Birds of Cape Town

July 3, 2023

Cape Town, nestled at the southern tip of Africa, is a haven for nature enthusiasts and bird lovers alike. With its diverse landscapes, ranging from mountainous regions to coastal habitats, the city provides a rich environment for an impressive array of bird species. Whether you're a seasoned birder or simply have an appreciation for the beauty of these winged creatures, here are the 20 most interesting birds to spot in and around Cape Town.

African Penguin

The African Penguin, also known as the "jackass penguin" due to its distinctive braying call, is a charismatic and highly endangered species. Found primarily on the shores of Boulders Beach in Simon's Town, these black and white birds captivate visitors with their playful antics. Watch them waddle along the sandy beaches, taking refreshing dips in the clear turquoise waters as they gracefully swim through the ocean. It's a heartwarming experience to witness these adorable creatures interact with each other, build nests, and care for their young. The African Penguin is a true symbol of Cape Town's unique biodiversity and the importance of conservation efforts.

Cape Sugarbird

Endemic to South Africa, the Cape Sugarbird is a striking and beautiful bird known for its long, curved bill and its elegant, elongated tail feathers. It can be found in the fynbos-covered slopes of Table Mountain and the surrounding areas. The male displays a vibrant mix of orange, black, and white plumage, making it a sight to behold. These birds are often seen darting between flowering proteas and other fynbos plants, using their specialized brush-tipped tongues to feed on nectar. Their melodious songs and graceful flight patterns add to the enchantment of encountering them in their natural habitat.

Malachite Kingfisher

The Malachite Kingfisher is a jewel of Cape Town's waterways, known for its vibrant blue and green plumage that gleams in the sunlight. This tiny bird, measuring only about 13 centimeters in length, can be found near rivers, ponds, and wetlands. It perches on branches or reeds, patiently scanning the water for fish and insects. Once its keen eyes spot its prey, the kingfisher dives headfirst into the water with remarkable speed and accuracy. Witnessing this breathtaking hunting technique and the dazzling colors of the Malachite Kingfisher is a true testament to the wonders of nature.

Cape Rockjumper

A true master of camouflage, the Cape Rockjumper blends perfectly with the rocky terrain of Cape Town's mountainous regions. With its bright orange plumage, black throat patch, and contrasting white wing patches, this bird stands out against the earthy tones of its surroundings. Spotting the Cape Rockjumper requires some patience and keen observation skills, as it hops and flits from rock to rock in search of insects and small reptiles. Its unique call, a combination of whistles and trills, often serves as a helpful clue to locate these elusive birds. For avid birders, encountering the Cape Rockjumper is a gratifying reward for exploring the rugged landscapes of Cape Town.

African Fish Eagle

The African Fish Eagle is a majestic bird of prey renowned for its distinctive call, often likened to the iconic sound of an African wilderness. With its striking black and white plumage and a powerful hooked beak, this eagle exudes an aura of strength and grace. Found near freshwater bodies such as rivers, lakes, and estuaries, the African Fish Eagle is a skilled hunter, swooping down from the skies to snatch fish with its sharp talons. Witnessing its dramatic fishing techniques and hearing its haunting call echoing across the water is a captivating experience that showcases nature's raw beauty.

African Black Oystercatcher

Standing out against the coastal landscapes of Cape Town, the African Black Oystercatcher is a captivating bird with its black plumage and a vibrant red beak. These striking shorebirds are commonly found along the shores, foraging for limpets, mussels, and other shellfish. Watching them probe the sand or pry open shells with their sturdy bills is a sight to behold. The African Black Oystercatcher is not only visually appealing but also holds ecological significance as an indicator species for the health of coastal ecosystems. Observing these birds along the rugged Cape Town coastline offers a glimpse into the delicate balance of nature.

Knysna Turaco

While not exclusive to Cape Town, the Knysna Turaco can be spotted in the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. With its emerald green feathers, vibrant crimson wings, and a prominent crest, this bird is a true spectacle. The Knysna Turaco's melodic calls can be heard echoing through the trees as it moves gracefully from branch to branch. Its presence adds a splash of color to the lush vegetation of the garden, making it a sought-after sighting for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Take a moment to appreciate the Knysna Turaco's beauty and immerse yourself in the serenity of Kirstenbosch's tranquil surroundings.

Cape Bulbul

The Cape Bulbul is a common bird in Cape Town's gardens and parks, known for its beautiful song that resonates through the trees. With its olive-brown plumage, a distinctive crest, and a pale yellow throat, this small bird is a delightful sight. It flits among the branches, gleaning insects and feasting on berries, while filling the air with its melodious melodies. The Cape Bulbul's adaptability to urban environments allows it to thrive in the city's green spaces, offering an accessible opportunity for birdwatchers of all levels to appreciate its cheerful presence and tuneful performances.

Secretarybird

Although not commonly seen within the city limits, the Secretarybird can be spotted in the grasslands surrounding Cape Town. This large and distinctive bird of prey stands tall with its long, bare legs and a tuft of elongated feathers on its head. It primarily feeds on snakes, rodents, and other small animals, using its strong legs to stamp and kill its prey. The Secretarybird's unique appearance and hunting techniques make it a captivating species to observe in its natural habitat. Witnessing its graceful stride and powerful strikes is a testament to the remarkable adaptations of birds of prey.

Cape White-eye

The Cape White-eye is a small and lively bird that frequents gardens, forested areas, and parks in Cape Town. With its bright yellow underparts and a distinct white eye-ring, it adds a splash of color to the surrounding foliage. These energetic birds move in small flocks, exploring trees and shrubs in search of insects, nectar, and fruits. Their cheerful chirps and acrobatic flights make them a delight to observe. Whether in urban or natural settings, encountering the Cape White-eye showcases the resilience and adaptability of birds thriving in Cape Town's diverse ecosystems.

Orange-breasted Sunbird

Endemic to the fynbos biome of South Africa, the Orange-breasted Sunbird is a true gem of Cape Town's avian population. This striking bird features a vibrant orange chest and metallic green upperparts, making it a dazzling sight against the backdrop of the fynbos vegetation. The males boast long, curved bills and perform impressive aerial displays to attract mates. They feed on the nectar of various flowering plants, their slender bills perfectly adapted for extracting sweet sustenance. Observing the Orange-breasted Sunbird as it flits from flower to flower, displaying its vivid plumage and sipping nectar, offers a glimpse into the intricate relationship between birds and the diverse floral ecosystem of Cape Town.

Cape Canary

The Cape Canary, also known as the Yellow Canary, is a charming and melodious bird commonly found in gardens and parks throughout Cape Town. With its vibrant yellow plumage, black wings, and a melodic song, this small passerine bird adds a touch of cheer to its surroundings. Cape Canaries are highly adaptable and can thrive in various habitats, from urban areas to more natural environments. Their enchanting songs can often be heard emanating from treetops or dense shrubbery. Listening to their melodious tunes and catching a glimpse of their bright colors brings a sense of joy and tranquility to any outdoor space.

Southern Double-collared Sunbird

Another captivating sunbird species found in Cape Town is the Southern Double-collared Sunbird. This bird is a true beauty with its metallic green upper parts, a distinct double collar of orange and yellow, and a slender curved bill. These sunbirds are nectar feeders and play a vital role in pollination. They can be observed hovering near flowering shrubs and plants, delicately sipping nectar from the blossoms. Their agile flight patterns and shimmering plumage make them a sight to behold, especially when the sunlight catches their vibrant colors. The Southern Double-collared Sunbird exemplifies the intricate relationship between birds, flowers, and the delicate balance of Cape Town's ecosystems.

Cape Robin-Chat

The Cape Robin-Chat is a charismatic bird species known for its striking appearance and melodious song. With its slate-gray upperparts and a distinctive red breast, this robin-like bird stands out in the forested areas of Cape Town. Known for their confidence, Cape Robin-Chats may approach humans in search of insects or even engage in territorial displays. Their melodious songs echo through the trees, creating a soothing ambiance in the natural habitats they inhabit. Encountering a Cape Robin-Chat is a delightful experience, as you witness their vivid colors and hear their enchanting tunes amidst the tranquility of Cape Town's woodlands.

African Hoopoe

The African Hoopoe is a unique and eye-catching bird species that can be found in various habitats throughout Cape Town. With its distinctive black-and-white plumage, a long, curved bill, and a distinctive crest, this medium-sized bird is hard to miss. The hoopoe's name comes from its distinctive "hoop-hoop" call, which it emits during its flight. These birds are often seen foraging on the ground, probing the soil with their bills in search of insects and larvae. With their elaborate plumage and quirky behavior, African Hoopoes add a touch of charm and intrigue to the avian diversity of Cape Town.

African Harrier-Hawk

The African Harrier-Hawk, also known as the Gymnogene, is a medium-sized bird of prey that can be spotted soaring above the skies of Cape Town. With its broad wings and a distinctive long, double-jointed neck, it possesses remarkable flexibility and agility. This bird is known for its ability to twist and contort its head to access hard-to-reach prey, such as bird nests or small mammals hiding in tree cavities. Its plumage is predominantly gray, complemented by a pale face and striking yellow eyes. Witnessing the African Harrier-Hawk in flight, displaying its aerial prowess, and observing its unique foraging techniques is a testament to the diversity of raptors in Cape Town.

Cape Grassbird

The Cape Grassbird is a small, inconspicuous bird that can be found in the fynbos and grassy areas surrounding Cape Town. This elusive species is known for its well-camouflaged plumage, making it difficult to spot amidst the grasses. However, its distinct song, a series of melodious whistles and trills, gives away its presence. The Cape Grassbird primarily feeds on insects and seeds, foraging within the grassy vegetation. Patience and a keen eye are required to catch a glimpse of this well-hidden bird as it moves stealthily through its natural habitat, blending seamlessly with the surrounding grasses.

African Sacred Ibis

The African Sacred Ibis is a large, wading bird that can be seen foraging in wetlands, grassy areas, and even urban environments throughout Cape Town. With its striking combination of black and white plumage, long curved bill, and characteristic bald head, this bird is hard to miss. African Sacred Ibises are opportunistic feeders, using their long bills to probe the soil for invertebrates, insects, and small vertebrates. They often congregate in large flocks, creating a spectacle as they gracefully navigate the landscape. The presence of the African Sacred Ibis adds an element of grandeur to Cape Town's natural and urban ecosystems.

Pied Kingfisher

The Pied Kingfisher is a fascinating bird that can be found near rivers, lakes, and estuaries in Cape Town. With its contrasting black and white plumage, distinctive crest, and a dagger-like bill, this bird is a master of aerial hunting. Perched on branches or hovering effortlessly over the water, it scans for fish and other aquatic prey. Once its keen eyes spot a target, the Pied Kingfisher dives headfirst into the water with remarkable speed and precision, emerging with its catch securely clutched in its bill. Witnessing these dramatic hunting displays and admiring the striking appearance of the Pied Kingfisher is an awe-inspiring experience.

Greater Flamingo

Although not native to Cape Town, the Greater Flamingo can occasionally be spotted in coastal wetlands, lagoons, and salt pans in the area. Known for their iconic pink plumage and long, slender necks, these majestic birds create a mesmerizing sight. Whether wading through shallow waters or gracefully taking flight, their presence adds elegance and a touch of exoticism to the landscape. The Greater Flamingo is a social bird, often congregating in large flocks where they engage in synchronized feeding and stunning displays of coordinated flight. Spotting these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a testament to the allure of birdwatching in Cape Town.

Diving "White Death"

December 14, 2020

HANGING OUT WITH GREAT WHITE SHARKS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Sharks have always fascinated me and none more so than the infamous great white. Since first watching David Attenborough’s Wildlife on One, I’d envisioned one day experiencing a close up encounter with the most notorious of beasts that lurk the deep blue. Feared by most who step foot into the water, great white sharks have unjustifiably earned themselves a bad reputation through exaggerated media stories and, most notably, the blockbuster film Jaws.

The great white shark is listed as a vulnerable species on the IUCN red list, however, estimations made by leading shark biologists state there are fewer than 3,500 individuals, making them more vulnerable to extinction than the tiger. Some sources claim that their population is growing while others argue it is declining. In light of this, I felt it was high time I realised my dream of coming face-to-face with the sharks before it might be too late.

It was during my spell in South Africa that the time had come to bring my long awaited meeting with Carcharodon carcharias to fruition. I had been travelling along the picturesque Garden Route and chose to spend a few days in Hermanus, a quaint little town situated on a mountainous bay and one of the world’s hotspots for whale watching. Between May and September, southern right whales annually migrate from the Antarctic to give birth to their young in the warmer waters of South Africa’s coastline. The town is also situated about a 40-minute drive away from one of the most famous great white shark hotspots in the world, Gansbaai.

I entrusted White Shark Ecoventures to ensure that there would be no chance of disappointment. After a quick breakfast and an induction informing us on all of the safety regulations, we set off out to sea. My initial excitement quickly turned to apprehension as the realisation set in that I would soon be plunging into the water with a one-and-a-half-tonne fish that some call “White Death”. I began to play out disastrous scenarios in my head, asking myself questions such as “What if the cage detaches itself from the boat and we sink toward the seabed?”, and “What if the shark breaks through the cage and gobbles me up?”

Before I knew it, we had arrived at Shark Alley and the boat engines came to a halt. A pair of tuna heads coupled with a bucket full of chum were tossed into the surrounding water and then the wait began. Around half an hour of gazing into the grey/blue void had passed before a large silhouette emerged from the depths of the murky sea. I suspiciously squinted my eyes to block out the glare reflecting off the shimmering surface, and then I was certain. “Shark! shark!”, I excitedly called to the boat captain as the ten-foot-long adolescent male menacingly glided closer toward the starboard side of the boat. Without a moment’s hesitation, we were instructed to put on our snorkels and climb down into the steel cage. Still nervous about all of the potentially catastrophic situations that had been running through my mind, I cautiously lowered myself into the only thing that would separate me from the three sharks that were already circling the boat. Strangely, all of my worries filtered away and were replaced with serenity the moment I entered the water. There was something so tranquil about being alone with my thoughts beneath the ocean swell.

As the first shark gradually appeared from out of the shadows, I remember feeling completely at peace, entirely without fear as the apex predator gracefully edged closer. As he quietly swam by, I couldn’t help but stare intensely into his almost extraterrestrial jet black eyes. Though virtually impossible to distinguish exactly where a great white is directing its gaze, somehow I knew that he was looking at me, sussing me out.

Soon after, two more sharks began to encircle the boat and I found myself surrounded from all angles. I never felt threatened, not once. Sharing a few moments in the cold South African winter waters with the great whites helped me to understand that they had absolutely no interest in causing me any harm, despite a few heavy bumps against the cage. Each shark was only interested in the bait that had lured them into our vicinity in the first place.

It was only when the sharks surged for the glum looking tuna heads that I was reminded of the immense power and killer instinct that great whites possess. With the ability to accelerate from a leisurely swim to incredible speeds in the blink of an eye, each shark would dart toward the bait with eyes rolled back and jaws wide open. On a few occasions, some of the sharks would actually breach, thrashing their streamlined bodies around as they cleared the water surface entirely.

After spending around an hour in complete euphoria in the water, it was finally time to call it a day and we reluctantly headed back to the harbour. I spent the next few days totally in awe of the brief encounter I’d had with one of the greatest forces of nature to inhabit our planet.

Shark populations have been decimated over the past 100 years due to overfishing, trophy hunting, culling and finning. There are some that firmly believe that these atrocities are beneficial to mankind and that due to unprovoked attacks on humans, we would be better off in a world without them. I’d argue that stepping out of our natural environment and into theirs is to provoke a naturally curious animal and that as apex predators, sharks are undoubtedly essential for maintaining healthy ecosystems that we and many other species depend on. Furthermore, attacks on humans are extremely rare and are often a consequence of mistaken identity.

Since that significant day I spent in Shark Alley, thoughts have stirred in my mind about what it would be like to live in a world without great white sharks and how many more species would soon follow them into extinction. As custodians of our beautiful planet, I believe that it is our moral obligation to ensure that this very real possibility does not become a tragic reality.

Source: https://stock.adobe.com/images/great-white...

Photo: ShutterstockThis article was originally published by Youth Time Magazine — Photo: Shutterstock
This article was originally published by Youth Time Magazine

6 Surprising Symbiotic Relationships

March 11, 2020

Can you imagine how your life might be without your best friend? Who would laugh at your terrible jokes or have your back any time you got into trouble? As humans, we rely heavily on friends for support, companionship and even when we want to kick back and have some fun. In fact, whether in social or professional spheres, it is generally accepted that forming strong bonds and partnerships with one another can often bring about positive results.

But did you know that such partnerships are also formed throughout the animal kingdom - and not just within a single species? Some creatures forge lifelong relationships with entirely different organisms in order to get through their days just a little easier. These types of alliances are known scientifically as symbiotic relationships, which can be separated into three different types: commensalism, mutualism, and parasitism.

Commensalism is a type of symbiotic relationship between two different animal species whereby only one of them benefits. The other is neither helped nor harmed. The opposite of commensalism is parasitism, which involves one organism gaining from the inter-species relationship, but to the detriment of its host. Ticks are a well-known example of a parasite. Mutualism is the win-win form of symbiotic relationships, with both partners benefiting.

Below, I will introduce you to some of the most weird and unlikely examples of symbiotic relationships within the animal kingdom.

Nile Crocodile and Egyptian Plover

The Nile crocodile is well-known for being hyper-aggressive whenever an uninvited visitor steps into their territory. However, there is one creature that the scaly reptilians will not only tolerate, but practically welcome into their aquatic domain. Incredibly, the Egyptian Plover aka “Crocodile Bird” will fly into the crocodile’s open mouth and feed upon the decomposing meat stuck between their teeth. The plover gets a not so scrumptious meal while the crocodile gets a little free dental work!

Sharks and Pilot Fish

Similar to the mutualistic relationship between Nile crocodiles and Egyptian plovers, many species of shark have established an unlikely alliance with pilot fish. While the pilot fish helps to rid the shark of parasites and clean away fragments of food caught between their teeth, it benefits from protection against other predators. The companionship between these two species is said to be so strong that there are even tales of distressed pilot fish following trawler vessels months after catching “their” shark.

Coyote and Badger

Back on to dry land and let's take a closer look at the unlikely coalition between coyotes and badgers. With speed being their main predatory tactic, coyotes usually rely on open environments to pursue and kill their prey. However, badgers are diggers, capturing their prey whilst resting in their subterranean burrows. In some parts of North America, coyotes have been observed waiting outside burrows for ground squirrels fleeing from an attacking badger. While both parties rarely benefit from any one hunt, the badger also enjoys success thanks to this unlikely relationship. Sensing the danger posed by the coyote, some animals remain in their burrows, allowing the badger a greater opportunity to catch them.

Hermit Crabs and Sea Anemones

Another unlikely marine pairing is that of hermit crabs and sea anemones. By poking the anemone with its pincers and holding it in place, the crab encourages it to attach to its shell. While the anemone bags itself a free ride across the seabed upon the hermit crab's back, they effectively serve as bodyguards, providing shelter and using their barbed tentacles to actively fend off hungry hermit predators.

Colombian Lesserblack Tarantula and Dotted Humming Frog

It might seem odd to think that a creature as sinister-looking as a tarantula could form a symbiotic relationship with an animal it could easily kill and eat. But that is exactly the case in this odd partnership between the Colombian lesserblack tarantula and dotted humming frog of South America. In fact, the large creepy crawly even allows the tiny frog to share its burrow! While the plucky little amphibian enjoys protection from fierce predators, the spider benefits from the frog devouring carnivorous ants that attack and eat the tarantula’s eggs.

Drongos and Meerkats

This incredible partnership between bird and mammal was made famous in the BBC wildlife documentary “Africa” hosted by the legendary David Attenborough. The drongo serves as a lookout for hunting meerkats, giving a warning cry whenever a predator is within the vicinity. Upon hearing the alarm, the spirited little mammals scuttle back to their burrows, often dropping any prey they have captured in order to speed up their escape. Most of the calls made by the drongo are genuine. However, the mischievous drongo has learned that by raising false alarms, it can swoop down and pick up a free meal dropped by a fleeing meerkat. A master of mimicry, the drongo has even been witnessed making warning calls made by meerkats!