If you missed the Crocodile River Reserve Bird Talk on Sunday 23 August, you missed something rather special — though judging by the turnout, not many people did!

Justin Henry, Vulture Project Manager at BirdLife SA, joined us for what turned out to be a wonderful Sunday morning in the company of fellow bird enthusiasts — seasoned twitchers and curious newcomers alike. The warm reception was a reminder of just how many people in our community share a deep love and fascination for our feathered friends.

Justin guided us through a carefully curated selection from the CRR’s impressive bird list — and while covering all 255 recorded species in one morning was never going to be possible, he chose beautifully. The majestic Brown Snake Eagle, the charismatic Arrow-marked Babbler, the humble Dove, the mystical Grass Owl and the very special Orange River Francolin were among the stars of the show. The presentation was, however, occasionally — and hilariously — interrupted by a group of Hadeda Ibis who clearly felt they deserved a mention too.

Why Birds Matter More Than We Realise

One of the most fascinating insights of the morning was learning just how significant the distances birds travel are to the health of our ecosystems. Their movements — across landscapes, across borders — make their contribution to nature far greater than we might imagine.

But that contribution is increasingly under threat.

Scavengers like vultures are particularly vulnerable to human activity, and lead poisoning has emerged as one of the most serious dangers they face. When hunters or game managers use lead-based ammunition, fragments remain in discarded gut piles and carcass remains — and when vultures and other scavenging wildlife feed on these, the consequences can be fatal.

A Simple Switch That Could Save a Species

BirdLife SA’s Vulture Project is actively working with hunters, farmers and game managers to encourage a shift to lead-free ammunition — and the good news is that lead-free alternatives are already available, tested and proven to be effective.

The message is simple:
Shoot responsibly. Protect our wildlife heritage. Go lead-free.

(Download the Poster on Lead Free Ammunition here)

If you use firearms for hunting or conservation purposes, please consider making the switch. It’s a small change that could make an enormous difference to some of our most critically endangered species.

For more information on the Vulture Project, visit www.birdlife.org.za/vultureproject or contact Justin Henry directly at justin.henry@birdlife.org.za

---

Come and Experience the Birds of the CRR for Yourself

The diversity of habitats in the Crocodile River Reserve — from expansive grasslands and rocky koppies to wetlands and wooded slopes — supports one of the richest bird lists in the region. Whether you’re a lifelong birder or just starting out, there’s always something remarkable to spot here.