The Wattled Crane, one of Africa’s most endangered bird species, has been downlisted from Critically Endangered to Endangered in South Africa—an important milestone for conservation. This achievement is the result of decades of dedicated efforts by the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) in partnership with the International Crane Foundation, Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife (EKZNW), farmers, landowners, and other conservation organisations. A...
During a trip to Kruger National Park in 2024, my wife and I spotted a Common Myna feeding what appeared to be a Great Spotted Cuckoo. We were so surprised we forgot to take a photo. I was reminded about the concern that this alien species invading KNP. I thought at least cuckoos were helping...
The male African Jacana (Actophilornis africanus) is a remarkable example of dedicated paternal care. Unlike many other bird species where females take on most of the parental duties, the male African Jacana is solely responsible for raising the chicks once they hatch. This wader, often called the “lily trotter” due to its ability to walk...
On February 18th, a wastewater storage embankment at a copper mine in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province collapsed, releasing over 50 million litres of toxic waste into the Mwambashi River. This river feeds into the Kafue, the country’s longest river and a vital water source for millions who depend on it for drinking water, agriculture, and fishing....
Pamela Isdell, a passionate conservationist and devoted benefactor of BirdLife South Africa, passed away in Atlanta on 18 March 2025. Her unwavering commitment to habitat preservation and species survival, particularly in Africa, has left an indelible mark on global conservation efforts. Born in Scotland, Pamela was educated in Zambia from the age of eight, an...
Settlement secures biologically meaningful foraging areas for African Penguins for next decade to help bring the species back from the brink of extinction. 18 March 2025 – BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB today secured a historic victory for South Africa’s Critically Endangered African Penguin when the Pretoria High Court issued an order of court after...
African Birdlife was thrilled to feature Nicole Sanderson’s art in the September/October 2023 edition of our print magazine. Unsurprisingly, it became one of our most popular issues. Here, we showcase ‘Poetry in Paint’ in the gallery below, including paintings that we didn’t have space for in the magazine. Enjoy! In Nicole’s words: If I am...
A groundbreaking study has upended long-held assumptions about the Banda Myzomela (Myzomela boiei. This striking honeyeater is found across three remote island groups in Indonesia. Previously considered to consist of two subspecies, researchers now propose that these vibrant nectar-feeders actually represent three distinct species, based on significant morphological and vocal differences that suggest reproductive isolation....
Reaching the milestone of identifying 900 bird species in Southern Africa is a significant achievement. This journey, filled with both challenges and rewards, reflects the dedication, passion, and countless hours spent observing and connecting with nature. In this reflection, Michael Mason looks beyond the numbers and shares his insights into the highs and lows of...
