Eastern South Africa V 22nd July to 5th August 2016 & Cape Extension V 5th to 10th August 2016

Secretarybird by Markus Lilje

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Trip report by tour leader: André Bernon

Top 10 seen on the trip (as voted by each participant)

1. Secretarybird 2. Blue Crane 3. Pink-throated Twinspot 4. Drakensberg Rockjumper 5. Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross 6. Black-rumped Buttonquail 7. Lilac-breasted Roller 8. African Penguin 9. Malachite Kingfisher 10. Livingstone’s Turaco

The first day of the tour was set aside as a travel day, and after we all met at our lodge in Johannesburg, we managed to overcome jet lag by enjoying some soon to be familiar , such as Southern Red Bishop, Pin-tailed Whydah, Cape Robin-Chat and Cape Sparrow in the lodge grounds. Other birds that we managed to find, which we would not have any other chances for on the rest of the trip, included Karoo Thrush and Red-headed Finch. After an early meal, we retired to our rooms as the next day would be our first chance at proper birding in South Africa.

An early start saw us driving about an hour north of the city Pretoria to the Rust De Winter area where we would bird a section of road named Zaagkuildsdrift. This road is a birding hotspot and hugs the Pienaarsrivier River and heads towards a small village called Kgomo-Kgomo. Birds en-route included Helmeted Guineafowl, African Palm Swift, Southern Masked Weaver, Hadada Ibis and Grey Go-away- bird. As soon as we approached our birding destination, we were met by the calls of our first target - the Northern Black Korhaan. Our search for these calling birds also produced Magpie Shrike, African Wattled Lapwing, Swainson’s Spurfowl, Knob-billed Duck, Southern Yellow-billed & Southern Red- billed Hornbills, Cape & Burchell’s Starlings and a single Black-chested Prinia before we managed to locate a couple of male Northern Black Korhaan calling from the top of mounds.

As we continued our search for species with a more westerly distribution, we managed to see a small group of Southern Pied Babbler, a few of the brightly coloured Crimson-breasted Shrike, our first Lilac-breasted Roller, Village Indigobird, Marico Flycatcher, Chestnut- vented Warbler, Pearl-spotted Owlet, Fiscal Flycatcher, Burnt-necked Eremomela, White- browed Sparrow-Weaver, Red-billed Buffalo Weaver, Namaqua Dove, Red-billed Quelea, Green-winged Pytilia, Brown-crowned Tchagra, Golden-breasted Bunting and Blue Waxbill. The dry, open plains at the end of this road provided excellent views of Cut-throat Crimson-breasted Shrike by Cuan Rush

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Finch, Pearl-breasted Swallow, Scaly-feathered Weaver, Capped Wheatear, Black-throated Canary and about twenty Cape Vulture feeding on a carcass as a result of the persisting drought. As the day progressed we started our way back and a mixed flock proved to be exceptional in terms of seedeaters and gave us the very colourful Violet-eared and Black-faced Waxbill and Jameson’s and Red-billed Firefinches. Top mammals for the day go to a single Black-backed Jackal, Sable Antelope and a very tall and lonely looking Giraffe.

After an early breakfast at our lodge in Johannesburg, we made our way through the Highveld toward the Lowveld, and eventually, into the world famous Kruger National Park. Along the way, we made a few stops - one such Southern Ground Hornbill by James Palmer stop proved very entertaining as we experienced gale-force winds with sightings of our first White Rhinoceros, Common Eland, Hartebeest, Springbok, African Buffalo and Blesbok. Good birds along the way included the handsome Jackal Buzzard, Long- crested Eagle, Rock Kestrel, Lizard Buzzard, White-fronted Bee-eater, Southern Bald Ibis and Alpine Swift. We stopped for a short break before lunch in a gorge (Abel Erasmus Pass) and were lucky to find Purple-crested Turaco, Collared & White-bellied Sunbirds, Black-backed Puffback, Mocking Cliff Chat, a pair of Mountain Wagtail and a single Rock Hyrax. While we waited for our lunch , a walk around the garden was productive with a pair of Kurrichane Thrush, Black-headed Oriole, Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Southern Black Flycatcher all being seen.

We eventually arrived and entered the Kruger National Park. We were welcomed by our first Brown- headed Parrot. Other noticeable sightings en-route to our first camp (Satara) were Senegal Lapwing, Sabota Lark, , Arrow-marked Babbler, Chinspot Batis, Retz’s Helmetshrike, Little Swift, a calling Red-crested Korhaan right next to the road, a group of Southern Ground Hornbill crossing the road and more raptors like Tawny Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle and a very early Wahlberg’s Eagle. Exciting and memorable views of some mammals included more White Rhinoceros, African Elephant, Common Wildebeest, Giraffe, Plains Zebra and two separate prides of Lions! Upon arriving at our camp, we met the local celebrity, a roosting African Scops Owl and retired after a successful day to the not-so- distant sounds of roaring Lion.

We started the following day by waiting a few minutes for the camp gate to open and were rewarded by a sighting of a pack of Spotted Hyena. More Lilac-breasted Rollers were soon African Elephant by James Palmer

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joined by a few sightings of the less common Purple Roller. A few mixed flocks proved to be very productive and teeming with birds. One such flock gave us our only view of a Lesser Honeyguide amongst numerous Southern Black Tit, Yellow-breasted Apalis, Orange-breasted Bushshrike, Long-billed Crombec, Common Scimitarbill, Tawny-flanked Prinia, and Black-crowned Tchagra. The sudden burst of energy was overlooked by a pair of African Fish Eagle and sunning African Green Pigeon. As we continued, we managed to find our only sighting of a Yellow-bellied Eremomela, more Sabota Lark and Crowned Lapwing.

A stop at a viewpoint and a hide overlooking a watercourse was a welcomed sight in the drought and attracted birds like Yellow-billed Stork, Wire-tailed Swallow, Striated, Grey & Giant Herons, Giant, Pied & the tiny Malachite Kingfishers, African Pied Wagtail, Black Crake, Water Thick-knee, Marabou Stork and the monotypic and odd-looking Hamerkop. After an excellent morning, we headed back to camp for brunch and a walk around the camp provided us with our first sighting of the gregarious and noisy Green Wood Hoopoe, Mourning Collared Dove, Greater Blue-eared Starling, Bearded Woodpecker, Brubru, African Scops Owl Grey-headed Bushshrike and more Burnt-necked Eremomela and by Adam Riley Southern Black Tit.

An afternoon drive North of the camp proved to be good for raptors and three species of Vulture were seen together, namely White-backed, Hooded and the massive Lappet-faced. African Pipit, Red-crested Korhaan and Tawny Eagle kept us occupied and the main surprise of the day went to a very out-of-range Tinkling Cisticola! We had more sightings of White Rhinoceros, African Buffalo and a herd of African Elephant before we had to make our way back in order to have an early dinner in preparation for a greatly anticipated night drive. The night drive started off with a large pride of Lions with cubs that came really close to the vehicle and showed us just how full their bellies were. Later on, we managed to locate a pair of the massive Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Scrub Hare, Common Genet, Greater Kudu and more African Elephant.

The following morning started in the dark and as we packed our luggage into our vehicle to move camp, we were kept entertained by the sound of the night in the form of more lion roars and African Scops Owl calls. Excitement was had early on in the form of a single Honey Badger scurrying through the short grass. White-browed Scrub Robin and White-throated Robin-Chat were found before we stumbled across a large pack of Spotted Hyena on a Greater Kudu bull kill in a dry river bed. We knew a pride of Lions with tiny cubs were in the area and as we rounded the Grey-headed Bushshrike by Markus Lilje

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next corner we spotted a Lioness lying in the middle of the road with a tiny cub on her side. As she moved off the road, we approached a little closer and to our amazement, another Greater Kudu bull kill with the entire pride feeding on it - with some of the smallest cubs arriving out of the thick bush a few minutes later. We enjoyed this spectacular sighting, all by ourselves, for about half an hour until it was time to move on. Two more Honey Badgers showed off their fearless behaviour and not long after, we approached a large dam with a huge pride of Lions lazing about - amongst them were big maned males. A small dam, just minutes before, held a lost and lonely Southern Pochard female, whilst at this dam, our attention was drawn away from the Lions by a pair of Mosque Swallow. Red-billed Oxpecker was found clinging to most head of game and a brief appearance was put in by a pair of Double- banded Sandgrouse.

As we were searching through yet another mixed flock that contained a Red-headed Weaver, we got word of a roosting pair of Southern White- faced Owl and sped off to go and investigate. En route, we were lucky to find a pair of the elusive Side-striped Jackal. Afterwards, we enjoyed a wonderful sighting of the roosting Owls. We decided to prolong our drive for a bit and bird a road next to the Sabie River and this paid off as we were lucky to find another pair of roosting Owl - the African Wood Owl. Waterbirds were in full presence and Black, Woolly- African Wood Owl necked, Marabou & Saddle-billed Storks were seen amongst some by James Palmer Little & Great Egrets, White-fronted & Three-banded Plovers and a single White-crowned Lapwing were also seen among the numerous Black-smith Lapwing.

After arriving at our new camp (Skukuza) and lunch, we had a look at a group of roosting Wahlberg’s Epauletted Fruit Bat. A short drive to the golf course was followed by a walk on the grounds, with Hippopotamus and Leopard tracks being evident. This kept us on our toes as we sifted through birds such as African Hoopoe, Cardinal & Bennett’s Woodpecker, Sombre Greenbul and Thick-billed Weaver. After arriving back at camp, we managed to fit in a short walk before dark and our efforts were rewarded with a single Southern Boubou, yet another White-throated Robin-Chat, Green-backed Camaroptera, a pair of Red-faced Cisticola roosting together in the reeds, a single Wood Sandpiper and three Ashy Flycatcher also settling down for the night.

An early start the next morning saw us hitting the road before dawn as we had a long drive ahead of us toward the small town of Wakkerstroom. Our last sightings of mammals in Kruger National Park were numerous groups of Spotted Hyena, African Elephant, Common Warthog, Giraffe, Plains Zebra, Common Duiker and Lion by James Palmer

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African Buffalo. Mammal sightings in the park were disrupted by Cut-throat Finch, Yellow-throated Petronia, Pale Flycatcher, Little Bee-eater, a flock of White-winged Widowbirds, Rufous-naped Lark, White-bellied Sunbird and the impressive Bateleur. As we said goodbye to this wonderful reserve, we were greeted by a now common sighting of the Southern Fiscal. As we headed south toward Wakkerstroom, we stopped briefly at a large dam and enjoyed scope views of Greater & Lesser Flamingos, Maccoa Duck, Black-necked Grebe and Yellow- billed Duck. As we entered the grasslands in the vicinity of Wakkerstroom, a wealth of diversity in bird species was quickly evident. We decided to take an alternative route towards Wakkerstroom via a good gravel road and were rewarded with our first views of the impressive Blue Crane. Other notable sightings along this road were Long-tailed African Spoonbill by Markus Lilje Widowbird, Cape Longclaw, -eating Chat, Red- capped Lark and African Stonechat. A magnificent Greater Kestrel put in an appearance as we marched on through sightings of Grey-winged Francolin, Cape Crow, South African Shelduck, Spike-heeled Lark, Brown-throated Martin, Pied Starling, Black- winged Kite and some good mammals like the famous Meerkat, Yellow Mongoose and the rare Oribi. After a scrumptious meal at the Owl & Hare, we avoided the cold weather by hiding away in our heated rooms, ready for the next day’s activities. The rich grasslands around Wakkerstroom are teeming with Highveld endemics - many of which were to be our targets on this day. An outing before brunch produced targets such as Drakensberg Prinia, Cape Rock Thrush, Wailing Cisticola, Eastern Long-billed Lark, Bokmakierie, Grey-crowned Crane, Long- billed & African Rock Pipits, White-backed Duck, African Spoonbill and a slightly out of season sub- adult Montagu’s Harrier. Two new mammals on this outing were Black Wildebeest and Mountain Reedbuck. After a very cold and windy, yet successful morning, we headed back to our guest house to enjoy a huge breakfast overlooking a bird-feeder which held Cape & Village Weavers and Crested & Black-collared Barbets.

We persevered through the cold with full bellies and headed out again to find some more sought-after species, successfully spotting with two pairs of Secretarybirds, Cape Canary, Familiar Chat, Sentinel Rock-Thrush, Wing-snapping Cisticola, the rare and very localised Botha’s Lark, a non-breeding Yellow- breasted Pipit, a distant Black Harrier and a fantastic sighting of a Black-rumped Buttonquail on the ground!

A wetland surrounding the town of Wakkerstroom was the location for our afternoon’s outing and gave us views of the very shy African Rail, African Swamphen, Common Moorhen, Red-knobbed Coot, Sentinel Rock Thrush by Adam Riley

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Lesser Swamp Warbler, Cape Shoveler and magnificent sightings of a Spotted-necked Otter. As the sun started to disappear, we were very fortunate and happy to find a Marsh Owl perched out in the open. A home-cooked dinner was most welcome before we made our way to our accommodation for a good night’s rest after a successful day.

A quick outing before breakfast to the wetland nearby supplied us with new birds in the form of two Squacco Heron, Purple Heron, Fan-tailed Widowbird and more sightings of the magnificent looking Malachite Kingfisher. After the wetland, we decided to have another go at finding the endemic Blue Korhaan which we had missed so far. We stopped to look at a flock of about one-hundred Blue Cranes when we heard the call of a group of birds not far White-bellied by Rich Lindie from where we were. After some quick and accurate scanning, we located a group of three birds and we enjoyed good scope views of this stunning endemic. We headed back for another lovely breakfast and afterwards, we departed the quaint little town set in the Highveld for the coastal area of Zululand. En-route, we stopped and looked for White-bellied Bustard and were very successful in locating three individuals, managing to get very close views of this tough to find special. A surprise, but very welcome, find at the same spot was of two Buffy Pipit amongst many African Pipit which allowed for great views to compare some distinguishing features.

The rise in temperature was most welcome to some as we got closer to our next destination in the Mkuze area. A beautiful garden and nursery was the setting for our lunch stop and we managed to pick out Purple-banded Sunbird, Grey Penduline Tit and Spectacled Weaver as we waited for our food to arrive. After arriving at our lodge for the next two nights, we managed a short walk in the sand forest around the lodge and picked out Black-bellied Starling, Bearded Scrub Robin and Ashy Flycatcher. Nearby, we managed to locate Square-tailed Drongo and Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher before the light disappeared.

Mkuze Game Reserve is a world-renowned reserve and one can see why when visiting the park. Being a relatively small reserve compared to the likes of Kruger, it boasts a massive diversity of bird species - with a bird list of well over 450. We were waiting at the gate before sunrise, and managed to hear the eerie call of Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and this was later disturbed by the piercing “chip” call of an African Goshawk which we managed to locate on its perch in a dead tree. An early start into the park paid off well when, unfortunately, only one member managed to spot Rudd’s Apalis by Adam Riley

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a Leopard walking away slowly into the thicker bush. This excitement was quickly followed by a big target in the form of the range-restricted endemic - Rudd’s Apalis. We had a stop at Nsumo pan and careful attention to distant birds with the scope produced our first Pink-backed Pelican, African Openbill, Red-billed Teal, Common Sandpiper, Kittlitz’s Plover, Black-winged Stilt, African Fish Eagle, Lesser Swamp Warbler, African Pied Wagtail and African Marsh Harrier. Nearer to the car, we managed to pick out Marico & Purple-banded Sunbirds, Grey Penduline Tit, Crowned & Trumpeter Hornbills, Ashy Flycatcher and Long-billed Crombec. As we carried on driving through the reserve, we Pink-throated Twinspot by Adam Riley managed to Eastern Nicator, Little Bee-eater, Chinspot Batis, Black-crowned Tchagra, Golden- breasted Bunting and Southern Black Tit.

Breakfast at the main camp (Mantuma) was followed by a short walk which produced the comical Crested Guineafowl, Lesser Striped Swallow, White-eared Barbet and a flock of White-crested Helmetshrike. As the heat ensued, we headed to the well-renowned Kumasinga hide to see what the water-hole would bring in. Impala and Nyala were the most evident in coming to drink between massive amounts of Helmeted Turtle. Acacia Pied Barbet posed for us and on the walk back we managed to hear the feint call of the range-restricted endemic - Pink-throated Twinspot. A pair of these brightly coloured birds was located deep within a bush and we all had to get onto the ground to get good views but it was all worth it. A few minutes went by when we managed to get even better views of more individuals. After lunch at a quieter hide (Kumahlala) with very close views of a feeding Three-banded Plover, we decided to leave the reserve and head for the water to some floodplains bordering Mkuze Game Reserve. En-route, we were lucky to chalk up a Red-fronted Tinkerbird before leaving and arriving at a large waterbody which held more Pink-backed Pelican, Striated Heron, Hottentot Teal, a surprise White-winged Tern, White-faced & Knob-billed Duck, African Jacana, Spur-winged & Egyptian Goose and a single African Spoonbill. Another famous wetland nearby (Muzi Pan), which was a lot drier than usual as a result of the worst drought in a century, was to be our next stop and a group Lesser Flamingo feeding was a nice surprise. A single Whiskered Tern was a firm favourite amongst hordes of African Jacana, Kittlitz’s Plover, more Knob-billed Duck, Glossy Ibis and Cape Shoveler. As the end of the day neared, we headed east, onto a floodplain bordering the northern section of Lake St Lucia. Here, we managed to pick out the endemic Black-winged Lapwing, as well as Yellow-throated Longclaw, Rufous-naped Lark, Cape Wagtail and a group of Grey-rumped Swallows. Neergaard’s Sunbird by Adam Riley

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The following morning saw us waking up earlier than expected due to some naughty Thick-tailed Greater Galago jumping around on some of our roofs. We then headed to False Bay Nature Reserve which forms part of the iSimangaliso (magic in Zulu) Wetland Park. Here our main target was the Neergaard’s Sunbird which is an endemic to this part of the country and Southern Mozambique. Our search for the Sunbird produced a much-welcomed surprise - a Brown- backed Honeybird which unfortunately did not stay for a long time. We sifted through hordes of Eastern Golden Weavers, White-eared Barbet, Yellow-breasted and Rudd’s Apalis’, Purple- banded, Collared, Scarlet-chested & White- bellied Sunbirds, a very confiding White-browed Livingstone’s Turaco by James Palmer Scrub Robin and more Crested Guineafowl. Red- breasted Swallow and Black Saw-wing were new additions to our ever-growing list, as well as an Olive & Grey Sunbird in the same tree. We had almost given up our search for the Neergaard’s Sunbird when we heard a male singing just before the exit gate. A quick hop out of the vehicle and a short search gave us great views of this sought-after bird!

We pressed on and had a rewarding breakfast before checking-out and heading to our next destination along the Indian Ocean coastline to the small town of St Lucia. A quick stop just outside of Hluhluwe town gave us our only sighting of the sought-after Lemon-breasted Canary, as well as great views of a pair of Golden-tailed Woodpecker.

St Lucia is set on the shores of Lake St Lucia which is the largest estuary in Africa. This ecosystem has a huge variety of diverse habitats, including the second highest forested dunes in the world. Our home for the next two nights proved to be a great base to explore our faunal and floral rich environment. Our lodge was situated right on the verge of a pristine patch of coastal forest. White- eared Barbet, Collared & Olive Sunbird, Red- capped Robin-Chat, Black-bellied Starling, Ashy Flycatcher, Green-backed Camaroptera and Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird proved to be exceptional “garden” birds.

An afternoon walk after lunch took us through this White-eared Barbet by David Hoddinott patch of coastal forest toward the estuary mouth. African Dusky Flycatcher, Bronze Mannikin and the gorgeous Livingstone’s Turaco were seen on the way.

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As we reached the estuary, our first chance at some coastal birds saw us walking away with Caspian Tern, Grey-headed Gull, Pied Avocet, Hottentot Teal, African Fish Eagle, Yellow-billed Stork, a few Cape Gannet flying past out at sea, White-fronted Plover, Common Sandpiper, Water Thick-knee, Purple & Goliath Herons amongst a massive amount of Nile Crocodile and Hippopotamus sunning themselves on the shoreline. Before we made our way back, a male Southern Brown-throated Weaver put in an appearance not far from where we were standing. The slow walk back saw us coming out trumps with Woodward’s Batis by Adam Riley a stunning Olive Bushshrike, more Rudd’s Apalis and Green Pigeon.

We decided to have an early dinner in anticipation of our night drive that we had planned for the evening. As we entered the Eastern Shores section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park on our night drive, we were fortunate enough to spot our first new mammal of the day - a small family of the nocturnal Bushpig. Common genet, Common Duiker, Bushbuck, African Buffalo, Plains Zebra, Waterbuck, Natal Red Duiker, Southern Reedbuck and Spotted Hyena all put in an appearance on our evening outing. The bird of the night definitely went to a close-up view of a male Swamp Nightjar which proved to be our only Nightjar of the trip - albeit one of the rarest of all the possibilities.

We started at dawn the following morning and had a very successful walk within some coastal forest. Our first success was a group of Terrestrial Brownbul, followed on by sightings of Rudd’s Apalis, Green- backed Camaroptera, Square-tailed Drongo, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Ashy & Dusky Flycatchers and good sightings of the aptly named Gorgeous Bushshrike. Soon after, we managed to hear a Buff-spotted Flufftail, which unfortunately did not show itself. The calls of Woodward’s Batis was heard whilst we were looking at a few fighting Red-capped Robin-Chats. A quick search paid off as we had excellent views of a male and female Woodward’s Batis. Other birds in close proximity that kept us occupied were Southern Boubou, Thick-billed Weaver, Collared Sunbird and Yellow-breasted Apalis. A fantastic sighting of a curious Livingstone’s Turaco was enjoyed soon after, whilst a family of Red Bush Squirrel sunned themselves on an exposed branch.

After enjoying a hearty breakfast, we visited the Eastern Shores once again which looked very different in the daylight. A Black-chested Snake Eagle gave us a nice fly-by and the grassland was filled with Croaking Cisticola, African Stonechat, Yellow-throated Longclaw, Burchell’s Coucal, Fan-tailed Widowbird, Rufous-naped Lark, African Pipit and Red-breasted Swallow. African Emerald Cuckoo by Hugh Chittenden

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A stunning view from a viewing platform gave us our only sighting of a very lonely Topi, whilst a scan over the Indian Ocean provided us with distant views of at least two breaching Humpback Whales. Our lunch break started off with a bit of rain and luckily we had a roof over our heads in the form of another viewpoint – this time overlooking the estuary. Greenshank, White-fronted & Three-banded Plover, Black-winged Stilt and African Fish Eagle were amongst some Nile Crocodile, African Buffalo and Waterbuck. Rufous-winged Cisticola was a new bird for us and a few birds were active and singing away in the reeds below us.

Spotted Ground Thrush by Markus Lilje Nearing the bay of Cape Vidal, we entered some more coastal forest and a group of Blue Monkey were chatting away near the road. A walk on the beach gave some of us a chance to dip more than our toes into the Indian Ocean whilst a large flock of Greater Crested Tern looked on. An African Paradise Flycatcher showed off his long orange tail feathers when we took a short walk in the camp and we also managed to spot some more Wahlberg’s Epauletted Fruit Bats after we disturbed them from their day roost. A slow drive back toward St.Lucia gave us a wonderful sighting of White Rhinoceros and two new bird species in the form of a single Black-bellied Bustard and two sightings of the much sought-after Southern Banded Snake Eagle.

We left early the next morning for our next destination in Hilton and had a couple of stops planned along the way. Our first stop was Dlinza forest on the edge of the small town of Eshowe. Before we even entered the forest we had a glimpse of the tiny Blue Duiker and as we parked our vehicle, we were welcomed by a calling Southern Double-collared Sunbird and some feeding Cape White-eye and Bronze Mannikin. Our main target for this forest - the Spotted Ground Thrush - was quickly found from the aerial boardwalk, feeding on the ground amongst the leaf-litter. The look-out tower overlooked the forest and proved to be the ideal breakfast stop as we could carry on looking for more specials. Trumpeter Hornbills and White- eared Barbets entertained us with very close views, with much excitement brought to us by a stunning male African Emerald Cuckoo singing his heart out atop a tree.

After filling our bellies, we trekked down into the forest floor to try our luck at some skulking species. A female Black Cuckooshrike proved difficult to see for some and soon after we had breathtaking views of a pair of Spotted Ground Thrush as they moved about unobtrusively through the forest understory. They were soon followed by another pair of Thrush - this time the Olive Thrush. Before leaving this stunning forest patch, we had great views of two Southern African endemics - a pair of Cape Batis feeding about and a pair of Chorister Robin-Chat which required a bit more work. Mangrove Kingfisher by David Hoddinott

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We headed east towards the Indian Ocean coastline once again to the small town of Mtunzini. En route, we were lucky to witness an immature African Harrier Hawk wonder about searching for food on the ground before having a quick search for anything new at a dam near Eshowe. The dam produced great sightings of White-backed Duck and African Darter. We soon arrived in Mtunzini and visited the Umlalazi Nature Reserve on the edge of a lagoon. Before entering the reserve we got eyes on one of our main targets - the bizarre-looking Palm-nut Vulture. A search of the mangrove Bush Blackcap by James Palmer swamps gave some of us a quick view of a female Black-throated Wattle-eye and not long after, flight views of Collared Pratincole - which we weren’t expecting. Striated Heron, Brown-hooded Kingfisher, Yellow-throated Longclaw and Tawny- flanked Prinia all put in an appearance before the show was stolen by a pair of the rare Mangrove Kingfisher. Great views of this bird were enjoyed before we moved on to go enjoy some lunch whilst having scope views of Palm-nut Vulture and African Fish Eagle in the same field of view. Later, we arrived in Hilton and checked into our accommodation before sunset and called it a day after a well- deserved dinner and very successful day.

We left our accommodation in Hilton for the Karkloof forest and adjoining grasslands. A great surprise find was a large group of Denham’s Bustard, followed by a fantastic sighting of the rare Wattled Crane. Our destination within the forest was a garden that consisted of conifers from all around the world. A walk around the property and adjoining forest gave us fantastic views of Olive Woodpecker, a pair of Knysna Turaco, Forest Canary, Tambourine Dove and many Chorister Robin-Chats. After some breakfast, we moved on and found a small patch of forest that was secluded from the wind and was impressive in its productivity. An attractive pair of Bush Blackcap came within a few metres of us whilst other birds enjoyed were a flock of colourful Swee Waxbill, Bar-throated Apalis, Drakensberg Prinia and more Forest Canary.

After stopping to view the Howick waterfall, we pushed on towards our next destination at the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains. After arriving early and checking in, we had an afternoon outing to Marutswa Forest where our target would be the critically endangered Cape Parrot. As we entered the forest, we heard the conspicuous screeching of a Parrot. We hastily retreated and managed to find a female Klaas’s Cuckoo on the forest edge as well as Groundscraper Thrush and an out-of- range Golden-breasted Bunting. After waiting a while, we were lucky to witness two pairs of the rare Cape Parrot fly in and do their rounds before Drakensberg Rockjumper by Ignacio Yufera

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settling down to roost for the night. We headed back and before dark, luckily spotting our final Owl species for the trip - a Spotted Eagle Owl.

The next morning saw us gather for a day trip up the Sani Pass into the Kingdom of Lesotho. En route, our first stop was responsible for some major excitement as we found a Half-collared Kingfisher. This colourful bird was soon followed by a sighting of a Levaillant’s Cisticola, which proved very drab compared to the bright blue colouration of the Kingfisher. Red-necked Spurfowl, Red-throated Wryneck, Greater Double-collared Sunbird, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, Black Sparrowhawk and an African Black Duck were new at our next two stops. As we headed up the pass, we were entertained by sightings of Bokmakierie, Cape & Sentinel Rock Thrush, Drakensberg Prinia, Long-billed Pipit, Malachite Sunbird and the stunning Gurney’s Sugarbird. We passed through customs and manoeuvred through some treacherous hairpin bends before reaching the top of the pass. Our first bird sighting in Lesotho was of a Cape Sparrow, whilst many Sloggett’s Vlei Rats looked on. Low-density birding in this rugged terrain proved tough and we worked hard to find a pair of Sickle- winged Chat accompanied by an endemic to this mountain range – the Drakensberg Siskin. Skilful driving through some icy patches Gurney’s Sugarbird by James Palmer was needed and birding continued as we added Grey Tit, Ground Woodpecker, Bearded Vulture and finally Drakensberg Rockjumper. Before our descent, we had a quick stop at the highest pub in Africa only to find a pair of Drakensberg Rockjumper on the patio! The long trek down before the border closed provided us with an excellent view of Cape Grassbird and more Grey Rhebok, which was a new mammal for us.

We had to leave early the following morning in order to get to the city of Durban for our flight to Cape Town, yet we still managed some views of a Black Sparrowhawk, Jackal Buzzard and even a Rose- ringed Parakeet. As we waited to collect our bus at the Cape Town International Airport, we kept ourselves occupied by spotting some Common Starling and Mallard flying by. We then headed to an area near Zeekoevlei to try our luck at “twitching” Southern Africa’s first ever record of a Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin. This bird normally migrates as far south as Kenya and, as a result of reverse migration, this poor individual had ended up at the tip of Africa. After a half-hour search, we were rewarded with great views of this new bird to the sub-region. Fiscal Flycatcher, Greater Flamingo, Levaillant’s Cisticola, Yellow Cape Petrels by Glen Valentine

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Bishop and Maccoa Duck kept us busy while searching. After our success, we headed to the Strandfontein Wastewater Treatment Plant and had a fantastic sighting of hundreds of Greater Flamingo, Southern Pochard, Cape Shoveler, Yellow-billed Duck, Cape Teal, Black-necked, Little & Great Crested Grebes, White-breasted Cormorant, Brown- throated Martin and hundreds of Hartlaub’s & Kelp Gulls. Some endemics to the Cape that we also managed to find on our first day in the area were Cape Bulbul and Cape Spurfowl. We checked into our lovely accommodation overlooking False Bay, which would be our “home” for the next three nights and enjoyed a great meal before Long-beaked Common Dolphin by James Palmer having a well-deserved rest for the night.

We had an early breakfast the next morning and met for our pelagic trip out of Simon’s Town’s small harbour. An Afro-Australian Fur Seal kept us entertained as we waited for the boat to arrive.

A pelagic trip off the Cape is a spectacle to behold, especially in winter, where one can find thousands of pelagic species around fishing trawlers and is definitely a birding highlight to anyone that has witnessed it. We started the trip off with thousands of the marine Cape Cormorant flying out to sea in huge rafts, to feed for the day. Not too long after we rounded the Cape Point in the thick mist, did we have our first pelagic species for the day – Sooty Shearwater. They were soon followed by the bulkier White-chinned Petrel and the odd sighting of Antarctic Prion amongst feeding African Penguin. An unusual record came in the form of a young Antarctic Tern – rather far out to sea for that specific time of the year. Our first Albatross was a Shy Albatross and proved to be the largest we saw for the day. Our seabird experts on board managed to locate not one, but two trawlers that were busy processing their hauls. As we approached, literally thousands of pelagic bird species could be seen in their wake. Cape Petrels were numerous and very attractive. Black- browed Albatross and Wilson’s Storm Petrel were plentiful, whilst less numerous birds were both Southern & Northern Giant Petrels, Indian Yellow- nosed Albatross and Brown Skua. After a full day out at sea, we started to head back; ticking Bryde’s, Southern Right & Humpback Whales. The mammalian highlight definitely goes to about a thousand Long-beaked Common Dolphin swimming towards us. Two new birds were still in store for us before the end of the trip and they came in the form of the regional endemic Crowned & Bank Cormorants. After another hearty breakfast, we headed out on our day outing to explore the Cape Peninsular and its rich diversity. The Cape Floristic African Penguin by Steve Davis

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Region is the smallest floral kingdom in the world and this centre of endemism had a lot of new birds to offer. As we rounded False Bay, we had a brief glimpse of a Peregrine Falcon as it flew off and, shortly after, an excellent view of a male and female Malachite Sunbird proved to be a good catch up for some. A stop at Rooi-Els, along the coast, at the base of a rock face gave us our first experience of a unique habitat called fynbos (directly translated into “fine bush”). This short, shrub-like vegetation is dominated by Protea and Erica bushes and our first new bird here was Cape Sugarbird, followed by a pair of Cape Siskin. Grey-backed Cisticola was soon located after its call gave away its presence. Orange-breasted Sunbird proceeded to show off very close to us, whilst Cape Robin- Chat, Familiar Chat and Cape White-eye (a different race from the ones seen further North) were plentiful. Overhead was a flock of African Black Swift. Our main target at this site was Victorin’s Warbler by Hugh Chittenden the iconic Cape Rockjumper but we decided to move on to other sites and come back to try and relocate this species to complete this endemic family of the sub-region. Our next stop was at Stony Point – the largest African Penguin colony on the mainland. A Cape Leopard had recently “visited” this site and killed 33 in a single night. The damage to this population was not evident at all as we witnessed several hundred individuals going about their daily terrestrial activities. This was certainly a highlight, as well as managing to see four Cormorant species altogether, namely Bank, Crowned, White-breasted & Cape. This sighting was not to be outdone, as Grey-headed, Hartlaub’s and Kelp Gulls stood together for comparison. Brimstone Canaries and Cape Bulbuls were waiting for us at our vehicle before we moved off to another location to try our luck at some more fynbos birding.

Arriving at Harold Porter Botanical Gardens, we enjoyed close-up views of Swee Waxbill, Southern Double-collared Sunbird, Speckled Mousebird and more Cape Siskin. We then headed up the hills behind the gardens to try and find the endemic and very elusive Victorin’s Warbler. As we walked through the fynbos we managed to pick out a pair of Neddicky before we heard our target calling. After a lot of effort and hard work, we managed to get a glimpse of one individual followed by jaw-dropping views of another. The walk back gave us more views of Cape Batis, Cape Sugarbird, Cape Bulbul and Sombre Greenbul. After a good lunch, we back- tracked to Rooi-Els once again. After a short walk, we were fortunate enough to spot a beautiful male moving around some boulders and calling intermittently from the top of rocks. After great success and high- fives all round, we proceeded to the world famous and multi-award winning Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. We admired the gardens whilst birds such as Cape Bulbul, Bar- by Clive Wyatt

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throated Apalis and Cape Spurfowl showed themselves. Before leaving, we spotted an African Harrier Hawk hunting. We watched it for quite some time as it used its double-jointed legs to probe nesting- holes in a large tree. We decided to take the scenic route back to our accommodation in Simon’s Town via Chapman’s Peak which saw us driving along the Western side of Cape Point. After our evening meal, we were very surprised and entertained by a group of African Penguin crossing the road in front of our vehicle for two nights in a row - at the same spot!

The following morning had us checking out after breakfast before we headed up the west coast of South Africa. Our first destination was to be on the shores of Langebaan Lagoon in the West Cinnamon-breasted Warbler by Clayton Burne Coast National Park. En route, we had memorable views of Table Mountain along with sightings of Tambourine Dove and Common Buzzard. The whole debacle surrounding these Common Buzzards within Cape Town is a bit of a contentious issue as they are supposed to be a Palaearctic migratory species, yet these individuals over-winter and breed here. Genetic studies have shown that they are most similar to Long-legged Buzzard which is not found within the sub-region. Hopefully, we will fully understand these birds in the not-so-distant future. Yellow Bishop, Black-winged Kite, Jackal Buzzard, Cape Crow and some mammals like Blesbok kept us entertained along the way. Before reaching West Coast National Park, we had a stop in an area near Grotto Bay. Our first target was immediately spotted right next to the vehicle as it called away - a stunning male Southern Black Korhaan. Bokmakierie, Capped Wheatear, Red-capped Lark, Grey-backed Cisticola and Blue Crane were also evident before we heard the calls of an out-of-season Common Quail. Some quick flushing gave us very good views of this migrant.

We then entered West Coast National Park and almost immediately go two new seedeaters, White- throated & Yellow Canaries. A family of Common Ostrich with little chicks proved to be a highlight and

Greater Flamingo by Adam Riley

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soon after we managed to spot Karoo Scrub Robin, White-backed Mousebird and Karoo Lark. We stopped at Geelbek bird hide and were rewarded with great birding on the edge of the lagoon. The walk to the hide produced Levaillant’s Cisticola, Grey Heron, Rock Kestrel, Cape Teal and Three-banded Plover. Whilst inside the hide, we were able to have views of many Grey Plover, Whimbrel, Common Greenshank and both Lesser & Greater Flamingos. A pair of Great White Pelican put in an appearance, so did a single Marsh Sandpiper and Bar-tailed Godwit. We then moved to another bird hide (Seeberg), ticking Grey-winged Francolin en-route whilst the short walk to the hide produced Chestnut-vented Warbler, Bar-throated Apalis, Yellow & White-throated Canaries and a pair of quartering Black Harrier. From the hide, we had views of Crowned Cormorant, African Oystercatcher, White-fronted Plover and both Karoo Eremomela by Hugh Chittenden Sandwich & Greater Crested Terns before we headed to the town of Langebaan for some lunch.

After lunch, we got a small flock of Red-faced Mousebird and just outside of town we were surprised with a pair of Verreaux’s Eagle. The drive to Ceres had some excitement in store for us when we found a termite eruption that had many hundreds of Swifts feasting on this easy catch. African Black, Little & Alpine Swifts were all present and very close views proved to be a memorable experience. Other good birds along the way were Southern Red Bishop in breeding plumage and more Blue Crane. As we reached the mountainous area in the vicinity of Ceres, a change in scenery was abrupt and a few stops along the pass produced a stunning pair of African Black Duck as well as sightings of White-necked Raven. As we were waiting to be checked-in, we had a great view of another Peregrine Falcon swooping low over our heads. We decided to call it a day in preparation for a full day’s birding the following day in the Tanqua Karoo.

Our first stop the next morning was to target an endemic to the area - the Namaqua Warbler. Success was quickly had as a pair showed themselves briefly, not as good as the sighting we had of them a while later. As we entered the desert- like Tanqua Karoo, we quickly ticked Karoo Chat without too much hassle. Large-billed and Karoo Lark were displaying everywhere and the flowers had started to bloom – a truly magical sight! We continued to Skitterykloof, a mountainous pass that was the sight for our next target. After a short walk along a dry riverbed, our luck paid off once more as we spotted the small Cinnamon-breasted Warbler clambering about on the rocks, with a very mouse- Fairy Flycatcher by Glen Valentine like behaviour. Our success continued when we

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found at least two of the very attractive Fairy Flycatcher. Two more Cinnamon-breasted Warblers were an exciting find as we were leaving the pass - especially as they were nest building. Rock Martin, Yellow Canary, Pale Chanting Goshawk, Rock & Greater Kestrels, Malachite Sunbird, Karoo Scrub Robin, Bokmakierie and White-backed Mousebird kept the day list going. Whilst Tractrac Chat, Booted Eagle, Karoo Eremomela and Rufous-eared Warbler were all new additions. Brant’s Whistling Rat was a good mammal to get as we watched one move in and out of its hole. We decided to head back to Ceres after a great sighting of two Namaqua Warblers. An afternoon outing to the Protea-filled Gydo Pass behind Ceres did not provide us with our target (Protea Canary) but we did have great sightings of Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, Cape Robin-Chat and Southern Red Bishop. After a good night’s rest and early breakfast, we checked-out and made our way slowly towards the city of Cape Town. En route, we spotted a Black Sparrowhawk darting across the road right in front of the vehicle and noticed that it was of the rare black morph. A small detour via the Du Toitskloof Pass was made in order to try and find the endemic Protea Canary which we missed the previous day. After a brief search, we came up trumps with not one but two birds very close to us which gave us exceptional views! This was a fantastic end to a great three week trip across the eastern and western parts of South Africa. We then made our way back to Cape Town International Airport, with a great sighting of four Giant Kingfishers, and said our final goodbyes to each other as we finished the trip.

South Africa Comprehensive V Annotated List of species recorded

List powered through the report generator of our partner iGoTerra.

Birds (446 in total: 439 seen, 7 heard) Nomenclature and follows Gill, F and D Donsker (Eds). 2015. IOC World Bird List (v 5.2).

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

IUCN codes: CR = Critically endangered, EN = Endangered, VU = Vulnerable, EW = Extinct in the Wild, NT = Near Threatened, DD = Data Deficient South Africa Ostrich Struthionidae Common Ostrich Struthio camelus australis 10 en route 24.7, 4 en route 28.7, 10 West Coast NP 8.8 and 4 Ceres 9.8.

Ducks, Geese, and Waterfowl Anatidae White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata 9 Muzi pan 30.7 and 2 Karkloof 3.8. White-backed Duck Thalassornis leuconotus leuconotus 3 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 en route 3.8. observed 3 days in total. 3 birds seen at a dam in Wakkerstroom and about 20 at a dam near Eshowe (Dlinza Forest) Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis niger Observed 7 days in total. Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos 40 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 15 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Large flocks were seen at a dam on the Zaagkuilsdrift road and then later at Muzi Pan near Mkuze Game Reserve.

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Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca Observed 16 days in total. South African Shelduck Tadorna cana 2 Wakkerstroom 27.7, 3 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 10 Sani Pass 4.8 and 1 en route 8.8. Many pairs were seen in the Wakkerstroom area and Sani Pass. Cape Teal Anas capensis 20 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8 and 20 West Coast NP 8.8. Numerous in the Cape Region. African Black Duck Anas sparsa sparsa 1 Sani Pass 4.8 and 2 Ceres 8.8. A single bird was seen flying close to us in the Sani Pass region and a pair later near Ceres. Mallard Anas platyrhynchos platyrhynchos 2 en route 5.8. Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata undulata Observed 12 days in total. Cape Shoveler Anas smithii Observed 7 days in total. Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha 2 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 6 Muzi pan 30.7, 6 St Lucia 1.8 and 3 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. Hottentot Teal Anas hottentota 4 Muzi pan 30.7 and 4 St Lucia 31.7. Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma brunnea 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 90 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8 and 20 en route 8.8. Maccoa Duck (NT) Oxyura maccoa 2 En route - Carolina - Ermelo 27.7, 3 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 3 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8.

Guineafowl Numididae Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris Observed 11 days in total. Crested Guineafowl Guttera pucherani edouardi 25 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 20 Umkhumbi Lodge 31.7 and 15 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. Many flocks in the Mkuze area.

Pheasants, Grouse, and Allies Phasianidae Grey-winged Francolin Scleroptila afra 9 Wakkerstroom 27.7, 5 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 4 West Coast NP 8.8. Many flocks in the Wakkerstroom area and also in the West Coast National Park. Red-winged Francolin Scleroptila levaillantii levaillantii 1 heard Sani Pass 4.8. Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena sephaena 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, up to 12 Kruger NP 24-27.7 and 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Cape Spurfowl Pternistis capensis 10 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 6 Rooi-Els 7.8, 10 West Coast NP 8.8 and 5 en route 9.8. Natal Spurfowl Pternistis natalensis natalensis 7 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 15 Kruger NP 25-27.7. Red-necked Spurfowl Pternistis afer castaneiventer 10 Sani Pass 4.8. A single large flock was seen flying in Sani Pass. Swainson's Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii swainsonii 50 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, up to 40 Kruger NP 24-26.7 and 10 Wakkerstroom 27.7. Common Quail Coturnix coturnix 1 West Coast NP 8.8.

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Penguins Spheniscidae African Penguin (EN) Spheniscus demersus 150 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. observed 2 days in total. Seen feeding on the Pelagic and on the rocks. Also at Stony Point Penguin colony and crossing the road at night on two separate occasions.

Austral Storm Petrels Oceanitidae Wilson's Storm Petrel Oceanites oceanicus 400 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic.

Albatrosses Diomedeidae Black-browed Albatross (NT) Thalassarche melanophris 700 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. Shy Albatross (NT) Thalassarche cauta 250 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross (EN) Thalassarche carteri 1 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. A single bird was seen on the Pelagic.

Shearwaters and Petrels Procellariidae Southern Giant Petrel Macronectes giganteus 1 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. A single bird was seen on the Pelagic. Northern Giant Petrel Macronectes halli 8 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. Cape Petrel Daption capense capense 2000 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. Antarctic Prion Pachyptila desolata 250 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. White-chinned Petrel (VU) Procellaria aequinoctialis 200 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic. Sooty Shearwater (NT) Puffinus griseus 450 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Numerous on the Pelagic.

Grebes Podicipedidae Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis capensis Observed 9 days in total. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus infuscatus 1 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. A single bird at Strandfontein. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis gurneyi 3 En route - Carolina - Ermelo 27.7 and 25 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8.

Flamingos Phoenicopteridae Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus 30 en route 24.7, 2 En route - Carolina - Ermelo 27.7, 150 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 2000 West Coast NP 8.8 and 100 Ceres 9.8.

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Large amounts of birds seen at Strandfontein and West Coast National Park. Lesser Flamingo (NT) Phoeniconaias minor 1 En route - Carolina - Ermelo 27.7, 20 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 200 West Coast NP 8.8. A small flock was seen at Muzi Pan and also at West Coast National Park.

Storks Ciconiidae Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 St Lucia 31.7. African Openbill Anastomus lamelligerus lamelligerus 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 10 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Seen feeding at Mkuze Game Reserve, Nsumo Pan. Black Stork Ciconia nigra 1 Kruger NP 26.7. A single bird was seen on the Sabie River in Kruger National Park. Woolly-necked Stork (VU) Ciconia episcopus microscelis 3 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 3 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis 1 Kruger NP 26.7. A single bird was seen on the Sabie River in Kruger National Park. Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumenifer 2 Kruger NP 25.7, 14 Kruger NP 26.7 and 7 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Numerous in Kruger National Park.

Ibises and Spoonbills Threskiornithidae African Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicus Observed 13 days in total. Southern Bald Ibis (VU) Geronticus calvus 7 en route 24.7, 12 Wakkerstroom 27.7, 30 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. A small flock was seen on the way to Kruger National Park. Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash hagedash Observed 19 days in total. Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 4 Muzi pan 30.7 and 3 en route 10.8. African Spoonbill Platalea alba 2 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 15 Muzi pan 30.7, 10 St Lucia 31.7, 1 Umlalazi NR 2.8 and 2 West Coast NP 8.8.

Herons, Egrets, and Bitterns Ardeidae Striated Heron Butorides striata atricapilla 1 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Muzi pan 30.7, 2 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Squacco Heron Ardeola ralloides 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7 and 1 St Lucia 31.7. Western Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis Observed 13 days in total. Grey Heron Ardea cinerea cinerea Observed 12 days in total. Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala Observed 15 days in total. Goliath Heron Ardea goliath 1 Kruger NP 25.7, 2 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 St Lucia 31.7. Purple Heron Ardea purpurea purpurea 1 Wakkerstroom 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 1 St Lucia 31.7. Great Egret Ardea alba melanorhynchos 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 1 St Lucia 31.7. Little Egret Egretta garzetta garzetta Observed 8 days in total.

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Hamerkop Scopidae Hamerkop Scopus umbretta umbretta Up to 3 Kruger NP 25-27.7, 1 Wakkerstroom 29.7 and 1 Karkloof 4.8. observed 6 days in total.

Pelicans Pelecanidae Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus 2 West Coast NP 8.8. Only 2 birds seen at the West Coast National Park. Pink-backed Pelican Pelecanus rufescens 10 Muzi pan 30.7 and 12 St Lucia 31.7. Many birds seen at Muzi Pan and St.Lucia estuary.

Boobies and Gannets Sulidae Cape Gannet (VU) Morus capensis 2 St Lucia 31.7, 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8 and 200 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Large amounts seen on the Pelagic.

Cormorants and Shags Phalacrocoracidae Reed Cormorant Microcarbo africanus africanus Observed 11 days in total. Crowned Cormorant (NT) Microcarbo coronatus 4 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8, 1 Stony Point 7.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. Individuals were seen at Simon's Town Harbour, Stony Point and West Coast National Park. Bank Cormorant (EN) Phalacrocorax neglectus 20 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8 and 35 Stony Point 7.8. This rare bird was seen from the Pelagic and also at Stony Point. White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus Observed 10 days in total. Cape Cormorant (NT) Phalacrocorax capensis 1000 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8 and 6 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total. Thousands of birds seen in the Cape Region.

Anhingas Anhingidae African Darter Anhinga rufa rufa Observed 6 days in total.

Secretary-bird Sagittariidae Secretarybird (VU) Sagittarius serpentarius 4 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7. A total of 6 birds were seen in the Wakkerstroom area and was voted the bird of the trip.

Hawks, Eagles, and Kites Accipitridae Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus caeruleus Observed 12 days in total. African Harrier-Hawk Polyboroides typus typus 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8 and 1 Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 7.8. Palm-nut Vulture Gypohierax angolensis 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8. 2 birds seen in Mtunzini area. Bearded Vulture (NT) Gypaetus barbatus meridionalis 2 Sani Pass 4.8. Hooded Vulture (EN) Necrosyrtes monachus 5 Kruger NP 25.7 and 10 Kruger NP 26.7. Many birds in the Kruger National Park.

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White-backed Vulture (NT) Gyps africanus Up to 50 Kruger NP 24-27.7 and 5 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Cape Vulture (VU) Gyps coprotheres 20 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 10 Sani Pass 4.8. observed 4 days in total. Lappet-faced Vulture (VU) Torgos tracheliotos tracheliotos 2 Kruger NP 25.7. 2 birds seen drinking in the Kruger National Park. Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 30.7. Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus 1 Kruger NP 24.7 and 1 Kruger NP 25.7. observed 3 days in total. Southern Banded Snake Eagle (NT) Circaetus fasciolatus 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. 2 birds seen late in the afternoon in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park near Cape Vidal, Eastern Shores. Bateleur (NT) Terathopius ecaudatus Up to 15 Kruger NP 24-27.7. observed 5 days in total. Crowned Eagle (NT) Stephanoaetus coronatus 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Martial Eagle (NT) Polemaetus bellicosus 1 Kruger NP 24.7, 2 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 Kruger NP 27.7. Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis Observed 5 days in total. Wahlberg's Eagle Hieraaetus wahlbergi 1 Kruger NP 24.7 and 1 Kruger NP 25.7. Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. A few of these attractive breeding migrants were seen in the Tanqua Karoo. Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax rapax Up to 2 Kruger NP 24-27.7. Verreaux's Eagle Aquila verreauxii 2 West Coast NP 8.8. A pair perched just outside of Langebaan. Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus meridionalis 1 Kruger NP 27.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. observed 3 days in total. Pale Chanting Goshawk Melierax canorus 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 5 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Many birds seen perched in the Tanqua Karoo. African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro tachiro 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7 and 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus melanoleucus 1 Sani Pass 4.8. observed 3 days in total. 3 birds seen flying. African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 31.7. Black Harrier (VU) Circus maurus 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 2 West Coast NP 8.8. A single bird in the Wakkerstroom area and a pair quatering in the West Coast National Park. Montagu's Harrier Circus pygargus 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7. African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer 1 heard St Lucia 31.7, 1 heard Karkloof 3.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 9 days in total. Common Buzzard Buteo buteo Observed 1 day in total. Jackal Buzzard Buteo rufofuscus Observed 10 days in total.

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Bustards Otididae Denham's Bustard (NT) denhami stanleyi 6 Karkloof 3.8 and 2 Sani Pass 4.8. White-bellied Bustard senegalensis barrowii 3 Wakkerstroom 29.7. Got very close to 3 individuals near Dirkiesdorp. Blue Korhaan (NT) Eupodotis caerulescens 3 Wakkerstroom 29.7. Managed to pick up a calling group on the last morning in Wakkerstroom. Red-crested Korhaan ruficrista Up to 2 Kruger NP 24-27.7. A single bird was seen calling right next to the vehicle as we entered Kruger National Park. Southern Black Korhaan (VU) afra 2 West Coast NP 8.8. A few birds were seen calling near West Coast National Park. Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afraoides afraoides 4 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. A few birds were seen calling on the Zaagkuilsdrift road. Black-bellied Bustard melanogaster notophila 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. One female was spotted in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park near Cape Vidal.

Flufftails Sarothruridae Buff-spotted Flufftail Sarothrura elegans elegans 1 heard St Lucia 1.8. One bird was heard only on the iGwalagwala trail, St.Lucia. Red-chested Flufftail Sarothrura rufa rufa 1 heard Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. One bird was heard only in the iSimangaliso Park near Cape Vidal.

Rails, Gallinules, and Coots Rallidae African Rail Rallus caerulescens 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7. Saw these skulkers at the wetland in Wakkerstroom. Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra 2 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 3 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7 and 1 heard Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. African Swamphen Porphyrio madagascariensis 6 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 10 Wakkerstroom 29.7, 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus meridionalis Observed 8 days in total. Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata Up to 200 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7, 50 Sani Pass 4.8 and 100 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. observed 8 days in total.

Cranes Gruidae Grey Crowned Crane (VU) Balearica regulorum regulorum 40 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 160 Karmichael Farm, Himeville 3.8 and 100 Karmichael Farm, Himeville 4.8. Many individuals seen roosting near Wakkerstroom. Blue Crane (VU) Grus paradisea Up to 100 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7 and 80 West Coast NP 8.8. Abundant and a pleasure to look at. One large group of birds (100) seen roosting near Wakkerstroom. Wattled Crane Grus carunculata 2 Karkloof 3.8. Only one pair was found in the Karkloof area.

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Buttonquails Turnicidae Black-rumped Buttonquail Turnix nanus 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7.

Thick-knees Burhinidae Water Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus vermiculatus 10 Kruger NP 25.7, 6 Kruger NP 26.7 and 15 St Lucia 31.7.

Oystercatchers Haematopodidae African Oystercatcher (NT) Haematopus moquini 3 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total. A few pairs seen along the coast in the Cape Region.

Stilts and Avocets Recurvirostridae Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus 6 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. observed 9 days in total. Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta 10 St Lucia 31.7, 30 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 2 West Coast NP 8.8 and 1 Tanqua Karoo 9.8.

Plovers and Lapwings Charadriidae Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus Observed 15 days in total. White-crowned Lapwing Vanellus albiceps 1 Kruger NP 26.7. Senegal Lapwing Vanellus lugubris 4 Kruger NP 24.7. A handful of birds seen as we entered the Kruger National Park. Black-winged Lapwing Vanellus melanopterus minor 12 Wakkerstroom 27.7, 10 Wakkerstroom 29.7 and 20 Mpempe Pan 30.7. Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus Observed 8 days in total. African Wattled Lapwing Vanellus senegallus lateralis 15 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 7 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 3 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola squatarola 30 West Coast NP 8.8. Kittlitz's Plover Charadrius pecuarius Observed 5 days in total. Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris tricollaris Observed 7 days in total. White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus 3 Kruger NP 26.7, 6 St Lucia 31.7, 2 St Lucia 1.8 and 20 West Coast NP 8.8.

Jacanas Jacanidae African Jacana Actophilornis africanus 4 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 3 Kruger NP 26.7 and 15 Muzi pan 30.7. observed 4 days in total.

Sandpipers and Allies Scolopacidae African Snipe Gallinago nigripennis nigripennis Up to 3 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7. Many individuals seen well in Wakkerstroom. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica lapponica 1 West Coast NP 8.8. One early migrant seen from the Geelbek hide in the West Coast National Park. Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus phaeopus 40 West Coast NP 8.8.

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Many seen in the West Coast National Park. Marsh Sandpiper Tringa stagnatilis 1 West Coast NP 8.8. One early migrant seen from the Geelbek hide in the West Coast National Park. Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia 2 St Lucia 1.8 and 30 West Coast NP 8.8. Many seen in the West Coast National Park. Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola 1 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos 2 Kruger NP 26.7, 5 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 2 St Lucia 31.7.

Pratincoles and Coursers Glareolidae Collared Pratincole Glareola pratincola 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8.

Gulls, Terns, and Skimmers Laridae Grey-headed Gull Chroicocephalus cirrocephalus poiocephalus Observed 7 days in total. Hartlaub's Gull Chroicocephalus hartlaubii Observed 5 days in total. Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus Observed 5 days in total. Caspian Tern Hydroprogne caspia 3 St Lucia 31.7, 2 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. Greater Crested Tern Thalasseus bergii bergii 30 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8, 40 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total. A flock seen on the beach at Cape Vidal. Sandwich Tern Thalasseus sandvicensis 6 West Coast NP 8.8. A small flock seen at Seeberg hide in the West Coast National Park. Antarctic Tern Sterna vittata 2 West Coast NP 6.8. Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida 1 Muzi pan 30.7 and 1 St Lucia 1.8. White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus 1 Muzi pan 30.7.

Skuas and Jaegers Stercorariidae Brown Skua Stercorarius antarcticus 12 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Many birds seen on the pelagic flying overhead.

Sandgrouse Pteroclidae Double-banded Sandgrouse Pterocles bicinctus 2 Kruger NP 26.7. A pair seen briefly when the flew in next to the road in the Kruger National Park.

Pigeons and Doves Columbidae Rock Dove Columba livia livia Observed 10 days in total. Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea phaeonota Observed 14 days in total. African Olive Pigeon Columba arquatrix Observed 6 days in total.

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Mourning Collared Dove Streptopelia decipiens ambigua 40 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 heard Kruger NP 26.7. Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata Observed 16 days in total. Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola Observed 16 days in total. Laughing Dove Spilopelia senegalensis senegalensis Observed 13 days in total. Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos Observed 7 days in total. Tambourine Dove Turtur tympanistria 1 heard St Lucia 1.8 and 1 Karkloof 3.8. observed 3 days in total. An out of range bird seen flying alongside the car in Cape Town. Namaqua Dove Oena capensis capensis 8 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. observed 2 days in total. African Green Pigeon Treron calvus delalandii 2 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 St Lucia 31.7 and 7 St Lucia 1.8.

Turacos Musophagidae Livingstone's Turaco Tauraco livingstonii reichenowi 2 St Lucia 31.7 and 2 St Lucia 1.8. Excellent views of especially one individual curiously perching out in the open in St.Lucia Knysna Turaco Tauraco corythaix 2 Karkloof 3.8. A pair seen in the Karkloof area. Purple-crested Turaco Tauraco porphyreolophus porphyreolophus 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. observed 7 days in total. Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor Observed 5 days in total.

Cuckoos Cuculidae Burchell's Coucal Centropus burchellii burchellii 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 heard St Lucia 31.7 and 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. observed 5 days in total. Klaas's Cuckoo Chrysococcyx klaas 1 Marutswa NR 3.8. African Emerald Cuckoo Chrysococcyx cupreus 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. A beautiful male seen singing in Dlinza Forest.

Owls Strigidae African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis senegalensis Up to 1 Kruger NP 24-26.7. Southern White-faced Owl Ptilopsis granti 2 Kruger NP 26.7. A pair seen roosting in the Kruger National Park. Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus africanus 1 Karmichael Farm, Himeville 3.8. Verreaux's Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus 2 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. A pair seen on our night drive in the Kruger National Park. African Wood Owl Strix woodfordii woodfordii 2 Kruger NP 26.7. A pair seen roosting in the Kruger National Park.

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Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum licua 4 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 2 Kruger NP 25-27.7. Marsh Owl Asio capensis capensis 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7. One birds seen perched in the late afternoon in Wakkerstroom.

Nightjars and Allies Caprimulgidae Swamp Nightjar Caprimulgus natalensis natalensis 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 31.7. A single male flew overhead on a night drive in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Swifts Apodidae African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus Observed 9 days in total. Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba 100 Ceres 8.8. observed 2 days in total. Huge flocks were seen on our way to Ceres when hundreds of individuals formed flocks to catch errupting . African Black Swift Apus barbatus barbatus 30 Rooi-Els 7.8 and 40 Ceres 8.8. Huge flocks were seen on our way to Ceres when hundreds of individuals formed flocks to catch errupting termites. Little Swift Apus affinis Observed 4 days in total. Huge flocks were seen on our way to Ceres when hundreds of individuals formed flocks to catch errupting termites. White-rumped Swift Apus caffer 15 Johannesburg 23.7.

Mousebirds Coliidae Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus Observed 13 days in total. White-backed Mousebird Colius colius 3 West Coast NP 8.8 and 4 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus Observed 5 days in total.

Trogons Trogonidae Narina Trogon Apaloderma narina narina 1 heard St Lucia 31.7.

Rollers Coraciidae Coracias naevius mosambicus 1 Kruger NP 23.7 and 2 Kruger NP 25.7. Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus caudatus 10 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, up to 30 Kruger NP 24-27.7 and 4 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. observed 8 days in total. Mangrove Kingfisher Halcyon senegaloides 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8. A pair was seen in the Umlalazi Nature Reserve eating crabs. Malachite Kingfisher Corythornis cristatus cristatus 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7. Half-collared Kingfisher Alcedo semitorquata 1 Sani Pass 4.8. 1 bright individual was seen in a stream at the start of Sani Pass.

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Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima maxima 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 Kruger NP 26.7. observed 3 days in total. Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis rudis Observed 10 days in total.

Bee-eaters Meropidae Little Bee-eater Merops pusillus 1 Kruger NP 27.7 and 5 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 6 Kruger NP 26.7. observed 3 days in total.

Hoopoes Upupidae African Hoopoe Upupa africana Observed 9 days in total.

Woodhoopoes and Scimitar-bills Phoeniculidae Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus 10 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Kruger NP 27.7 and 7 Sani Pass 4.8. A family was observed nicely at Satara Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park. Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas 2 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 Kruger NP 26.7. observed 3 days in total.

Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae Southern Ground Hornbill (VU) Bucorvus leadbeateri 4 Kruger NP 25.7 and 2 Kruger NP 26.7. 2 family groups were seen in the Kruger National Park.

Hornbills Bucerotidae Southern Red-billed Hornbill Tockus rufirostris 30 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 30 Kruger NP 24-26.7. Abundant in the first few days of the trip Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill Tockus leucomelas leucomelas 20 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, up to 20 Kruger NP 24-27.7 and 3 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Abundant in the first few days of the trip Crowned Hornbill Lophoceros alboterminatus suahelicus 1 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. observed 6 days in total. African Grey Hornbill Lophoceros nasutus epirhinus 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 5 Kruger NP 24-27.7. Trumpeter Hornbill Bycanistes bucinator 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 12 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8.

African Barbets Lybiidae White-eared Barbet Stactolaema leucotis leucotis 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 20 St Lucia 31.7, 20 St Lucia 1.8 and 25 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird Pogoniulus bilineatus bilineatus 3 St Lucia 31.7 and 2 St Lucia 1.8. Red-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus pusillus pusillus 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. One bird showed itself as we left Mkuze Game Reserve. Acacia Pied Barbet Tricholaema leucomelas 1 heard Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. One bird was observed from the Kumasinga Hide in the Mkuze Game Reserve. Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus torquatus 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 3 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 Kruger NP 27.7 and 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7. observed 8 days in total.

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Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii vaillantii 1 heard Kruger NP 27.7. observed 6 days in total.

Honeyguides Indicatoridae Brown-backed Honeybird Prodotiscus regulus regulus 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7. A brief sighting of one bird in the False Bay National Park. Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor minor 1 Kruger NP 27.7.

Woodpeckers Picidae Red-throated Wryneck Jynx ruficollis ruficollis 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 3 Sani Pass 4.8. A pair was seen perched at the start of Sani Pass. Bennett's Woodpecker Campethera bennettii bennettii 1 Kruger NP 26.7. A male bird was seen at the golf course near Skukuza in the Kruger National Park Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8. observed 2 days in total. A pair was seen beautiful near Hluhluwe town. Ground Woodpecker Geocolaptes olivaceus 3 Sani Pass 4.8. Many individuals was seen on the Sani Pass. Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 Kruger NP 27.7 and 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Bearded Woodpecker Dendropicos namaquus 3 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. A few individuals was seen in the Kruger National Park. Olive Woodpecker Dendropicos griseocephalus griseocephalus 1 Karkloof 3.8.

Falcons and Caracaras Falconidae Rock Kestrel Falco rupicolus 1 Wakkerstroom 29.7, 1 Sani Pass 4.8, 1 Rooi-Els 7.8, 1 West Coast NP 8.8 and 3 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. observed 7 days in total. Greater Kestrel Falco rupicoloides rupicoloides 1 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus biarmicus 1 Marutswa NR 3.8 and 1 Sani Pass 4.8. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus 1 Rooi-Els 7.8 and 1 Ceres 8.8. A bird flew overhead in Ceres town.

African & New World Parrots Psittacidae Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri Observed 1 day in total. Cape Parrot Poicephalus robustus 4 Marutswa NR 3.8. 4 individuals were seen coming in to roost at Marutswa Forest. Brown-headed Parrot Poicephalus cryptoxanthus cryptoxanthus Up to 3 Kruger NP 24-27.7.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae Cape Batis Batis capensis 3 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8 and 4 Rooi-Els 7.8.

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Woodward's Batis Batis fratrum 2 St Lucia 1.8. A pair was found calling at St.Lucia. Chinspot Batis Batis molitor Observed 8 days in total. Pririt Batis Batis pririt 1 heard Tanqua Karoo 7.8. Black-throated Wattle-eye Platysteira peltata peltata 1 Umlalazi NR 2.8. A single female showed briefly at Umlalazi Nature Reserve.

Helmetshrikes and Allies Prionopidae White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus poliocephalus 6 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Retz's Helmetshrike Prionops retzii 3 Kruger NP 24.7 and 5 Kruger NP 26.7. 2 Flocks were seen along rivers in the Kruger National Park.

Bushshrikes and Allies Malaconotidae Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 2 Kruger NP 26.7. 2 birds showed nicely in the Kruger National Park. Olive Bushshrike Chlorophoneus olivaceus 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 heard St Lucia 1.8. A single adult showed well in St.Lucia Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus similis 2 Kruger NP 25.7, 2 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 heard St Lucia 1.8. Four-colored Bushshrike Telophorus quadricolor quadricolor 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 heard St Lucia 2.8. A single adult male showed well in St.Lucia Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus 1 heard Wakkerstroom 27.7, 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 2 Sani Pass 4.8, 15 West Coast NP 8.8 and 12 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis 4 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7 and 1 Kruger NP 27.7. Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus Up to 3 Kruger NP 25-27.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla Observed 8 days in total. Southern Boubou Laniarius ferrugineus 1 heard Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7, 2 St Lucia 1.8, 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8, 2 Karkloof 3.8 and 1 Sani Pass 4.8. Crimson-breasted Shrike Laniarius atrococcineus 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. 3 birds were seen together on the Zaagkuilsdrift Road. Brubru Nilaus afer Up to 3 Kruger NP 25-27.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7.

Cuckoo-shrikes Campephagidae Grey Cuckooshrike Coracina caesia caesia 2 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8 and 1 heard Karkloof 3.8. Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8.

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Shrikes Laniidae Magpie Shrike Urolestes melanoleucus 80 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 60 Kruger NP 24-27.7. Southern Fiscal Lanius collaris Observed 14 days in total.

Old World Orioles Oriolidae Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus larvatus Up to 2 Kruger NP 24-26.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7.

Drongos Dicruridae Square-tailed Drongo Dicrurus ludwigii ludwigii 1 heard Karkloof 3.8. observed 6 days in total. Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis Observed 14 days in total.

Monarch Flycatchers Monarchidae Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher Trochocercus cyanomelas 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 2 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 heard St Lucia 1.8. African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. A long-tailed male was seen at Cape Vidal.

Crows, Jays, and Magpies Corvidae Cape Crow Corvus capensis capensis Observed 7 days in total. Pied Crow Corvus albus Observed 13 days in total. White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis Observed 6 days in total.

Rockjumpers Chaetopidae Cape Rockjumper Chaetops frenatus 1 Rooi-Els 7.8. A single male was observed at Rooi-Els Drakensberg Rockjumper Chaetops aurantius 5 Sani Pass 4.8. A few birds were seen in Lesotho and the Sani Pass

Fairy Flycatchers Stenostiridae Fairy Flycatcher Stenostira scita 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8.

Chickadees and Tits Paridae Southern Black Tit Melaniparus niger 8 Kruger NP 25.7, 3 Kruger NP 26.7 and 7 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. observed 4 days in total. Grey Tit Melaniparus afer 3 Sani Pass 4.8.

Penduline-Tits Remizidae Grey Penduline Tit Anthoscopus caroli hellmayri 3 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. observed 2 days in total.

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Nicators Nicatoridae Eastern Nicator Nicator gularis 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. 1 bird seen briefly in Mkuze Game Reserve

Larks Alaudidae Spike-heeled Lark Chersomanes albofasciata 4 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 6 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Eastern Long-billed Lark Certhilauda semitorquata 2 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Sabota Lark Calendulauda sabota 1 Kruger NP 24.7, 5 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Karoo Lark Calendulauda albescens 2 West Coast NP 8.8 and 20 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Rufous-naped Lark Mirafra africana 1 Kruger NP 27.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 3 Mpempe Pan 30.7 and 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. Botha's Lark (EN) Spizocorys fringillaris 3 Wakkerstroom 28.7. 3 birds seen in Daggaskraal near Wakkerstroom. Large-billed Lark Galerida magnirostris 6 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea cinerea Up to 60 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7, 2 West Coast NP 8.8 and 4 Tanqua Karoo 9.8.

Bulbuls Pycnonotidae Cape Bulbul Pycnonotus capensis 1 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 15 Rooi-Els 7.8 and 30 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total. Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor layardi Observed 14 days in total. Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus 1 heard Kruger NP 27.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 15 St Lucia 31.7, 3 St Lucia 1.8, 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8, 1 heard Karkloof 3.8 and 1 Rooi-Els 7.8. observed 9 days in total. Yellow-bellied Greenbul Chlorocichla flaviventris 1 Kruger NP 25.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 3 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 10 St Lucia 31.7, 12 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris Up to 3 St Lucia 31-2.8.

Swallows Hirundinidae Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera holomelas 6 St Lucia 31.7, 20 St Lucia 1.8 and 5 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Grey-rumped Swallow Pseudhirundo griseopyga griseopyga 5 Mpempe Pan 30.7. Brown-throated Martin Riparia paludicola paludicola Observed 7 days in total. Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii smithii Observed 5 days in total. Pearl-breasted Swallow Hirundo dimidiata 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 3 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula Observed 6 days in total. Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica unitatis Observed 9 days in total. Red-breasted Swallow Cecropis semirufa semirufa 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 31.7 and 3 St Lucia 1.8.

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Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis monteiri 2 Kruger NP 26.7. 2 birds was seen at a dam in the Kruger National Park with Lions below them.

Crombecs, African warblers Macrosphenidae Cape Grassbird Sphenoeacus afer 1 Sani Pass 4.8 and 1 heard Ceres 9.8. 1 individual was observed well singing in Sani Pass. Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens Observed 6 days in total. Victorin's Warbler Cryptillas victorini 2 Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 7.8. 2 birds were seen very well although it being a tough bird to get views of.

Reed-Warblers and Allies Acrocephalidae Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris 1 heard Kruger NP 26.7, 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 1 Wakkerstroom 29.7, 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 heard Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8.

Grassbirds and Allies Locustellidae Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 1 heard West Coast NP 8.8.

Cisticolas and Allies Cisticolidae Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops nyasa 2 Kruger NP 26.7. Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana Observed 5 days in total. Tinkling Cisticola Cisticola rufilatus 1 Kruger NP 25.7. Grey-backed Cisticola Cisticola subruficapilla 2 Rooi-Els 7.8, 10 West Coast NP 8.8 and 4 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Wailing Cisticola Cisticola lais 2 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 5 Sani Pass 4.8. Rufous-winged Cisticola Cisticola galactotes galactotes 3 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8 and 1 heard Umlalazi NR 2.8. Levaillant's Cisticola Cisticola tinniens 3 Sani Pass 4.8, 12 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 1 West Coast NP 8.8 and 3 Ceres 9.8. Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis natalensis 5 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. Neddicky Cisticola fulvicapilla 2 Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 7.8. Desert Cisticola Cisticola aridulus 2 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Wing-snapping Cisticola Cisticola ayresii ayresii 2 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava 5 Kruger NP 25.7, 5 Kruger NP 26.7 and 5 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Black-chested Prinia Prinia flavicans 5 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Karoo Prinia Prinia maculosa Observed 6 days in total. Drakensberg Prinia Prinia hypoxantha 2 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 2 Karkloof 3.8 and 2 Sani Pass 4.8.

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Namaqua Warbler Phragmacia substriata 4 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. 2 separate pairs gave good views in the Tanqua Karoo. Bar-throated Apalis Apalis thoracica 1 heard Dlinza Forest NR 2.8, 2 Karkloof 3.8, 1 Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens 7.8 and 5 West Coast NP 8.8. Rudd's Apalis Apalis ruddi fumosa 4 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 4 St Lucia 31.7 and 2 St Lucia 1.8. Many pairs were seen in Mkuze Game Reserve and St.Lucia. Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 2.8. observed 7 days in total. Rufous-eared Warbler Malcorus pectoralis 6 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Green-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 heard Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 St Lucia 2.8. Cinnamon-breasted Warbler Euryptila subcinnamomea 3 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. A single bird was first spotted in the morning light, and then later came 2 birds that were nest building. Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis 1 Kruger NP 25.7. Only a single sighting of one bird on our first day in the Kruger National Park. Karoo Eremomela Eremomela gregalis gregalis 5 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. A noisy family group was seen in the afternoon as we left the Tanqua Karoo. Burnt-necked Eremomela Eremomela usticollis usticollis 6 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 1 Kruger NP 25.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. observed 4 days in total.

Laughingthrushes Leiothrichidae Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii jardineii 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 20 Kruger NP 24-27.7. Southern Pied Babbler Turdoides bicolor 10 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. A gregarious flock was seen on the Zaagkuilsdrift road.

Old World Warblers Sylviidae Bush Blackcap (NT) Lioptilus nigricapillus 2 Karkloof 3.8. A pair came within metres of us in a wind-secluded forest patch. Chestnut-vented Warbler Sylvia subcaerulea 10 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8.

Yuhinas, White-eyes, and Allies Zosteropidae Cape White-eye Zosterops virens Observed 10 days in total.

Sugarbirds Promeropidae Cape Sugarbird Promerops cafer 15 Rooi-Els 7.8, 3 Ceres 9.8 and 3 Ceres 10.8. Gurney's Sugarbird Promerops gurneyi gurneyi 7 Sani Pass 4.8.

Starlings Sturnidae Common Myna Acridotheres tristis tristis Observed 10 days in total. Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris vulgaris Observed 5 days in total.

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Black-bellied Starling Notopholia corrusca corrusca 6 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 10 Umkhumbi Lodge 30.7, 20 St Lucia 31.7, 60 St Lucia 1.8 and 20 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Cape Starling Lamprotornis nitens Observed 10 days in total. Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus nordmanni Up to 20 Kruger NP 25-27.7. Burchell's Starling Lamprotornis australis 150 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 50 Kruger NP 24-27.7. Pied Starling Lamprotornis bicolor Up to 100 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7, 9 West Coast NP 8.8 and 30 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio morio Observed 8 days in total.

Oxpeckers Buphagidae Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus Observed 6 days in total.

Thrushes and Allies Turdidae Spotted Ground Thrush Geokichla guttata guttata 4 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. 2 separate pairs seen skulking between the leaf litter in Dlinza Forest. Groundscraper Thrush Turdus litsitsirupa litsitsirupa 2 Marutswa NR 3.8. Kurrichane Thrush Turdus libonyana Observed 1 day in total. Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus Observed 7 days in total. Karoo Thrush Turdus smithi Up to 3 Johannesburg 22-24.7.

Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae Karoo Scrub Robin Cercotrichas coryphoeus 5 West Coast NP 8.8 and 6 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Bearded Scrub Robin Cercotrichas quadrivirgata quadrivirgata 2 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7. Rufous-tailed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas galactotes 1 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8. White-browed Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys leucophrys 1 heard Kruger NP 25.7, 2 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7. Brown Scrub Robin Cercotrichas signata 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina Observed 5 days in total. Pale Flycatcher Melaenornis pallidus 4 Kruger NP 27.7 and 4 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Marico Flycatcher Melaenornis mariquensis 12 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 2 Kruger NP 24.7. Fiscal Flycatcher Melaenornis silens 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 2 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 4 West Coast NP 8.8 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens 3 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 30.7, 4 St Lucia 31.7 and 2 St Lucia 1.8. observed 6 days in total. African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta Observed 6 days in total.

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Cape Robin-Chat Cossypha caffra 1 heard Rooi-Els 6.8. observed 12 days in total. White-throated Robin-Chat Cossypha humeralis 2 Kruger NP 26.7. White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini 1 Kruger NP 26.7. Red-capped Robin-Chat Cossypha natalensis 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 St Lucia 31.7, 6 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Chorister Robin-Chat Cossypha dichroa 2 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8 and 12 Karkloof 3.8. Cape Rock Thrush Monticola rupestris 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 3 Sani Pass 4.8. observed 3 days in total. Sentinel Rock Thrush Monticola explorator 5 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 12 Sani Pass 4.8. African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus Observed 9 days in total. Buff-streaked Chat Campicoloides bifasciatus 12 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Sickle-winged Chat Emarginata sinuata 2 Sani Pass 4.8. Karoo Chat Emarginata schlegelii 30 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Tractrac Chat Emarginata tractrac 12 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris 3 Abel Erasmus Pass 24.7. Ant-eating Chat Myrmecocichla formicivora Up to 50 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. Mountain Wheatear Myrmecocichla monticola monticola 24 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 3 Sani Pass 4.8 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata 24 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 1 Wakkerstroom 27.7. Familiar Chat Oenanthe familiaris 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 1 Sani Pass 4.8 and 3 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total.

Sunbirds and Spiderhunters Nectariniidae Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris Observed 8 days in total. Orange-breasted Sunbird Anthobaphes violacea 8 Rooi-Els 7.8 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. observed 3 days in total. Olive Sunbird Cyanomitra olivacea 2 St Lucia 31.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Grey Sunbird Cyanomitra veroxii 3 Umkhumbi Lodge 31.7, 1 St Lucia 1.8 and 1 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Amethyst Sunbird Chalcomitra amethystina 1 Sani Pass 4.8. Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis gutturalis Observed 6 days in total. Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa famosa 1 Sani Pass 4.8, 2 Rooi-Els 7.8, 1 West Coast NP 8.8 and 8 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Southern Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris chalybeus Observed 7 days in total. Neergaard's Sunbird Cinnyris neergaardi 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7. A male bird was heard singing and then found in False Bay National Park.

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Greater Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris afer 5 Sani Pass 4.8. Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis mariquensis 1 heard Kruger NP 24.7 and 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Purple-banded Sunbird Cinnyris bifasciatus 2 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 15 St Lucia 31.7. White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala Observed 7 days in total.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae White-browed Sparrow-Weaver Plocepasser mahali mahali 5 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. House Sparrow Passer domesticus Observed 15 days in total. Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus Observed 12 days in total. Southern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffusus Observed 8 days in total. Yellow-throated Petronia Gymnoris superciliaris 2 Kruger NP 27.7 and 4 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7.

Weavers and Allies Ploceidae Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and up to 40 Kruger NP 25-27.7. Scaly-feathered Weaver Sporopipes squamifrons 30 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Thick-billed Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 4 St Lucia 31.7 and 6 St Lucia 1.8. Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis 1 Kruger NP 24.7, 1 Kruger NP 26.7, 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 1 heard St Lucia 1.8. Cape Weaver Ploceus capensis Up to 2 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7. observed 8 days in total. Eastern Golden Weaver Ploceus subaureus subaureus 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 20 St Lucia 31.7, 20 St Lucia 1.8 and 4 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Southern Brown-throated Weaver Ploceus xanthopterus marleyi 1 St Lucia 31.7. Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus 30 Johannesburg 22.7, 30 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 20 Kruger NP 24.7. observed 6 days in total. Village Weaver Ploceus cucullatus Observed 6 days in total. Dark-backed Weaver Ploceus bicolor 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 31.7, 5 St Lucia 1.8 and 3 Karkloof 3.8. Red-headed Weaver Anaplectes rubriceps rubriceps 1 Kruger NP 26.7. Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea lathamii 60 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 20 Kruger NP 27.7. Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix 12 Johannesburg 22.7. observed 8 days in total. Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensis 1 Sani Pass 4.8, 12 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 2 West Coast NP 8.8, 1 Ceres 9.8 and 3 Ceres 10.8. Fan-tailed Widowbird Euplectes axillaris axillaris 6 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. observed 5 days in total. White-winged Widowbird Euplectes albonotatus albonotatus 20 Kruger NP 27.7. observed 2 days in total.

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Long-tailed Widowbird Euplectes progne progne Up to 300 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7.

Waxbills and Allies Estrildidae Green-winged Pytilia Pytilia melba melba 20 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 2 Kruger NP 27.7 and 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Red-headed Finch Amadina erythrocephala 30 Johannesburg 22.7 and 3 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Cut-throat Finch Amadina fasciata 2 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 2 Kruger NP 27.7. Green Twinspot Mandingoa nitidula nitidula 1 heard Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 2.8. Pink-throated Twinspot Hypargos margaritatus 12 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. A large group was observed as we left Kumasinga Hide in the Mkuze Game Reserve. Red-billed Firefinch Lagonosticta senegala rendalli 30 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 29.7. African Firefinch Lagonosticta rubricata rubricata 2 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7 and 2 Marutswa NR 3.8. Jameson's Firefinch Lagonosticta rhodopareia jamesoni 7 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. A small flock was observed within a mixed flock on the Zaagkuilsdrift road. Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis niassensis 20 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 5 Kruger NP 27.7. Violet-eared Waxbill Uraeginthus granatinus 6 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. A pair of these colourful birds was found on the Zaagkuilsdrift road. Swee Waxbill Coccopygia melanotis 6 Karkloof 3.8 and 10 Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 7.8. A small group was seen in the Karkloof area as well as at Harold Porter Botanical Gardens feeding on the lawn. Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild 10 St Lucia 1.8, 40 Sani Pass 4.8, 10 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Estrilda erythronotos 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Only one bird was seen preening itself in a mixed flock of birds on the Zaagkuilsdrift Road. Bronze Mannikin Lonchura cucullata scutata 40 Kruger NP 27.7, 10 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8 and 12 Karkloof 3.8. observed 4 days in total. Red-backed Mannikin Lonchura nigriceps 4 Karkloof 3.8.

Indigobirds Viduidae Village Indigobird Vidua chalybeata amauropteryx 15 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. A few breeding plumaged males were found singing on the Zaagkuilsdrfit road. Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura Observed 6 days in total.

Wagtails and Pipits Motacillidae Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis capensis Observed 14 days in total. Mountain Wagtail Motacilla clara torrentium 2 Abel Erasmus Pass 24.7. A pair was found feeding along a river. African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp 2 Kruger NP 25.7, 6 Kruger NP 26.7 and 2 St Lucia 31.7.

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Cape Longclaw Macronyx capensis Up to 50 Wakkerstroom 27-29.7, 3 Karkloof 3.8, 7 Sani Pass 4.8, 1 Karmichael Farm, Himeville 5.8 and 2 West Coast NP 8.8. Yellow-throated Longclaw Macronyx croceus 1 St Lucia 31.7, 4 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8 and 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8. African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus Observed 11 days in total. Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 2 Sani Pass 4.8. Buffy Pipit Anthus vaalensis 2 Wakkerstroom 29.7. 2 birds were seen at close range at the White-bellied Bustard spot. Plain-backed Pipit Anthus leucophrys leucophrys 2 Karkloof 3.8. African Rock Pipit Anthus crenatus 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 heard Sani Pass 4.8. Yellow-breasted Pipit (VU) Anthus chloris 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7. A single non-breeding bird was found at Fickland Pan in the Wakkerstroom area.

Finches, Euphonias Fringillidae Forest Canary Crithagra scotops 30 Karkloof 3.8. Black-throated Canary Crithagra atrogularis 10 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. Lemon-breasted Canary Crithagra citrinipectus 1 iSimangaliso WP - False Bay Park 31.7. Yellow-fronted Canary Crithagra mozambica Observed 10 days in total. Cape Siskin Crithagra totta 6 Harold Porter N.Botanical Garden 7.8. Many birds were found in the Cape Region. Drakensberg Siskin Crithagra symonsi 10 Sani Pass 4.8. Many birds were found in Lesotho. Yellow Canary Crithagra flaviventris 25 West Coast NP 8.8 and 50 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Brimstone Canary Crithagra sulphurata 6 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 4 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 4 days in total. Streaky-headed Seedeater Crithagra gularis 3 Sani Pass 4.8. White-throated Canary Crithagra albogularis 3 West Coast NP 8.8 and 2 Tanqua Karoo 9.8. Protea Canary Crithagra leucoptera Observed 1 day in total. A pair of birds was seen on our final day next to the road on the Du Toitskloof Pass. Cape Canary Serinus canicollis canicollis 24 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 15 Karkloof 3.8, 1 heard Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 1 West Coast NP 8.8 and 5 Ceres 9.8.

Buntings, Sparrows and Allies Emberizidae Cinnamon-breasted Bunting Emberiza tahapisi tahapisi 2 Sani Pass 4.8. Cape Bunting Emberiza capensis 10 Wakkerstroom 28.7, 35 Sani Pass 4.8, 1 Rooi-Els 7.8, 1 West Coast NP 8.8 and 10 Tanqua Karoo 9.8.

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Golden-breasted Bunting Emberiza flaviventris 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 12 Kruger NP 27.7, 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 1 Marutswa NR 3.8.

Mammals (58 in total: 58 seen)

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

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

Elephants Elephantidae African Elephant Loxodonta africana Up to 12 Kruger NP 24-27.7.

Hylaxes Procaviidae Rock Hyrax Procavia capensis 3 Abel Erasmus Pass 24.7, 2 Sani Pass 4.8 and 2 Stony Point 7.8.

Galagos Galagidae Thick-tailed Greater Galago Otolemur crassicaudatus crassicaudatus 1 heard Kruger NP 26.7, 1 heard Kruger NP 27.7, 1 heard Umkhumbi Lodge 30.7, 6 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 31.7 and 1 heard St Lucia 2.8. Many were seen on our night drive into the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Old World monkeys Cercopithecidae Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis 6 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. A single troop was seen as we arrived into Cape Vidal. Vervet Chlorocebus pygerythrus Observed 9 days in total. Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus ursinus Observed 5 days in total.

Rabbits, Hares Leporidae Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis 3 Kruger NP 25.7.

True Mice and Rats, Gerbils, Spiny Mice, Crested Rat Muridae Sloggett's Vlei Rat Otomys sloggetti 30 Sani Pass 4.8. They were numerous in Lesotho.

Squirrels Sciuridae Smith's Bush Squirrel Paraxerus cepapi 5 Kruger NP 25.7 and 3 Kruger NP 26.7. Red Bush Squirrel Paraxerus palliatus 1 St Lucia 31.7 and 4 St Lucia 1.8. South African Ground Squirrel Xerus inauris 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7.

Cats Felidae Lion Panthera leo leo Up to 28 Kruger NP 24-26.7.

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A single day produced almost 30 individuals. Sightings were right next to the vehicle and even on a kill with cubs. Leopard Panthera pardus pardus 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7. Only one individual was seen briefly by some in the Mkuze Game Reserve.

Mongooses Herpestidae Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata 1 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 6 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Common Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula 5 Kruger NP 24.7. Cape Grey Mongoose Herpestes pulverulentus 1 Strandfontein Sewage Works 5.8, 1 Rooi-Els 7.8 and 1 Ceres 9.8. Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguineus 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7, 2 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 2 Umlalazi NR 2.8. Meerkat Suricata suricatta 4 Wakkerstroom 27.7 and 5 Wakkerstroom 28.7. A few groups were seen standing on their haunches in the Wakkerstroom area.

Hyenas, Aardwolf Hyaenidae Spotted Hyaena Crocuta crocuta Up to 20 Kruger NP 25-27.7.

Vivets, Genets Viverridae Common Genet Genetta genetta 2 Kruger NP 25.7 and 3 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 31.7.

Wolves, Coyote, Foxes, Jackals Canidae Side-striped Jackal Canis adustus 2 Kruger NP 26.7. A pair was seen right next to the road in Kruger National Park. Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas 1 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7 and 3 Kruger NP 25.7.

Weasels, Skunks, Otters Mustelidae Spotted-necked Otter Lutra maculicollis 1 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 Wakkerstroom 29.7. 1 individual was seen twice in the Wakkerstroom area. Honey Badger Mellivora capensis 3 Kruger NP 26.7. 3 were seen early morning.

Sea Lions Otariidae Afro-Australian Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus 50 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8.

Zebras, Horse, Asses Equidae Plains Zebra Equus quagga Observed 8 days in total.

Rhinceroses Rhinocerotidae White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum simum 8 Kruger NP 26.7 and 4 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. observed 3 days in total.

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Pigs Suidae Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus sundevallii Observed 6 days in total. Bushpig Potamochoerus larvatus 15 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 31.7.

Oceanic Dolphins Delphinidae Long-beaked Common Dolphin Delphinus capensis 1000 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8.

Bowhead and Right Whales Balaenidae Southern Right Whale Eubalaena australis 1 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8.

Rorquals Balaenopteridae Bryde's Whale Balaenoptera edeni 1 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Seen on the Pelagic as we were on our way back. Humpback Whale Megaptera novaeangliae 2 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8 and 3 Cape Town Pelagic 6.8. Seen on the Pelagic as we were on our way back.

Hippopotamuses Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius capensis 1 heard St Lucia 2.8. observed 8 days in total.

Cattle, Antelopes, Sheep, Goats Bovidae Impala Aepyceros melampus melampus Observed 6 days in total. Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus 15 Sani Pass 4.8. observed 2 days in total. Springbok Antidorcas marsupialis Observed 5 days in total. Natal Red Duiker Cephalophus natalensis 5 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 1 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7, 6 St Lucia 31.7 and 10 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. Black Wildebeest Connochaetes gnou 5 Wakkerstroom 28.7. Common Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus Observed 6 days in total. Topi Damaliscus lunatus lunatus 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8. One lonely individual was seen near Cape Vidal from the viewing platform. Blesbok Damaliscus pygargus Observed 6 days in total. Sable Antelope Hippotragus niger 7 Zaagkuildrift Road 23.7. observed 2 days in total. A herd was seen on the Zaagkuilsdrift road. Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus Observed 5 days in total. Oribi Ourebia ourebi 1 Wakkerstroom 27.7. One was seen as we arrived into Wakkerstroom. Grey Rhebok Pelea capreolus 15 Sani Pass 4.8.

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Blue Duiker Philantomba monticola 3 Dlinza Forest NR 2.8. Steenbok Raphicerus campestris campestris Observed 5 days in total. Southern Reedbuck Redunca arundinum 2 St Lucia 31.7, 1 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8 and 3 Sani Pass 4.8. Mountain Reedbuck Redunca fulvorufula fulvorufula 12 Wakkerstroom 28.7 and 1 Sani Pass 4.8. Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia Observed 6 days in total. African Buffalo Syncerus caffer caffer Observed 7 days in total. Nyala Tragelaphus angasii 3 Kruger NP 26.7, 1 Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7, 40 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7 and 2 Umkhumbi Lodge 31.7. Common Eland Tragelaphus oryx 8 Sani Pass 4.8 and 1 West Coast NP 8.8. observed 3 days in total. Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus Observed 5 days in total. Greater Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros Observed 5 days in total.

Giraffe, Okapi Giraffidae Giraffe Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa Observed 6 days in total.

Old World Fruit Bats Pteropodidae Wahlberg's Epauletted Fruit Bat Epomophorus wahlbergi 13 Kruger NP 26.7 and 3 Cape Vidal, iSimangaliso WP 1.8.

Reptiles (9 in total: 9 seen)

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

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

Tortoises Testudinidae Angulated Tortoise Chersina angulata 1 West Coast NP 8.8. Leopard Tortoise Stigmochelys pardalis 3 Kruger NP 25.7.

Afro-American Sideneck Turtles Pelomedusidae Helmeted Turtle Pelomedusa subrufa nigra 2 Kruger NP 25.7 and 40 Mkhuze Game Reserve 30.7.

Geckos Gekkonidae House Gecko Hemidactylus mabouia 1 St Lucia 1.8. Cape Dwarf Gecko Lygodactylus capensis Observed 4 days in total.

RBT Trip Report – Eastern South Africa and Cape Extension V 2016 45

Skinks Scincidae African Five-lined Skink Trachylepis quinquetaeniata 2 Kruger NP 25.7. African Striped Skink Trachylepis striata striata Observed 3 days in total. Variable Skink Trachylepis varia 1 Tanqua Karoo 9.8.

Crocodiles and relatives Crocodylidae Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus cowiei Observed 5 days in total.

Amphibians (2 in total: 1 heard)

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

Toads Bufonidae Guttural Toad Amietophrynis gutturalis 1 seen Umkhumbi Lodge 29.7.

Shovelnosed Frogs Hemisotidae Spotted Shovelnosed Frog Hemisus guttatus This very rare frog was heard after rain in the Eastern Shores of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park 1.8.

Rockjumper Birding Tours Worldwide Birding Adventures PO Box 13972, Cascades, 3202, South Africa Tel: +27 33 394 0225 Fax: +27 88 033 394 0225 Email: [email protected] Alternative email: [email protected] Website: www.rockjumperbirding.com