I am sure I am not the only one to wonder why these barbets have been named for the black collar and not for their distinctive and bright red head – surely a little perverse? Continue reading “Black-collared Barbets: Duets and warfare in the garden”
A layered look is definitely in for this Olive Sunbird. Although she is slightly dishevelled after preening, one stray feather randomly adds panache to a style where fluffy wins out over sleek. Continue reading “This season’s layered look”
This Brownhooded Kingfisher is patiently waiting and watching for potential prey. Continue reading “Waiting and watching”
Birds sunbathe too – not all species, but many do. Continue reading “Birds do it – sunbathe that is”
Named for their soft ‘swee swee’ call, the small and colourful Swee waxbills are guaranteed to distract me from my work on their occasional visits to our garden. Continue reading “Diverting and delightful Swee Waxbills”
It is always a pleasure to watch wild creatures going confidently about their business without fear.
Continue reading “The dancing dove”
For birds, regular preening of feathers is essential for flight. Continue reading “Feather texture revealed”
The glossy red berries of the Solanum giganteum provide satisfaction for birds during the winter months when conditions can be harsh. Continue reading “Winter satisfaction”
The thrushes are as busy as ever this winter. Only two species of thrush visit our garden, out of the 12 or so species found in South Africa. Continue reading “Ground-foraging songbirds: There are thrushes at the bottom of the garden”
