Blog
Birdwatching in Madikwe
by Nicholas Thiel. Photos by Tara Turkington. - 10 November 2024
When we think of a safari, iconic animals like lions, elephants, and rhinos are often in the spotlight. Looking for birds as well as game can add an entirely different and special layer to the safari experience.
Madikwe has over 350 recorded bird species, almost half of all South Africa's 846 birds. They range from large raptors to tiny seedeaters, from colourful to "lbjs" (little brown jobs), and from the iconic to the lesser known.
Below are a few of the species you can look out for on a trip to Mosetlha and Madikwe.
The black-winged kite (Elanus caeruleus), also known as the black-shouldered kite, is a small bird of prey with bright red eyes, giving it an intense look. They hunt for small mammals by hovering in mid-air and are often seen doing so in the heart of Madikwe.
The crimson-breasted shrike (Laniarius atrococcineus) is known for its brilliant red belly and loud, ringing whistle. You can often spot these beautifully bright birds in the camp at Mosetlha, hopping around looking for caterpillars and beetles.
The male long-tailed paradise whydah (Vidua paradisaea) has an elegant, flowing tail, which it puts on grand displays during breeding season. This tail can be three times the bird's body length, attracting mates but also drawing attention from predators.
The red-crested korhaan or or red-crested bustard (Lophotis ruficrista) is sometimes called the "suicide bird" due to its dramatic mating display, in which it flies high into the air, then dives toward the ground before pulling up at the last second. If you're lucky, you will get a chance to see this display on a drive.
The blue-cheeked bee-eater (Merops persicus) is named for its bright blue cheeks. This bee-eater is quick in the sky and catches insects mid-flight. Although it may seem risky that their choice in diet consists of bees and wasps, they cleverly remove the stings by rubbing the prey on a perch before consuming it. While present in Madikwe, it's one of the less common bee-eaters here.
The white-throated robin chat (Dessonornis humeralis) is known for its distinctive white throat and delightful song, which varies throughout the day. It uses complex vocalisations that can even mimic other bird calls in its territory, making it a difficult species to identify by ear.
The lilac-breasted roller (Coracias caudatus) is a photographer's dream! You are very likely to see this photogenic bird perched up against the bright blue sky, showing off its rainbow of feathers.
The green-winged pytilia (Pytilia melba) is a tiny and beautiful seedeater known for its vibrant green wings and red face. Despite its stunning appearance, it blends seamlessly into the vegetation in Madikwe, making it a lucky find for birdwatchers.
The pale chanting goshawk (Melierax canorus) is a fierce hunter. Unlike many raptors, it often hunts on foot, chasing down small prey. This beautiful bird with a piercing gaze is always exciting to find.