I’ve been involved with Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate for several years as part of the marketing team. As part of that role, I often join the bird walks led by internationally renowned bird guide Marc Cronje. In the beginning, I joined more out of duty than personal interest. I wasn’t a birder, just someone who loved nature. But it didn’t take long for that sense of obligation to turn into genuine enjoyment. After my very first walk, I was hooked. On the 5th of November, I joined another one, and it once again reminded me why these bird walks at Likweti are so special.
There’s something magical about walking in nature with a group of people who, despite their differences in age and experience, share the simple joy of being among birds. Birds of a feather, as they say, really do flock together. Marc makes every walk both educational and fun, and I always leave having learned something new, whether it’s a subtle difference in a bird call or spotting a species I thought I’d never see.
The weather could not have been more perfect with just the right balance of warmth and sun, enough to stir the birds into activity. We wandered through a beautiful wooded area of the estate in search of the recently spotted Narina Trogon, whose very first sighting at Likweti had been made by one of our residents. Although the trogon remained out of sight this time, the thought that it’s out there somewhere kept our excitement alive and our eyes eagerly scanning the canopy.
Even without the trogan, the morning was filled with incredible moments. We saw Olive Bush Shrikes, Lazy Cisticolas, Southern Boubous, Red-headed Weavers, White-throated Robin Chats, Red-capped Robin Chats, and, for the first time for me, the elusive Red-chested Cuckoo. We had heard several calling throughout the walk, but it wasn’t until the very end, as it flew over an open area, that I finally got a clear view of this beautiful bird. Its distinctive red chest and striking markings made it an unforgettable moment, and now I’m hoping that next time I’ll spot one perched for a closer look.
We were also treated to the spectacular sight of Red-collared Widowbirds, Fan-tailed Widowbirds, and Red Bishops in full breeding plumage. Barn Swallows, European Bee-eaters, and Willow Warblers reminded us of the magic of migration, while three species of woodpecker, Golden-tailed, Cardinal, and Bearded, made lively appearances. A Brown Snake Eagle and an African Woolly-necked Stork were wonderful surprises as we wrapped up the walk, and the ever-charming Mocking Cliff Chats added their song to the morning chorus.
In total, more than 75 species were recorded, a true reflection of the rich biodiversity that makes Likweti such a special place, especially for bird watchers.
What makes these walks even more memorable to me, is the people who join them. Interacting with fellow birders, residents and visitors alike, is always inspiring. On this walk, one participant came with a specific goal in mind: to photograph a Black Cuckooshrike. Not only did he manage to find it, but he also captured a stunning image, which made the morning even more rewarding for all of us. The Black Cuckooshrike is an especially interesting species, while males are typically glossy black, some have a striking yellow patch on the shoulder. In fact, in certain regions, only about ten percent of males display this yellow marking, making each sighting of one even more special. Moments like these remind me that birding is as much about shared experiences as it is about personal discovery.
As someone who never considered herself a birder, I am amazed at how much I’ve learned just by joining these walks. I now recognize certain calls in my own garden and find myself spotting familiar species whenever I’m in nature. It all started here at Likweti, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts and guided by Marc’s incredible knowledge and passion. These mornings have truly deepened my appreciation for the beauty that exists all around us.
If you’ve ever thought about discovering the birdlife of the Lowveld, there’s no better place to start than Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate. Join us for the next bird walk and experience the magic for yourself. And if you’re imagining calling this birding paradise home, there’s never been a better time to explore Likweti and discover the lifestyle that comes with it.
