Kingfisher august 2015 web by blpr2014

celebrating 20 years

BIRDLIFE PRESIDENT RIDGE Randburgâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Own Bird Club affiliated to

August 2015 - No. 61

KINGFISHER

August 2015

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IN THIS ISSUE Number 61 PAGE From the Editor’s Perch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

The Chairman Tweets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Down in the Bird Sanctuary . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Letters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

BLSA News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Sharland Travels – KZN . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Memories by Denise Holahan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

You Saw What? .. In your Garden . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Etiquette for Instant Messaging by Henk Nel . . . . . . . .

Outing Reports: Devon by Gill Isaac . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sediba Lodge by Paul Hardingham . . . . . . . . . . . Northern Farm by Jane Irvine . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

20 23 24

The Snowy Egret Twitch by Peter Sharland . . . . . . . . .

Indigenous Gardening by Karen Nel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

SABAP2 News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Let’s Learn a Little – Wader Identification . . . . . . . . . . .

Birding Bits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Club Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

(photograph of Juvenile Malachite Kingfisher on front cover by Jan Fourie)

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August 2015

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FROM THE EDITOR’S PERCH Yow, twenty years! Where did they all go? Time flies when you’re enjoying your selves. It seems like only yesterday etc etc and other well-worn phrases. But seriously though folks, (another well-worn phrase) I think I can say without fear of contradiction, (another etc), that 20 years on our Club is stronger, better run, well respected in the birding fraternity and set up to continue in that fashion for another 20 years. Why is that do you think? Partly, as John Human our Chairman says, it is to do with the members. You are a loyal, keen to learn, friendly bunch and like attracts like. So we are regularly welcoming new members, (when many clubs are losing theirs), who want to get into more serious birding and see their way forward with BirdLife President Ridge. The other point in our favour is our leadership. From Chairman down we have a Committee that is……….committed. All aspects of running a bird club are covered by people well qualified to do the job. All we need to continue along this winning path is that you, as members, get more involved. If you feel you can contribute to the successful running of our Club please come forward and let us know. We have people on the Committee now who have been there for a long time – not a good thing – and they want off. So let’s be hearing from you. This issue of Kingfisher is literally packed with good stuff. We have combined reminiscence with birding science for the amateur. There are letters from some of our earliest members. Koos van Niekerk our first treasurer, Pam Toner who now lives in Australia and laments their lack of enthusiasm for more serious birding, (an hour’s birding and that’s enough. Time for tea and socialising). Combine this with cutting edge articles from journals and web sites all over the world – the Sharlands were in KZN only would you believe; but it’s still excellent stuff. So read on and enjoy. If you too have a story to tell please let us have it. No seriously, justify our faith in you by telling us about your most recent adventures – in birding that is! PAUL HARDINGHAM EDITOR

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August 2015

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THE CHAIRMAN TWEETS Our Club has made the Big ‘20’. This is a wonderful achievement. 82 members and guests enjoyed a memorable lunch on Sunday 26 July 2015. It was a happy and special event thanks to the efforts of the organisers and participation of so many members. We were really honoured to have Richard and Kim Hughes of SASOL join us as well as BLSA’s Chairman Roger Wanless who presented the Club with a 20 Year .Certificate. Celebrating and indoor activities are mostly done now and with Spring in sight (yes it is – believe it or not!) it is time to get out there and do some birding. The programme has many wonderful outings up to the end of the year and we start 2016 with a very busy schedule – so book early and let’s have an exciting birding season. In between Club events go on your own outings, just phone another member or two – there is always someone ready for a day trip. Share these experiences with us by sending photos and a brief write-up to the Club email. Don’t forget to visit the website regularly and take note of the new central method of sending out the Network – this will help to speed up communication. The Club now owns a fancy Samsung i-Phone (thanks to Errol) so watch out for WhatsApp updates and reports – this is a ONE WAY communication. Should you have something relevant to share you may communicate via WhatsApp, just do this outside the group with the BLPR administrator on 063 399 2854. Please read the article by Henk Nel in this issue and help make this media opportunity a success. Look forward to seeing you out there. JOHN HUMAN CHAIRMAN 4

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MEANWHILE….DOWN IN THE SANCTUARY, SOMETHING STIRRED Our EPWP workers, Luvo and Shartwell, have been working hard over the winter months so your Bird Sanctuary is in excellent condition, ready for Spring. The Maintenance Team really value Luvo and Shartwell and we are happy to tell you, when their contract finishes at the end of July, that they are to stay on at our bird sanctuary pro-tem but may be taken away to do other City Parks jobs as necessary An extra bonus was that our guys were chosen to attend a three day course run by City Parks, on how to run and maintain a small business, which they told us they found very helpful. They also said that they regard their time working in the Bird Sanctuary as part of a learning curve for them. They tackled a wide range of jobs while they were with us – painting the palisade fencing, relaying parts of the wheelchair path, creating an Aloe bed, planting a tree, cutting reeds, removing exotic weeds and they acquired a basic knowledge of the birds in the Bird Sanctuary. Half of our wood pile has been removed by a City Parks contractor and we have hopes that the balance will be taken away eventually. Interesting birds to add to our list were: A Black-crowned Night Heron, which has been ‘nailed to the perch’ under the willows throughout the winter, Jane spotted a Giant Kingfisher and the Maintenance Team watched a Cardinal Woodpecker for a while. Unika Primary School’s Voortrekker Group regularly use the Bird Sanctuary for nature walks and our Sanctuary Breakfast was enjoyed by a record number – 32 members. Plus, I should add, 6 children. Pancakes prepared and cooked by your Committee, were a great success and many thanks to the chefs. As I write, the willow trees are already sporting a green sheen so do not despair, Spring is just around the corner. And, from now on, this is a good time to come and enjoy your Bird Sanctuary. GILL HARDINGHAM BIRD SANCTUARY CUSTODIAN

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August 2015

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LETTERS

Hi to all the “old” members at PRBC who remember us. Thank you very much for the invitation to your 20th Year Lunch. We cannot stress enough how good it feels to receive your invitation and to still feel like part of your wonderful club. As you have surmised about the possibility of us being in the vicinity on the lunch date – it was almost possible as we will be in the Klaserie for the earlier part of July. Unfortunately it proved impossible to extend our stay. (We have the burnt down house re-building project that will be in the critical finishing-off stages with important final decisions to be made at that time.) Therefore sadly we will not be able to attend but we would absolutely have loved to see all of you again. Please contact us when visiting Cape Town. Kind regards to all, Koos & Lydia van Niekerk

A blast from the past – photo of Lydia, Koos and Pam Toner taken on a Club outing to Sani Pass in 1999 6

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Letters (continued) GREETINGS FROM DOWN UNDER by Pam Toner Congratulations on reaching your 20th year as a bird club. Thank you so much for the invite but for obvious reasons won’t be able to make it!! I don’t know whether you are having a speech during your luncheon but maybe you could remind old members of a couple of incidents which happened during my days with everyone? How could I forget the “abuse” my little Opel Corsa took from a certain member – Alec? The same member changing the springs on my chair so that I could not open it!! Seeing a finfoot for the first time and not being able to claim it as a lifer because John, who was with me, denied seeing it! The fun I had with the walky talkies on our convoy trips and John’s and my talk about the Penis Coladas I would drink that night!! The walk I was persuaded to take in the Kruger Park because I thought it must be safe as Eric and Jackie were taking their kids, who turned out to be their stuffed animals!!! And my honour as their next kid was a warthog named Pamela. Going to Papillon with Gill and Paul and the beautiful view from the veranda. Going to Marloth Park with Nicky and Sandy and the disgusting mess those baboons made in our chalet after they entered through a slightly open window. They had even tasted my Earl Grey tea bags and thrown them on the floor!! My last trip to Cape Town when the wind blew all the rain into my tent and I spent a very uncomfortable night in my Kia. I am still drinking Amarula although it is quite expensive here. Can’t give up an old habit, eh!! My sweetie tin went by the wayside as the tin doesn’t empty as quickly as it did in SA. I’m sorry to say that my birding is confined to my small garden. I did join an observers’ bird group when I first arrived here but quickly became very bored with the lack of birds in and around Mandurah. Fortunately I did learn some of the calls and names of the most common birds on these trips so at least I can identify the most common birds. I certainly miss going on our trips and the wonderful members of the club and wish you all the very best for the future. To the new members I can only say that you have joined a wonderful birding club with many experienced people who will help you gain as many Lifers as I achieved. My goal was 700 before leaving SA but unfortunately I was robbed of that by 1. All because I stubbornly refused to go on the boat trip in Cape Town. Best regards - Finfoot Toner 7

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Letters (continued) Thoughts and Thanks from Peggy and Hugh Morgan We so enjoyed our Sunday lunch party and are in awe at the amount of care and fore-thought that went into making it such a huge success. Lovely to see so many familiar faces and some that said hello and had to tell us their names! The food was certainly generous and so varied that it was quite a business choosing - so one had to go back to make sure! Of all the little gifts we were given the box with the nest and eggs was voted the winner as our great grandson arrived with his mom as we got home and I thought I`d show this 18 month old what a birds nest is all about! Needless to say it soon disappeared and doubtless a nest of eggs will be expected to taste good. I`ve hidden Hugh`s little box for when Tyler is a bit bigger! While we are not great birders, we have greatly enjoyed the friendship of members, and have so many birds in the garden that I can bird watch from our large picture window, including a Southern Bou-bou of which we are very proud. As I look through my many dis-organised pictures taken on various get-aways I am so grateful that one doesn`t have to be an expert to be part of the club, and Peg can continue to look at what is growing under her feet, and Hugh is content just being there. With love from us both, Peg and Hugh

INTRODUCING NEW MEMBERS Ainsley Hay Jean-Claude Biart Trevor and Sheilauh Austin Lynn Pickering Andrew Mayes Peter and Margaret Rush

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August 2015

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BIRDLIFE SOUTH AFRICA NEWS FLOCK IN KRUGER 2016 AND LAYMAN’S LAB 9-13 MARCH 2016 SKUKUZA All about Flock in Kruger 2016 BirdLife South Africa has negotiated special discounted rates on a variety of accommodation types at Skukuza for 4 nights, from 9-13 March 2016. Discounted accommodation rates are valid until 30 September 2015 only. To qualify for the special prices on accommodation, delegates must book for the LAB conference or AGM or both LAB and the AGM. Bookings are now open. Flock in Kruger will incorporate the 87th BirdLife South Africa AGM on Saturday 12 March 2016. For information about the AGM contact Nikki McCartney events@birdlife.org.za. All conservation entry fees to Kruger Park will be waived for anyone who books for LAB, the AGM or any activities between 9 and 13 March. Optional guided game drives will also be on offer. The 3rd biennial LAB (Learn About Birds) conference will take place on 10 and 11 March 2016 at Skukuza. LAB is co-organised by BirdLife South Africa and the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, with a special emphasis on showcasing cutting-edge research. A variety of presentations, including talks by legendary ornithologists and conservationists, will ensure an interesting and exciting learning experience focused on the latest in ornithology and bird conservation. A parallel programme of LAYMAN’s LAB (popular lectures) and SCIENCE LAB (focused on scientific presentations) will be offered. Drs Ian Whyte and Alan Kemp, two of the foremost authorities on Kruger’s birds, will present keynote addresses at LAB. The registration cost for LAB is R1 600 for students and R1 800 for nonstudents, all lunches, teas and dinners (cocktail evening and Boma Braai) included. LAB will be preceded by an advanced bird photography workshop by Albert Froneman and a bird identification course by Faansie Peacock on Wednesday 9 March 2016. For more information about LAB, please contact Linda van den Heever BirdLife South Africa web site: www.birdlife.org.za

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August 2015

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Number of cabins sold as at Monday 13 July 2015 = 478 [ balcony cabins and balcony suites are sold out ] Flock at Sea AGAIN! 2017 offers the unique opportunity of a 5 day, 4 night cruise along the continental shelf from Cape Town and back. The route will be specified by BirdLife South Africa for optimum seabird spotting. These waters have produced some of the rarest seabirds on the South African list. With top seabird guides on deck and a variety of onboard lectures and talks by leading seabird experts, this promises to be an unforgettable trip. The 88th BirdLife South Africa AGM will be held onboard during the cruise. Booking Procedure Prompt action is required to secure your berth. To enable BirdLife South Africa to secure the Flock at Sea AGAIN! 2017 voyage exclusively for its members and other interested parties, we need to confirm bookings for 680 cabins by 30 September 2015. A fully refundable deposit of R3 000 per cabin is payable to MSC Cruises and is required to secure bookings. If 680 cabins have not been secured by 30 September 2015, the deposit will be refunded and the Flock at Sea AGAIN! 2017 cruise will be cancelled. However, passengers can take the option of choosing an alternative cruise. The deposit is only refundable if the Flock at Sea AGAIN! 2017 cruise is cancelled. Book your berth by calling the MSC Cruises Call Centre on 011 798 3600 and quote BirdLife. For more information, please contact Nikki McCartney on 083 636 1060 or events@birdlife.org.za.

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August 2015

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MORE SHARLAND TRAVELS â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this time in KZN Jenny and I spent a most enjoyable four days at the Ndumo Game Reserve. Saturday 25th April saw us pull out of Johannesburg, caravan in tow and brimming with anticipation. Our objective in 2015 is to see (or hear) 500 of South Africa's bird species (RSA only), so we're calling it our little big year. At this point the year list stood at 362, with hopes of reaching 400 at Ndumo. Species shown in bold below are new for the year list, although not all the new ones are mentioned below. On the run in to Ndumo from Jozini it was clear that Northern Maputaland has not escaped the bad drought that is gripping KZN; very little water anywhere, and the levels in the Pongolapoort dam very low. On Sunday 26th we drove slowly from the campsite past the vulture restaurant to the parking area at Nyamiti Pan, collecting quite a few species along the way - White-eared Barbet (in the camp), Cardinal Woodpecker, Common Scimitarbill, Grey Penduline Tit, Crested Guineafowl, Greater Honeyguide, African Green Pigeon, Bearded Scrub Robin and Darkbacked Weaver. There were seven or eight Senegal Lapwings hanging around the overgrazed open areas at the vulture restaurant, including a few juveniles; very encouraging to see. We had already seen this species in southern KNP in March, but were able to get much closer to the birds here at Ndumo. At Nyamiti Pan there were large numbers of waterfowl, herons and storks, with a few waders on the far shoreline. Large numbers of both Pelican species were present, in amongst some enormous crocodiles. Noteworthy species included Saddlebilled Stork, Yellow-billed Stork, African Openbill, Woolly-necked Stork, Trumpeter Hornbill, Purple Heron, Black Heron, Goliath Heron, Ruff, Pied Avocet, Water Thick-knee and Hottentot Teal. Raptors were few and far between - African Fish Eagle and African Harrier Hawk showed nicely. An afternoon drive to the now defunct Dipini hide revealed Tambourine Dove and Red-billed Oxpecker, with a lingering European Bee-eater calling some way off. The day ended with 89 species on Jenny's list for the reserve. Monday 27th dawned bright and cheery. We packed our breakfast gear into the car and headed off back to the hide to lounge around waiting for that elusive "mega" to pitch up, which of course did not happen. African Golden Weaver gave us good views in the woodland along the path. Afternoon rain put paid to any birding; our caravan's nickname coming into play again (Modjadji). Some nice birds for the day list, though - Grey-rumped Swallow from the Nyamiti hide, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Retz's Helmetshrike, Crowned Hornbill, Brown-backed Honeybird and Terrestrial Brownbul. 117 species in two days had us smiling broadly. 11

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Sharlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Travels (continued) We were up early on Tuesday 28th to walk down the hill with the everlasting Sonto to the North Pongola floodplain and river. This is an absolute must if you visit Ndumo, with a walk around Shokwe Pan being the other real treat. Birds came thick and fast; Yellow-throated Longclaw, Eastern Nicator, Black Cuckooshrike, Red-fronted Tinkerbird, Grey Sunbird, Squaretailed Drongo, Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Scarlet-chested Sunbird and Georgeous Bushshrike. Alas, no Pels Fishing Owl this time - it was seen the day before. On the trek back up to the rest-camp, Sonto suddenly paused, listening. Pulling out his trusty Sappi guide/birdcalls combo, he briefly played a call. A few seconds later, Neergard's Sunbird was trilling anxiously in the tree above our heads, long enough for good views and a quick-fire photograph. This little episode sorted out the adrenalin rush for the day. The three hours with Sonto had flown past, and we left him with the customary words "See you next time!" A trip to the Red Cliffs picnic site in the far north-west corner of Ndumo is pretty much obligatory, so off we went on the fourth day. The vegetation in the western half of the reserve is mostly thick and tangly, and is home to a special bird that has a light, tinkling, insect-like call. Listening carefully as we crept along, we heard this call soon after crossing over a drift. Careful reversing, listening, reversing, and listening again brought us level with the bird. And there it was, a mere shadow flitting rapidly through the dense tangles. Finally, some binocular views and high fives before marking off "our" Pink-throated Twinspot. Onwards to the picnic spot but not many birds were located here in the heat of the day. The next few hours were spent along the 4x4 Ntikini road, which winds along in the riverine forest; absolute heaven! It did not disappoint, with Southern Banded Snake Eagle and Crowned Eagle being the star performers. Other birds included Grey Tit-flycatcher, Yellowbreasted Apalis, Red-capped Robin-chat, Trumpeter Hornbill, Olive Sunbird, Purple-crested Turaco, Little Bee-eater and Yellow-bellied Greenbul. Although only five species were added to the reserve list, we were on a pretty satisfying 141 species in four days. Sadly this was to be the last day. Trip summary:Four full days (26th to 30th April 2015) Total species seen and heard in the reserve - 141 Year list now stands at 392 species (added 30 species on this trip) Notable species - Neergard's Sunbird, Southern Banded Snake Eagle, Pinkthroated Twinspot, Eastern Nicator, Saddle-billed Stork, Crowned Eagle, Grey-rumped Swallow, Senegal Lapwing, Scaly-throated Honeyguide. - Peter and Jenny Sharland 12

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A FEW MEMORIES OF 16 YEARS WITH THE BIRD CLUB by Denise Holahan In 1994 the Randburg Sun published a notice of a meeting re the launching of â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Friends of PRESIDENT RIDGE BIRD SANCTUARYâ&#x20AC;?. Although Mike & I lived around the corner from the proposed sanctuary we did not attend the meeting. However, as more information about the formation of the President Ridge Bird Club, their talks and outings was published we became very interested. It however took us until 1998 to become members. One of the first memories of the club is that of finding out how little we knew about birds. We promptly went on an intensive bird identification course and have not looked back. Our first weekend away with the club was to Mankwe in the Pilanesberg. Not knowing what to expect we were overwhelmed by the friendliness, assistance and knowledge that were imparted by everyone. A guaranteed way of ensuring that we would be back for many more trips. The outings over the years have taken us to many places that we would probably never have visited. To list a few: Madikwe, Wakkerstroom, Sani Pass, Wolfhuiskraal, Witsand, Mapungubwe and Botswana. Every trip has many memories. Some funny, some happy, some sad, some educational but all very worthwhile. The memory of standing near the point where the borders of Botswana, Zimbabwe and South Africa join gave the trip to Mapungubwe an extra special moment. The trip up Sani Pass, standing on the back of an old bakkie, with hand rails for support, and getting close to the precipitous edge of the mountain road was an exhilarating experience never to be forgotten. The club has participated in the CWAC count at Marievale for many years. One particularly bitter July day has created not only for me, but for many members of the club, the memory of a frozen waterway on which the coots and ducks were slipping and sliding in a most comic fashion. I, always a sucker for punishment, soon became involved on the programme committee. After a while Isabel asked me if I would be willing to take over as programme coordinator as she was expecting a baby. I took over from an extremely competent person and was very happy, after only a short time, to hand the portfolio over to Jane, also an excellent organiser with great knowledge of birding venues.

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August 2015

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Memories (continued) In 2002 I took over as chairperson of the club from Alec. Little did I know that I would hold this position for 10 years. During this time two important events took place. o Firstly, the club became a member of BirdLife South Africa resulting in the need for the club to change its name to incorporate “BirdLife”. A Special General Meeting was held to approve the new name and although a number of members were opposed to the proposal the approval was obtained. The club then became known as “BirdLife President Ridge”. o Secondly, a Regional Forum consisting of the chairpersons of the local bird clubs was formed. This forum led to communication and interaction between the clubs that has benefitted the clubs and BirdLife South Africa. BirdLife President Ridge is known as the “Friendliest Bird Club” and the Sanctuary as “Randburg’s Best Kept Secret”. Both of these statements are so true and I hope that they will continue to be used by the members and the public for many years to come. However, the happiest and longest lasting memories are those of the friends that I have made over the years. Thank you “BirdLife President Ridge”.

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August 2015

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YOU SAW WHAT? ….. IN YOUR GARDEN Returning Home by Cheryl Robinson Since I have "come home" finally at the end of March (Len being here since December) I have enjoyed the most interesting sightings in our garden which I thought I should share with you. Being in a cluster home in JHB without any trees around, we never really saw any birds that we could get excited about except the bulbuls, pigeons, hadedas and sparrows! Since being here I have seen birds which I thought only lived in the bushveld and didn't visit gardens. Among the beautiful sightings in my own garden are the Black-collared Barbet, Crested Barbet, Bulbuls, Yellow-fronted Canary, Pied Crow, Mourning Dove, Red-eyed Dove, Laughing Dove, Cape Turtle Dove, Fork-tailed Drongo, Red-billed Firefinch, Southern Black Flycatcher, Grey Go-away-bird, Helmeted Guineafowl - there are some very strange ones around here, they are white! There are also some which are mottled. Apparently they change colour if they are bred in captivity, but these live in a complex across the road so I'm not sure about that theory! African Hoopoe, Hadedas - not as many as in JHB though, Brown hooded Kingfisher - he likes to take a swim in the swimming pool! Woodland Kingfisher, Bronze Mannekins, Speckled Mousebird, Red-faced Mousebird, Common Myna, Black-headed Oriole - he wakes us up in the morning, African Paradise Flycatcher - both male and female which were here in January but have probably migrated, African Green Pigeon - when I arrived at the end of March these pigeons were in the tree at the side of the house in their hundreds eating the berries. I'm not sure what tree it is as no-one that we have asked seems to know. Black-backed Puffback - he came to visit for the first time at the beginning of April displaying beautifully in the hedge but then disappeared to come back again yesterday! I was very excited about that. Grey-headed and House Sparrows, White-bellied Sunbird, Barn Swallows - gone now, Kurrichane Thrush - he comes for food every day scratching the leaves into a turmoil! Blue Waxbill, Yellow-breasted Apalis - this was a very exciting sighting for me - a first! We also had a Woodpecker visit us one morning, I think it was the Cardinal but it flew off before we could check. Although I lived in Phalaborwa for many years, I had never really noticed the variety of birds found in the area until now since I have become an avid birder! Thanks to BLPR we have come to realise there is more to see in the trees besides leaves! (Ed’ – photos from Cheryl on our website under Gallery – garden)

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August 2015

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You saw what? …. in your garden (continued) Birds in a Winter Garden by Jane & Joe Irvine During winter we notice different birds visiting our garden.  Bronze Manikins for the first time, 10 visit our feeder during the day.  A Red-throated Wryneck calling in the Celtis outside our bedroom window for 2 days.  Two Grey Hornbills flying over and calling a few times.  Black Collared Barbets. Five squeeze into a log each night. I feel sorry for the one at the bottom!  Fiscal Flycatchers.  A Common Fiscal Shrike.  Sunbirds, White Bellied and Amethyst, many more visits because of the flowering shrubs.  We heard and then saw a Spotted Eagle Owl when it landed on our garage roof.  A Barn Owl - We hear its ‘scream’ as it hopefully catches the huge rats around.  AND a new sighting for our garden a Red-headed Finch. Otherwise our usual Southern Masked Weavers, Cape White eyes, Darkcapped Bulbuls, Grey Go-away-birds, Doves, including African Olive Pigeon, Karoo Thrush and Cape Robin-Chat who loves cheese!

This thrush has been visiting us for about a year amazing how it has survived and looking fat and healthy. We call him/she hop-a-long! It uses it leg like a stick to balance on. 16

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August 2015

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ETIQUETTE FOR INSTANT MESSAGING (IM), a.k.a. ‘TEXTIQUETTE’ by Henk Nel Etiquette for IM (e.g. SMS, WhatsApp, GTalk, Facebook Messenger, etc.) is very much the same as etiquette applied to all other forms of communication, written and verbal. So when in doubt, think how you would address a person/crowd in a letter or when speaking to them in person. The most important rule/guideline when IM: Make sure it is the right/acceptable medium for the communication you are about to have – it is not a substitute for a verbal conversation or a letter/email, e.g. don’t inform people of the passing of a loved one by sending an SMS, or letting your boss know you’ve resigned. There has even been examples of a spouse informing his/her partner than he/she wants a divorce. Here are the ABC’s of textiquette Abbreviations: The idea of IM is not necessarily to use less letters to describe words, but rather less words to describe a message. The most important rules to stick by when using abbreviations: Abbreviations should not cause confusion, i.e. don’t make the recipient wonder what this new word is you came up with and in doing so, lose the meaning of the message. Only use known abbreviations if you believe the recipient knows it as well. Beware: All IM takes place in the digital realm, i.e. your conversation(s) are recorded and stored all over the internet (intentionally or unknowingly) – don’t share personal data (e.g. bank PIN or passwords), or anything private (e.g. photos). Be civilised: You are conversing with another person - be polite without being annoying, i.e. don’t overdo it. There is no need to shout out everything (using capital letters) or overuse any letter in a word or punctuation marks. Other general guidelines: Be mindful of where someone may be when you are starting your conversation. Time of day: Most families have ‘crazy hours’, i.e. those times in the day when everyone is rushing to get ready for school/work, or wrapping up the day with dinner and bath time. Don’t contact someone if you know they are in a movie/theatre/meeting or socialising.

KINGFISHER

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Etiquette (continued) There is a ‘last time’ in everybody’s day after which it just becomes rude to IM them, for most people that is 20:00. Just like there is a ‘no earlier than’ time of the day. Try avoid IM people if you know they are driving – you put their lives at risk when you ‘force’ them to reply. Day of the week: Although it is 09:00, it may be Sunday and he/she may be at church. For most birders (taking part in the 100K Challenge) any Saturday or Sunday morning is inconvenient (we’re working!). The only time it’s acceptable to break these rules are in emergencies, or at the very least let the person know that you are aware of their scenario and his/her reply is not urgent (e.g. “Hi M, when you have a moment, pls send me Jack’s cell no”) Connectivity: Over-the-air data can be very expensive, so refrain from sending photos/videos when you know the recipient is not in a wifi connected area, i.e. need to download the content over GPRS/EDGE/3G. Emoticons: (using icons of facial expressions to convey an emotion) Emoticons is a very effective way of IM – it’s quick and powerful. However, the guidelines described above applies to emoticons as well, e.g. only use those that the recipient is familiar with and don’t overuse. Grammar and spelling: It always applies. GROUP CHAT A special form of IM is ‘group chat’. Most IM apps allow you to create a group of people (you decide who you want in). When communicating in a group, you are effectively broadcasting a message. Here are some additional rules for group chats. Create a group for a specific purpose. All communication should be relevant to that purpose. Replies to a broadcast should be limited (remember, if you reply, you are broadcasting again) Only reply to all / broadcast if your reply is relevant to all, else reply privately to the sender/original broadcaster Never reply with “ok”, “thanks”, “see you there”, etc.

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Etiquette (continued) Useful lingo: IM is also referred to as texting, e.g. “Kids spend more time texting than reading books”, or “Just IM me your banking details – I’ll EFT the amount”. Useless info: Isn’t abbreviation one of the cruelest words in the English language? Commonly used abbreviations: It is also acceptable to create new abbreviations if they are known between you and the recipient(s). Abbreviation Meaning AM morning GL good luck WE whatever GTs good times Mo, Tu, We, Th, Monday, Tuesday, etc Fr, Sa, Su (ROTF)LMAO Roll on the floor, laughing my ass off BRT Be right there PM afternoon U you W/E Weekend OMW on my way IMHO In my humble opinion RE regarding LOL Laugh out loud Examples: Bad Mary: “Doing any brdng this wknd?” John: “Nope – studies!!!!! ” Mary: “Shame, sorriiieeee!!!!” Greg: “Were going out BIRDING!! Mkhombo!! Joining us?!?!” Paul: “Sweeeet!! 4sure!! I nd to fil sum gaps in my challng list c u 2mrw 2 finlz”

Good Mary: “Hi J, doing any birding this w/e?” John: “Hi, nope – studies…” Mary: “GL” Greg: “Hi P, we’re going out Sa am, birding @ Mkhombo, join us?” Paul: “Hi G, Yes pls! I need some gaps filled in my challenge list. We can then finalise arrangements tomorrow.”

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Etiquette (continued) Examples: GROUP CHAT Group for all doing gate duty at the sanctuary BAD Anne (to group): “Hi all, pls note that the sanctuary will not be open this Sa due to maintenance”

GOOD The best reply is no reply. Mike should have privately IM’ed Anne, unless…

Mike (replies to group): “Thanks Anne! We were planning on going there for a picnic, now I know we need to make other plans.”

Mike (replies to group): “Hi A, some of us at the club planned to have a meeting there – would it still be possible? Or can you suggest another venue?” Anne (replies to group): “Hi M, I will IM you later to discuss a solution.” After Anne and Mike had a private IM or better yet, a phone call, the following is broadcast Anne (to group): “Hi all, re the meeting that was scheduled for Sa @ the sanctuary: the meeting has now moved to Spur at Brightwater, same time. Contact Mike for more info”

Anne (replies to group): “No problem. Should be done soon, then you can come back ” Mike (replies to group): “Yippee!!” Meg (replies to group): “Heyyyy – why wasn’t I invited to the picnic?? ”

Etc, etc

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OUTING REPORTS DEVON LONG WEEKEND by Gill Isaac Eight very energetic and enthusiastic birders went to Devon over the long weekend of 27 April. For some of us, it was our first introduction to words like “euplectids” and “pentads” and led by Henk Nel, we were given numerous identification tips and guides. To add to the excitement of the weekend, during the week prior to our departure, Henk had provided us with snippets of information including target species and a hopeful grand total of 125 sightings! We booked into our farmhouse accommodation at midday on Saturday and no time was lost as we headed out for an afternoon’s birding. While most of us were only looking for birds, what we discovered was that Craig was also scanning for snakes. Much to the alarm of those of us following, we saw him suddenly bring his car to a screaming to halt, rush across the road and grab at a snake disappearing into the grass.

After some very successful sightings it was back to the farmhouse for a quick braai and then out to do “owling”. The Marsh Owls didn’t disappoint as we saw in excess of seven as well as Spotted Eagle Owls, a Barn Owl and after much searching, just one quick sighting of a Grass Owl.

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Outing Reports – Devon (continued) Next morning we were up bright and early for a full day out. With Henk’s help about what to look for in different habitats, we were again very successful. We had lovely sightings of Secretary Birds, Blue Cranes and an Orange River Francolin amongst others. As the afternoon progressed, John decided it was time to take a power nap which he did, sitting quietly on the wall of one of the little bridges while the rest of the gang continued looking for more or our target species. We were hearing the Blue Korhaan, but could not see it!

John catching up on sleep Henk contemplating where to take the group to get ‘sightings’ of our target species Returning back to the farmhouse in the afternoon, we were looking for some of the more difficult species and were rewarded with a sighting of a Pink-billed Lark which created much excitement. At one of the farm dams we also saw Greater Flamingo, South African Shelduck, Fulvous and Maccoa Duck, and Southern Pochard. The next morning, our target bird was the Blue Korhaan and Spike-heeled Lark. Luck was definitely with us as, not long after starting out, a Black Harrier showed off its gliding skills and as we combed a field of grass bales, there amongst the Hadidas we saw two Blue Korhaan. Not much later, Henk identified a Spike-heeled Lark in the road.

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Outing Reports â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Devon (continued) A little weary but still full of excitement about what we had seen, we headed back to the farmhouse to pack up. Celia tallied our sightings for the weekend and confirmed that we had identified a total of 115 species. It was a thoroughly enjoyable weekend. Our thanks to Henk for his hard work and for choosing such a lovely venue.

A very happy group after just seeing 3 of the target species for the weekend (From left: Trina, Gill, Craig, Jean, John, Henk (at the scope) and Chris)

We are reliant on YOU to keep our web site current. PLEASE share your photos and interesting bits of news by emailing them to blpr@pitta.co.za

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Outing Reports (continued) SEDIBA LODGE â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CLARENS M+WIG spent a mid-week at Sediba Lodge near Clarens in April where the accommodation was absolutely first class. We were a mixed bunch of fishermen, birders and in-betweens, (just along for the ride). Excellently planned by Ron Timm, every day was something different: Golden Gate National Park, Witsieshoek to try and see the Bearded Vulture (which we saw beautifully), Clarens for dinner and a couple of us went into Lesotho to see the Katze Dam. Every day our fishermen lashed the waters and disturbed the trout's peace and quiet and several nice-looking fish were caught. Ron wasn't allowed to keep any because Carol, his wife, says their freezer is stuffed full of fish from previous expeditions that they must either eat or give away. Our picture shows the happy bunch: From left; Carol and Ron Timm, Sheila von der Becke, Paul Hardingham, Elspeth Jansen, Hugh and Peggy Morgan, Ad' van Dongen, Gill Hardingham, Peter Van Twisk, Jen van Dongen and kneeling, Willie Jansen.

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Outing Reports (continued) Northern Farm (Wednesday 24th June 2015) by Jane Irvine 14 Members arrived at the gate and would you believe we were all on time! The morning was cold but at least we had clear skies. We warmed ourselves up with coffee and had a quick bite to eat at the cycle area before driving around the farm. On the fence in the top cattle pens Errol pointed out three birds with white breasts, much to our surprise they turned out to be Namaqua Doves, not very common in the area. Two Marsh Owls took off as we drove past. The various dams had plenty of ducks, coots and Great Crested Grebes with a striped chick which most members had never seen before. While at one of the hides a huge flock of Gypos flew in and as we were leaving we spotted the resident African Fish and Long Crested Eagles. 69 species seen and heard which, for a winter outing, is a good number. It was lovely to have some new members in the group. Being able to visit Northern Farm during the week is a great privilege as you don’t have the weekend cyclists to contend with. (A summer outing has been organized, please check the new programme and book early.)

The SASOL Bird Fair is on 5th and 6th of September PLEASE check your bookshelves

Our aim is to once again sell ‘pre-owned’ natural history (birds, mammals, trees, flowers etc), coffee table travel books, photographic books etc. Contact Celia Human on 011 704 3196 or email: chuman@pitta.co.za Collection will be arranged

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THE SNOWY EGRET TWITCH by Peter Sharland The words “MEGA ALERT from SARBN” stared at me from the computer screen. It was 9th June 2015. These words signal the discovery of another rare vagrant somewhere in our sub-region, and set the twitcher’s heartstrings a-flutter. A Snowy Egret! Normally at home in North America, this species migrates to central and South America when the North American winter arrives. It is very similar to our Little Egret, with the main diagnostic difference being that the legs are yellow, not just the feet. Not an easy feature to pick up in the field….. Rare vagrant birds in South Africa are found and reported pretty quickly these days, thanks to many more expert birders being out there following their passion, finding the birds and then reporting them to Trevor Hardaker. And so the news gets put out by Trevor in an e-mail message from SA RareBirdAlert. The second Snowy Egret ever to be observed and identified in South Africa was announced thus: SNOWY EGRET – a single bird was found late yesterday along the Black River close to the M5 – Berkley Road intersection (Western Cape) opposite the Raapenberg Bird Sanctuary hide (more or less at 33 55 44 S 18 28 42 E) and was refound this morning again in the same area and a number of people (including myself) have now connected with it. This is a true mega and only the 2nd ever record for Southern Africa – found by Dominic and Patrick Rollinson. A whole working week lay ahead, with no chance of getting to Cape Town earlier than the weekend. Please Trevor, or someone, nail the bird to the reedbeds for us! As it turned out, Jenny and I flew down on the earliest Saturday flight, drove the 20 minutes from CT International to the banks of the Black River, and found the bird within 20 minutes, after confirming with some departing birders that it was still around. Phew! One of our less frustrating and easiest twitches, with a bonus of a weekend in Cape Town. The Snowy stayed around in that area of the Black River until Wednesday 1st July. It gave rise to the biggest twitch Southern Africa has ever seen, with over 1100 birders confirming to Trevor Hardaker that they had connected with the bird. (Photo of the Snowy Egret on back inside cover)

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REAPING THE REWARDS OF INDIGENOUS GARDENING By Karen Nel I’ve realised that being observant of the gardens around you yields valuable insight when planning or changing your own garden. Through this consciousness I’ve come to realise which plants require less attention, while attracting the very attention of insects, reptiles and birds alike – thus making the garden truly come alive. It also turns out that indigenous plants are greatly rewarding because you can eventually take a step back and let nature do its thing. This has been the greatest incentive of adding mostly indigenous plants to our garden since moving here five years ago. Initially I was disheartened by the fact that our garden was rather bare with only a handful of trees and sparse shrubs and open beds. However, this turned out to be a blessing, as it not only forced me to jump into action, but also offered a blank canvass to explore. With a serial-birder in the family, it’s impossible for some of that enthusiasm not to rub off on me as a gardener. So as a result, indigenous planting has become somewhat of a passion: resulting in the felling of large pine, conifer and palm trees to compliment this, whilst making space for more favourable species. The rewards have been plentiful, and with this article, I hope to share some of the insights I’ve gathered thus far to help reduce your gardening effort, whilst increasing nature’s rich rewards in return. Many books on gardening encourage one to be observant of plants that thrive in the neighbourhood - which has certainly guided my thinking in general. However, shifting your attention to municipal gardens and those of shopping centres shouldn’t be overlooked, as they seem to plant indigenous as a rule of thumb. So I’ve started looking specifically at what is planted on pavements, as those plants hardly receive any special attention and need to survive the harsh local climate. Proven winners include stinkwood trees, wild iris, plumbago, and various species of aloe, agapanthus and strelitzia. Nature reserves also provide trusted clues with Northcliff koppie showcasing proven winners such as wild dagga shrubs and a range of endemic grasses. Each garden poses unique challenges and I now appreciate the worth of reading up on specific species before buying on impulse. Too many temptations end in dead waste – which can be quite discouraging. However, the more sources you consult, the more perspective and confidence is gained in selecting the best plant for a specific condition – which means less costly mistakes. The clay soil in our area poses extreme moisture problems – poor drainage during high rainfall and rock-hard soil when dry, where some plants simply cannot survive such extreme conditions. 27

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Indigenous Gardening (continued) Another consideration has been to select sun-loving plants to cover large open areas in our rather empty garden. As a general rule, I’ve gathered that indigenous plants prefer full sun, although not all - like clivias (another, almost costly, mistake!). It’s also valuable to consider the root system of a plant to ensure a long-term investment, so that plants needn’t be moved, excessively pruned or even cut down when they grow larger than planned. The book Creative Gardening with Indigenous Plants – a South African Guide, by Pitta Joffe and Tinus Oberholzer, has been a great companion and source of information. So imagine my shock when I discovered that I had been propagating invasive species - despite all my reading! I stumbled upon an article that lists invasive species not to be sold, propagated or possessed - where many are old favourites, exactly because of their sheer appeal and easy spread. Such species soon take over with negative effect, as it spreads uncontrollably and thereby competes with indigenous species. I mass planted the chandelier plant, with its lovely orange bells on high stilts with speckled leaves, in various areas before learning that it is actually very poisonous to people and animals! It originates from Madagascar and is classified a class 1 invader (to be removed and destroyed immediately), which took me several months to eradicate in the end. Visit www.invasives.org.za and www.environment.co.za/weeds-invadersalien-vegetation/alien-invasive-plants-list-for-south-africa for the detailed list of species with additional information to save you the trouble. Another tip to make your work lighter is to mass plant species. It means less maintenance when plants self-seed, saving you the hassle of thinning out or constantly separating species from one another. From a design layout perspective, this approach adds visual impact and compliments garden rooms by clearly defining areas with striking effect, which encourages creative gardening with hard landscaping and walkways to link these different rooms. But the biggest bonus is that your garden starts supplementing itself with new growth and when it simply becomes too much, you can relocate or share liberally! Harvesting rooted side shoots has become somewhat of a fetish, where I’ve transplanted ample young dogwood trees along the parameter of our boundary wall. This small to medium tree has a fast growth rate (up to 1m annually), a non-aggressive root system and evergreen leaves to act as an effective screen. It’s also a popular with fruit-eating birds.

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Indigenous Gardening (continued) A continual source of inspiration remains a Chinese proverb that says “The best fertilizer is the gardener’s shadow” and this has rung true for me. Therefore I like to water the garden at least once a week so that I get to study plants up close, which is when I notice a new plague of aphids, snail-bitten holes or mildew on sensitive new growth for immediate attention. Fortunately, indigenous plants don’t like to have their roots disturbed, which is a huge advantage as it means that leaves can just be left lying to serve as moisture-locking, nutrient-rich mulch. This certainly makes my work light, whilst promoting the natural life cycle. The rewards have thus far been numerous. The garden looks naturally kept for longer throughout the year, as it is well adapted to the rainfall climate. It also demands less attention in terms of pruning, weeding and watering – especially the endemic species, where the cape holly tree (Ilex Mites) easily droops when it hasn’t been watered for a week. But most exciting is that it has encouraged the return of wildlife such as insects, bees, birds and reptiles. It has been simply amazing to see how many bird species visit and clearly thrive in the garden. The Burchell’s Coucal often visits to look for gems amongst the shrubberies, where the Cape Robin Chat, Karoo Thrush and Southern Fiscal often scan the rockery for their next meal or simply grace the branches of trees. Newly planted trees, dotted along and inside the lawn provide perching posts, frequented by the Fiscal Flycatcher and Dark-capped Bulbul. Other regular visitors include the Crested and Black-collared Barbets, African Olive Pigeon, Mousebirds (speckled and red-faced), Cape White-eye, Southern Boubou, Bronze Mannekins and sunbirds (both the White and Amethyst). The Southern Masked Weavers build more nests every year, with two recently completed right in front of our bedroom window. I have never seen so many different species, and number of each, in our garden before – and the numbers increase day by day it seems. Of course the garden also boasts a few birdbaths, with regular bathing displays to entertain the voyeur in us. The garden seemed to have reached full circle, with the result quite tangible when I mention the number of visitors it attracts, feeds and houses. However, I still experience the intense rush of adding a new ‘plant lifer’ to the domestic ecology, and still need to practice restraint when faced with an exotic looking succulent I desire but know nothing about. Then I remember to follow my own tried and tested guidelines to avoid disappointment and suddenly admire how far I’ve come since those first impulse buys, only a few years ago. 29

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SABAP2 NEWS Turning Kruger Green (TKG) – June 2015 As at 30 June, 2015 we are halfway through the registered duration period of the SABAP2 Greater Kruger National Park project. SANParks registered the project as a research project to expire on 31 December, 2016. The SABAP2 study area includes the entire Kruger National Park plus the adjoining area east of 31°E and north of 26°S, other than pentads entirely within Swaziland. The total area has 447 pentads and a number of these only have a small section within the study area and the balance in neighbouring countries such as Mozambique, Swaziland and Zimbabwe. The set target is for all 447 pentads to turn green (have a minimum of four atlas cards each) by the time the project expires, thus the project is termed Turning Kruger Green. This name was given to it by BirdLife Lowveld when they adopted the project and took it under their wing. The support and assistance given by BLL has been immense and has made the work done by those of us on the ground much easier than it would otherwise have been. We are pleased to announce that halfway through the project a total of 359 pentads have been turned green which makes the project a massive 89.75% towards completion by 31 December, 2016. Much of the work done so far has been by enthusiastic Citizen Scientists in areas open to the general public, and those who have contributed to date are commended. Registration by SANParks Scientific Services permits four observers to traverse areas away from tourist routes, working in pairs with assistant observers recognised by the project. The four registered observers are Duncan McKenzie, Ian Whyte, Joe Grosel and Peter Lawson (leader). The assistant observers are chosen according to availability from a list of 16. Much of the work still to be done within Kruger National Park is in remote areas away from tourist routes and every effort is being made to reach the goal. Citizen Scientists also have an important role to play as there are many target pentads within the study area but outside KNP, plus a number along the KNP boundaries that can be covered from outside. Keen Citizen Scientist atlasers can also play a part in turning two pentads green within KNP that have not as yet had sufficient coverage. Pentad 2305_3130 needs two checklists and pentad 2405_3150 only requires one list. Both have just a small corner on tourist roads but any atlaser with patience can get a reasonable list by spending two hours atlasing. Other pentads in KNP have had similar coverage. 30

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SABAP2 News (continued) To complete the project by turning all pentads green 177 checklists are needed from 88 pentads and the breakdown is as follows:3 pentads need 4 cards each = 12 checklists 22 pentads need 3 cards each = 66 checklists 36 pentads need 2 cards each = 72 checklists 27 pentads need 1 card each = 27 checklists. Then there is a further challenge set by the ADU to produce 1500 checklists by 31st December 2015. This applies to all pentads within the study area irrespective as to the number of lists they may already have. The reason being that no pentad can have too much data. Citizen Scientists are playing a big part with this challenge and as at 30th June, 2015 (halfway) the total stands at 895 checklists = 59.67%. Thanks to everyone who has made a contribution to date and a big thank you to all individuals, clubs and business enterprises who have dipped into their pockets to make contributions to the TKG fund. This is an expensive project to run and without your valued assistance the project most certainly would not be in the healthy position it stands at to date. Lastly, we must commend the part played by Kruger Park staff in providing advice on access to remote pentads and to SANParks Scientific Services for their co-operation and willingness to assist. - Peter Lawson, Project Leader

“Of course he’s never around …. didn’t I warn you about

marrying a free range chicken.” 31

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LET’S LEARN A LITTLE - WHAT TO LOOK FOR WHEN FACED WITH A CONFUSING WADER Many people find waders confusing because they don’t know what to look for – the key features they should try and record before returning to the books. If you have time to record all the information below, you have a very good chance of identifying any small scolopacid wader that you see. GENERAL o Can you make a size comparison with one or more known wader species in the vicinity? o Is it dumpy, slender, long-bodied or short-bodied? o How does it stand: upright or horizontal? o How does the bird feed: rapid pecks, slow pecks, shallow probes or deep probes? o In what habitat is it feeding? o Is there anything obvious about its behaviour? o Many waders call when they take off – describe the call as accurately as you can. IN FLIGHT o Are there any obvious wing-bards? If so, how many, where, how long, how wide and what colour? o What patterning is visible on the back, rump, upper-tail coverts and tail? This is often crucial for certain identification. o Do the toes/feet project beyond the tail in flight? If so, by how much? o Are the under wings pale, grey, almost black or patterned? If patterned, how? ON THE GROUND o How long is the bill relative to head length? o Is the bill upcurved, straight, slightly decurved or obviously decurved? If decurved, where does the curvature occur; evenly, or predominantly at the tip? o Is the bill pointed, blunt, heavy or delicate? o Is there any colour on the bill other than dark grey or black? o Is one or more that on eye-stripe present? Is it wide or narrow, crisp or blurred, and what is its length? o Is there a crown effect or obvious crown colour? o Are there markings on the breast, upper belly or flanks? If so, are these uniform, streaks, spots, blotches, crescents or chevrons or a combination? o Are there any markings on the lower belly or vent? 32

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Let’s Learn a Little – Wader Identification (continued) o Are the upperparts uniform, spotted or scalloped? What are the colours? o Is there a buff or white ‘V’ present on the mantle? o Are there any obvious marks around the carpal joint, such as a dark spot or white crescent? o Are the legs long, medium, or short? Try to relate leg length to a wader nearby or one you know well. o What colour are the legs? o Do the wingtips project beyond the tail or vice versa? If so, by how much? (article by Phil Hockey – published in Africa Birds & Birding, Volume 3, Number 1)

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BIRDING BITS The Rose-ringed Parakeet Project South Africa 2015 The Rose-ringed Parakeet Psittacula krameri is an invasive parrot species, which inhabits urban areas of South Africa. It is currently listed as a Category 2 invasive species in the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act. However, the impacts of the species on local biodiversity and the environment are not known. Researchers from the University of the Witwatersrand are launching the Rose-ringed Parakeet Project to firstly locate parakeet roosting/breeding sites and secondly investigate the size and distribution range of the Rose-ringed parakeet population in South Africa. This will be complemented by parallel studies (in association with European researchers and ParrotNet) focused on the behaviour of these birds in Gauteng. This will improve our understanding of the ecology and behaviour of the species in South African urban environments and ensure that informed decisions are made by policy makers regarding the status and management of this parrot. All birders, citizen scientists, outdoor enthusiasts, and members of the public are invited to assist with and collaborate on the project by submitting sightings of these parakeets to the project database. We particularly need information on the exact location of permanent roosting and breeding sites as well as the number of parakeets seen. Data can be submitted to the project in the following ways: 1. Using Google Forms. Please follow this link to the data form, fill it in, and submit. You may submit more than one form for the project. Please fill in all required fields as completely as possible. http://goo.gl/forms/ZcRfA76YLz 2. Via email. urbanparakeets@gmail.com. Send an email to this address and request a form which can then be completed and returned. If you have any photos of parakeets, please send them to us at urbanparakeets@gmail.com. Please join our Facebook group (The Roseringed Parakeet Project - South Africa) for more information and updates. If you have any questions or need further information please contact Craig Symes (craig.symes@wits.ac.za) or Elize Fourie elize.fourie@wits.ac.za

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Birding Bits (continued) BIRD MIGRATION Bird migration is a really fascinating subject and it is constantly amazing the distances that some birds travel each year. With the improvements in modern technology, we can now also follow these bird paths more closely. A female European Honey Buzzard was fitted with a satellite tracking system in Finland recently and was of particular interest to locals because it spent the most recent austral summer around the town of Reitz in the Free State in South Africa. She left Reitz to start heading north on 20 April 2015, and on 2 June she finally reached Finland where she will probably spend the boreal summer before returning again next season to visit South Africa.

Here is an image showing the data received from the tracker which plots out the route that she took to head north. In just 42 days she covered over 10 000 km at an average of more than 230 km every single day! (published in Gardening at Leisure, June 5 2015)

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Birding Bits (continued) NEWS FROM ENDANGERED WILDLIFE TRUST, (EWT) A Verraux’s Eagle has been given a second chance at life, all thanks to two Eskom Employees and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT). When two Eskom employees, Thabang Mosase and Phumzile Nikelo were inspecting a power line close to Petrusville , they came across a bird which was unable to fly. This prompted a call to Jeanine Burger, Senior Environmental Advisor, Eskom Transmission Free State Grid, who in turn reported the incident to the Eskom/Endangered Wildlife Trust partnership. Ronelle Visagie of the EWT's Birds of Prey Programme was immediately dispatched to the scene to assist the Eskom employees. She identified the bird as a juvenile Verraux’s Eagle Aquila verreauxii, previously known as the Black Eagle. From observation, it appeared that the eagle had been grounded for a while as its left wing was broken. The bird was taken to the Kimberley Veterinary clinic where it was stabilised and radiographed by Dr. Joe van Heerden to determine the extent of its injuries. After analysing the radiographs it was determined that the wing must have been broken at a young age and had attached at the wrong angle, which would require surgery to repair. The bird has since been sent to Dr Hank Chalmers at Spier Eagle Encounters in the Western Cape for surgery. "The ultimate objective is for the bird to be released back into the wild where it belongs. We are holding thumbs that the surgery will be a success and that the bird will once again be able to soar in the skies of the Karoo. It is an amazing experience to work with all these people who have such compassion for wildlife" said Ronelle Visagie. Constant Hoogstad, EWT's Wildlife and Energy Programme Manager said, " Our appreciation has to go to the two ‘good Samaritan’ Eskom employees, Thabang Mosase and Phumzile Nikelo. Without their swift action and knowledge on what to do, the bird would have had no chance of survival. The Eskom/Endangered Wildlife Trust partnership has developed a course dedicated to wildlife and power line interactions, which teaches employees, amongst other things, what to do when birds are found under power lines. Over the last 5 years more than 9000 Eskom employees completed this course and we are really seeing the results in the form of increased reporting of incidents ".

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CLUB COMMITTEE

PRESIDENT CHAIRPERSON VICE CHAIR TREASURER MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY NETWORK BIRD SANCTUARY ROSTER MINUTES SECRETARY PUBLICITY/KINGFISHER PROGRAMME SUBCOMMITTEE Co-ordinator Programme Secretary Outing Organisers

MEMBERSHIP LIAISON

Jan Fourie John Human Paul Hardingham Errol Kilpatrick Denise Holahan Pierre de Klerk Gill Hardingham Peter Sharland Margie de Klerk Paul Hardingham

044 384-0295 011 704-3196 011 462-9682 082 326-9278 011 791-7154

Jane Irvine Trina MacGregor Errol Kilpatrick Ian Cuthbertson Chris & Jean Dell Maryke Ewen Dee Cuthbertson

011 782-9923 082 587-4863 082 326-9278 011 447-8602 012 807-0226 011 608-4043 011 447-8602

011 462-9682 011 782-8600 011 462-9682

JUNIOR CERTIFICATES BirdLife President Ridge has set in place a scheme to award pupils and scholars, ages 0 to 18 years, JUNIOR CERTIFICATES for sighting a minimum of 150 Southern African bird species. Further certificates will be awarded (increments of 50) as the young peoplesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; life lists increase. Encourage your children to start their life lists now! Apply to Celia Human for more details: 011 704 3196

FOR MORE PICTURES AND OTHER NEWS PLEASE VISIT OUR WEB SITE: www.blpr.co.za 37

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