some birding highlights with great views of Violet-eared Waxbill, Green-capped Eremomela, Yellow-fronted Canary, Collared Sunbird, Grey Tit-Flycatcher, White-browed Scrub Robin, Wattled Starling, Southern White-crowned Shrike, Brubru and a Black-crowned Tchagra singing its beautiful liquid song. We retired back to our accommodation after a great dinner to prepare for our final full day in Kruger National Park.

The morning started with a drive through an area that had received good rainfall. This was in stark contrast to the areas we had traversed before as the green, lush environment replaced the virtual dustbowl of the rest of the reserve. Mocking Cliff Chat, African Pygmy and Striped Kingfishers, Red-billed Buffalo Weaver, Black Cuckooshrike, Green Wood Hoopoe, Greater Painted-snipe, African and Diederik’s Cuckoos, Black-winged Stilt, White-breasted Cormorant and White-faced Whistling Duck all put in appearance while the Stierling’s Wren-Warbler stole the show as he called and displayed nearby the road. Saddle-billed Stork by Greg de Klerk

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A breakfast stop at Pretoriouskop allowed us to connect with a glorious Scarlet-chested Sunbird, a pair of Yellow-fronted Tinkerbirds, Southern Black Tit and Southern Black Flycatcher. A drive around some nearby granite outcroppings allowed us to connect with a Red-collared Widowbird, Dusky and Village Indigobirds and the inconspicuous African Dusky Flycatcher. The unique Klipspringer was one of the mammalian highlights while we also connected with African Wild Dog and another White Rhinoceros. As noon arrived, the temperatures soared and the game viewing tailed off dramatically. It was decided that we would take a siesta before a final afternoon run. The afternoon proved to be very quiet as a stifling heat settled over the area. We still managed to find a pair of African Hawk- Eagle, Greater Blue-eared Starling, Retz’s Helmet Shrike, Red- breasted Swallow and Ashy Flycatcher while a Spotted Bush Snake and Savannah Monitor caught our interest as they moved around in some nearby trees. After a great few days in Kruger National Park, we settled for a farewell dinner and a good night’s Lioness by Greg de Klerk rest.

The final morning started off brilliantly with excellent views of a Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl pair, Jacobin Cuckoo, Jameson’s Firefinch, Green-backed Camaroptera and a nice herd of African Buffalo feeding in the river at our camp. As we departed Kruger National Park, we were surprised by a single Lioness, our first for the trip, crossing the road near us and leaving memories of an amazing time spent in this unspoiled wilderness. After a comfortable drive back to Johannesburg we said our final farewells before departing each other’s company.

Annotated List of species recorded

List powered through the report generator of our partner iGoTerra.

Birds (182 in total: 182 seen) Nomenclature and taxonomy follows Gill, F and D Donsker (Eds). 2015. IOC World Bird List (v 5.2).

Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced

IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient

Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata Kruger NP 13.2. Recorded near a dam in the south of Kruger in a large flock. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis niger Kruger NP 11.2. Seen in a river floodplain near Olifants Camp. Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. A regular sighting at all water points throughout the extension.

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Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris coronatus Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. A regular sighting both inside and outside the National Park.

Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies Phasianidae Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena sephaena Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen twice in small coveys along the roadside feeding. Natal Spurfowl Pternistis natalensis natalensis Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Recorded in denser savanna woodland. Swainson's Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii swainsonii Observed Kruger NP 10-12.2. Seen regularly in Kruger often associated with grassland near water points.

Storks Ciconiidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis Kruger NP 11.2. Seen along the Olifants river hunting. African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus lamelligerus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly at waterpoints in the park. Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus microscelis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen at two separate water holes in Kruger White Stork Ciconia ciconia ciconia Kruger NP 11.2. An individual recorded along the Olifants River. Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. A wonderful individual seen at a muddy waterhole hunting and again an individual seen along the Sabie River. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumenifer Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly around Skukuza Camp

Ibises and Spoonbills Threskiornithidae Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash hagedash Johannesburg 10.2, Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. The common species found on manicured lawns and along river systems in the park. African Spoonbill Platalea alba Kruger NP 11.2. Seen along the Olifants river.

Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns Ardeidae Striated Heron Butorides striata atricapilla Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly at quiet water points with a fair bit of cover. Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen along the Sabie River and again near Skukuza Camp.

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Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Johannesburg 10.2 and Kruger NP 14.2. Seen en route to Kruger NP and again back to Johannesburg. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A regular sighting near shallow water points hunting. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala Johannesburg 10.2. Seen in the grasslands of Dullstroom. Goliath Heron Ardea goliath Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen along the Sabie and Olifants rivers in Kruger NP. Great Egret Ardea alba melanorhynchos Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in the Olifants River and again near the Paul Kruger gate. Little Egret Egretta garzetta garzetta Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly hunting along water courses.

Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta umbretta Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Two sightings of this monotypic species in the park at some shallow water holes.

Cormorants and Shags Phalacrocoracidae Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus africanus Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. Seen regularly at a variety of water points in the park. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus Kruger NP 13.2. Seen near Pretoriouskop.

Anhingas Anhingidae African Darter Anhinga rufa rufa Johannesburg 10.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen flying over our accommodation in Johannesburg and again along the Sabie River.

Secretarybird Sagittariidae Secretarybird (VU) Sagittarius serpentarius Kruger NP 11.2. A single individual coursing through the dry savanna near Satara.

Hawks, Eagles, and Kites Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus caeruleus Kruger NP 10.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen on our way to Kruger near Dullstroom and again near Pretoriouskop. African Harrier-Hawk Polyboroides typus typus Kruger NP 12.2. A single adult seen perched between Satara and Skukuza. Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen on a couple of occasions in association with carcasses and other Vulture species.

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White-backed Vulture (NT) Gyps africanus Observed Kruger NP 10-13.2. Seen on a couple of occasions in association with carcasses and other Vulture species. White-headed Vulture (VU) Trigonoceps occipitalis Kruger NP 11.2. A single sighting of two adults at a carcass near Satara. Lappet-faced Vulture (VU) Torgos tracheliotos tracheliotos Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen on a couple of occasions near carcasses but also perched near Satara. Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen perched and flying between Satara and Skukuza. Bateleur (NT) Terathopius ecaudatus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Many individuals seen in flight through our stay. Martial Eagle (NT) Polemaetus bellicosus Kruger NP 12.2. A single bird identified in flight near Skukuza. Wahlberg's Eagle Hieraaetus wahlbergi Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. The most common small brown eagle seen both perched and in flight. African Hawk-Eagle Aquila spilogaster Kruger NP 13.2. A pair was seen thermaling near Skukuza over the Sabie River. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus meridionalis Kruger NP 12.2. A single individual recorded near Pretoriouskop. Gabar Goshawk Micronisus gabar gabar Kruger NP 10.2 and Kruger NP 11.2. Seen catching a Bat on our arrival at Satara and again in flight near Olifants. Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus minullus Kruger NP 11.2. A single individual perched near Olifants reception. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius parasitus Observed Kruger NP 10-13.2. Common migrant seen throughout the tour. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Common raptor seen along all the major waterpoints. Common Buzzard Buteo buteo vulpinus Kruger NP 10.2, Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Common on the road to Kruger NP but seen only three times in the park.

Bustards Otididae Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori kori Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Two individuals seen near Olifants in the bordering the open grassland. Red-crested Korhaan Lophotis ruficrista Kruger NP 11.2. A couple of individuals located after calling near Satara. Black-bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster notophila Observed Kruger NP 10-12.2.

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First individual seen well as we entered Kruger NP and subsequent sightings throughout our stay.

Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Rallidae Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Labelled the easiest Crake to see during the tour as we located it at almost every water point along the way. Spotted Crake Porzana porzana Johannesburg 10.2. A single individual displayed well before we left Johannesburg.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Water Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus vermiculatus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Located along most river courses and at some adequate water holes throughout.

Stilts and Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Kruger NP 13.2. A single individual recorded near Pretoriouskop

Plovers and Lapwings Charadriidae Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. A common species through the duration of the tour. Senegal Lapwing Vanellus lugubris Observed Kruger NP 10-12.2. Seen in large numbers when arriving at Satara and then again in smaller family groups. Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris tricollaris Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Often found in association with bodies of water.

Painted-Snipes Rostratulidae Greater Painted-snipe Rostratula benghalensis Kruger NP 13.2. A single female located near Pretoriouskop.

Jacanas Jacanidae African Jacana Actophilornis africanus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Located at a couple of small pans where reeds and cover was available.

Sandpipers and Allies Scolopacidae Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. A seasonal migrant found along the Sabie and Olifants rivers. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Found throughout the tour at various water points. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Found throughout the tour at various water points.

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Pratincoles and Coursers Glareolidae Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola fuelleborni Kruger NP 11.2. A single individual seen flying down the Olifants River.

Sandgrouse Pteroclidae Double-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles bicinctus Kruger NP 11.2. A pair found on the road near Satara.

Pigeons and Doves Columbidae Rock Dove Columba livia livia Johannesburg 10.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. Seen on arrival and departure from Johannesburg. Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea phaeonota Johannesburg 10.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. Seen on arrival and departure from Johannesburg. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Johannesburg 10.2, Kruger NP 11.2, Kruger NP 13.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. A common species seen on all except one day. Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola Johannesburg 10.2, observed Kruger NP 11-13.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. A common species seen and heard daily. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis senegalensis Johannesburg 10.2, observed Kruger NP 11-13.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. A common species seen daily on the tour. African Green Pigeon Treron calvus delalandii Kruger NP 12.2. A large brightly coloured Pigeon found in association of fruiting Fig trees.

Turacos Musophagidae Purple-crested Turaco Tauraco porphyreolophus porphyreolophus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in the riverine and broad-leaved woodland of the park. Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A regular sighting throughout our stay. Often heard giving its "go-away"call.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Burchell's Coucal Centropus burchellii burchellii Kruger NP 12.2. A single individual perched atop a small shrub was seen before it went down into the thicker cover. Jacobin Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus serratus Kruger NP 14.2. A single young individual seen on the final morning at Skukuza. Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius Kruger NP 13.2. An individual male seen around Pretriouskop. African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis Kruger NP 13.2. An individual was located near Pretoriouskop.

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Owls Strigidae African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis senegalensis Kruger NP 11.2. Located in Satara Camp. Verreaux's Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus Kruger NP 11.2. Seen along a small drainage line near Satara Camp. Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum licua Kruger NP 11.2. Located as angry birds began mobbing him when perched conspicuously on a dead tree.

Swifts Apodidae African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in association with Wild Date Palms in the areas near permanent water. Little Swift Apus affinis Johannesburg 10.2 and observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. A common species seen flying in and around our camps. White-rumped Swift Apus caffer Johannesburg 10.2. Seen leaving Johannesburg.

Mousebirds Coliidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Johannesburg 10.2 and Johannesburg 14.2. Seen both on departure and arrival at our guest house. Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen well in Kruger NP at both Satara and Skukuza.

Rollers Coraciidae Coracias naevius mosambicus Kruger NP 11.2. A single individual see near Satara camp. Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus caudatus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A stunning bird seen regularly around Satara and Skukuza. European Roller (NT) Coracias garrulus garrulus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. The most common Roller in the region during our tour.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris Kruger NP 12.2. A lovely sighting of this species near Skukuza. Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti chelicuti Kruger NP 13.2. A pair seen near Pretoriouskop. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis cyanoleuca Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. Seen in our camp daily.

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African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta natalensis Kruger NP 13.2. A single bird seen near Pretoriouskop entrance. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen along all watercourses in Kruger NP.

Bee-eaters Meropidae Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus meridionalis Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in the area near Skukuza in a small group. White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides Kruger NP 11.2. Seen along the Olifant’s River. European Bee-eater Merops apiaster Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen and heard regularly in the park. Southern Carmine Bee-eater Merops nubicoides Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly in the park as far as Skukuza.

Woodhoopoes and Scimitar-bills Phoeniculidae Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in a small group near Pretoriouskop.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Southern Ground Hornbill (VU) Bucorvus leadbeateri Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2.

Hornbills Bucerotidae Southern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus rufirostris Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen throughout the trip. Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus leucomelas leucomelas Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen throughout the trip. African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus epirhinus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen throughout the trip.

African Barbets Lybiidae Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus extoni Kruger NP 13.2. A pair seen in Pretoriouskop camp. Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus torquatus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen actively feeding in riverine fig trees. Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii vaillantii Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen regularly in the drier areas around Satara.

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Woodpeckers Picidae Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni Kruger NP 12.2. Seen in and around Skukuza. Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Heard and seen regularly at both Satara and Skukuza. Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus Kruger NP 12.2. A lovely bird seen on a dead snag between Satara and Skukuza.

African & New World Parrots Psittacidae Brown-headed Parrot Poicephalus cryptoxanthus cryptoxanthus Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. We recorded this parrot regularly throughout Kruger NP particularly near fruiting trees.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae Chinspot Batis Batis molitor Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. Great views of this species throughout the tour, particularly in camp gardens.

Helmetshrikes and Allies Prionopidae Retz's Helmetshrike Prionops retzii Kruger NP 13.2. A small group of this species was seen well near Pretoriouskop.

Bushshrikes and Allies Malaconotidae Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti Kruger NP 11.2. A single bird visited us at breakfast in Olifants camp. Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus similis Kruger NP 11.2. A single bird was present in the gardens at Olifants camp. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Seen more often than heard. Good views in both the Satara and Skukuza areas. Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Recorded this species in both Pretoriouskop and Skukuza area.

Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. Seen regularly in camp and along river systems throughout the park. Brubru Nilaus afer Kruger NP 13.2. A single bird showed brilliantly at Pretoriouskop.

Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava Kruger NP 13.2. A single female seen in the area surrounding Pretoriouskop.

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Shrikes Laniidae Magpie Shrike Urolestes melanoleucus Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. This common species was seen daily throughout the park. Southern White-crowned Shrike Eurocephalus anguitimens Kruger NP 12.2. A family of birds was recorded near Skukuza. Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. This common migrant was seen regularly throughout the park. Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. We had great sightings of this species near Olifants and Pretoriouskop.

Old World Orioles Oriolidae Eurasian Golden Oriole Oriolus oriolus Kruger NP 12.2. A single male was spotted between Satara and Skukuza.

Drongos Dicruridae Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. This was a species seen regularly throughout our stay.

Chickadees and Tits Paridae Southern Black Tit Melaniparus niger Kruger NP 13.2. A pair was located in the gardens at Pretoriouskop.

Larks Alaudidae Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix leucotis smithi Kruger NP 11.2. A pair of birds seen briefly in the Satara area. Sabota Lark Calendulauda sabota Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. This common Lark was seen in the area around Satara regularly.

Bulbuls Pycnonotidae Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor layardi Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. This species was seen regularly both in the reserve and outside. Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. A couple of sightings of this species along the riparian thickets in the park.

Swallows Hirundinidae Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica rustica Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. This swallow was the most common species located during the tour. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii smithii Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen in areas along river courses throughout the park.

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Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica unitatis Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A common species seen throughout the park Red-breasted Swallow Cecropis semirufa semirufa Kruger NP 13.2. Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis monteiri Kruger NP 11.2. A single bird was recorded flying over a herd of Elephant near Satara.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens Kruger NP 11.2, Kruger NP 13.2 and Kruger NP 14.2. A species regularly recorded in the camp gardens and associated with Acacia thickets.

Cisticolas and Allies Cisticolidae Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana Kruger NP 11.2. The most common bird call we heard. Saw this species regularly as we traversed the park. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly along water courses in association with dense foliage. Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida Kruger NP 12.2. Recorded this beautiful species in the Skukuza area. Stierling's Wren-Warbler Calamonastes stierlingi pintoi Kruger NP 13.2. Recorded this difficult bird in the area close to Pretoriouskop. Green-capped Eremomela Eremomela scotops scotops Kruger NP 12.2. A single bird recorded near Skukuza camp.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii jardineii Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. An often conspicuous and loud bird recorded throughout the park.

Yuhinas, White-eyes, and Allies Zosteropidae Cape White-eye Zosterops virens Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Recorded daily in the areas where fruiting trees were prevalent.

Starlings Sturnidae Common Myna Acridotheres tristis tristis Johannesburg 10.2. Seen as we departed our Accommodation in Johannesburg. Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea Kruger NP 12.2. Seen in the area between Satara and Skukuza. Cape Starling Lamprotornis nitens Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. This species was recorded every day of the tour. Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus nordmanni

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Kruger NP 13.2. A couple of birds recorded near Pretoriouskop and at our breakfast tables in Skukuza. Burchell's Starling Lamprotornis australis Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. This large starling was recorded daily on the tour. Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster verreauxi Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. Exceptional sightings at both Olifants and Skukuza Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio morio Johannesburg 10.2, Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in association with rocky terrain around Skukuza and in Johannesburg.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Seen regularly in association with large hooved mammals in Kruger NP

Thrushes and Allies Turdidae Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi Johannesburg 10.2. A single adult recorded at our accommodation in Johannesburg.

Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae White-browed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys leucophrys Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. This often loud but inconspicuous species was seen well near Skukuza and Pretoriouskop. Grey Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus Kruger NP 12.2. A single individual recorded at Skukuza camp. Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina Kruger NP 13.2. Seen brilliantly in Pretoriouskop gardens. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A common species recorded throughout our stay in the park. Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens Kruger NP 13.2. Seen well in the area around Skukuza camp. African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta Kruger NP 13.2. Recorded near Pretoriouskop. White-throated Robin-Chat Cossypha humeralis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. This species showed well near both Olifants and Skukuza. White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini Kruger NP 11.2. A lovely individual singing for us during breakfast at Olifants camp. Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris Kruger NP 13.2. After a long search we connected with this species near Skukuza.

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Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. This species was seen well in the riparian and dense woodland thickets near Skukuza. Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis gutturalis Kruger NP 13.2. A lovely family was active in the gardens of Pretoriouskop. Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis mariquensis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. This species show well in the dry Acacia savanna near Satara and the woodland around Skukuza. White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. The most vocal and common species of Sunbird seen during the tour.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae House Sparrow Passer domesticus Johannesburg 10.2. An introduced species recorded in Johannesburg. Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus Johannesburg 10.2. A small family group was seen as we departed our accommodation. Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2. This species was seen often in the drier areas near Satara.

Weavers and Allies Ploceidae Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. These birds were seen near their large nests at Satara and a single individual was recorded at Paul Kruger Gate. Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps rubriceps Kruger NP 11.2. A single female was seen in the gardens at Olifants camp. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea lathamii Johannesburg 10.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in large flocks as we departed Johannesburg and then a small group in the grasslands near Pretoriouskop. Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix Johannesburg 10.2. Seen feeding on new grass growth as we left Johannesburg. Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens ardens Kruger NP 13.2. A gorgeous male see in the area around Pretoriouskop. Long-tailed Widowbird Euplectes progne progne Johannesburg 10.2. Seen in display flight as we departed Johannesburg.

Waxbills and Allies Estrildidae Green-winged Pytilia Pytilia melba melba Kruger NP 12.2. A gorgeous male entertained us near Satara.

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Red-headed Finch Amadina erythrocephala Johannesburg 10.2. Seen in our gardens in Johannesburg on arrival and departure. Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis niassensis Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. A common bird seen daily on tour. Violet-eared Waxbill Uraeginthus granatinus Kruger NP 12.2. A sighting of a single male near Skukuza.

Indigobirds Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata amauropteryx Kruger NP 13.2. A sighting of a single breeding male near Pretoriouskop. Dusky Indigobird Vidua funerea funerea Kruger NP 13.2. A sighting of a single breeding male near Pretoriouskop.

Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis capensis Johannesburg 10.2 and Kruger NP 11.2. Seen in our gardens in Johannesburg and again along the Olifants river. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Kruger NP 11.2, Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 14.2. A species seen regularly in both the Olifants and Sabie Rivers. Buffy Pipit Anthus vaalensis Kruger NP 11.2. A single bird seen between Satara and Olifants camp.

Finches, Euphonias Fringillidae Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2.

Buntings, Sparrows and Allies Emberizidae Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi tahapisi Kruger NP 13.2. Seen in amongst the rocks near Pretoriouskop. Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. A common species recorded daily in the park.

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Mammals (31 in total: 31 seen) Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced

IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient

Wolves, Coyote, Foxes, Jackals Canidae Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas Kruger NP 11.2. African Wild Dog Lycaon pictus Kruger NP 13.2.

Cats Felidae Lion Panthera leo leo Kruger NP 11.2, Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 14.2. Leopard Panthera pardus pardus Kruger NP 12.2.

Mongooses Herpestidae White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda Kruger NP 11.2.

Hyenas, Aardwolf Hyaenidae Spotted Hyaena Crocuta crocuta Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

Weasels, Skunks, Otters Mustelidae Honey Badger Mellivora capensis Kruger NP 11.2 and Kruger NP 12.2.

Vivets, Genets Viverridae African Civet Civettictis civetta Kruger NP 11.2.

Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep, Goats Bovidae Impala Aepyceros melampus melampus Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2. Common Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Steenbok Raphicerus campestris campestris Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2. Sharpe's Grysbok Raphicerus sharpei Kruger NP 11.2. Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. African Buffalo Syncerus caffer caffer Observed Kruger NP 12-14.2.

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Nyala Tragelaphus angasii Kruger NP 13.2. Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2. Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2.

Giraffe, Okapi Giraffidae Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2.

Hippopotamuses Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius capensis Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus sundevallii Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2.

Old World Fruit Bats Pteropodidae Peters's Epauletted Fruit Bat Epomophorus crypturus Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2.

Rabbits, Hares Leporidae Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis Kruger NP 11.2.

Zebras, Horse, Asses Equidae Plains Zebra Equus quagga Observed Kruger NP 10-14.2.

Rhinceroses Rhinocerotidae White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae Vervet Chlorocebus pygerythrus Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2. Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus ursinus Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

Elephants Elephantidae African Elephant Loxodonta africana Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

Old World Porcupines Hystricidae Cape Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis Kruger NP 11.2.

Squirrels Sciuridae Smith's Bush Squirrel Paraxerus cepapi Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2.

Reptiles (7 in total: 7 seen) Status codes: E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, I = Introduced

Crocodiles and relatives Crocodylidae Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus cowiei Observed Kruger NP 11-14.2.

Agamas Agamidae Southern Tree Agama Acanthocercus atricollis atricollis Kruger NP 12.2 and Kruger NP 13.2.

Colubrid snakes Colubridae Spotted Bush Snake Philothamnus semivariegatus Kruger NP 13.2.

Geckos Gekkonidae House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia Kruger NP 13.2.

Monitor Lizards Varanidae Savannah Monitor Varanus exanthematicus Kruger NP 13.2. Nile Monitor Varanus niloticus Kruger NP 11.2.

Tortoises Testudinidae Leopard Tortoise Stigmochelys pardalis Observed Kruger NP 11-13.2.

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