[SABN] Winter Birds KZN S. Coast

[BARRY PORTER]

Apart from the spectacular displays exhibited by the Cape Gannets in their
kamikaze diving exploits on the sardine shoals that make their way down the
KZN South Coast at this time of the year, there have been a number of
interesting sightings in the area.

The iZotsha river floodplain, recently inundated due to huge dunes thrust up
by the tidal wave activity a few months ago, has produced many interesting
and unusual bird sightings for the area. Spoonbills, Sacred Ibis and
Black-winged Stilt are common birds, but not on the KZN south Coast. African
Snipe and Goliath Heron are not often ticked in these parts, but they are
now easily seen at this delightful spot.

Cuckoo Hawk has been seen regularly at Umzumbe, and the lost Mocking Cliff
Chat has returned to the beach dunes for a brief visit. After the rather
protracted learning curve whilst observing Red-headed Quelea at Port Edward
last year, I am happy to say that a number of these birds are presently
visiting the bird feeder in my garden, they are subtly disguised at this
stage. I wouldn't have been able to ID them if it was not for Stan Cully of
Port Edward, who photographed different stages of the plumage colour
development of these birds last year.

The Birdlife Trogons visit to Mbango Valley Association in Port Shepstone on
Saturday was a real eye-opener. We have a gem in our midst! Plenty of
interesting birds were seen, including Black Egret, and Half-collared
Kingfisher. A Mallard X  Egyptian Goose used to hang out here; but with the
availability of excellent shallow water at iZotsha river mouth, it appears
to have taken up residence in that area at present.

Cheers,

Barry Porter.