🟠 Saturday 6 December – BirdLife SA Birding Big Day
🕐 All Day | 🌍 Anywhere in SA | 🕊️
This national event brings birders together for a day-long birding blitz.
Enter formally or just enjoy the fun!
📎 Info & registration: birdlife.org.za › Birding Big Day

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🟢 Thursday 11 December – Stake-out: Portman Park (Westville)
🕢 07h30 | Easy terrain | 🌸 Hosted by Jenny Norman
A community gem lovingly cared for by locals – and now shared with us!
Birds include Purple-crested Turaco, Green Woodhoopoe, African Hoopoe, three barbet species, and nesting Black Kites.
🔭 Look out for Blue Waxbill!

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🎉 Saturday 13 December
BeKZN Year-End Party
🕓 From 16h00 | 🏞️ Venue to be announced | 🍗 Hosted by the BeKZN Committee
🌅 Bird walk + lunch
Celebrate a spectacular birding year! Share laughs, raise a glass, and toast the birders who made 2025 so memorable.
🎁 Expect some fun…

🟢 Saturday 1 November
BeKZN Events 🎪 | “Colour Me Green” Big Day of Birding
🕐 All Day | 🌍 Anywhere in eThekwini | 🧭 Co-ordinated by Dave Rimmer
Challenge yourself and join others for a fun-filled competitive day of birding!
Choose from 3 categories:

• A pentad, • A reserve or park, • Your own garden
👥 Teams of 1–4 welcome. BirdLasser optional.
🎯 Lucky draw prizes if enough entries!
📧 Register via email to: activities@bekzn.org with your category and team members.
📥 Submit your list to: atlas@bekzn.org

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🟢 Thursday 6 November
BeKZN Stake-out 🪑📷 | Umbilo Ponds
🕢 07h30 | Easy terrain | 🌿 Hosted by Jenny Norman
A waterbird haven in Durban’s southern suburbs.
Expect species like Black-crowned Night Heron, Sacred Ibis, Green-backed Heron, Yellow-billed Duck, African Darter, Peregrine Falcon, and Malachite Kingfisher.
📸 A great spot for photographers too!

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🟢 Sunday 9 November
BeKZN Walks… 👣 | Kenneth Stainbank NR
🕖 07h00 | Medium terrain | 🌳 Hosted by Rob McLennan-Smith
A diverse mix of grassland, forest, and wetland habitats.
Bird specials include Green Twinspot, Grey Waxbill, Narina Trogon, and Green Malkoha.
🧭 Easy trails with rewarding birding.

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🟠 Saturday 15 November
BeKZN Day Tripping ☀️🚙 | Ashburton Nature Reserve
🕕 06h00 | Easy terrain (Vehicle + foot) | 🚙 Hosted by Adam Cruickshank
Set in the Lower Mpushini Valley Conservancy, this gem offers outstanding birding.
Target species: African Emerald Cuckoo, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Violet-backed Starling, Fan-tailed Grassbird, Olive Bushshrike, Croaking Cisticola
🎟️ R50 conservation fee on arrival.

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🔵 Wednesday 19 November
BeKZN Talks! 📣🎤 | “Screaming, Shouting & Sexy Talk”
🕕 18h00 | Evening Zoom | 🎤 Presented by Cassie Carstens
🎶 Ever wondered what all the noise is about?
A light-hearted but insightful look into bird vocalisations – from contact calls to courtship coos.
💡 Includes tips for improving your sound recognition.

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🔴 Sunday 30 November
BeKZN Conservation 🌎 | Van Riebeeck Park
🕡 06h30 | Easy terrain | 🌱 Hosted by Steve Davis
Ongoing monitoring of this Bluff wetland shows positive changes!
Join Steve for a walk-through to track improvements, spot local waterbirds, and support club conservation efforts.
🌿 A simple, meaningful way to give back.

🔴 5 Oct – BeKZN Conservation | Van Riebeeck Park
🕡 06h30 | Easy terrain | Bluff
Support Steve Davis at this monitored wetland site. Restoration progress and seasonal changes to observe.

🟢 11 Oct – BeKZN Walks… | Springside Nature Reserve
🕖 07h00 | Easy terrain | Hillcrest
Grassland and forest mix. Look for Broad-tailed Grassbird, Holub’s Golden Weaver, Red-throated Wryneck.

🔵 16 Oct – BeKZN Bird Learn ✍️ |  “Splits, Lumps & Other Rude Words”
🕕 18h00 | Guest speaker – Prof Ticky Forbes
BeKZN zoom room
A lively and informative dive into bird naming – species and common names – understand changes to your bird list!

🟢 16 Oct – BeKZN Stake-out | Durban Botanic Gardens
🕢 07h30 | Easy terrain
Suburban sanctuary. Sit by the lake for breeding herons and pelicans. Target birds: Palmnut Vulture, Black Sparrowhawk, Buff-spotted Flufftail.

🔴 26 Oct – BeKZN Conservation | Van Riebeeck Park
🕡 06h30 | Easy terrain | Bluff
A second visit this month to track habitat recovery and support on-the-ground conservation efforts.

🔵 29 Oct – BeKZN Talks! – Botha’s Lark: South Africa’s most threatened species 
🕕 18h00 | Guest speakers – Matthew Orolowitz and Roy Robertson
Wednesday 29 October @ 18h00
BeKZN zoom room
An interesting talk on South Africa’s most threatened species. This is an expanded talk from the short one presented at forum and will also have 2 people talking about the research being done to preserve it from extinction.

DOUBLE BILL AT UMDONI NATURE RESERVE
BEKZN DAYTRIPPING… AND A BEKZN STAKE OUT

Difficulty | Medium terrain

By popular request we are redoing the double outing of a Sit-in and a Walk. Last time some good birds were Spotted Ground Thrush, Lemon Dove, African Green Pigeon and Knysna Turaco. Register for this activity by joining the 2 WhatsApp groups when they are created – they will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

We all know the frustrations of asking a fellow birder to listen to a bird call, and the bird never calls again, or tracking a flying bird to get a better look for identification, and it lands perfectly behind a branch. In a light-hearted and interactive evening presentation, Steve Davis will present some of these Murphy’s Laws of birding, interspersed with words of advice on bird ID gleaned from years of field observations. Come prepared with any such laws of birding that you have experienced and share with fellow club members.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

A small reserve in the Durban North area with grassland and forest. Little Bee-eaters can be very common here. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Help towards bird information by being a citizen scientist. Join Dave in atlassing a pentad or two off the beaten track and find new places to bird while giving back to the birds and having fun. Exciting birds have been found on these outings such as Orange-breasted Waxbill and ….

Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Birdlife KZN Forum | St Lucia
24-28 September 2025 – a birding Long Weekend with talks

Bird club members pay discounted registration fee.

Registration for this event is now open – click the link below and do it! https://forms.gle/LkQWVQWsA5D8hwY8A

Difficulty | Medium terrain

The Doreen Clark Nature Reserve is only a short distance from the north of Pietermaritzburg. The seven hectare nature reserve consists of a podocarpus forest with grassland running along its edges. 

There are quaint picnic spots scattered around the reserve, as well as hiking trails ranging in difficulty but suitable for all ages. The reserve is a bird watcher’s paradise with regular visitors such as the African Emerald Cuckoo, Narina Trogon,and White-starred Robin. The magnificent African Crowned Eagle is also a resident bird of the nature reserve, and visitors can spot more than five different species of cuckoo during the summer season. In the past has been a popular place to find Knysna Warbler. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy to medium terrain

A special outing organised facilitated by the Honorary Offices for this normally closed area of the Gorge. The normal Gorge fees will still need to be paid. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

For many years, Angola remained largely inaccessible to birders due to a prolonged and devastating war. With the end of the conflict in the early 2000s, the country slowly began opening its doors to tourism. As a result, birding expeditions resumed, revealing Angola’s tremendous avian potential. Numerous rediscoveries followed, and today the country has become a top destination for birders in search of its many endemics and range-restricted specialties.  This talk will cover a route undertaken by Zach last month and detail the different species that we saw along the way.

Pigeon Valley (a remnant of the coastal forest which once covered the whole of the Berea) in winter is well known for Spotted Ground Thrush and if we’re lucky, Green Twinspot.  If you walk very quietly you might have a chance at Buff-spotted Flufftail. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

This will be kicked off with the announcement of the Photo Competition winners of the KZN Rendezvous uMkhuze Game Reserve weekend. We will then have a free form session with photos of birds and other critters seen during the trip and an interactive identification session to point out the diagnostic features leading to correct ID. People wishing to check identification of birds on their list for which they have photos are welcome to bring them along to share and query.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

A small wetland reserve on the Bluff which is being monitored by Steve. Join him to see the changes and improvements that come with time. Quite a bit of work has been done to tidy it up. This is an important conservation input that the club provides so please give it some support.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Medium terrain

Situated on the gorge of the Palmiet River. With well marked trails the reserve boasts a new bridge built since the floods. The main trail winds along the river through climax coastal scarp forest and adjacent to sandstone cliffs. The river has large clumps of grasses suitable for hosting Green Twinspot, Grey Waxbill and all three mannikins. This is where the late Prof Steve Piper did over 26 years of research on the Mountain Wagtail, so this is a good place to spot this species

An itinerary will be sent to those who register to advise on all arrangements and events

Registration link: https://forms.gle/mJ38B9nFjSqcqXRm8

Be KZN TALKS! | Roberts Bird App – A show and tell and FAQs by Herman van den Berg
Tuesday 15 JULY @18h00

Come and speak to one of the app developers and ask the questions you need to. Herman will demonstrate some of the significant app features and speak about transferring sightings and lists.

MEMBERS attend FREE, VISITORS R50 donation to the Conservation Fund please

Difficulty | Easy to medium terrain

This is a small reserve in the Durban North area that is excellent for coastal forest birds. A good place to find Terrestrial Brownbul and Southern Boubou – look out for Spotted Ground Thrush. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Help towards bird information by being a citizen scientist. Join Dave in atlassing a pentad or two off the beaten track and find new places to bird while giving back to the birds and having fun. Exciting birds have been found on these outings such as Orange-breasted Waxbill.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

Do your bit for conservation (and learn from the best)! Join the CWAC starting at the Green Hub @ uMngeni Estuary mouth, then moving onto Durban Bay in the Bayhead area afterwards. If you know the difference between a Blacksmith Lapwing and a Grey Heron and can count – YOU can help.  Bring binoculars, hat, water, refreshments and snacks for afterwards. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Hard – rough terrain

This is a conservancy in Everton with riverine forest and a small grassland, run by volunteers. It’s a good spot for forest birds — Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher, Knysna Turaco, and Green Twinspot have all been seen along the trail.Please note: the walk is 3 km and, due to high rainfall, includes muddy paths and two challenging river crossings. 

Monteseel Conservancy is a pristine example of KwaZulu-Natal sandstone sourveld habitat, situated 800 metres above sea level. We will enjoy a slow, relaxed walk through the conservancy, taking in not only the birds but also the breathtaking scenery. This outing is perfect for birders and will also appeal to anyone with an interest in botany. The conservancy has become a popular spot for photographers, offering the chance to capture stunning images of birds in a beautiful natural setting. Likely species on the morning include Striped Pipit, Lanner and Peregrine Falcon, Cape Rock Thrush, Greater Double-collared Sunbird, and possibly Malachite Sunbird.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy to medium terrain

This is a small reserve in the Pinetown area that is excellent for forest and grassland birds. A good place to find Yellow-throated Longclaw and Rufous-naped Larks. Both Narina Trogan and Spotted Eagle-owl have been recorded in the past.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Be KZN TALKS! | South Africa’s bird names – and the country’s official bird list
by Dr Chris LotZ
THURSDAY 19 JUNE @18h00

Please would all members try to attend as the talk is preceded by important announcements, notices and answers to any questions members may have. Dr Chris Lotz is head of the naming committee for South African birds. He will discuss the reasoning behind the names and touch on what is on the official list. 

MEMBERS attend FREE, VISITORS R50 donation to the Conservation Fund please

BeKZN OUTREACH | dunkirk estate
THE RESTORATION OF THE LAKE ST LUCIA ESTUARY
A story detailing the restoration of the lake st lucia estuary in the isimangaliso world heritage site.
by nicolette forbes
TUESDAY 25 JUNE @18h00

New member Welcome and Beginner Orientation
HOSTED BY NICOLETTE FORBES

A BEGINNERS HOW-TO identify birds presentation
by PROF ticky forbes

This will be our club’s now traditional WINTER SOLSTICE EVENT and will allow us to welcome the members that have joined us in 2025

Programme:
1. Meet and greet – New members will have the opportunity to meet the committee and other club members.
2. Welcome by the Chair (Nicolette Forbes) and question time
3. Interactive presentation | How to approach Identification of Birds for beginners by Prof Ticky Forbes and Nicolette Forbes with other committee members.
4.Birding in the surrounds of the conference centre to practice binocular use and bird identification
5. Brunch – please bring your own meat and refreshments and we will braai and chat…

POSTER TO FOLLOW WITH MORE DETAILS

Difficulty | Easy terrain

A small wetland reserve on the Bluff which is being monitored by Steve. Join him to see the changes and improvements that come with time. Quite a bit of work has been done to tidy it up. This is an important conservation input that the club provides so please give it some support.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

The Botanical Gardens have turned up some good birds in the past such as Palmnut Vulture and Buff-spotted Flufftail. Hopefully this time it won’t be rained out.  

Be KZN OUTREACH | HILLCREST CAMERA CLUB
A Tale of intersecting passions
birds, travel & Photography
by nicolette forbes
TUESDAY 6 MAY @18h00

A talk that covers three intersecting passions and weaves a story about the importance of telling stories through photography. Please contact Hillcrest Camera Club about attending as a visitor.

Be KZN TALKS! | birds of sani pass
by ALDO BERRUTI
THURSDAY 8 MAY @18h00

This is about all the specials found up Sani Pass, if you’re wanting to add to your lifelist or just add to your KZN list this is the talk for you.

MEMBERS attend FREE, VISITORS R50 donation to the Conservation Fund please

This is a private reserve in the Pinetown area that is excellent for forest and grassland birds. Both Purple-crested and Knysna Turacos have been seen in the same tree before and both species of Grassbird have been seen in the grasslands.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy to medium terrain

We haven’t been to this wonderful University of KwaZulu-Natal reserve for many years (we were last there pre-Covid).

Read the older 2018 trip report here https://blpn.org/2018/04/07/outing-report-msinsi-n-r-wednesday-28-march/.

It has been good in the past for Little Bee-eaters and Red-throated Wryneck. In the forest there’s a possibility of Spotted Ground Thrush and Natal Spurfowl.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

TC Robertson Nature Reserve is a small but ecologically rich reserve near Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast. Named after conservationist Dr. T.C. Robertson, the reserve protects coastal riverine forest, grasslands, and wetland habitats along the banks of the Mpambanyoni River. This diversity makes it a fantastic birding destination, with species like African Fish Eagle, Narina Trogon, Green-backed Camaroptera, and various kingfishers commonly seen. The reserve also supports wildlife such as bushbuck, mongoose, and a variety of butterflies. Also look out for Western Osprey and Black-throated Wattle-eye. Well-maintained trails allow for easy exploration, making it a great spot for nature lovers looking for a peaceful birding escape close to the coast. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Friday night online Zoom workshop followed by a Saturday morning practical session at Durban Botanical Gardens. Learn how to atlas and give back to the birds for conservation. Register for these activities by joining the WhatsApp groups when they are created –They will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Continuing the atlas themed weekend Dave will lead to explore an under atlassed pentad in the Durban area.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

Explore a mix of grassland and riverine forest in Hillcrest. Target birds include Holub’s Golden Weaver, Broad-tailed Grassbird, and Red-throated Wryneck.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

A relaxed sit-in at a scenic picnic site overlooking coastal lowland forest. Look out for Narina Trogon, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, and African Black Duck.

A double outing! Start at Thurlow Nature Reserve, Midmar for grassland and waterbirds, then a visit the Karkloof Crane Foundation Hides. Golden Rhino or Wild Card may be required at Midmar.

Be KZN TALKS! | FEATHERS AS FLAGS
by STEVE DAVIS
THURSDAY 24 april @18h00

A fascinating talk on how birds use feather colours and patterns for communication and camouflage.

Visit a private grass farm known for water birds. Expect sightings of White-backed Duck, African Rail, African Snipe, Grey Crowned Crane, and Bald Ibis.

Each activity, except the talk, requires registration via the dedicated WhatsApp sub-group (marked with a green tick when open and a no entry sign when closed to bookings).

Van Riebeeck Park on the Bluff in Durban is a notable green space that has undergone significant rehabilitation efforts, particularly focused on restoring its wetland ecosystem. Once a degraded area, the park now supports a diverse range of bird species, thanks to conservation initiatives aimed at improving habitat quality. It provides an excellent birding location, attracting waterbirds, warblers, and even raptors. The park’s wetland plays a crucial role in urban biodiversity, offering a sanctuary for both resident and migratory species. If you’re involved in monitoring the site, 

BeKZN OUTREACH | FOR I HAVE SEEN THE ALBATROSS…
by Nicolette Forbes
PROBUS Mount Edgecombe @ the Mt Edgecombe Country Club
MONDAY 3 MARCH 2025
09h30 for 10h00

This talk will speak about our magnificent seabirds, the Southern Ocean and will include a bit of a debrief on the Flock to Marion Again! 2025 trip which so many KZNers will be taking in January 2025.

Bird atlassing in the Greater Durban area is a vital contribution by the club to understanding bird distribution and population trends in this rapidly urbanizing region. By systematically recording species in different habitats—from coastal wetlands to suburban gardens and nature reserves—members provide crucial data for conservation planning and environmental management. These records feed into projects like SABAP2, helping to track changes over time and identify priority areas for protection. Through regular atlassing efforts, the club not only supports scientific research but also fosters awareness and appreciation for Durban’s rich birdlife.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, nestled in the dramatic cliffs and dense forests of the Molweni River Gorge, is a prime birding destination near Kloof, KwaZulu-Natal. Its mix of coastal scarp forest, grasslands, and riverine habitats supports an impressive diversity of species, including Crowned Eagle, Narina Trogon, African Emerald Cuckoo, and the elusive Buff-spotted Flufftail. The reserve’s well-marked trails offer rewarding birding opportunities, with canopy-dwelling specials and waterbirds along the streams. With its breathtaking scenery and rich avian life, Krantzkloof is a must-visit for birders seeking both iconic species and an immersive nature experience.This is a large reserve with forest and a gorge. The chances of Knysna Turaco along with the Purple-crested Turaco are good. Last time we had an Ayres’ Hawk-Eagle just before leaving. We will sit near a small dam and see what birds we can see and hear. 

Difficulty | Easy terrain

Birding in the Durban Botanical Garden offers a rewarding experience amidst lush, historic gardens teeming with birdlife. The mix of large mature trees trees, flowering plants, and a well-established wetland attracts a variety of bird species, from vocal Southern Boubou and shy Tambourine Dove to dazzling Purple-crested Turacos. The garden has tranquil paths that provide excellent opportunities for spotting sunbirds flitting among the blossoms and African Paradise Flycatchers weaving through the canopy. With its accessibility and rich biodiversity, the garden is a favourite birding spot for both beginners and seasoned birders having turned up some good birds in the past such as Palmnut Vulture and Buff-spotted Flufftail.  

Join us to listen to a talk about sunbirds from some-one who has studied them for years including doing his Phd on pollination. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

BIRDLIFE KZN FORUM
Weekend 21-23 March | Simbithi EcoEstate Ballito

Calling all BeKZN members – The BirdLife KZN Forum is alive again!  After the wonderful and magical Sani Pass event in September 2024 it is now time for our Regional Autumn Forum for 2025.  We already have an incredible speaker programme with the likes of Mark Anderson, Dr Lorinda Hart, Prof Colleen Downs, David Allan, Hugh Chittenden, Steve Davis and Cassie Carstens.  

The Simbithi Country Club provides a superb venue and the long weekend allows us to treat you to guided walks in the immediate surrounds with bird specials possible such as African Broadbill, Green Malkoha, Lesser Moorhen, Red-winged Cisticola, African Pygmy Goose and many more KZN delights. Please register to receive the programme and more details and be on the list to get all the logistical arrangements.  If you don’t register you will not receive further information from us.

THIS EVENT IS FREE TO ALL MEMBERS, VISITORS AND BIRDERS OF ANY AGE AND EXPERTISE

The link to register | https://forms.gle/wJVv4ew9j3GJ7pNa7

TC Robertson Nature Reserve is a small but ecologically rich reserve near Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast. Named after conservationist Dr. T.C. Robertson, the reserve protects coastal riverine forest, grasslands, and wetland habitats along the banks of the Mpambanyoni River. This diversity makes it a fantastic birding destination, with species like African Fish Eagle, Narina Trogon, Green-backed Camaroptera, and various kingfishers commonly seen. The reserve also supports wildlife such as bushbuck, mongoose, and a variety of butterflies. Also look out for Western Osprey and Black-throated Wattle-eye. Well-maintained trails allow for easy exploration, making it a great spot for nature lovers looking for a peaceful birding escape close to the coast. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Medium terrain

This 214 ha. reserve contains the largest area of climax forest remaining in the vicinity of Durban and areas of open grassland, woodland, scrub and riverine vegetation along the Mhlatuzana River.   Over 200 species of birds occur in this reserve including Green Malkoha and Narina Trogan.  Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

 Difficulty | Easy terrain

A small reserve with good birding, it has a small dam with some well-established trees around. Black-throated Wattle-eyes have been seen recently. It is known for having had a Half-collared Kingfisher around for a long time. We will sit near the dam. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Medium terrain

A wonderful reserve with grassland and forest. Will bird by moving from area to area and then walk. Good for difficult cisticolas, Short-tailed Pipit and Broad-tailed Grassbird, Martial Eagle has been seen recently.  In the forest look out for the shy Green Twinspot and Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler as well as Blue-mantled Crested Flycatcher. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Difficulty | Easy terrain

Do your bit for conservation (and learn from the best)! Join the CWAC starting at the Green Hub @ uMngeni Estuary mouth, then moving onto Durban Bay in the Bayhead area afterwards. If you know the difference between a Blacksmith Lapwing and a Grey Heron and can count – YOU can help.  Bring binoculars, hat, water, refreshments and snacks for afterwards. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

BeKZN AGM – SAVE THE DATE – Saturday 22 February

Situated on the gorge of the Palmiet River. With well marked trails the reserve boasts a new bridge built since the floods. The main trail winds along the river through climax coastal scarp forest and adjacent to sandstone cliffs. The river has large clumps of grasses suitable for hosting Green Twinspot, Grey Waxbill and all three mannikins. This is where the late Prof Steve Piper did over 26 years of research on the Mountain Wagtail, so this is a good place to spot this species. The walk is led by Terry who knows the reserve well. A potentially good place for Half-collared Kingfisher too. Register for this activity by joining the specific WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick if it is open and places are available. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group 

Even if you are not going on the Flock to Marion Again! 2025 cruise but would like to learn more about Seabirds and the Prince Edward Island complex you are welcome to attend.  Calling all people in the Greater Durban area – interested in learning about seabirds and / or preparing for Flock to Marion 2025.  An in-person workshop which will be interactive and fun with a quiz at the end so you can test what you have learned and also test your newly prepared ID key. This will help you recognise groups of birds (albatross, petrels, shearwaters etc), and specific identification features.  You will also construct a seabird ID key which you will then test in a fun quiz and take with you on your next voyage be it Flock to Marion Again! or any other one. Link to pay and book https://forms.gle/epn3u5VbEF5cEqo16. Once the course is full a waitlist will be kept – no future dates planned at this stage.  Please feel free to share widely with other networks.  Register for the course using this link | Course fully booked

A grassland with a mosaic of bush and a small riverine forest. Good for Rufous-naped Lark and Yellow-throated Longclaws. We will sit in the picnic site overlooking the reserve. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

Refresh your knowledge and learn more tips about seabirds before the Flock to Marion Again cruise. Register for this activity by joining the WhatsApp group when it is created – it will have a green tick. EACH person attending MUST register using the WhatsApp sub-group for this activity.

100 BE KZN MEMBERS WILL BE ON BOARD – WILL YOU?

A BUCKET LIST TRIP LIKE NO OTHER AND UNLIKELY TO BE REPEATED FOR A LONG TIME IF EVER SO DONT MISS OUT.