BirdLife eThekwini KZN (BeKZN) marked the Winter Solstice in true birding style—by blending tradition with fresh energy, a little laughter, and a lot of learning. Our annual Winter Solstice Party is a much-loved event on the club calendar, but this year’s gathering held a special new purpose: to warmly welcome the many new members who have joined BeKZN in recent months.

Hosted at the scenic Krantzkloof Conference Centre, the day kicked off indoors with a series of engaging presentations. The Chair, Nicolette Forbes introduced committee members and gave an overview of the club’s activities, how to use the WhatsApp community group, and the simple process of booking for our walks, talks, and outings. A visual tour through the BeKZN organogram showed how our club fits into the broader tapestry of birding—locally BirdLife eThekwini KZN and other KZN bird groups and clubs, provincially (BirdLife KZN Forum), nationally (BirdLife South Africa), and even internationally through BirdLife International. New members were surprised (and impressed!) to see just how connected we are.

A highlight of the morning was the interactive birding session led by Prof Ticky Forbes and assisted by Nicolette Forbes and Steve Davis. Both new and seasoned birders thoroughly enjoyed his warm humour and accessible approach to bird identification. There was lots of laughter as binoculars were focused, field guides flipped through, and questions fired across the room. A lovely reminder that birding can be both a science and a joy.

With spirits high and appetites ready, we moved outdoors to braai under the trees. The winter sun shone brightly, and the atmosphere was buzzing as members—new and old—mingled, shared stories, swapped sightings, and connected beyond their WhatsApp profile pictures. Of course, no BeKZN event is complete without a chance to test birding mettle. Back indoors, a lively bird ID quiz challenged attendees to name species from grassland to forest, small and large. First prize went to one of our youngest members Lucca Morris, who not only aced the answers but added thoughtful insights about bird behaviour—highlighting symbiotic relationships and mobbing tactics with impressive flair.

To those who made the journey from near and far—thank you! A special shoutout goes to the Stainbank family who joined us all the way from Eston. If you missed it, you missed out—but there’s always the next event!

The day wrapped up around 16h30, but not before we gave heartfelt thanks to Brett Markwell, loyal BeKZN member and Ezemvelo Honorary Officer, who ensured everything ran smoothly —setting up, packing away, sweeping, and looking after the venue with dedication. To thank him for making the event so successful the club presented Brett with a Robins of Africa book.

The Winter Solstice marked the sun’s return journey—and for BeKZN, it also marked the beginning of many wonderful birding adventures with our growing flock. Here’s to new friends, old feathers, and a bright season ahead.

Nicolette Forbes