Spier outing 22 October 2022
On a warm sunny Saturday, 23 birders set out to do some birdwatching at Spier Wine Estate. The large dam at the start of the walk gave us a good view of the African Spoonbill hiding amongst the Sacred Ibises in the tree. The Watsonia’s were in full bloom and gave the photographers many opportunities to get shots of the Malachite Sunbirds. The Levaillant’s Cisticolas were very active as were a number of the Swifts. After walking over the cricket pitch the Booted Eagle gave a wonderful display to the delight of the photographers. A single Swee Waxbill gave everybody a good viewing.
On the return walk along the river, the African Paradise Flycatchers gave us a good display in an oak tree. The Klaas’s Cuckoo was heard a few times and eventually, the female showed herself with a good viewing by the majority of the group. A good morning out and the bird tally was 53. Bird of the day was shared by the Klaas’s Cuckoo and Booted Eagle. Some good coffee and outstanding ice cream were enjoyed by a small group after the walk.
Keith Roxburgh