African Birdlife - March/April 2024

In this issue

EASTERN HIGHLANDS, ZIMBABWE • GLEN AUSTIN PAN • BOTSWANA • MOULT • RAPTORS IN PERIL

power-napping penguins

Periodic reduction in neural activity (sleep) is found in all animals with brains and seems to be essential to restore effective brain function. There is plenty of evidence of the adverse effects of not getting enough sleep, and recent research in humans has identified getting sufficient sleep as one of the four core pillars of living a long and healthy life.

2 mins

storm petrels in Kalk Bay

According to Roberts 7, both Wilson’s and European storm petrels occasionally seek the shelter of breakwaters during periods of strong onshore winds, but this is seldom observed off South Africa.

2 mins

Southern SIGHTINGS

The midsummer period lived up to its reputation as the busiest time for rarities in southern Africa and produced a host of really good records, including several that got twitchers racing all over the subregion to try and add these mega ticks to their lists. As always, none of the records included here have been adjudicated by any of the subregion's Rarities Committees.

5 mins

a journey through the mysteries of moult

As a bird researcher in South Africa’s botanically diverse fynbos biome, I have come to regard bird ringing as part of my journey to understanding moult.

6 mins

IN TOO DEEP...again

The annual sardine run along South Africa's east coast is a thrill and a challenge for underwater photographers, especially if you throw birds and inclement weather into the mix.

4 mins

MIDRAND marvel

Gauteng birders don't need to travel far to get their feathery fix. Midway between Johannesburg and Pretoria, Glen Austin Pan has become a favourite patch for this returnee expat.

3 mins

specials IN THE MIST

With a distinct habitat and climate, Zimbabwe's Eastern Highlands are a must-visit destination for any birder wanting to see a bevy of special birds.

6 mins

FULL skies

High summer brings high entertainment to Botswana's Mababe Community Concession and Kazuma Pan.

7 mins

arrivals and departures

The Mouse-Free Marion Project is committed to ensuring that breeding seabirds can return to a predator-free Marion Island.

3 mins

agrochemicals and birds

By the year 2050, it is estimated that 171 million more hectares of agricultural land will be needed to feed a global population of 10 billion people.

1 min

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African Birdlife Magazine Description:

African Birdlife is a world-class bi-monthly magazine about birds and birdwatching in Africa. It includes informative articles and stunning photographs of Africa's birds. Features include: The latest news on bird conservation and behaviour; equipment reviews; photographic tips; competitions to win great prizes. It serves as an important mouthpiece for BirdLife South Africa to create awareness about bird research and conservation.