This trip report was provided by Graeme Hatley.
A group of birders met on a chilly morning at the Willem Appel se Dam bird hide in Stanford. The early morning sky was stunning with beautiful light illuminating the dam. The mood was good, despite the cold wind.
The birding started with a highlight. There was a group of four to five African Palm Swifts rapidly flying overhead. Clearly there were insects for them to eat, as there was a mixed flock of unseasonal Barn Swallows together with Large Rock Martins. A group of Alpine Swifts and a Brown-throated Martin made an appearance.
On the water there were Black Crakes putting on a good display on the lilies just in front of the hide. The iridescent feathers on the African Swamphens made for great photographs in the early morning light.
From there we made our way to the banks of the Klein River on the other side of the village. This is generally a good spot for kingfishers, particularly the Pied and Giant Kingfishers. Unfortunately, neither of these made an appearance for us. However, we were lucky to get a sighting of a Brown-hooded Kingfisher. These are not regulars in Stanford, but there have been a few records over the past few weeks.
After a timely coffee break, we headed out for a short gravel-road loop just outside the village. This is a good spot for Cape Sugarbird and Orange-breasted Sunbird. Even through the strong wind was putting many of the birds down, we did get sightings of both of these wonderful birds.
The gravel road also yielded some local raptors, including Jackal Buzzard, Black-winged Kite, Rock Kestrel and the elusive Black Harrier.
A good morning covering a diverse habitat resulted in at least forty-four species being recorded, with some rarer birds as highlights.
Great trip – thanks Graeme. Despite the wind. 🙏
Thank you!