Faansie Peacock

With a name like that, he was destined to become a bird expert! Faansie lives in Langebaan and has started writing a monthly birdwatching column for us (see page 142).

- Suzaan Hall

Why birds?

My first memory is of birds; I’ve loved them since childhood. Birds were the one consistent interest I had growing up and that interest endured through all the typical boy phases. I grew up near Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve in Pretoria and I used every available opportunity to spend time there: climbing trees, hiking the trails, turning over rocks to see what lived underneath and later, stealing kisses. Throughout all those adventures, my love for birds remained.

What does your job entail?

It’s challenging to make a living in birdwatching unless you’re a professional guide or employed by a conservation or academic institution. My other passion is books, so I try to combine birds and words. I write, illustrate, edit, create layouts and graphics, edit photos and draw maps. I see myself as an intermediary between the ornithological world and the general public.

Is your surname really Peacock?

Yes! Many people think it’s a stage name or a marketing trick, but I have the birth certificate to prove it.

Best part of your job?

The feeling I get in the presence of birds: I feel small and insignificant when faced with the ancient and diverse group of winged creatures we share our planet with.

I most enjoy working in the veld. I make sound recordings and videos, and I collect data for conservation projects.