Winchester College NHS South Africa - Cape & Kruger
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Winchester College NHS
South Africa - Cape & Kruger
21st March to 02nd April 2009 (13 days)
Trip Report Compiled by: Rainer Summers
Tour Summary
South Africa is a country of great contrasts, ranging from the world famous Cape region, housing a
massive selection of endemic fauna and flora, to the diverse Kruger National Park, an enormous area in
the north-east of the country which provides a home to a rich array of birds and huge numbers of
mammals. South Africa is the only fully mechanised country in Africa, and although it still has some
distinctly third world attributes, it incorporates excellent infrastructure and facilities which make travel
here quite easy. Our tour sampled some of the delights on offer in the “Rainbow Nation”, starting in the
Fairest Cape. Highlights in this area (aside from the breathtaking scenery and endemic Cape flora)
included the charismatic Cape Rockjumper, Cape Sugarbird, Black Harrier, Great White Shark,
Bryde’s and Southern Right Whale, Heaviside’s Dolphin and Puff Adder, before making our way to
Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 2
Kruger National Park. This vast reserve did not disappoint, and some of the more interesting creatures
recorded were Bronze-winged Courser, Retz’s Helmetshrike, Green-capped Eremomela, Stierling’s
Wren-Warbler, Martial Eagle, Lappet-faced and White-headed Vultures, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah,
multiple White Rhino, Elephant and African Buffalo, Boomslang, Southern African Python and more
Puff Adders!
We began our adventure in Cape Town, our first port of call being the world famous
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden (first birds seen being the ghastly House Crows that inhabit
the general airport area!). This garden is well laid out, and provides visitors with well manicured lawns,
flowerbeds and forested areas. Here we made our acquaintance with the flora which characterise
fynbos (Protea’s, Erica’s, Restio’s and Geophytes), our walk also bringing many bird species, including
spectacular Orange-breasted Sunbird, Southern Double-collared Sunbird, a roosting Spotted Eagle
Owl, showy Cape Sugarbird, Cape Batis, Cape Robin-Chat, Karoo Prinia, Olive Thrush, Southern
Boubou, African Harrier Hawk (Gymnogene), Black Sparrowhawk, dainty Swee Waxbill, African
Olive Pigeon, Cape and Forest Canaries and Cape Spurfowl.
Despite the seeming abundance of suitable habitat for the Cape Rockjumper on the Peninsula, it
is strangely absent from this area, and as such needs to be searched for on the opposite side of False
Bay in the rugged Hottentots Holland Mountains. An early start saw us heading to Rooi Els, a quiet
seaside village near the eastern extremity of False Bay. Birding here revealed a number of interesting
species, and from our elevated position we were able to see Sooty Shearwater, Subantarctic Skua and
Parasitic Jaeger and Bryde’s Whale. On land, skulky Victorin’s Warbler, White-necked Raven,
Sentinel and Cape Rock Thrushes, Grey-backed Cisticola, Malachite Sunbird, handsome Verreaux’s
Eagle, Southern Rock Agama, Yellow Bishop and the indefatigable Cape Rockjumper were seen.
Possibly the outright stars of the show were the rockjumpers, which put on a brilliant show, much to
everyone’s delight!
After the marvellous scenery of Rooi Els and the eastern edge of False Bay, we made our way
to the Cape Flats and Strandfontein, a water treatment works that is very popular with birders due to the
number of aquatic specials it provides a home for. The large settling ponds were covered in rafts of
birds, and we saw Great White Pelican, Great Crested and Black-necked Grebes, Greater Flamingo, a
single Red-necked Phalarope, Maccoa and White-backed Ducks, Cape Teal, Cape Shoveler, South
African Shelduck, Southern Pochard, brutish African Swamphen, Hartlaub’s Gull, Cape Teal, Ruff,
Pied Avocet, hunting Peregrine Falcon, African Marsh Harrier, Levaillant’s Cisticola and Small Grey
Mongoose.
An early start the next day saw us leaving our base in Cape
Town and heading over the Peninsula to the seaside town of
Kommetjie, a great seabird (and cetacean!) watching venue.
Strolling onto the promontory, we scanned the rocks and soon
found the smart African Oystercatcher, Cape, White-breasted,
Crowned and the endangered Bank Cormorants (threatened by loss
of its food stocks by human exploitation) and an absolute bonus in
the form of three Southern Right Whales quite close offshore.
These massive creatures mate and calve off of South Africa from May to October before returning to
Antarctic waters, so it was very unusual to have individuals present in our waters at this time of year.
Thereafter it was onward to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, which houses the south-western
most point of the African Continent (Cape of Good Hope), as well as some interesting creatures. Here
we observed Chacma Baboon, a herd of Eland and Red Hartebeest, Bontebok, Cape Siskin, Common
Ostrich, and a beautiful, dark-form Puff Adder (quite in contrast to the Puff Adders found in the
lowveld). After a lunch with a marvellous view over False Bay, we made our way to Table Mountain
Cableway.
Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 3
Table Mountain rises to over 1000 m, and is one of the most
recognisable landmarks in the world. The cablecar, which whisks
tourists to the top of the mountain rotates 360˚, giving one a panoramic
view of the spectacular countryside. We ascended to the rugged
sandstone top, where the “Table Cloth” was much in evidence. Strolling
about, we enjoyed the grandiose view (Robben Island clearly evident in
the distance), however, the intermittent cloud made birding difficult, and
aside from the odd sighting of Cape Siskin and African Black Swift, the
only birds which sat around for any length of time were Red-winged
Starlings and Speckled Pigeons.
The following morning we had an interesting time on the slopes
of Table Mountain (where we saw Neddicky, Cape Grassbird, Cape Rock Thrush, Rock Hyraxes
(Dassies), Cape Siskin, White-necked Raven and Verreaux’s Eagle), before we made our way to the
Waterfront and boarded the luxury ferry across to Robben Island. Here, our guide was a gentleman well
versed in island history and later visiting the prison itself where an ex-prisoner talked us through what a
day at the prison was like, and giving us a rundown on probably the most famous of all people
imprisoned on the island, Nelson Mandela. Robben Island has really suffered at the hands of man, and
in many areas is overrun by exotic plants and shabby buildings. Despite this, we saw nesting Bank
Cormorant, our first African Penguin, Angulate Tortoise and enjoyed the breathtaking view of Table
Mountain. Thereafter, we headed back to the mainland for a visit to the quaint
Boulders Beach on the opposite side of the peninsula.
Boulders Beach is famous as being one of two mainland African Penguin
colonies in the world, and provides a fairly safe (artificially so!) environment in
which the penguins can breed. This colony developed in 1985, and is now a
popular site for tourists to view these pied avians. We rounded our day off with a
leisurely visit to the colony, where we could see flotillas of penguins returning
from foraging missions out of False Bay, braying individuals (their “old” name of
Jackass Penguin derived from this noisy call) and a few fuzzy youngsters. In the
distance across False Bay lay Seal Island, our destination for the following day!
Seal Island is a rocky island in the centre of False Bay, and is an
important Cape Fur Seal colony. It is estimated that at least 60 000 seals inhabit the island, and these in
turn attract one of the most feared of all the worlds predators, the Great White Shark. Although this
species is feared and much maligned the world over, the sharks that breach spectacularly off this island
have generated large amounts of publicity, resulting in a drive to study these amazing creatures rather
than persecute them. Leaving Simonstown harbour, we headed into False Bay, soon finding ourselves
in swarms of Sooty Shearwaters above surface and multiple schools of Common Dolphins below us
(estimated by the skipper as around 1000 plus!), spectacular! The odd Parasitic Jaeger was also seen
patrolling the air, and after a short journey we arrived at the edge of Seal Island. After a short decoy
tow, we positioned ourselves in the leeward side of island, and after a long wait, we were rewarded
with a shark. The Great White, approximately 3.8m in length,
was attempting to eat a seal alongside the boats, and later a
different seal met its match at the hands of this mighty fish!
Another interesting creature we saw was Bryde’s Whale, with a
number of individuals showing very well. Thereafter it was
onward to Lambert’s Bay, a small fishing village up the West
Coast.
The cold upwelling of the Benguela Current along the
western seaboard of southern Africa creates a nutrient- rich soup
which supports a rich fishery. Huge numbers of cetaceans,
Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 4
pelagic fish and birds make use of this invaluable resource, and it was these specials that we had come
to see. Lambert’s Bay is a small fishing village on South Africa’s West Coast, and is important as it
hosts a large Cape Gannet colony at Bird Island. We visited the island, which has now been linked to
the mainland by means of a concrete walkway, and marvelled at the huge numbers of gannets sitting on
the breeding colony. Here we also observed huge flocks of Common Tern, readying themselves for
their journey back to the northern hemisphere. Another activity on our morning agenda was finding the
small Heaviside’s Dolphin, a cetacean endemic to the south-west African coast. A short boat ride took
us out to see these dolphins, and although the area was experiencing a red tide, the dolphins along with
a tiny and recently born calf showed very well indeed! Birding south of town added a variety of
interesting species, and we recorded the delightful Fairy Warbler (Flycatcher), Chestnut-vented
Warbler (Titbabbler) Red-capped Lark, distant Cape Long-billed Lark, Fiscal Flycatcher, White-
backed Mousebird, White-throated Canary, South African Shelduck, Little Stint and thousands of
Greater Flamingo.
An afternoon sojourn saw us driving inland to a dusty, narrow valley known as Krantzvleipoort.
Exiting the bus, we walked the gravel road and scanned the scrub on either side of the road, picking up
Layard’s Warbler (Titbabbler), Mountain Wheatear and the special Protea Canary, which was seen
exceptionally well. Thereafter it is was back to Lambert’s Bay and to a West Coast eatery known as
Muisbosskerm, where we ate to our hearts content before dabbling in a bit of star watching on the side
of the road!
The following day we departed Lambert’s Bay in the mist and made our way south, a quick
wetland stop produced amongst others, the largest heron in the world, the huge Goliath Heron and
African Spoonbill. Thereafter, agricultural lands and
strandveld produced Ant-eating Chat, Capped Wheatear,
Jackal Buzzard, Lanner Falcon, Red-capped, Karoo, Large-
billed Lark and brief Cape Long-billed Lark, an obliging
female Southern Black Korhaan and two smart Black
Harriers, before entering West Coast NP through Langebaan
town. The park provides important habitat for strandveld and
wetland species (supposedly between 50 000 and 70 000
waders winter here every year), and showcases a few large
mammal species as well. Birding the strandveld and gardens
at Geelbek produced a number of good birds, and we saw more beautiful Black Harrier, a well behaved
flock of delightful Cape Penduline Tit, a very co-operative covey of Grey-winged Francolin and a
stunning male Southern Black Korhaan, Cape Weaver, Yellow Bishop, African Hoopoe, Bar-throated
Apalis, smart Cape Longclaw, Yellow Canary and more Angulate Tortoises. Of interest was the
number of snake skins found at Seeberg Lookout, this most likely indicative of a thriving snake
community as a result of the large rodent population in the area. Birding from the wader hides was
quite interesting, the highlights being the many Palaearctic migrants sporting their smart breeding
dress. The hides produced outstanding sightings of Red Knot, Bar-tailed Godwit, Ruddy Turnstone,
Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, Caspian, Common, Swift and
Little Terns, Grey Plover, African Spoonbill, Whimbrel, Terek
Sandpiper, and a single smart Chestnut-banded Plover!
Leaving the Cape, we boarded a plane and flew to
Johannesburg (situated on the “Highveld”, South Africa’s high
lying central plateau), and then drove down into the lowveld
and to Kruger National Park. This is definitely South Africa’s
most famous game reserve, and attracts visitors from all over
the globe. Covering over 21 000 km2, this huge reserve is in
fact more or less the same size as Israel! It is especially
Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 5
important for species which require large tracts of undisturbed
habitat (such as Southern Ground Hornbill), and as such is a
bastion for these species in South Africa. We began our stay
in the park at Skukuza, the administrative centre and largest
camp in the park. This area is covered in mixed broad-leaved
woodland and thornveld, and is a superb area for big cats and
assorted game alike. We spent our time walking in camp, and
driving in the park (both night and day) and embarking on a
special experience in the form of a guided walk in the reserve.
Some of the avian stars seen included Bronze-winged
Courser, Senegal Lapwing, Pearl-spotted Owlet, Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Lilac-breasted and European
Rollers, Red-breasted Swallow, Woodland Kingfisher, Bateleur, Brown-headed Parrot, Bearded and
Bennett’s Woodpecker, Goliath Heron, Southern Ground Hornbill, African Goshawk, Mosque
Swallow, Retz’s and White-crested Helmetshrikes, Levaillant’s and Jacobin Cuckoos, Burchell’s,
Greater Blue-eared and Cape Starlings, White-throated Robin-Chat, Magpie Shrike, Lilac-breasted,
European and White-fronted Bee-eaters, Martial and Tawny Eagles, Lappet-faced and White-headed
Vultures, Saddle-billed, Black and Woolly-necked Storks, while the super skulky River Warbler was
only heard. Some superb mammals were seen, including Leopard, Lion, Cheetah, Hyaena, African
Buffalo, African Elephant, Lesser Bushbaby (Galago) and White Rhino, while on the reptilian front
Paradise Skink, Puff Adder, Boomslang, Nile Crocodile and Water Monitor were recorded.
Heading south from Skukuza, our base for the remainder of our time in Kruger was
Pretoriuskop, a quaint camp situated in a fairly high lying (by Kruger’s standards) and hilly area.
Rainfall is relatively high here, and as a consequence this “sourveld” area is covered in tall Hyperthelia
dissoluta grass and broad-leaved woodland dominated by Silver Clusterleaf Terminalia sericea. Game
viewing was not as good as around Skukuza, but we did
manage to see a different suite of species associated with this
habitat. This is the best area in the park for White Rhino, and it
certainly lived up to this reputation with multiple individuals
seen. Some of the interesting birds we encountered in this area
were Green-capped and Yellow-bellied Eremomelas, Grey
Penduline Tit, Grey Tit-Flycatcher, Mocking Cliff Chat,
African Scops Owl, Fan-tailed Grassbird (Broad-tailed
Warbler), Violet-backed Starling, Marsh Warbler, Stierling’s
Wren-Warbler, African Hawk Eagle, Purple-crested Turaco,
Little Sparrowhawk, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Eastern Nicator, Bennett’s Woodpecker, Secretarybird
and Black-bellied Bustard, while the scarce Black Coucal was heard in a grassy area. Our night drive
from the camp did not produce the phenomenal array of creatures seen on our drive from Skukuza,
however we did see Southern African Python, Square-tailed Nightjar and a ridiculous 24 Spotted Eagle
Owls (some kind of a record for one nightdrive?!).
Our journey to OR Tambo International Airport was fairly uneventful, although Whiskered
Tern, African Snipe, Red-collared Widow and Grey-hooded Gull were seen once we were back on the
Highveld. Thereafter, we said our final goodbyes, reminiscing about a fabulous 13 days in South
Africa!
Photo credits: Cape Rockjumper, Puff Adder, African Penguin, Common Dolphin, Southern Black Korhaan, Bronze-
winged Courser, Lioness and White Rhinoceros all by Simon Woolley and Julia Casson; Disa ferruginea by Rainer
Summers.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 6
Annotated List of Birds recorded
Nomenclature and taxonomy follows the IOC List of Please cite: Gill, F. and M. Wright. 2006. Birds
of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press.
Total species recorded (including heard): 345
E = Endemic, NE = Near-endemic, BE = Breeding-endemic (These abbreviations refer to birds in a
Southern African context), NP = National Park, NR = Nature Reserve
Ostriches Struthionidae
Common Ostrich Struthio camelus
Initially seen in Cape of Good Hope, and later seen in good numbers in West Coast NP.
Guineafowl Numididae
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris
Frequently seen during the tour, with many youngsters peppering the flocks.
Pheasants, Fowl & Allies Phasianidae
Grey-winged Francolin (E) Scleroptila afra
We enjoyed superb views of a covey in West Coast NP. Game bird highlight of the tour!
Crested Francolin Dendroperdix sephaena
Seen well in Kruger, this bantam-like bird was fairly commonly seen on drives in the park.
Cape Spurfowl (Francolin) (NE) Pternistis capensis
Close-ups were had in Kirstenbosch and West Coast NP.
Natal Spurfowl (Francolin) Pternistis natalensis
Well seen in Kruger NP.
Swainson’s Spurfowl (Francolin) Pternistis swainsonii
A few were seen in Kruger NP.
Ducks & Geese Anatidae
White-faced Whistling Duck Dendrocygna viduata
Recorded along waterways in Kruger NP.
Fulvous Whistling Duck Dendrocygna bicolour
We were very fortunate to see four birds while at Strandfontein Waste Treatment Works, a great find
indeed (very tough in the Western Cape)!
White-backed Duck Thalassornis leuconotus
Another good find, a single showed very well at Strandfontein.
Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis
This massive bird was seen in peak numbers at Strandfontein.
Knob-billed Duck Sarkidiornis melanotos
A few birds were seen in Kruger NP.
Note: Clements lumps this species with Comb Duck S. sylvicola of South America calling it Comb Duck
Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiacus
Commonly recorded at various wetland sites throughout the tour.
South African Shelduck (NE) Tadorna canaTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 7
After our initial sighting at Strandfontein, we enjoyed superb views of this species near Lambert’s Bay.
Cape Teal Anas capensis
Seen at Strandfontein and near Lambert’s Bay.
Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata
Seen at Strandfontein and near Lambert’s Bay.
Cape Shoveler Anas smithii
Huge numbers were seen at Strandfontein.
Red-billed Teal (Duck) Anas erythrorhyncha
We recorded this species at Strandfontein.
Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma
Four were seen at Strandfontein.
Maccoa Duck Oxyura maccoa
A really smart bird, we enjoyed superb views while at Strandfontein.
Penguins Spheniscidae
African Penguin (E) Spheniscus demersus
After our initial sighting on Robben Island, this species was seen at close range and in good numbers at
Boulders Beach Penguin Colony.
Petrels & Shearwaters Procellariidae
Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus
Initially seen offshore of Rooi Els in good numbers, we were treated to excellent views of numerous
birds on our outing to Seal Island in False Bay.
Grebes Podicipedidae
Little Grebe (Dabchick) Tachybaptus ruficollis
Small numbers of this rather common bird were seen at several wetlands on tour.
Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus
Seen at Strandfontein and near Elands Bay.
Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis
After an initial sighting at Strandfontein, 50+ were seen near Elands Bay.
Flamingos Phoenicopteridae
Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus
Recorded at Strandfontein, and in large numbers near Lambert’s Bay.
Storks Ciconidae
Black Stork Ciconia nigra
Recorded along the Sabie River in Kruger NP.
Woolly-necked Stork Ciconia episcopus
Two birds were seen in Kruger NP on the Sabie River.
Saddle-billed Stork Ephippiorhynchus senegalensis
A handsome species, a single female was seen in Kruger NP on the Sabie River.
Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus
Good numbers were seen in Kruger NP.
Ibises & Spoonbills Threskiornithidae
Sacred Ibis Threskiornis aethiopicusTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 8
This pied species was commonly recorded in the Western Cape.
Hadada (Hadeda) Ibis Bostrychia hagedash
A noisy species, it was seen in scattered localities throughout the tour.
Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus
We had good sightings of this species in the Western Cape.
African Spoonbill Platalea alba
Around twenty of this interesting looking species were seen in West Coast NP.
Herons, Egrets & Bitterns Ardeidae
Striated Heron Butorides striata
Close-ups were had of adults and juveniles at Lake Panic Hide in Kruger NP.
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis
A common species, seen on scattered localities through the tour.
Grey Heron Ardea cinerea
Seen at scattered wetland locales during the tour.
Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala
A terrestrial hunter (as opposed the previous species which is an aquatic hunter), it was seen in
scattered localities during the tour.
Goliath Heron Ardea goliath
The world’s largest heron, it was seen at Elands Bay and later at Lake Panic Bird Hide in Kruger.
Great Egret Ardea alba
Seen by some on out travel day out of the Cape.
Yellow-billed (Intermediate) Egret Egretta intermedia
A single was seen by some in Kruger NP.
Little Egret Egretta garzetta
Scattered individuals were seen in the Cape.
Hamerkop Scopidae
Hamerkop Scopus umbretta
Belonging to a monotypic family, it was seen very well in Kruger NP.
Pelicans Pelecanidae
Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus
Well seen at Strandfontein.
Gannets Sulidae
Cape Gannet (BE) Morus capensis
Our visit to the Bird Island at Lambert’s Bay allowed close-ups views of this smart species. Apparently
this year is the first year in the last three that all the birds on the colony have bred after deserting the
colony for a short period due to seal predation.
Cormorants Phalacrocoracidae
Reed (Long-tailed) Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus
A wetland associated species, we saw it on waterbodies in the Western Cape.
Crowned Cormorant (E) Phalacrocorax coronatus
Seen at a few coastal sites in and around Cape Town, where it was allowed for superb views.
Bank Cormorant (E) Phalacrocorax neglectus
Scoped at Kommetjie, we later had great views of nesting birds on Robben Island.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 9
White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus
This large cormorant was well seen in the Western Cape.
Note: Clements treats this bird as a race of the Great Cormorant P. carbo
Cape Cormorant (BE) Leucocarbo capensis
Seen in good numbers at a number of coastal sites in the Cape, where it is the most common coastal
cormorant.
Note: Clements places this bird within the Phalacrocorax genus as P. capensis
Anhingas Anhingidae
Darter Anhinga melanogaster
We saw this species at a few wetland sites during the tour.
Falcons Falconidae
Rock Kestrel Falco tinnunculus
We recorded this species on Table Mountain and at Lambert’s Bay.
Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus
Seen near Lambert’s Bay and Velddrif, a large open country falcon.
Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus
Two birds were seen at Strandfontein, providing excellent views. One bird was actively hunting
waterbirds over the pan, creating quite a stir in the process.
Hawks, Kites, Eagles & Vultures Accipitridae
Secretarybird Sagittarius serpentarius
Two birds were seen by some in Kruger National Park.
Black-winged (shouldered) Kite Elanus caeruleus
Seen at scattered sites throughout the tour.
African Fish Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer
After our initial sighting of this species in West Coast NP, a few individuals were seen in Kruger NP.
White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus
Certainly the most common vulture in the sub-region, it was regularly seen in Kruger NP.
White-headed Vulture Aegypius occipitalis
We recorded this species in Kruger NP.
Lappet-faced Vulture Aegypius tracheliotus
A few birds were seen in Kruger NP. The largest vulture species in sub-Saharan Africa.
Black-chested (breasted) Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralis
Seen by some in Kruger NP.
Brown Snake Eagle Circaetus cinereus
Recorded in Kruger, where it is slightly more common than the previous species. One was seen soaring
while carrying its half swallowed serpentine prey.
Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus
A characteristic raptor of the African savanna, we saw this species daily in Kruger NP.
African Marsh Harrier Circus ranivorus
Great views of this species were had at Strandfontein, and en route to Lambert’s Bay.
Black Harrier (NE) Circus maurus
A stunning bird, we enjoyed superb views near to and in West Coast NP.
African Harrier-Hawk (Gymnogene) Polyboroides typus
Recorded at Kirstenbosch, and later in Kruger NP.
Dark Chanting Goshawk Melierax metabatesTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 10
A few birds were recorded in Kruger. Generally a scarce inhabitant of tall woodland, one individual we
recorded perched near the vehicle with its reptilian prey clasped in its talons.
African Goshawk Accipiter tachiro
One bird was scoped while in Skukuza.
Shikra Accipiter badius
Seen in Kruger NP.
Little Sparrowhawk Accipiter minullus
We saw a single bird in Pretoriuskop camp in Kruger NP.
Rufous-breasted Sparrowhawk Accipiter rufiventris
A single was seen along the edge of False Bay (guide only).
Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus
This huge Accipiter was seen at Kirstenbosch. After an initial brief sighting, we enjoyed great views of
a melanistic individual.
Lizard Buzzard Kaupifalco monogrammicus
One sub adult was seen near Pretoriuskop in the Kruger NP.
Common (Steppe) Buzzard Buteo (vulpinus) buteo
Seen on the first day of the tour.
Jackal Buzzard (NE) Buteo rufofuscus
We enjoyed scattered sightings of this smart near endemic in the Western Cape.
Tawny Eagle Aquila rapax
This brown bushveld eagle was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
Verreaux’s Eagle Aquila verreauxii
A stunning bird, we recorded it at Rooi Els and Table Mountain.
Wahlberg's Eagle Aquila wahlbergi
An intra-African migrant with distinctive “T” shaped flight pattern, it was seen on few occasions in
Kruger, with many birds already having left for their central African overwintering grounds.
African Hawk-Eagle Hieraaetus spilogaster
Three birds were seen in Kruger National Park.
Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus
A massive bird (Africa’s largest eagle), we enjoyed some excellent sightings of this savanna denizen.
Long-crested Eagle Lophaetus occipitalis
Seen at the roadside en route to Kruger NP.
Bustards Otididae
Red-crested Korhaan Lophotis ruficrista
A single bird was heard calling in the Kruger NP.
Southern Black Korhaan (E) Afrotis afra
We enjoyed superb views of both males and females near to and in West Coast NP.
Black-bellied Bustard Lissotis melanogaster
A female was seen by some in Kruger NP.
Rails, Gallinules & Coots Rallidae
African Rail Rallus caerulescens
Heard in West Coast NP.
African Crake Crex egregia
A single specimen was seen briefly as it flew away from the vehicle and dropped into thick grass.
Black Crake Amaurornis flavirostra
This species was seen at Strandfontein.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 11
African Swamphen Porphyrio madagascariensis
Seen at Strandfontein and later in at Elands Bay.
Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus
Good number were seen in the Western Cape, starting at Strandfontein were they were very
conspicuous.
Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata
Seen very well at Strandfontein in the Western Cape.
Cranes Gruidae
Blue Crane (E) Anthropoides paradisea
An elegant bird, it was seen in agricultural land near Velddrif.
Buttonquail Turnicidae
Kurrichane Buttonquail Turnix sylvaticus
This small terrestrial species was seen by some and heard by all while in Kruger NP.
Thick-knees Burhinidae
Water Thick-knee Burhinus vermiculatus
A few birds were encountered in Kruger NP.
Spotted Thick-knee Burhinus capensis
We recorded this species in Kruger NP. Is not dependant on water as is the previous species.
Oystercatchers Haematopididae
African Oystercatcher (NE) Haematopus moquini
This smart bird was seen at scattered coastal sites in the Western Cape.
Stilts & Avocets Recurvirostridae
Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus
Commonly recorded in Western Cape wetlands.
Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta
We recorded this species at Strandfontein and at a wetland south of Lambert’s Bay.
Plovers & Lapwings Charadriidae
Blacksmith Lapwing (Plover) Vanellus armatus
Commonly recorded at wetland sites throughout the tour.
Senegal Lapwing Vanellus lugubris
This species was seen near to Skukuza on a short grassed area.
Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus
Seen in the Western Cape and later in Kruger NP.
Grey (Black-bellied) Plover Pluvialis squatarola
We enjoyed superb views of birds ranging from full breeding plumage to non breeding while in West
Coast NP.
Common Ringed Plover Charadrius hiaticula
Seen near Lambert’s Bay and West Coast NP.
Kittlitz’s Plover Charadrius pecuarius
Recorded near Lambert’s Bay and in West Coast NP.
Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris
Quite a widespread species, we recorded it near Lambert’s Bay in Kruger NP.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 12
White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus
This small plover was seen near Lambert’s Bay and in West Coast NP.
Chestnut-banded Plover Charadrius pallidus
A really smart (but unfortunately scarce) species, it was seen by some at Lambert’s Bay and in West
Coast NP, where we got great scope views.
Jacanas Jacanidae
African Jacana Actophilornis africanus
We enjoyed superb views of this polyandrous (a single female having multiple male partners) species
at Lake Panic near Skukuza.
Sandpipers & Allies Scolopacidae
African Snipe Gallinago nigripennis
A single bird was seen flying over a Highveld wetland en route to Johannesburg from Kruger NP.
Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica
This species was seen in West Coast NP, with birds starting to come into breeding dress.
Whimbrel Numenius phaeopus
Recorded in West Coast NP.
Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia
We had close-ups of this species in West Coast NP, with birds standing alongside the larger Bar-tailed
Godwits providing superb size comparisons.
Terek Sandpiper Xenus cinereus
Four birds posed beautifully for us on a sandbar in West Coast NP.
Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres
Seen very well in West Coast NP, where a few birds were looking very smart in breeding dress.
Red Knot Calidris canutus
We enjoyed superb close-ups of this species in full breeding dress in West Coast NP (although
scattered individuals were still in non breeding plumage).
Sanderling Calidris alba
This species was recorded in West Coast NP.
Little Stint Calidris minuta
Recorded near Lambert’s Bay and in West Coast NP.
Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea
Seen near Lambert’s Bay and in West Coast NP, where the majority of the birds were very smart in
breeding plumage.
Ruff Philomachus pugnax
We recorded maximum numbers of this species in Strandfontein.
Red-necked Phalarope Phalaropus lobatus
A single bird was seen on a treatment pond at Strandfontein. A few of this vagrant are spotted in the
Cape and up the West Coast every year.
Coursers Glareolidae
Bronze-winged Courser Rhinoptilus chalcopterus
Our nightdrive in Kruger produced a superb sighting of a single bird hunting insects in front of our
vehicle, a brilliant sighting indeed!
Gulls & Terns Laridae
Kelp Gull Larus dominicanusTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 13
Seen daily in the Western Cape.
Grey-hooded (headed) Gull Larus cirrocephalus
Birds were seen in Lambert’s Bay and later in Johannesburg.
Hartlaub’s Gull (NE) Larus hartlaubii
Commonly seen in the Western Cape.
Caspian Tern Sterna caspia
The world’s largest tern, it was seen at Strandfontein, and later near Lambert’s Bay and West Coast
NP.
Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis
We had good views of this species at Strandfontein, with more seen later in Lambert’s Bay.
Swift (Great Crested) Tern Sterna bergii
Commonly seen at wetland sites in the Western Cape.
Common Tern Sterna hirundo
Seen at a number of sites in the Western Cape, with maximum numbers at Lambert’s Bay.
Little Tern Sterna albifrons
Superb views were had of birds (in breeding plumage) perched on a sandbank while in West Coast NP.
Whiskered Tern Chlidonias hybrida
Seen flying over some of the Highveld pans en route to Johannesburg from Kruger.
White-winged Tern Chlidonias leucopterus
Seen at Strandfontein and later near Lambert’s Bay.
Skuas Stercorariidae
Subantarctic Skua Stercorarius antarcticus
A single bird was seen from Rooi Els.
Parasitic Jaeger (Artic Skua) Stercorarius parasiticus
We had good views of this species (both light and dark phases) off of Simon’s Town, after some saw
birds off of Rooi Els and near Robben Island.
Doves & Pigeons Columbidae
Common (Feral) Pigeon Columba livia
Seen in urban environs throughout the tour.
Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea
Commonly seen in the Western Cape, where some birds allowed for brilliant close-ups.
African Olive (Rameron) Pigeon Columba arquatrix
Flocks were seen flying overhead in Kirstenbosch.
Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata
Seen at scattered localities in the Western Cape.
Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola
This widespread species was seen in the Western Cape and the Kruger.
Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis
Commonly recorded in Kruger NP.
Emerald-spotted Wood Dove Turtur chalcospilos
A delightful woodland species, it was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
Namaqua Dove Oena capensis
Recorded near Lambert’s Bay and later in Kruger NP.
African Green Pigeon Treron calva
This colourful, parrot-like pigeon was well seen in Kruger NP.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 14
Parrots & Allies Psittacidae
Brown-headed Parrot Poicephalus cryptoxanthus
We saw a few birds in Kruger NP, the South African stronghold of this species.
Turacos Musophagidae
Purple-crested Turaco Tauraco porphyreolophus
A smart species, it seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP (with our first sighting being en route to the
park from Johannesburg).
Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor
Commonly seen in Kruger NP.
Cuckoos Cuculidae
Burchell’s Coucal Centropus burchellii
A number of birds were seen in rank vegetation along the Sabie River in Kruger NP.
Black Coucal Centropus grillii
This species was heard near to Pretoriuskop. A very tough bird for South Africa.
Great Spotted Cuckoo Clamator glandarius
One juvenile bird was seen near Skukuza by some.
Levaillant’s Cuckoo Clamator levaillantii
We had some great views of this species in Kruger NP.
Jacobin Cuckoo Clamator jacobinus
This species was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP. All birds seen were of the pale phase, which is
dominant in inland areas (dark phase bird are more common near the east coast of southern Africa).
Dideric Cuckoo Chrysococcyx caprius
A single bird was seen near to Pretoriuskop.
Typical Owls Strigidae
African Scops Owl Otus senegalensis
The smallest owl in southern Africa, we got a superb view of a bird at Afsaal in Kruger NP.
Spotted Eagle-Owl Bubo africanus
Initially seen in Kirstenbosch, we recorded a ridiculous total of 23 on one night drive from
Pretoriuskop, bringing the days total to an astounding 26 birds! Possibly a local abundance of prey
items resulted in regional influx, as this is absurd number of owls seen on one drive.
Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus
A perched individual alongside the road provided superb views while on a night drive out of Skukuza.
Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium perlatum
Seen very well during our stay in Kruger National Park.
Nightjars Caprimulgidae
Fiery-necked Nightjar Caprimulgus pectoralis
This common species was seen and heard during our stay in Kruger NP.
Freckled Nightjar Caprimulgus tristigma
A single bird was seen by some in Pretoriuskop camp.
Square-tailed Nightjar Caprimulgus fossii
Two birds were seen during our night drive our of Pretoriuskop, the white outer tail feathers and boldly
marked, white secondaries clearly evident on two birds sitting in the road.
Swifts ApodidaeTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 15
African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus
A mouse coloured, long-tailed swift, it was commonly seen in the Kruger National Park.
Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba
This huge swift was seen at a few scattered sites in the Cape, with a single seen on our last day at
Transport Dam in Kruger NP.
African Black Swift Apus barbatus
A few birds were seen and in the environs of Table Mountain in the Cape.
Little Swift Apus affinis
Commonly seen in the Western Cape and in Kruger NP.
White-rumped Swift Apus caffer
Seen daily in the latter half of the tour, where its deeply forked tail, and crescent-shaped, white rump
differentiated it from Little Swift (a “dumpy” swift with a square tail and broad, wrap around white
rump).
Mousebirds Coliidae
Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus
Recorded in Kruger NP, where it was not uncommon.
White-backed Mousebird (E) Colius colius
Good views were had of this species in West Coast NP.
Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus
Seen in the Cape and Kruger NP, where it distinctive call and thin, graduated tail and swift flight
identified them from Speckled Mousebird.
Rollers Coraciidae
Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus
Combining marvellous shades of blue and pink, this beautiful bird was excellently seen in Kruger NP.
European Roller Coracias garrulus
Also a smart species, it was seen in good numbers in Kruger NP.
Kingfishers Alcedinidae
Brown-hooded Kingfisher Halcyon albiventris
A resident species, it was seen on a few occasions in Kruger.
Striped Kingfisher Halcyon chelicuti
This small woodland associated species was seen in Kruger.
Woodland Kingfisher Halcyon senegalensis
A really smart, intra-African migrant, it was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP. Birds had
quietened down substantially (they are very noisy earlier in the season), and have certainly begun to
move north to their wintering grounds in the tropics again.
Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata
This jewel of the waterways was seen at Lake Panic bird hide and on the Sabie River.
Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima
A huge kingfisher, it was seen both in the Cape and in Kruger NP.
Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis
Certainly the most widespread kingfisher in the world, it was seen at scattered localities throughout the
tour.
Bee-eaters Meropidae
Little Bee-eater Merops pusillusTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 16
Seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
White-fronted Bee-eater Merops bullockoides
A really smart bird, it was seen on a few occasions along the Sabie River in Kruger NP.
European Bee-eater Merops apiaster
Another stunning bee-eater, it was seen in good numbers in Kruger.
Hoopoes Upupidae
African Hoopoe Upupa africana
Seen by some in Lambert’s Bay and in Kruger NP.
Wood Hoopoes Phoeniculidae
Green Wood Hoopoe Phoeniculus purpureus
A noisy species, it seen daily in Kruger NP.
Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas
We saw this species on a number of days in Kruger.
Hornbills Bucerotidae
African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus
Possessing a beautiful piping call, this species was seen daily in Kruger National Park.
Red-billed Hornbill Tockus erythrorhynchus
Commonly seen in Kruger NP.
Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill (NE) Tockus leucomelas
Possibly the common of the hornbill we encountered in Kruger, it was seen a number of times daily.
Ground Hornbills Bucorvidae
Southern Ground Hornbill Bucorvus leadbeateri
An enormous bird, we enjoyed superb views of a total of five birds while in Kruger NP, with one bird
carrying around its chameleon quarry. Its population in South Africa is estimated at around 1500 birds
as is declining.
Barbets Capitonidae
Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird Pogoniulus chrysoconus
A single bird was seen in camp at Pretoriuskop.
Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus
This species was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii
Quite a bright bird, it was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
Honeyguides Indicatoridae
Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor
A single bird was seen by some near to Pretoriuskop camp.
Greater Honeyguide Indicator indicator
Two separate sightings of this species were had while in Kruger NP. The only honeyguide species
know to actively lead humans to bee hives.
Woodpeckers Picidae
Bennett’s Woodpecker Campethera bennettiiTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 17
Seen on two occasions, this species is partially terrestrial (birds seen in Pretoriuskop Camp where seen
feeding on the ground).
Golden-tailed Woodpecker Campethera abingoni
A single bird was seen in Kruger NP.
Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens
First encountered in West Coast NP, it was later seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Batises Platysteiridae
Cape Batis (E) Batis capensis
We saw a single female in the gardens at Kirstenbosch near Cape Town.
Chinspot Batis Batis molitor
Possessing a distinctive “three blind mice” call, it was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Bushshrikes & Helmetshrikes Malaconotidae
White-crested Helmetshrike Prionops plumatus
This species was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP. Always seen in flocks.
Retz’s Helmetshrike Prionops retzii
Three birds were seen in Kruger NP, providing superb views. Far less common than the previous
species, and parasitized by the rare Thick-billed Cuckoo.
Grey-headed Bushshrike Malaconotus blanchoti
A few birds were seen in Kruger, including foraging birds in Pretoriuskop Camp.
Orange-breasted Bushshrike Chlorophoneus sulfureopectus
We had some good views of this species in Kruger NP. Is often quite skulky!
Bokmakierie (NE) Telophorus zeylonus
This smart bushshrike was excellently seen in the Cape.
Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis
A few birds were seen in Kruger NP.
Black-crowned Tchagra Tchagra senegalus
Quite a vocal species, we had good views of this one in Kruger NP.
Black-backed Puffback Dryoscopus cubla
A woodland associated species, it was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
Southern Boubou (E) Laniarius ferrugineus
Heard more often than seen, we never-the-less saw it on a few occasions in the Cape and the Kruger.
Brubru Nilaus afer
A smart bushveld species, it was seen a few times in Kruger NP.
Cuckooshrikes Campephagidae
Black Cuckooshrike Campephaga flava
Seen almost daily in Kruger NP.
Shrikes Laniidae
Magpie Shrike Urolestes melanoleucus
This species was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Southern White-crowned Shrike Eurocephalus anguitimens
We had very good views of this species in Kruger NP.
Red-backed Shrike Lanius collurio
Commonly seen in Kruger NP.
Common Fiscal Lanius collarisTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 18
Seen daily in the former half of the tour.
Orioles Oriolidae
Black-headed Oriole Oriolus larvatus
A smart bird, it was seen on a number of days in the Kruger NP.
Drongos Dicruridae
Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis
Seen in Kruger, with this species being particularly common in broadleaved woodland near
Pretoriuskop.
Monarch Flycatchers Monarchidae
African Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone viridis
This smart species was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Crows Corvidae
House Crow Corvus splendens
An alien invader, it was seen near Cape Town International Airport.
Pied Crow Corvus albus
Common in the former half of the tour.
White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis
We saw this species at scattered sites throughout the Western Cape. The wholly black underside and
short tail were useful clues to its identification.
Rockjumpers Chaetopidae
Cape Rockjumper (E) Chaetops frenatus
This charismatic species was brilliantly seen at Rooi Els, with the birds providing excellent views as
they hopped in the road in front of us.
Tits Paridae
Southern Black Tit (NE) Parus niger
A noisy species, it was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP, often in association with other
birds in mixed flocks.
Penduline Tits Remizidae
Grey Penduline Tit Anthoscopus caroli
Two birds were seen in Kruger. The eastern equivalent of Cape Penduline Tit.
Cape Penduline Tit Anthoscopus minutus
Eight birds were seen in West Coast NP, allowing superb, close views as they foraged through a clump
of weedy plants.
Swallows & Martins Hirundinidae
Black Saw-wing Psalidoprocne pristoptera
This species was seen in Kirstenbosch.
Brown-throated (Plain) Martin Riparia paludicola
Birds were seen in the Cape, starting at Strandfontein (where we also saw a brown form bird).
Barn Swallow Hirundo rusticaTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 19
Seen almost daily.
White-throated Swallow Hirundo albigularis
We saw this species on a number of days in the former half of the tour.
Wire-tailed Swallow Hirundo smithii
A very smart bird, it was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger.
Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula
Seen at a number of rocky sites (and in association with tall buildings) in the Western Cape.
Greater Striped Swallow Cecropis cucullata
This species was recorded in the Western Cape and en route to Kruger in the Highveld area near
Joburg.
Lesser Striped Swallow Cecropis abyssinica
A number of good views of this species were had in Kruger NP.
Red-breasted Swallow Cecropis semirufa
Two birds were seen in Kruger. This large species is a bushveld associated species.
Mosque Swallow Cecropis senegalensis
Three of this generally uncommon species were seen in Kruger.
Larks Alaudidae
Flappet Lark Mirafra rufocinnamomea
A single was briefly seen by some en route to Kruger NP.
Sabota Lark Mirafra sabota
Some saw this species in Kruger NP.
Karoo Lark (E) Certhilauda albescens
Two were seen as they displayed overhead near to Velddrif.
Cape Long-billed Lark Certhilauda curvirostris
A few birds were seen near Lambert’s Bay and Velddrif.
Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea
Certainly the most common lark in the Western Cape, where we had good views of a number of birds.
Large-billed Lark Galerida magnirostris
We scoped this one near to Velddrif.
Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae
Red-faced Cisticola Cisticola erythrops
This noisy species was well seen in reedbeds along the Sabie River in Kruger NP.
Lazy Cisticola Cisticola aberrans
A few birds were seen on a rocky hillside near to Pretoriuskop.
Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana
The most frequently seen cisticola on the Kruger leg of the trip, it was a common sight throughout the
park and responded vociferously to spishing.
Grey-backed Cisticola (NE) Cisticola subruficapilla
First encountered at Rooi Els, we later saw this one in the vicinity of Lambert’s Bay. Found in fynbos
habitat.
Levaillant’s Cisticola Cisticola tinniens
A wetland associated cisticola; we recorded it at Strandfontein and later in West Coast NP.
Croaking Cisticola Cisticola natalensis
This large cisticola was seen in the grass and stunted tree savanna near to Pretoriuskop.
Neddicky (Piping Cisticola) Cisticola fulvicapilla
We enjoyed great views of this species in early morning light on the slopes of Table Mountain.Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 20
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis
This small, grassland cisticola was seen near to Pretoriuskop.
Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava
Common in rank vegetation in Kruger.
Karoo Prinia (NE) Prinia maculosa
This common and vocal species was encountered daily in the Cape.
Bar-throated Apalis Apalis thoracica
This species was recorded in West Coast NP.
Yellow-breasted Apalis Apalis flavida
Seen in Kruger, where it was located in thick woodland.
Green-backed Camaroptera Camaroptera brachyura
Recorded on a few occasions in Kruger, it inhabits thick tangles, and was more often heard than seen.
Stierling’s Wren-Warbler Calamonastes stierlingi
We had superb views of a single bird near to Pretoriuskop.
Fairy Warbler (Flycatcher) (NE) Stenostira scita
Thick scrub south of Lambert’s Bay produced some outstanding views of this delightful bird.
Bulbuls Pycnonotidae
Cape Bulbul (E) Pycnonotus capensis
Seen daily in the Cape.
Dark-capped Bulbul Pycnonotus tricolor
The eastern equivalent of the previous species (and just as common), we saw it frequently in Kruger
NP.
Sombre Greenbul Andropadus importunus
After hearing this one in Kirstenbosch, it was seen in Kruger NP. Overall quite drab!
Terrestrial Brownbul Phyllastrephus terrestris
This understory inhabitant was seen by some near to Skukuza.
Family Uncertain Incertae sedis
Eastern Nicator Nicator gularis
We saw a single bird beyond Ship Mountain en route to Afsaal.
Old World Warblers Sylviidae
Victorin’s Warbler (E) Cryptillas victorini
Two birds were seen at the base of the Hottentots Holland mountains, providing most with views as
they slunk through the thick vegetation.
Fan-tailed Grassbird (Broad-tailed Warbler) Schoenicola brevirostris
We recorded this species near to Pretoriuskop. A very good bird for Kruger NP!
River Warbler Locustella fluviatilis
This species was heard in rank vegetation alongside rivercourses in Kruger National Park. A scarce
migrant to South Africa.
Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala
An inhabitant of reedbeds, it was seen at Strandfontein.
Cape Grassbird (E) Sphenoeacus afer
This smart endemic was seen in scattered localities in the Cape.
Lesser Swamp Warbler Acrocephalus gracilirostris
A few birds were seen at Strandfontein in thick reeds alongside the settling ponds.
Marsh Warbler Acrocephalus palustrisTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 21
This species was well seen at Afsaal in some rank vegetation, after hearing it in rank vegetation at a
few other sites.
Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis
A smart little bird, it was seen on a few occasions in Kruger NP.
Green-capped Eremomela Eremomela scotops
We were very fortunate to see this species on two occasions in Kruger NP, with a total of five birds
seen.
Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta rufescens
Seen in scrubby vegetation in the Cape, and later in thornveld in Kruger NP. This “tail-less” species
has a fairly long, decurved bill, giving it a strange appearance.
Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler (Warbler) Parisoma subcaeruleum
Great views of this smart bird were had near Lambert’s Bay and in West Coast NP.
Layard’s Tit-babbler (Warbler) (NE) Parisoma layardi
A single was seen at Kransvleipoort near Clanwilliam. Lacks the chestnut vent of the previous species.
Babblers Timaliidae
Arrow-marked Babbler Turdoides jardineii
This noisy species was seen daily in the Kruger NP.
Sugarbirds Promeropidae
Cape Sugarbird (E) Promerops cafer
Possessing a splendid tail, we first encountered this species at Kirstenbosch. Thereafter, it was seen in
scattered localities in the Cape.
White-eyes Zosteropidae
Cape White-eye (NE) Zosterops pallidus
We encountered this species at a number of sites throughout the Cape and in Kruger NP.
Starlings Sturnidae
Common (European) Starling Sturnus vulgaris
Commonly recorded in urban and suburban environs throughout the Cape.
Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea
Small numbers of this nomadic species were seen in Kruger NP.
Cape (Glossy-) Starling Lamprotornis nitens
Seen near to Skukuza, but less common than the following species.
Greater Blue-eared Starling Lamprotornis chalybaeus
We saw this beautiful bird daily in Kruger NP.
Burchell’s Starling Lamprotornis australis
This large species was seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP.
Violet-backed Starling Cinnyricinclus leucogaster
What a gorgeous bird! An intra-African migrant with small numbers seen in Kruger NP.
Pied Starling (E) Spreo bicolor
Recorded for the first time as we headed up the West Coast, and then seen frequently after that.
Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio
Common in the Cape, it was later seen on koppies (rocky outcrops) in Kruger NP.
Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchusTrip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 22
We recorded this game associated species daily in Kruger NP.
Thrushes Turdidae
Groundscraper Thrush Psophocichla litsitsirupa
This species was recorded on a few occasions in Kruger NP. The specific name is onomatopoeic.
Kurrichane Thrush Turdus libonyanus
Seen for the first time on the Nwaswitshaka River, and thereafter on a few occasions around
Pretoriuskop.
Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus
We saw this species on a number of occasions in Kirstenbosch.
Chats, Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae
Cape Robin-Chat Cossypha caffra
Commonly seen in the Western Cape.
White-throated Robin-Chat (NE) Cossypha humeralis
Quite a smart species, it was seen in Kruger NP.
White-browed Robin-Chat Cossypha heuglini
This species was heard as it called from dense undergrowth in Skukuza Camp.
White-browed (Red-backed) Scrub Robin Cercotrichas leucophrys
It was seen in Kruger NP. A widespread denizen of the African bushveld, and heard more often than
seen.
Karoo Scrub Robin (NE) Cercotrichas coryphaeus
After our initial sighting at a petrol station near Langebaan, it was seen quite regularly in scrubby
vegetation on the West Coast.
African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus
We saw this species in more open areas of the West Coast.
Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata
This handsome species was seen inland and north of Langebaan in fairly open country.
Mountain Wheatear Oenanthe monticola
We saw this species in rocky areas north of Langebaan, with our first sighting being at Krantzvleipoort.
Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris
Seen quite frequently in the Cape in rocky areas (e.g. Table Mountain, Krantzvleipoort).
Ant-eating Chat (NE) Myrmecocichla formicivora
This species was seen in open, farming country in the Western Cape and in grassland en route to
Kruger NP from Johannesburg.
Mocking Cliff Chat Thamnolaea cinnamomeiventris
A smart species, it was well seen on koppies in southern Kruger NP.
Cape Rock Thrush (E) Monticola rupestris
We had good views of males and females in the Cape.
Sentinel Rock Thrush (NE) Monticola explorator
Generally much more uncommon than the previous species in the Cape, we saw one male at Rooi Els.
Southern Black Flycatcher Melaenornis pammelaina
Commonly seen in Kruger NP.
Fiscal Flycatcher (NE) Sigelus silens
We saw this species at Rooi Els and later in scrubby vegetation south of Lambert’s Bay.
Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata
After our initial sighting of this Palaearctic migrant in West Coast NP, it was encountered on a number
of occasions in the Kruger NP (including a few roosting birds).Trip Report – Winchester College South Africa 2009 23
Ashy Flycatcher Muscicapa caerulescens
Seen on a number of occasions in Kruger NP, where it inhabits riverine forest and tall woodland.
African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta
We saw this species in Kirstenbosch.
Grey Tit-Flycatcher Myioparus plumbeus
A single was seen in thick woodland near Pretoriuskop, where it was seen fanning its tail in distinctive
fashion (hence the old name Fan-tailed Flycatcher).
Sunbirds Nectariniidae
Collared Sunbird Hedydipna collaris
This small yellow and green sunbird was seen in Skukuza Camp.
Orange-breasted Sunbird (E) Anthobaphes violacea
An amazing species, we saw many males and females in the Cape, starting at Kirstenbosch.
Scarlet-chested Sunbird Chalcomitra senegalensis
A few individuals were seen in Kruger NP.
Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa
We saw this species at Rooi Els.
Southern Double-collared Sunbird (NE) Cinnyris chalybeus
Seen frequently in the Western Cape, in habitats ranging suburban gardens to fynbos and strandveld.
Marico Sunbird Cinnyris mariquensis
This species was seen daily in the Kruger NP.
White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris talatala
Recorded in Kruger NP.
Old World Sparrows Passeridae
House Sparrow Passer domesticus
Seen almost daily in association with humans.
Cape Sparrow (NE) Passer melanurus
We had good views of this species in on the West Coast.
Southern Grey-headed Sparrow (NE) Passer diffusus
Recorded in the woodland areas of Kruger NP.
Yellow-throated Petronia Gymnornis superciliaris
This bushveld bird was seen in Kruger NP.
Weavers & Allies Ploceidae
Red-billed Buffalo Weaver Bubalornis niger
We saw this species in dry woodland in Kruger NP.
Thick-billed Weaver Amblyospiza albifrons
A few birds were seen in a reedbed alongside the Sabie River.
Spectacled Weaver Ploceus ocularis
Seen in rank vegetation along the Sabie River.
Cape Weaver (E) Ploceus capensis
Our best views of this species was of the tame birds at Geelbek Manor House in West Coast NP.
Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus
This species was seen in Kruger NP and then at a service station en route to Johannesburg from Kruger.
Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea
Recorded in Kruger, with the huge flocks of little over a month having virtually disappeared.
Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensisYou can also read
