South Africa Mega Birding Tour III 16th January to 9th February 2016 (29 days)

Jackal Buzzard by Greg de Klerk

Trip report compiled by tour leader: Greg de Klerk

Top 10 birds as voted for by participants: 1. Secretarybird 6. Bokmakierie 2. Green Twinspot 7. Blue Crane 3. Martial Eagle 8. Gurney’s Sugarbird 4. Hamerkop 9. African Penguin 5. Cape Rockjumper 10. Drakensburg Rockjumper

Top 5 mammals: 1. Cheetah 5. Meerkat 2. White Rhinoceros 3. Plains Zebra 4. African Wild Dog

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Tour summary

The Rockjumper South Africa Mega tour aims to find as many of the country’s endemic birds and special species as possible over the duration of three and a half weeks, while traversing most of the country’s diverse habitats. We travelled a whopping 6854 kilometres from our starting point in Johannesburg. During our travels we visited seven of South Africa’s nine provinces from Polokwane in Limpopo, Wakkerstroom in Mpumalanga, the dramatic Sani Pass in KwaZulu-Natal, Cape Town in the Western Cape, Port Nolloth in the far reaches of the Northern Cape and finally back to Johannesburg Green Twinspot by Markus Lilje in Gauteng. Although the tour was done at a brisk pace, we were still able to enjoy an excellent and fulfilling time in the areas visited, while covering all the habitats that this incredibly diverse country has to offer. We recorded 470 species of birds on the main tour. Add to this, a remarkable selection of mammal species and reptilian encounters, and it all contributed to this being an excellent tour!

Beginning at our comfortable accomodation in Johannesburg, we were thrown into the deep end of introductory birding in South Africa, observing stunning flocks of Red-headed Finch, Southern Red Bishop and Red-billed Quelea, while Speckled Pigeon, Red-eyed, Laughing and Ring-necked Dove fed side by side, allowing us to easily observe their identification pointers. A confiding Karoo Thrush in the undergrowth allowed us to get some excellent views as it moved about feeding. A few of the more common species also grabbed our attention; Speckled and Red-faced Mousebirds accompanied a group of Southern Masked Weavers, a couple of Dark-capped Bulbul, a single Crested Barbet, a couple of Cape Wagtail searching for food on the lawn and an African Darter giving a flyover, kept us entertained. The afternoon’s birding quietened down as dusk fell and we settled in for a delicious dinner and a good night’s rest before the trip began in earnest. As our delicious breakfast concluded, we began our epic journey, heading north east of Pretoria toward the arid Acacia savanna along the 40km stretch of the Zaagkuildrift Road. Helmeted Guineafowl, African Sacred, Hadada and Glossy Ibis, Grey-headed Gull, Western Cattle Egret were all seen en route with large numbers of Yellow-billed Kite and Common Buzzard filling intervals between stops. A small waterhole not far from our birding hotspot produced Woodland Kingfisher, White- winged and Long-tailed Widowbirds and a flock of White-faced Ducks, before we Crimson-breasted Shrike by Greg de Klerk

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 3 moved on. Arriving at Zaagkuildrift it became evident they had been blessed with a fair amount of rain, with large puddles evident from the outset and lush green growth filling the landscape. Almost immediately a movement caught the attention of our team members. Within moments we were viewing a single Temminck’s Courser, often a difficult species to locate as a result of its nomadic behaviour. A short stop allowed us the opportunity to locate a displaying Northern Black Korhaan, a couple of Crowned Lapwings, Grey-go-away Birds calling in alarm as we moved about, scanning for species, as well as the first of many migrant Lesser Grey and Red-backed Shrikes. Further along the road, we found many new species for our list including Namaqua Dove, Southern Red-billed Hornbill, Magpie Shrike and one of the targets of the day, the striking Southern Pied Babbler. The wetlands which followed were very productive. Here we connected with Little Egret, Spur-winged Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler by Markus Lilje Goose, Knob-billed Duck, Egyptian Goose and Red-billed Teal, a flyby of a Eurasian Hobby, excellent views of both European and Blue-cheeked Bee-eaters and wonderful sightings of Levaillant’s, Diederik’s and Klaas’s Cuckoo kept the migrant numbers growing. After some careful puddle negotiation, we found a Crimson-breasted Shrike, a pair of Cape Penduline Tit and both Cardinal and Bearded Woodpeckers. A flooded plain allowed us easy access to a large number of Intermediate Egret, Yellow-billed and White Stork, while a Red-breasted Swallow passed close by, giving spectacular views to all. We finished off our birding with Scaly-feathered Weaver, White-browed Sparrow-Weaver and a fearlessly inquisitive Hamerkop hunting at a large puddle. A short stop for lunch allowed us to connect with a breeding colony of Southern Masked Weaver, a bird which we would encounter frequently during the tour. A short while later we continued north to Polokwane, where we retired to our guesthouse for dinner and a good night’s rest.

The following morning, a visit to Polokwane Game Reserve allowed us to rack up a number of species. The morning began with excellent views of a pair of vocal Burnt-necked Eremomela, a breeding pair of African Paradise Flycatcher on a nest, a pair of Fiscal Flycatchers, a single Brubru and a Willow Warbler all before entering the reserve in earnest. Once in the park, we encountered a beautiful and very vocal male Coqui Francolin as well as both Natal and Swainson’s Spurfowl. Both Red-chested and African Cuckoo also performed acrobatically, flying into our path on several occasions giving us outstanding, if brief, views. Lesser Swamp Warbler, Brown-hooded and Pied Kingfisher were located at a small reed-fringed pan while Acacia Pied Barbet and Southern Yellow-billed Hornbills were White-throated Robin-Chat by easily located and provided excellent viewing. Male Violet-backed Adam Riley

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Starlings, a White-throated Robin-Chat, a small flock of Bar-throated Apalis, Chinspot Batis and a relaxed Green winged Pytilia followed before we encountered an enormous group of mixed Marabou and White Storks in the company of a Common Greenshank, Wood Sandpiper and Little Egret. Back at the reception to the park we were rewarded with views of both Groundscraper and Kurrichane Thrushes, Marico Flycatcher and Brown-crowned Tchagra. Good selections of mammals were present but the prize sighting was of a majestic male Sable Antelope. After a wholesome lunch, we continued to the Mistbelt Forest of Magoebaskloof, with an afternoon of intense birding in the company of our local guide, David. Our first session of forest birding produced some serious highlights. Olive Woodpecker, elusive Black-fronted and Olive Bushshrike right out in the open, White-starred Robin, amazing views of Knysna Turaco, Grey Cuckooshrike, Forest Canary, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, Orange Ground Thrush, jaw-dropping Narina Trogon, Yellow-streaked Greenbul and, after missing it in Polokwane Game Swee Waxbill by Adam Riley Reserve, a pair of Short-clawed Larks near our accommodation, with the added bonus of a Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk flying by, as we watched the Larks. That evening we settled into our rustic accommodation with a lovely home cooked meal. The following morning started early with a visit to a productive sight for the skulking, secretive species of the forest. This immediately paid dividends as we encountered a single, shy Green Twinspot, a flock of African Firefinch mixed with the endemic Swee Waxbills and flocks of Red-backed Mannikin. Having had an excellent start to the day, we headed off in search of the crepuscular Bat Hawk which, sadly, remained elusive, however, we managed to connect with a couple of Magpie Mannikin and a single Lizard Buzzard. Continuing south we stopped at the Taita Falcon site in the hope of connecting with this increasingly difficult species. Unfortunately, luck was against us, yet we still recorded Amur Falcon, Lilac-breasted and European Rollers and Red-winged Starling. After a late lunch, we negotiated some interesting road conditions while connecting with Southern Bald Ibis and a single Red-footed Falcon female in flight. We also stopped at a very productive roadside pan where we found numerous water birds including dozens of Greater Flamingo, Squacco Heron and a flock of Southern Pochard. After some long hours on the road, we arrived at our accommodation for a much needed night’s rest. Blue Korhaan by Greg de Klerk

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Our first morning in the Highveld grasslands of Wakkerstroom kicked off early, with the assistance of local guide, Lucky. Traversing the network of roads through the various wetlands, rocky hillsides and the rolling grasslands for which the area is famous, we began our search for some very rare and range restricted species in the area. Before departing our accommodations, we had added Malachite Sunbird and Amethyst Sunbird and, as the morning progressed, we were lucky to get excellent views of a pair of White-bellied Bustards, a brief and difficult view of Yellow-breasted Pipit in Southern Bald Ibis by Adam Riley flight, African Pipit, Pallid Harrier and South African Cliff Swallow. After a good breakfast we set off for a full day of birding. Memorable sightings included South African Shelduck, Maccoa Duck, peculiar Southern Bald Ibis, thousands of Amur Falcons, Blue Korhaan, Blue Crane, African Snipe, Montagu’s Harrier and the endangered Rudd’s and Botha’s Larks. African Yellow Warbler, Mountain Wheatear, Cape Longclaw, Cape Canary, Common Waxbill, Pied Starling and beautiful Sentinel Rock Thrush kept us entertained for the remainder of the day. A good dinner was followed by a well-deserved night’s rest after a successful day’s birding. A morning investigation of a local wetland in Wakkerstroom produced a single Grey-crowned Crane, an amazing view of an African Snipe, a sheltered Little Bittern viewed through the scope, a flyover of an African Marsh Harrier and a Little Rush Warbler in the reeds. After another excellent breakfast, we explored a small stream nearby where we collected African Reed and African Yellow Warblers, before departing our comfortable guesthouse. A change in direction took us from the highland grasslands of Wakkerstroom down to the east coast and the diverse habitats of the Zululand game reserves. En route we bagged a pair of Crowned Eagle, a flyover from a Martial Eagle, a single Golden-breasted Bunting and a pair of Water Thick-knee. Red-collared Widowbirds, Cape White-eye and Long-crested Eagles all provided roadside distractions as we continued into the Mkuze region. As we arrived in the afternoon at our lodgings, a Grey Waxbill presented itself beautifully. We then set out on a small trail around the camp, searching for a few species who favour the special Sand Forest Biome. It was not long before Rudd’s Apalis, African Dusky Flycatcher, Terrestrial Brownbul and Dark-backed Weaver were located. Frustratingly, we heard the Eastern Nicator but he remained out of view in the dense thickets. Another lovely dinner with a true African sunset completed a successful day and began to build the anticipation of our visit to Mkuze Game Reserve and its many birding riches, the next morning. Eastern Nicator by Adam Riley

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Mkuze Game Reserve is often considered the highlight of the birding tour and our visit here proved why it is so popular. Recent rainfall meant the birds were constantly active. During our visit, we located many mammals and birds, including some sought after specials. A Black Egret was on hand to welcome us to the area as we arrived, while Giant Kingfisher, African Pied Wagtail and Trumpeter Hornbill all made an appearance as we entered the reserve. We had barely entered the gate when we encountered a female and three sub-adult Cheetahs. After a good African Broadbill by Markus Lilje sighting we continued toward our breakfast stop only to be interrupted by a Purple-crested Turaco, a Black Cuckoo and a mega mammal sighting of the critically endangered African Wild Dog. From here we arrived at Mantuma Camp for a brief breakfast stop, where we were able to record Bearded Scrub Robin, Yellow-breasted Apalis and Black Cuckooshrike. We then began to explore the park, covering a range of habitats in the park including sand forest, extensive bushveld, wetlands, grassland and riverine forest. Kumasinga Hide was a flurry of activity as the only reliable water source in the area during the ongoing drought. Some of our notable sightings included large numbers of African Openbill, Goliath Heron, Pink-throated Twinspot, Crowned Hornbill, Wire-tailed Swallow, White-winged Terns, Common Sandpiper, Great White and Pink-backed Pelican, a large number of Emerald-spotted Wood Dove, outstanding views of Broad-billed Roller, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Gorgeous Bushshrike, Sombre Greenbul, Black-bellied Starling, Yellow-throated Petronia and tiny Grey Penduline Tit. As we returned to the lodge that afternoon, satisfied with the day’s birding, we prepared for what sadly turned into a relatively quiet night drive, turning up a single Fiery-necked Nightjar, a Common Genet and two Feral Cats. The activities of the day taking their toll, we retired to our comfortable rooms for a much needed night’s rest. From our comfortable lodge we had great views of a vocal and confiding Eastern Nicator and Grey- Tit Flycatcher the following morning. We then visited a nearby reserve, collecting Yellow-fronted and a stunning Lemon-breasted Canary along the way. We then took some time birding the closed canopy of the coastal forest where we located Purple-banded and White-bellied Sunbird before the distinctive call of the African Broadbill rang out Livingstone’s Turaco by Adam Riley

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 7 through the area. Some quick searching found the bird in his display flight and provided us with incredible views. We then returned to the lodge for breakfast before departing toward St Lucia.

The coastal dune forests of St Lucia, and its significant lagoon, provided us with great birding as we arrived. Although there was quite a strong breeze, we still connected with Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, African Swamphen and Crested Guineafowl with their distinctive head dress. A visit to Cape Vidal in the afternoon allowed us to find some great birds including a large flock of juvenile and adult Collared Pratincole, Olive Bushshrike, Collared and Olive Sunbird. That evening we settled into a hearty meal before another good night’s rest. The following morning presented African Yellow White-eye by Greg de Klerk still conditions, allowing us the opportunity to visit an excellent coastal forest patch before breakfast. While walking through the thickets, we located Livingstone’s Turaco, Red-capped Robin-Chat, a vocal Green Malkoha, White-eared Barbet, Black- backed Puffback, Yellow-bellied Greenbul, Thick-billed Weaver and African Yellow White-eye. We then stopped briefly at the very active estuary and here, we recorded Caspian, Greater Crested, Sandwich, Little and Sooty Terns! A Common Ringed Plover and a small group of Curlew Sandpiper also got in on the act, before we had even had breakfast. Having eaten a well-prepared breakfast we departed St Lucia for Eshowe, stopping to record Southern Brown-throated Weaver as we left the coastal forests. Our trip from here took us south initially, where we searched for Palm-nut Vulture, unfortunately to no avail. A short stop near some well- established Mangrove trees allowed us the opportunity to connect with a lovely pair of Black-throated Wattle-eye. Our attentions then turned inland to Eshowe. On arrival at our accommodation, we had some outstanding views of Purple-crested Turaco, Black-headed Oriole, Trumpeter Hornbill and a host of the more common species in the region, including Dark- capped Bulbul, Sombre Greenbul and a breeding pair of Bronze Mannikin. We settled for a relaxed evening before a busy day ahead. An early morning visit to the Dlinza boardwalk kicked off the day’s activities. We spent some time on scanning the treetops for the elusive Eastern Bronze- naped Pigeon and we managed excellent scope views while also being entertained by African Olive and Green Pigeons and a Scaly-throated Honeyguide in flight. An Spotted Ground Thrush by Markus Lilje

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 8 initial search for the Spotted Ground Thrush was unsuccessful but returning after breakfast allowed us to connect with a pair, foraging in the leaf matter. From here, we pushed on toward Ongoye Forest. We had excellent views of Grey Cuckooshrike, Olive Woodpecker and a single African Cuckoo-Hawk before a surprised Common Buttonquail took flight and landed on the road before us. From here we headed inland toward the Drakensberg range and the arable farmland mixed with grassland of the Underberg region. As we arrived, a resident Bokmakierie and a large flock of Grey-crowned Crane greeted us before a thunderstorm broke over the area. After a homely dinner we retreated to the comfort of our rooms in Drakensberg Rockjumper by Greg de Klerk preparation for a good day up Sani Pass.

The excitement was palpable the following morning as we began our ascent of Sani Pass. Although the rainfall of the previous night had left a low-level cloud settled across the escarpment, birding was still successful. As we climbed the 2870m up to the Lesotho plateau, we recorded some fabulous species of birds, including Drakensberg Rockjumper, Drakensberg Siskin, Bush Blackcap, Grey Tit, Fairy Flycatcher, Mountain Pipit, Bearded Vulture, about 30 Cape Vulture, Malachite Sunbird, Large-billed Lark, Ground Woodpecker, Gurney’s Sugarbird, Greater Double-collared Sunbird, Red-throated Wryneck, Red-necked Spurfowl, Sickle-winged Chat and Streaky-headed Seed-eater. A brief stop to savour a warming spiced wine was followed by our descent back toward Underberg. The drive down was rather quiet as rain had begun falling but we still managed to record Barratt’s Warbler, Buff-streaked Chat and Cape Rock Thrush. A comfortable dinner and a good night’s rest were welcomed after a very busy and productive day,

Leaving the Drakensberg we made our way back down into the midlands. Our first stop was at Marutswa Forest, where we had scope views of Red-chested Cuckoo and a single Red-collared Widowbird; sadly the Cape Parrot’s remained elusive and quiet. A brief stop at Mpendle to attempt Blue Swallow unfortunately also proved fruitless. We then continued to drop in elevation reaching Hilton at midday to drop off our luggage and investigate the Karkloof area. A large thunderstorm struck during lunch and our time spent birding was minimal however, we still Grey-crowned Crane by Markus Lilje

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 9 connected with Yellow Bishop, Buff-streaked Chat and Grey-crowned Crane before returning to our accommodation for the night.

After a delicious breakfast, we travelled to King Shaka International Airport where we connected with a flight to Cape Town. On arrival, we made our way to De Hoop, our stay here was most rewarding. Along the Breede River we were fortunate to find Whimbrel, Hartlaub’s Gull, African Oystercatcher, Kelp Gull and Common Tern, while nearby our accommodation, a stately Denham’s Bustard showed well. We found Cape Spurfowl, superb Jackal Buzzard, had a brief view of Agulhas Long-billed Lark and Cape Sugarbird. De Hoop nature reserve rewarded us African Penguin by Greg de Klerk with flyover views of Cape Vulture, Black-headed Oriole, Cape Teal and Booted Eagle. As we headed back towards Cape Town, we had a couple of views of Rock Kestrel, our first views of Cape Bulbul, some great views of Capped Wheatear and White-throated Canary. Familiar Chat and splendid Orange-breasted Sunbird also showed rather well, as we scoured the rocky cliffs in search of Cape Rockjumper but a mighty wind had blown up making bird viewing near impossible. We retreated to the comfort of our accommodation for the night after an enjoyable meal.

The next day was scheduled for the pelagic sea birding trip off Cape Town. Unfortunately, the conditions at sea were very poor, resulting in the cancellation of the trip. This left us with a chance to return and connect with the Cape Rockjumper, which thankfully showed itself after three attempts. We also managed to connect briefly with the Cape Siskin before moving off toward Betty’s Bay. Soon we were inundated with birds at every corner. A breeding colony of African Penguin was complemented by all three pelagic species of Cormorant in Southern Africa, from the endangered Bank Cormorant with its clearly visible white rump, to the Cape Cormorant with its Yellow Throat patch and blue eyes, to the diminutive Crowned Cormorant, which allowed easy viewing and access. We moved on in search of other specials in the area but sadly the wind Cape Rockjumper by Clayton Burne

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 10 came howling in again. Having a brief detour to our accommodation we made an adjustment to the day’s activities and visited Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The masses of people who had descended on the Gardens for the day made it quite difficult to bird successfully but we did get excellent views of African Olive Pigeon and Sombre Greenbul before arriving back at the lodge for a good dinner and relaxed evening. The following morning we visited Strandfontein Sewerage Works where we again connected with Maccoa Duck and also had excellent views of Greater and Lesser Flamingo. Black-necked Grebes were in full breeding plumage and we managed excellent scope views of this species. We also managed great views of Pied Avocet, Kittlitz’s Plover and Marsh Sandpiper. We then headed off to Table Mountain to enjoy the cable car and scenic views from the top. Here we connected with both Pied Crow and White-necked Raven before stopping for lunch. After lunch we headed off to Black Harrier by Adam Riley Cape Point. The wind by this stage was very powerful but we still managed to view Cape Siskin, Familiar Chat, Cape Cormorant and Cape Bunting before taking the funicular back to the parking area and returning to our accommodation for dinner. West Coast National Park was our next destination along the Atlantic seaboard. En route we recorded White-backed Duck, Great White Pelican, Common Moorhen, Cape Shoveler, Red-knobbed Coot and, an out of range Common Cuckoo, while a family of Wattled Starling also showed beautifully. A short while later we entered West Coast National Park and the birding began in earnest. The park was full of bird activity and we enjoyed a couple of views of the world’s tallest living bird, the Common Ostrich, Grey-backed Cisticola provided a brief distraction before a Karoo Robin-Chat stole the attention of the team. At the local restaurant we were fortunate to enjoy excellent views of Western Osprey flying overhead. We then entered one of the main hides, where we expected the mudflats to attract many waders and we were not disappointed. Pied Avocet, as well as Chestnut-banded, White-fronted, Kittlitz’s and Common Ringed Plovers, Eurasian Curlew with its long decurved bill, Whimbrel, Ruddy Turnstone, Sanderling and Greater Flamingo filled our view. Having Southern Black Korhaan by Markus Lilje

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 11 satiated our appetite for waders we continued to search for a few more specials, locating White-backed Mousebirds, Common Tern and Namaqua Dove, before heading off to Langebaan. In town we were surprised by a young male and female Southern Black Korhaan before we arrived at our wonderful accommodation for dinner and a welcome sleep.

After breakfast the next morning, we headed back to West Coast National Park, early in the morning. We connected immediately with the elusive Grey-winged Francolin before arriving at another hide, where Bar- tailed Godwit, Red Knot and a host of terns and Greater Flamingo were present. We then departed West Coast National Park, heading north in search of a few more species to add to the list. We arrived at the Salt Pans of Velddrif a short while later and immediately connected with Brimstone, Yellow and White-throated Canaries while Chestnut-banded Plover by Greg de Klerk all three Grebe species were also located and visible in a single scope view, Greater Flamingo, Western Osprey, Chestnut-banded Plover, Caspian Tern and a single out of range Red-necked Phalarope also made an appearance. We then made the turn inland toward the Karoo and the historic town of Calvinia. Along the way we encountered the endemic Protea Canary. Although the sighting was brief, it gave good views as it flushed from its sheltered watering point onto an open branch. Karoo Chat, Pale- chanting Goshawk and Greater Kestrel all indicated that we had made the transition to the drier habitat of the Karoo biome, as we neared Calvinia. Our arrival in Calvinia was welcomed by a large flock of over thirty European Bee-eaters and Karoo Lark.

The next morning we began a trip to Brandvlei, connecting with Karoo Korhaan in flight, Red Lark just outside Brandvlei town and Chat Flycatchers conspicuously perched in tall branches above the shrubs. The Brandvlei area produced a different challenge; large open gravel plains mixed with low level bushes, made us look more carefully to find our quarry. The birding, however, was very productive and we managed to locate a superbly camouflaged Namaqua Sandgrouse while many more flew overhead as well as Karoo Long-billed Larks which were singing and Pale-Winged Starling by Adam Riley displaying, Sabota Lark and Dusky Sunbirds. A large puddle proved popular and produced Black-headed Canary, Yellow Canary and Cape

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Sparrow. A brief view of Black-eared Sparrowlark flying by was followed by a stunning Red Lark perched alongside the road and the stunning Rufous-eared Warbler. Our return to Calvinia also produced a beautiful but very distant Karoo Eremomela. Although it’s a rather stark area, the vastness and open space was enjoyed by all. After a good lunch we headed out from Calvinia, to explore the northern reaches of the Karoo. Namaqua Warbler was first to present itself, calling loudly from a reed bed, followed by Alpine Swifts, as we reached the summit of a nearby pass. We continued down into a small valley where we had some good views of Lark- like Bunting, Yellow Canary, Chestnut- vented Warbler and the surprise of the afternoon, a female Greater Honeyguide, in the middle of the open spaces of the Karoo.

Secretary Bird by Keith Valentine The following morning we set out after breakfast, heading in the direction of Springbok in the Northern Cape. The usual raptors were boosted by the addition of two adult Martial Eagles, a confiding Secretary Bird and we were overjoyed when we finally located a lovely pair of Verreaux’s Eagle, soaring over the road. An afternoon visit into Goegap Nature Reserve turned up Fairy Flycatcher, Acacia Pied Barbet, Bokmakierie, Ant-eating Chat, Lanner Falcon, a much closer view of Karoo Eremomela and Pale-winged Starling. In the evening we enjoyed a delectable dinner and then retired for a good night’s rest.

Our next port of call was Port Nolloth in search of a remote endemic; the Barlow’s Lark. It was quickly located just off the main road and within moments we had at least two birds calling and in full display. This area also gave us good views of another endemic, Cape Long-billed Lark exhibiting its extra-long bill, Lanner Falcon and a juvenile Martial Eagle along with several white morph Jackal Buzzard’s, sporting completely white underparts. In the evening, we did a night drive and found a gorgeous Spotted Eagle Owl, to end off another great day.

After another appetizing breakfast we began our journey toward Augrabies Falls. Along the way, we stopped at the Southern Double-collared Sunbird by Greg de Klerk roadside to view a relaxed flock of Grey-

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 13 backed Sparrow-Lark, Namaqua Sandgrouse, Lark-like Buntings drinking at a large puddle, Greater Kestrel, a flock of flying Black-eared Sparrow-Larks and many Sociable Weaver colonies, as we entered the drier parts of the Northern Cape. We then drove toward the Namibian border, collecting Orange River White-eye and Goliath Heron before we set out for our accommodation at in Augrabies, where we settled for a relaxing evening.

The following morning, after breakfast, we visited Augrabies Falls National Park connecting with Bradfield’s, Alpine and African Palm Swift while we also located a single Peregrine Falcon roosting on the cliffs. A short while later, we struck out, heading for Kimberly. A massive mixed flock of more than two hundred Abdim’s Stork and White Stork also kept us entertained while we had brief views of Northern Black Korhaan in flight. On arrival at our accommodation, we were welcomed by Crimson-breasted Shrike and Common Scimitarbill before settling for a much needed rest.

Whilst in Kimberley, we enjoyed a fabulous night drive with both Western Barn Owl and Spotted Eagle- Owl being located. We also had excellent views of Double-banded Courser and many mammals which included the very rare Black-footed Cat, Cape Porcupine, Springhare and Bat-eared Fox. A visit to a nearby dam produced impressive numbers of both Lesser and Greater Flamingo, Northern Black Korhaan, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting and a confiding Brubru.

From Kimberley we made the return trip to Johannesburg and, en route, found a large flock of mixed waders including Ruff, Wood and Common Sandpiper and Three-banded Plover. After quite a large amount of driving and some great wildlife and birding highlights, we arrived in Johannesburg to end a very successful tour.

Annotated List of species recorded

List powered through the report generator of our partner iGoTerra.

Birds (473 in total: 468 seen, 5 heard) Nomenclature and taxonomy follows Gill, F and D Donsker (Eds). 2016. IOC World Bird List (v 6.2). 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

Ostrich Struthionidae Common Ostrich Struthio camelus australis Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Springbok 5.2, Springbok 6.2 and observed Kimberley 7- 9.2.

Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Underberg 27.1.

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White-backed Duck Thalassornis leuconotus leuconotus Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis niger Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Underberg 27.1, Hilton 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Velddrif 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Calvinia 4.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Hilton 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. South African Shelduck Tadorna cana Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Underberg 27.1, Hilton 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Velddrif 1.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Cape Teal Anas capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Velddrif 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata undulata Observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Cape Shoveler Anas smithii Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1. Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1. Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma brunnea Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Akkerendam NR 3.2. Maccoa Duck (NT) Oxyura maccoa Wakkerstroom 20.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Akkerendam NR 3.2.

Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris coronatus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Cape Point 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Crested Guineafowl Guttera pucherani edouardi ISimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1 and St Lucia 24.1.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 15

Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies Phasianidae Coqui Francolin Peliperdix coqui coqui Polokwane GR 18.1. Grey-winged Francolin Scleroptila afra Wakkerstroom 20.1 and West Coast NP 2.2. Showed very well in West Coast NP Red-winged Francolin Scleroptila levaillantii levaillantii Wakkerstroom 20.1. A single bird was located in Wakkerstroom after we heard it calling. Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena sephaena Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Cape Spurfowl Pternistis capensis Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Natal Spurfowl Pternistis natalensis natalensis Polokwane GR 18.1. Red-necked Spurfowl Pternistis afer castaneiventer Sani Pass 26.1. A pair seen well along the Sani Pass Road Swainson's Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii swainsonii Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1. Common Quail Coturnix coturnix africana Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Ongoye FR 25.1, Underberg 27.1 and Noordhoek 29.1.

Penguins Spheniscidae African Penguin (EN) Spheniscus demersus Stony Point 30.1. A large breeding Colony was seen well along the West Coast.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis capensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Akkerendam NR 3.2. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus infuscatus Wakkerstroom 20.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Akkerendam NR 3.2. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis gurneyi Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Velddrif 2.2.

Flamingos Phoenicopteridae Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus Wakkerstroom 19.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 2.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. A mixture of both Lesser and Greater Flamingo in excess of 1000+ individuals near Kimberly Lesser Flamingo (NT) Phoeniconaias minor Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. A mixture of both Lesser and Greater Flamingo in excess of 1000+ individuals near Kimberly

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 16

Storks Ciconiidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Umlalazi NR NE 24.1. African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus lamelligerus Mkuze GR 22.1. Abdim's Stork Ciconia abdimii Tzaneen 19.1 and Kimberley 7.2. A massive flock of 400+ were seen as we entered Kimberly. Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus microscelis Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1 and Underberg 25.1. The highlight of this species was a courtship display near Mkuze. White Stork Ciconia ciconia ciconia Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. 100+ individuals mixed with Marabou Storks near Polokwane. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumenifer Polokwane GR 18.1. 50+ individuals seen mixed with White Storks near Polokwane.

Ibises and Spoonbills Threskiornithidae African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Southern Bald Ibis (VU) Geronticus calvus Observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1. A huge flock numbering at least 60 was seen near Wakkerstroom. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash hagedash Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. African Spoonbill Platalea alba Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and Velddrif 2.2.

Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns Ardeidae Little Bittern Ixobrychus minutus payesii Wakkerstroom 21.1. Black-crowned Night Heron Nycticorax nycticorax nycticorax Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 17

Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Underberg 27.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2 and Kimberley 7.2. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala Johannesburg 16.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Underberg 25.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Goliath Heron Ardea goliath Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Onseepkans 6.2. Great Egret Ardea alba melanorhynchos Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. Intermediate Egret Egretta intermedia brachyrhyncha Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Black Heron Egretta ardesiaca Mkuze GR 22.1. Little Egret Egretta garzetta garzetta Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Johannesburg 9.2.

Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta umbretta Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1.

Pelicans Pelecanidae Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 24.1.

Boobies and Gannets Sulidae Cape Gannet (VU) Morus capensis Rooi-Els 30.1.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 18

Cormorants and Shags Phalacrocoracidae Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus africanus Johannesburg 16.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2, Onseepkans 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Crowned Cormorant Microcarbo coronatus Stony Point 30.1 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Bank Cormorant (EN) Phalacrocorax neglectus Stony Point 30.1. Seen ib breeding plumage with its conspicuous white rump. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Stony Point 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Kimberley 7.2. Cape Cormorant (NT) Phalacrocorax capensis Cape Agulhas 28.1, Stony Point 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2.

Anhingas Anhingidae African Darter Anhinga rufa rufa Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1, Velddrif 2.2, Onseepkans 6.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2.

Secretary-bird Sagittariidae Secretarybird (VU) Sagittarius serpentarius Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Calvinia 4.2.

Osprey Pandionidae Western Osprey Pandion haliaetus haliaetus West Coast NP 1.2 and Velddrif 2.2.

Hawks, Eagles, and Kites Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus caeruleus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Bearded Vulture Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis Sani Pass 26.1. African Cuckoo-Hawk Aviceda cuculoides verreauxii Ongoye FR 25.1. Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus Mkuze GR 22.1.

White-backed Vulture (NT) Gyps africanus Mkuze GR 22.1 and Johannesburg 9.2. Cape Vulture (VU) Gyps coprotheres Sani Pass 26.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 19

Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Southern Banded Snake Eagle (NT) Circaetus fasciolatus Mkuze GR 22.1. Crowned Eagle (NT) Stephanoaetus coronatus Mkuze GR 21.1. Martial Eagle (NT) Polemaetus bellicosus Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Calvinia 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis Magoebaskloof 18.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, Ongoye FR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1 and Underberg 27.1. Wahlberg's Eagle Hieraaetus wahlbergi Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus De Hoop NR 29.1, Calvinia 4.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Verreaux's Eagle Aquila verreauxii Springbok 4.2. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus meridionalis Tzaneen 19.1. Pale Chanting Goshawk Melierax canorus Calvinia 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2 and observed Kimberley 7-9.2. African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro tachiro Marutswa NR 25.1. Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk Accipiter rufiventris rufiventris Magoebaskloof 18.1. A flyover in the Tzaneen region near our accomodation. African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1. Black Harrier (VU) Circus maurus West Coast NP 1.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. We had an excellent view of an individual flying alongside our vehicle near Port Nolloth. Pallid Harrier (NT) Circus macrourus Wakkerstroom 20.1. Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus Wakkerstroom 20.1. Yellow-billed Kite Milvus aegyptius parasitus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Brandvlei 3.2. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Common Buzzard Buteo buteo vulpinus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Magoebaskloof 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 20

Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Kimberley 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Forest Buzzard Buteo trizonatus Magoebaskloof 19.1 and Karkloof 27.1. Jackal Buzzard Buteo rufofuscus Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 2.2, Springbok 4.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. We saw many Jackal Buzzard but a notable view of the white bellied morph near Port Nolloth

Bustards Otididae Denham's Bustard (NT) Neotis denhami stanleyi De Hoop NR 29.1. A stately individual was witnessed near Swellendam. White-bellied Bustard Eupodotis senegalensis barrowii Wakkerstroom 20.1. 4 individuals were seen in the Wakkerstroom area. Blue Korhaan (NT) Eupodotis caerulescens Wakkerstroom 20.1. A family group of five were seen near Wakkerstroom. Karoo Korhaan Eupodotis vigorsii Calvinia 3.2. Southern Black Korhaan Afrotis afra West Coast NP 1.2. Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afraoides afraoides Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2.

Flufftails Sarothruridae Red-chested Flufftail Sarothrura rufa rufa 1 heard Wakkerstroom 21.1. Heard in the wetlands around Wakkerstroom.

Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Rallidae African Rail Rallus caerulescens 1 heard Wakkerstroom 21.1. Heard in the wetlands around Wakkerstroom. African Crake Crex egregia 1 heard Sani Pass 26.1. African Swamphen Porphyrio madagascariensis Observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Underberg 27.1 and Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus meridionalis Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Akkerendam NR 3.2. Lesser Moorhen Gallinula angulata Wakkerstroom 19.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 21

A great sighting of a single bird moving between the Hyacinth near Mkuze. Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2 and Springbok 4.2.

Cranes Gruidae Grey Crowned Crane (VU) Balearica regulorum regulorum Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Blue Crane (VU) Grus paradisea Wakkerstroom 20.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Calvinia 2.2 and Springbok 4.2.

Buttonquails Turnicidae Common Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus lepurana Ongoye FR 25.1. A single bird showed beautifully near Ongoye on a side track.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Water Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus vermiculatus Mkuze GR 21.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. Spotted Thick-knee Burhinus capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and Kimberley 9.2.

Oystercatchers Haematopodidae African Oystercatcher (NT) Haematopus moquini Cape Agulhas 28.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2.

Stilts and Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and Velddrif 2.2.

Plovers and Lapwings Charadriidae Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus Johannesburg 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and West Coast NP 2.2. African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus lateralis Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Karkloof 27.1.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 22

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola squatarola Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula tundrae St Lucia 24.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris tricollaris Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Akkerendam NR 3.2. White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus Rooi-Els 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Chestnut-banded Plover (NT) Charadrius pallidus pallidus West Coast NP 1.2 and Velddrif 2.2.

Jacanas Jacanidae African Jacana Actophilornis africanus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1.

Sandpipers and Allies Scolopacidae African Snipe Gallinago nigripennis nigripennis Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Wakkerstroom 21.1. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica lapponica West Coast NP 2.2. Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus phaeopus Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Eurasian Curlew (NT) Numenius arquata orientalis West Coast NP 1.2. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and Velddrif 2.2. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Kimberley 9.2. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos Mkuze GR 22.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1 and Velddrif 2.2. Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres interpres Port Nolloth 5.2. Red Knot Calidris canutus canutus West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Sanderling Calidris alba alba West Coast NP 1.2.

Trip Report – RBT SA Mega III 2016 23

Little Stint Calidris minuta Wakkerstroom 19.1, St Lucia 24.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea St Lucia 24.1, West Coast NP 2.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Ruff Philomachus pugnax Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Velddrif 2.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus Velddrif 2.2.

Pratincoles and Coursers Glareolidae Temminck's Courser Cursorius temminckii ruvanensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Wakkerstroom 20.1. A single individual presented itself as we started our day near Bela-bela. Double-banded Courser Rhinoptilus africanus Kimberley 8.2. Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola fuelleborni St Lucia 23.1. A large flock of predominantly juvenile species seen near St. Lucia. Black-winged Pratincole (NT) Glareola nordmanni Wakkerstroom 20.1.

Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers Laridae Grey-headed Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus poiocephalus Johannesburg 16.1, St Lucia 23.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Hartlaub's Gull Chroicocephalus hartlaubii De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia St Lucia 24.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and West Coast NP 2.2. Greater Crested Tern Thalasseus bergii bergii St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis St Lucia 24.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Little Tern Sternula albifrons albifrons St Lucia 24.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Sooty Tern Onychoprion fuscatus St Lucia 24.1. Common Tern Sterna hirundo hirundo De Hoop NR 29.1 and West Coast NP 2.2.

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Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida delalandii Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Velddrif 2.2 and Kimberley 9.2. White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus Mkuze GR 22.1 and Velddrif 2.2.

Sandgrouse Pteroclidae Namaqua Sandgrouse Pterocles namaqua Brandvlei 3.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2.

Pigeons and Doves Columbidae Rock Dove Columba livia livia Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, observed Noordhoek 30-1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Springbok 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea phaeonota Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Noordhoek 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Springbok 5.2, Springbok 6.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. African Olive Pigeon Columba arquatrix Magoebaskloof 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1 and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1. Eastern Bronze-naped Pigeon Columba delegorguei delegorguei Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. A single bird presented us with scope views in Dlinza. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, observed Noordhoek 30-1.2, Calvinia 3.2, Springbok 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, Springbok 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis senegalensis Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Cape Town 28.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Calvinia 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, observed Springbok 4-6.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos Mkuze GR 22.1. Namaqua Dove Oena capensis capensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Pofadder 6.2 and observed Kimberley 7-9.2. African Green Pigeon Treron calvus delalandii Dlinza Forest NR 25.1.

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Turacos Musophagidae Livingstone's Turaco Tauraco livingstonii reichenowi St Lucia 24.1. At least 3 individuals seen in the coastal forest of St.Lucia. Knysna Turaco Tauraco corythaix Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Magoebaskloof 19.1. Three individuals feeding on fruiting trees seen well in Magoebaskloof. Purple-crested Turaco Tauraco porphyreolophus porphyreolophus Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Burchell's Coucal Centropus burchellii burchellii Polokwane GR 18.1. Green Malkoha Ceuthmochares australis St Lucia 24.1. A single bird seen well moving in the canopy of the coastal forest in St. Lucia. Levaillant's Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Diederik Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Klaas's Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus Magoebaskloof 18.1. Black Cuckoo Cuculus clamosus clamosus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Red-chested Cuckoo Cuculus solitarius Polokwane GR 18.1, Underberg 27.1 and Calvinia 2.2. African Cuckoo Cuculus gularis Polokwane GR 18.1. Common Cuckoo Cuculus canorus Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2. A single out of range bird seen near Cape Town

Barn-Owls Tytonidae Western Barn Owl Tyto alba Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Owls Strigidae Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus africanus Springbok 5.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum licua 1 heard Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. A single bird heard within private property near Bela-bela.

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Nightjars and Allies Caprimulgidae Fiery-necked Nightjar Caprimulgus pectoralis Mkuze GR 22.1. A brief view of a single bird near Mkuze.

Swifts Apodidae African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Ongoye FR 25.1 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba Calvinia 3.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. A flock of 50+ were seen at Augrabies Falls. Common Swift Apus apus apus Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Cape Point 31.1. African Black Swift Apus barbatus barbatus Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. Bradfield's Swift Apus bradfieldi deserticola Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. Two individuals were seen flying near Augrabies Falls. Little Swift Apus affinis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Horus Swift Apus horus horus Sani Pass 26.1. White-rumped Swift Apus caffer Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Brandvlei 3.2 and Kimberley 9.2.

Mousebirds Coliidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, St Lucia 24.1, Sani Pass 26.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1 and Cape Point 31.1. White-backed Mousebird Colius colius Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, observed Springbok 4- 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Springbok 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2.

Trogons Trogonidae Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina narina Magoebaskloof 18.1. A perched bird produced decent views and a fly over.

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Rollers Coraciidae Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus caudatus Tzaneen 19.1. European Roller (NT) Coracias garrulus garrulus Tzaneen 19.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Broad-billed Roller Eurystomus glaucurus suahelicus Mkuze GR 22.1 and Umlalazi NR NE 24.1.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Grey-headed Kingfisher Halcyon leucocephala pallidiventris Magoebaskloof 19.1. Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris Polokwane GR 18.1, Magoebaskloof 19.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis cyanoleuca Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. African Pygmy Kingfisher Ispidina picta natalensis Mkuze GR 22.1. Malachite Kingfisher Corythornis cristatus cristatus Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima maxima Mkuze GR 22.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Velddrif 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2.

Bee-eaters Meropidae Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus hirundineus Kimberley 8.2. Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus meridionalis Polokwane GR 18.1. Blue-cheeked Bee-eater Merops persicus persicus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1 and St Lucia 24.1. European Bee-eater Merops apiaster Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Calvinia 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2.

Hoopoes Upupidae African Hoopoe Upupa africana Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 2.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2.

Woodhoopoes and Scimitar-bills Phoeniculidae Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas Observed Kimberley 7-9.2.

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Hornbills Bucerotidae Southern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus rufirostris Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus leucomelas leucomelas Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Crowned Hornbill Lophoceros alboterminatus suahelicus Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1. African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus epirhinus Augrabies Falls NP 6.2. Trumpeter Hornbill Bycanistes bucinator Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1.

African Barbets Lybiidae White-eared Barbet Stactolaema leucotis leucotis St Lucia 24.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1. Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus bilineatus St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1. Acacia Pied Barbet Tricholaema leucomelas Polokwane GR 18.1, Springbok 4.2, Springbok 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus torquatus Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1 and Karkloof 27.1. Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii vaillantii Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Kimberley 7.2.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae Scaly-throated Honeyguide Indicator variegatus Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Seen really well in Magoebaskloof and again in flight in Eshowe. Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator Calvinia 3.2. A single bird seen in the region around Calvinia.

Woodpeckers Picidae Red-throated Wryneck Jynx ruficollis ruficollis Sani Pass 26.1. Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni Polokwane GR 18.1, St Lucia 23.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Ground Woodpecker Geocolaptes olivaceus Sani Pass 26.1. Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Olive Woodpecker Dendropicos griseocephalus griseocephalus Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1.

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Falcons and Caracaras Falconidae Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Wakkerstroom 20.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1. Rock Kestrel Falco rupicolus Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Calvinia 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Greater Kestrel Falco rupicoloides rupicoloides Observed Calvinia 2-4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Red-footed Falcon (NT) Falco vespertinus Wakkerstroom 19.1. Amur Falcon Falco amurensis Observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, St Lucia 23.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1 and Johannesburg 9.2. Eurasian Hobby Falco subbuteo subbuteo Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus biarmicus Wakkerstroom 19.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 6.2. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Broadbills Eurylaimidae African Broadbill Smithornis capensis ISimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. A single Male seen displaying beautifully near Mkuze.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae Cape Batis Batis capensis Magoebaskloof 18.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1 and Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1. Chinspot Batis Batis molitor Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Pririt Batis Batis pririt Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Black-throated Wattle-eye Platysteira peltata peltata Umlalazi NR NE 24.1. A pair responded well to playback in Mangroves near Mtunzini.

Bushshrikes and Allies Malaconotidae Black-fronted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus nigrifrons sandgroundi Magoebaskloof 18.1. Olive Bushshrike Chlorophoneus olivaceus Magoebaskloof 18.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus similis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Four-colored Bushshrike Telophorus quadricolor quadricolor Mkuze GR 22.1. Very brief view of a single bird allowing only a few to see it.

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Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Calvinia 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis Polokwane GR 18.1. Southern Tchagra Tchagra tchagra De Hoop NR 29.1. Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla St Lucia 24.1. Southern Boubou Laniarius ferrugineus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, St Lucia 24.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1 and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1. Crimson-breasted Shrike Laniarius atrococcineus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Brubru Nilaus afer Polokwane GR 18.1 and Kimberley 8.2.

Cuckoo-shrikes Campephagidae Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia caesia Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1. Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava Mkuze GR 22.1.

Shrikes Laniidae Magpie Shrike Urolestes melanoleucus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Lesser Grey Shrike Lanius minor Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Southern Fiscal Lanius collaris Magoebaskloof 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, observed Calvinia 2-4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2.

Old World Orioles Oriolidae Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus larvatus Wakkerstroom 20.1, Karkloof 27.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1.

Drongos Dicruridae Square-tailed Drongo Dicrurus ludwigii ludwigii Magoebaskloof 18.1, Magoebaskloof 19.1, observed Mkuze GR 21-23.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Durban 28.1 and Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1.

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Monarch Flycatchers Monarchidae Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher Trochocercus cyanomelas Magoebaskloof 19.1. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 21.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. Nesting pair produced the highlight for this species near Polokwanr.

Crows, Jays, and Magpies Corvidae Cape Crow Corvus capensis capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Calvinia 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Pied Crow Corvus albus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Calvinia 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis Sani Pass 26.1, Cape Town 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Calvinia 2.2, Calvinia 3.2 and Springbok 4.2.

Rockjumpers Chaetopidae Cape Rockjumper Chaetops frenatus Rooi-Els 30.1. On our third attempt we got decent scope views of an individual at Rooi Els, near Betty's Bay. Drakensberg Rockjumper Chaetops aurantius Sani Pass 26.1. A single female showed well in thick foggy conditions.

Fairy Flycatchers Stenostiridae Fairy Flycatcher Stenostira scita Sani Pass 26.1, Goegap NR 4.2 and Springbok 6.2.

Chickadees and Tits Paridae Southern Black Tit Melaniparus niger Mkuze GR 22.1. Ashy Tit Melaniparus cinerascens cinerascens Kimberley 9.2. Showed well near Kimberly. Grey Tit Melaniparus afer Sani Pass 26.1. Brilliant views near Sani Top

Penduline-Tits Remizidae Grey Penduline Tit Anthoscopus caroli hellmayri Mkuze GR 22.1.

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Cape Penduline Tit Anthoscopus minutus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Goegap NR 4.2.

Nicators Nicatoridae Eastern Nicator Nicator gularis Mkuze GR 21.1 and Mkuze GR 23.1.

Larks Alaudidae Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albofasciata Wakkerstroom 20.1, Brandvlei 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Short-clawed Lark Certhilauda chuana Magoebaskloof 18.1. A pair seen in the Grassland near Polokwane singing. Karoo Long-billed Lark Certhilauda subcoronata Brandvlei 3.2. Cape Long-billed Lark Certhilauda curvirostris Port Nolloth 5.2. A group of about 8 birds seen near Port Nolloth. Agulhas Long-billed Lark Certhilauda brevirostris De Hoop NR 29.1. A single bird was located near Swellendam in the fallow farmlands. Black-eared Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix australis Brandvlei 3.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Grey-backed Sparrow-Lark Eremopterix verticalis Brandvlei 3.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Sabota Lark Calendulauda sabota Brandvlei 3.2. Karoo Lark Calendulauda albescens West Coast NP 2.2 and Brandvlei 3.2. Red Lark Calendulauda burra Brandvlei 3.2. Barlow's Lark Calendulauda barlowi Port Nolloth 5.2. Rudd's Lark (VU) Heteromirafra ruddi Wakkerstroom 20.1. Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1. Botha's Lark (EN) Spizocorys fringillaris Wakkerstroom 20.1. Large-billed Lark Galerida magnirostris De Hoop NR 29.1. Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea cinerea Wakkerstroom 20.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and Port Nolloth 5.2.

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Bulbuls Pycnonotidae African Red-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans Springbok 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Cape Bulbul Pycnonotus capensis Rooi-Els 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Cape Point 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2 and observed Springbok 4-6.2. Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor layardi Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1 and Underberg 27.1. Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus Mkuze GR 22.1, Karkloof 27.1 and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1. Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris St Lucia 24.1. Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Yellow-streaked Greenbul Phyllastrephus flavostriatus flavostriatus Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Magoebaskloof 19.1. Common in the forests of Magoebaskloof.

Swallows Hirundinidae Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera holomelas Sani Pass 26.1, Cape Town 28.1, Rooi-Els 30.1 and Velddrif 2.2. Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola paludicola Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Sand Martin Riparia riparia riparia Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Banded Martin Riparia cincta cincta Wakkerstroom 20.1. Barn Swallow Hirundo rustica rustica Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. White-throated Swallow Hirundo albigularis Wakkerstroom 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Rietvlei Wetlands (WC) 1.2 and West Coast NP 2.2. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii smithii Mkuze GR 22.1. Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula Tzaneen 19.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Calvinia 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Common House Martin Delichon urbicum urbicum Mkuze GR 22.1 and Sani Pass 26.1.

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Greater Striped Swallow Cecropis cucullata Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Calvinia 3.2 and observed Kimberley 7-9.2. Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica unitatis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1. Red-breasted Swallow Cecropis semirufa semirufa Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Tzaneen 19.1. South African Cliff Swallow Petrochelidon spilodera Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Calvinia 3.2.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae Cape Grassbird Sphenoeacus afer Sani Pass 26.1 and Karkloof 27.1. Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Velddrif 2.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2 and Kimberley 7.2. Victorin's Warbler Cryptillas victorini 1 heard Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1. An individual was heard calling by a small part of the group up a ravine en route to Harold Porter Botanical Gardens

Leaf-Warblers Phylloscopidae Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler Phylloscopus ruficapilla Magoebaskloof 18.1. Excellent views of a pair in Magoebaskloof. Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus yakutensis Polokwane GR 18.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1.

Reed-Warblers and Allies Acrocephalidae Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and St Lucia 24.1. African Reed Warbler Acrocephalus baeticatus Wakkerstroom 21.1. African Yellow Warbler Iduna natalensis natalensis Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Sani Pass 26.1.

Grassbirds and Allies Locustellidae Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala Wakkerstroom 21.1. Barratt's Warbler Bradypterus barratti Sani Pass 26.1.

Cisticolas and Allies Cisticolidae Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and St Lucia 23.1.

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Grey-backed Cisticola Cisticola subruficapilla West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2 and Springbok 5.2. Wailing Cisticola Cisticola lais Sani Pass 26.1. Levaillant's Cisticola Cisticola tinniens Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Underberg 27.1 and Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1. Neddicky Cisticola fulvicapilla Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1 and Noordhoek 30.1. Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis terrestris Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Wakkerstroom 20.1. Desert Cisticola Cisticola aridulus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Pale-crowned Cisticola Cisticola cinnamomeus egregius Wakkerstroom 20.1. Wing-snapping Cisticola Cisticola ayresii ayresii Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Underberg 27.1. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava Polokwane GR 18.1. Black-chested Prinia Prinia flavicans Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Karoo Prinia Prinia maculosa Sani Pass 26.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Drakensberg Prinia Prinia hypoxantha Sani Pass 26.1 and Karkloof 27.1. Bar-throated Apalis Apalis thoracica Polokwane GR 18.1, Magoebaskloof 19.1 and Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1. Rudd's Apalis Apalis ruddi fumosa Mkuze GR 21.1. Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida Mkuze GR 22.1 and Umlalazi NR NE 24.1. Rufous-eared Warbler Malcorus pectoralis Brandvlei 3.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Green-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Ongoye FR 25.1. Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis Mkuze GR 22.1. Karoo Eremomela Eremomela gregalis gregalis Brandvlei 3.2 and Goegap NR 4.2. Burnt-necked Eremomela Eremomela usticollis usticollis Polokwane GR 18.1.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii jardineii Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1.

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Southern Pied Babbler Turdoides bicolor Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. A flock of 5 seen near Bela-bela.

Old World Warblers Sylviidae Bush Blackcap (NT) Lioptilus nigricapillus Sani Pass 26.1. A single bird seen along Sani Pass Road. Chestnut-vented Warbler Sylvia subcaerulea Polokwane GR 18.1, Goegap NR 4.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Layard's Warbler Sylvia layardi Sani Pass 26.1, Calvinia 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2 and Pofadder 6.2.

Yuhinas, White-eyes, and Allies Zosteropidae Cape White-eye Zosterops virens Johannesburg 16.1, Magoebaskloof 18.1, Magoebaskloof 19.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Noordhoek 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Calvinia 3.2. Orange River White-eye Zosterops pallidus Onseepkans 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. African Yellow White-eye Zosterops senegalensis St Lucia 24.1.

Sugarbirds Promeropidae Cape Sugarbird Promerops cafer Rooi-Els 29.1 and Rooi-Els 30.1. Gurney's Sugarbird Promerops gurneyi gurneyi Sani Pass 26.1.

Starlings Sturnidae Common Myna Acridotheres tristis tristis Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, observed Mkuze GR 21-23.1, Umlalazi NR NE 24.1, Dlinza Forest NR 25.1, Karkloof 27.1, Durban 28.1, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris vulgaris Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea West Coast NP 1.2. Black-bellied Starling Notopholia corrusca corrusca Mkuze GR 22.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Cape Starling Lamprotornis nitens Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Onseepkans 6.2 and observed Kimberley 7-9.2. Burchell's Starling Lamprotornis australis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1.

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Pied Starling Lamprotornis bicolor Observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Calvinia 2.2, Calvinia 3.2 and Goegap NR 4.2. Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster verreauxi Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio morio Tzaneen 19.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Town 28.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Cape Point 31.1 and Noordhoek 1.2. Pale-winged Starling Onychognathus nabouroup Goegap NR 4.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1.

Thrushes and Allies Turdidae Orange Ground Thrush Geokichla gurneyi Magoebaskloof 18.1. Spotted Ground Thrush Geokichla guttata guttata Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. A pair was seen in the Dlina Forest. Groundscraper Thrush Turdus litsitsirupa litsitsirupa Polokwane GR 18.1. Kurrichane Thrush Turdus libonyana Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus Howick Falls 27.1 and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1. Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi Johannesburg 16.1, Johannesburg 17.1 and Kimberley 7.2.

Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae Karoo Scrub Robin Cercotrichas coryphoeus West Coast NP 1.2, Calvinia 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata quadrivirgata Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Kalahari Scrub Robin Cercotrichas paena Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Chat Flycatcher Melaenornis infuscatus Brandvlei 3.2. Marico Flycatcher Melaenornis mariquensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1. Fiscal Flycatcher Melaenornis silens Polokwane GR 18.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Springbok 4.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2.

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African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1 and Noordhoek 1.2. Cape Robin-Chat Cossypha caffra Johannesburg 16.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Langebaan 2.2, Springbok 4.2, Springbok 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. White-throated Robin-Chat Cossypha humeralis Polokwane GR 18.1. Red-capped Robin-Chat Cossypha natalensis St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. White-starred Robin Pogonocichla stellata Magoebaskloof 18.1. Cape Rock Thrush Monticola rupestris Sani Pass 26.1 and Rooi-Els 30.1. Sentinel Rock Thrush Monticola explorator Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Buff-streaked Chat Campicoloides bifasciatus Sani Pass 26.1 and Karkloof 27.1. Sickle-winged Chat Emarginata sinuata Sani Pass 26.1. Karoo Chat Emarginata schlegelii Calvinia 3.2. Tractrac Chat Emarginata tractrac Port Nolloth 5.2. Ant-eating Chat Myrmecocichla formicivora Wakkerstroom 20.1, Karkloof 27.1, Calvinia 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Mountain Wheatear Myrmecocichla monticola monticola Wakkerstroom 20.1, Calvinia 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata De Hoop NR 29.1, Velddrif 2.2 and Goegap NR 4.2. Familiar Chat Oenanthe familiaris Sani Pass 26.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Cape Point 31.1, Brandvlei 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Pofadder 6.2 and Kimberley 8.2.

Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris St Lucia 23.1. Orange-breasted Sunbird Anthobaphes violacea Rooi-Els 29.1 and Rooi-Els 30.1. Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1.

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Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystina Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa famosa Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1 and Rooi-Els 30.1. Southern Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris chalybeus Magoebaskloof 19.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Springbok 5.2 and Springbok 6.2. Greater Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris afer Sani Pass 26.1 and Howick Falls 27.1. Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis mariquensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus St Lucia 23.1. White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala Polokwane GR 18.1 and Tzaneen 19.1. Dusky Sunbird Cinnyris fuscus fuscus Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 5.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali mahali Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1. Sociable Weaver Philetairus socius socius Pofadder 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, Noordhoek 1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Springbok 5.2, Kimberley 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus Johannesburg 16.1, Johannesburg 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Langebaan 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Springbok 5.2, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Mkuze GR 23.1, Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 29.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Yellow-throated Petronia Gymnoris superciliaris Mkuze GR 22.1.

Weavers and Allies Ploceidae Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Scaly-feathered Weaver Sporopipes squamifrons Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Thick-billed Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons St Lucia 24.1. Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis Mkuze GR 22.1.

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Cape Weaver Ploceus capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Rooi-Els 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2 and Brandvlei 3.2. Eastern Golden Weaver Ploceus subaureus subaureus Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Southern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus xanthopterus marleyi St Lucia 24.1. Lesser Masked Weaver Ploceus intermedius cabanisii Wakkerstroom 20.1. Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1, Sani Pass 26.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Calvinia 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2, Kimberley 7.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus Polokwane GR 18.1. Dark-backed Weaver Ploceus bicolor Mkuze GR 21.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea lathamii Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Karkloof 27.1, Durban 28.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Yellow-crowned Bishop Euplectes afer taha Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Wakkerstroom 21.1. Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, observed Wakkerstroom 19-21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, Velddrif 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Johannesburg 9.2. Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensis Karkloof 27.1. Fan-tailed Widowbird Euplectes axillaris axillaris Wakkerstroom 21.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Underberg 25.1. White-winged Widowbird Euplectes albonotatus albonotatus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Polokwane GR 18.1. Red-collared Widowbird Euplectes ardens ardens Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and Underberg 27.1. Long-tailed Widowbird Euplectes progne progne Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1 and Johannesburg 9.2.

Waxbills and Allies Estrildidae Green-winged Pytilia Pytilia melba melba Polokwane GR 18.1. Red-headed Finch Amadina erythrocephala Johannesburg 16.1 and Johannesburg 9.2. Green Twinspot Mandingoa nitidula nitidula Magoebaskloof 19.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1.

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Pink-throated Twinspot Hypargos margaritatus Mkuze GR 22.1. African Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata rubricata Magoebaskloof 19.1. Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis niassensis Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Swee Waxbill Coccopygia melanotis Magoebaskloof 19.1. Grey Waxbill Estrilda perreini incana Mkuze GR 21.1. Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Sani Pass 26.1. Quailfinch Ortygospiza atricollis digressa Wakkerstroom 19.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1 and Underberg 27.1. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata scutata Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 21.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Red-backed Mannikin Lonchura nigriceps Magoebaskloof 19.1. Magpie Mannikin Lonchura fringilloides Magoebaskloof 19.1.

Indigobirds Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata amauropteryx Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and Johannesburg 9.2. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Underberg 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1. Shaft-tailed Whydah Vidua regia Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis capensis Johannesburg 16.1, Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Underberg 25.1, Sani Pass 26.1, Karkloof 27.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Noordhoek 30.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Velddrif 2.2, Akkerendam NR 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2, Augrabies Falls NP 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Cape Longclaw Macronyx capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1. Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus Underberg 27.1. African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 31.1 and Calvinia 2.2.

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Mountain Pipit Anthus hoeschi Sani Pass 26.1. Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis Sani Pass 26.1. Buffy Pipit Anthus vaalensis Wakkerstroom 20.1. Yellow-breasted Pipit (VU) Anthus chloris Wakkerstroom 20.1.

Finches, Euphonias Fringillidae Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs gengleri Noordhoek 1.2. Forest Canary Crithagra scotops Magoebaskloof 18.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Lemon-breasted Canary Crithagra citrinipectus Mkuze GR 23.1. Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Cape Siskin Crithagra totta Rooi-Els 30.1 and Cape Point 31.1. Drakensberg Siskin Crithagra symonsi Sani Pass 26.1. Yellow Canary Crithagra flaviventris Brandvlei 3.2 and Port Nolloth 5.2. Brimstone Canary Crithagra sulphurata Velddrif 2.2 and Brandvlei 3.2. Streaky-headed Seedeater Crithagra gularis Sani Pass 26.1 and Velddrif 2.2. White-throated Canary Crithagra albogularis De Hoop NR 29.1, West Coast NP 1.2, West Coast NP 2.2, Brandvlei 3.2 and Goegap NR 4.2. Protea Canary Crithagra leucoptera Calvinia 2.2. Cape Canary Serinus canicollis canicollis Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and West Coast NP 2.2. Black-headed Canary Serinus alario Brandvlei 3.2. Got good views of the nominate race and the S.a. leucolaema (Damara Canary) subspecies.

Buntings, Sparrows and Allies Emberizidae Lark-like Bunting Emberiza impetuani Brandvlei 3.2 and Pofadder 6.2. Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi tahapisi Polokwane GR 17.1, West Coast NP 1.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Cape Bunting Emberiza capensis Sani Pass 26.1, Cape Agulhas 28.1, De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1, Cape Point 31.1, West Coast NP 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Goegap NR 4.2, Augrabies Falls NP 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

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Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris Mkuze GR 21.1.

Mammals (56 in total)

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 African Wild Dog Lycaon pictus Mkuze GR 22.1. A pack of 5 were seen in Mkuze Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis megalotis Goegap NR 5.2.

Cats Felidae Cheetah Acinonyx jubatus jubatus Mkuze GR 22.1. A female with three juveniles were seen in Mkuze. Black-footed Cat Felis nigripes Kimberley 8.2. Wild Cat Felis silvestris Kimberley 8.2.

Mongooses Herpestidae Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata Wakkerstroom 20.1. Cape Grey Mongoose Herpestes pulverulentus De Hoop NR 29.1, Rooi-Els 30.1 and Cape Point 31.1. Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus Mkuze GR 22.1, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1. Meerkat Suricata suricatta Wakkerstroom 20.1, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2.

Hyenas, Aardwolf Hyaenidae Aardwolf Proteles cristata Kimberley 8.2.

Weasels, Skunks, Otters Mustelidae Spotted-necked Otter Lutra maculicollis Wakkerstroom 21.1.

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Sea Lions Otariidae Afro-Australian Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus Simon's Town 30.1 and Port Nolloth 5.2.

Vivets, Genets Viverridae Common Genet Genetta genetta Mkuze GR 22.1.

Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep, Goats Bovidae Impala Aepyceros melampus melampus Polokwane GR 18.1 and observed Mkuze GR 21-23.1. Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus Polokwane GR 18.1 and Kimberley 9.2. Springbok Antidorcas marsupialis Wakkerstroom 21.1, De Hoop NR 28.1, Langebaan 2.2, Calvinia 3.2, Springbok 4.2, Pofadder 6.2 and observed Kimberley 7-9.2. Natal Red Duiker Cephalophus natalensis Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Black Wildebeest Connochaetes gnou Wakkerstroom 21.1, Kimberley 8.2 and Kimberley 9.2. Common Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1 and Mkuze GR 22.1. Blesbok Damaliscus pygargus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Wakkerstroom 20.1, Wakkerstroom 21.1 and De Hoop NR 29.1. Sable Antelope Hippotragus niger Polokwane GR 18.1. A single stunning male was seen at Polokwane GR. Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus Polokwane GR 18.1. Gemsbok Oryx gazella Springbok 4.2, Port Nolloth 5.2, Pofadder 6.2, Kimberley 7.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Grey Rhebok Pelea capreolus Sani Pass 26.1. Blue Duiker Philantomba monticola Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Steenbok Raphicerus campestris campestris Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Brandvlei 3.2, Springbok 6.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Southern Reedbuck Redunca arundinum Underberg 27.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and West Coast NP 2.2. Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula Underberg 25.1. Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Mkuze GR 22.1 and Kimberley 8.2. African Buffalo Syncerus caffer caffer St Lucia 23.1.

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Nyala Tragelaphus angasii Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1. Common Eland Tragelaphus oryx Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Sani Pass 26.1, De Hoop NR 29.1 and West Coast NP 1.2. Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros Polokwane GR 18.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1.

Oceanic Dolphins Delphinidae Indo-pacific Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiops aduncus Rooi-Els 29.1.

Giraffe, Okapi Giraffidae Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1.

Hippopotamuses Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius capensis Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 23.1 and St Lucia 24.1. Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus sundevallii Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 23.1.

Hedgehogs, Gymnures Erinaceidae Southern African Hedgehog Atelerix frontalis Kimberley 8.2.

Hylaxes Procaviidae Rock Hyrax Procavia capensis Wakkerstroom 20.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 30.1, Goegap NR 4.2, Springbok 6.2 and Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Rabbits, Hares Leporidae Cape Hare Lepus capensis Goegap NR 4.2 and Kimberley 8.2. Zebras, Horse, Asses Equidae Plains Zebra Equus quagga Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Mkuze GR 21.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Kimberley 8.2. Mountain Zebra Equus zebra Rooi-Els 29.1 and Goegap NR 4.2.

Rhinceroses Rhinocerotidae White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum ISimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1.

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Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis Magoebaskloof 18.1, Magoebaskloof 19.1 and iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1. Vervet Chlorocebus pygerythrus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, Mkuze GR 22.1, iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 23.1, St Lucia 24.1 and Dlinza Forest NR 25.1. Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus ursinus Zaagkuildrift Road 17.1, Polokwane GR 18.1, Tzaneen 19.1, De Hoop NR 28.1, Calvinia 2.2 and Calvinia 3.2.

Old World Porcupines Hystricidae Cape Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis Kimberley 8.2.

True Mice and Rats, Gerbils, Spiny Mice, Crested Rat Muridae Sloggett's Vlei Rat Otomys sloggetti Sani Pass 26.1. Four-striped Grass Mouse Rhabdomys pumilio Port Nolloth 5.2.

Climbing Mice, Rock Mice, White-tailed Rat, Malagasy Rats and Mice Nesomyidae Gerbil Mouse Malacothrix typica Kimberley 8.2.

Springhares Pedetidae Spring Hare Pedetes capensis Kimberley 8.2.

Squirrels Sciuridae Red Bush Squirrel Paraxerus palliatus St Lucia 24.1. Eastern Gray Squirrel Sciurus carolinensis Noordhoek 28.1 and Noordhoek 1.2. South African Ground Squirrel Xerus inauris Onseepkans 6.2.

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Reptiles (10 in total)

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

Crocodiles and relatives Crocodylidae Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus cowiei Mkuze GR 22.1 and St Lucia 24.1.

Agamas Agamidae Southern Rock Agama Agama atra atra Rooi-Els 29.1, Cape Point 30.1, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 31.1 and West Coast NP 2.2.

Spinytail Lizards Cordylidae Highveld Crag Lizard Cordylus melanotus Sani Pass 26.1. Augrabies Flat Lizard Platysaurus broadleyi Augrabies Falls NP 7.2.

Elapidae Elapidae Rinkhals Hemachatus haemachatus Sani Pass 26.1. Cape Cobra Naja nivea West Coast NP 2.2.

Afro-American Sideneck Turtles Pelomedusidae Helmeted Turtle Pelomedusa subrufa nigra Mkuze GR 22.1.

Tortoises Testudinidae Angulated Tortoise Chersina angulata De Hoop NR 29.1, Strandfontein Sewage Works 30.1 and West Coast NP 1.2. Speke's Hinge-back Tortoise Kinixys spekii Mkuze GR 22.1. Leopard Tortoise Stigmochelys pardalis Mkuze GR 22.1.

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