From the Chair | BirdLife KZN Forum

Embrace the birding delights in KZN this winter!

As winter casts its chilliness over KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), avid birders may assume that the departure of migratory species dampens the thrill of birding. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! Even as we bid farewell to our winged visitors, KZN continues to offer an array of bird specials and glorious winter weather that are sure to captivate the hearts of both seasoned birdwatchers and new birders alike. This issue highlights some of the exciting upcoming events and unique local specials that make birding in KZN this winter an experience not to be missed.

KZN boasts a remarkable array of local bird species that are yearround residents, creating ample opportunities for birding enthusiasts to explore the region’s diverse ecosystems. From the lush coastal wetlands along the coastal strip to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains,

KZN’s habitats are teeming with avian treasures waiting to be discovered.

This has already been an exciting year for birders with the successful roll out of BirdLife South Africa’s Flock to the Wilderness event. This included both the Learn About Birds (LAB) and the 94th AGM which was a wonderful event and enjoyed by all. It was great to see KZN representatives attending and even better to see our own Prof Colleen Downs awarded the Gill Memorial Medal. More detail on this in the next issue of KZN Birds.

Looking ahead there are a number of bird related events for us all to enjoy. Alongside the region’s wonderful birding these events celebrate the beauty and diversity of birds in South Africa. This includes the results of the BirdLife South Africa Photographic Competition which will provide an impressive showcase of stunning images of birds from across the country. This competition exceeded expectations, receiving an impressive 742 entries raising important conservation revenue and attracting new members to BirdLife

South Africa.

On Saturday 22 July, the African Bird Fair 2023 will bring together bird lovers and experts for a day of bird related speakers and exhibitors. Attendance in person or virtually at the Woodmead Country Club in Johannesburg.

Additionally, preparations for the upcoming regional BirdLife KZN Forum in Zululand in September are well underway (see page 19 for more details). We already have many registered attendees and look forward to this KZN Spring Celebration.

With these events on the horizon, there is much to look forward to and ample opportunities to engage with the fascinating world of birds. So grab your binoculars, hit the trails, and prepare to be amazed by the wonders of birding in KwaZulu-Natal this winter!

Nicolette Forbes Chair BirdLife KZN Forum