Bird watching walk at Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate led by international bird guide, Marc Cronje: 30 July 2025
Early mornings during the winter months can be a challenge, to get up and go birding but the crisp, clean air and beautiful sunbirds in breeding plumage more than make up for it, not to mention the breathtaking sunrise over the Likweti plains.
We were welcomed by a cool but calm morning that didn’t seem to bother the birds at all. From the moment our group of six enthusiastic birders stepped out of the cars, we were treated to superb sightings. The blooming Coral trees proved irresistible to some of the region’s most vibrant species, with Scarlet-chested, White-bellied, and Amethyst Sunbirds putting on a show. One of the early highlights was watching the local Yellow-throated Longclaws actively displaying, a delightful sight.
A calling Brubru drew our attention and gave us excellent views, while the loud, whistling calls of Crowned Hornbills soon followed. We enjoyed watching a group of five feeding nearby. This is a great species for the area, as they appear to descend from forest habitats to the Lowveld during winter.
Once we got on the Shongololo trail winding through indigenous bush, we were surrounded by a lively mixed feeding flock. This “bird party” gave us brilliant views of White-throated Robin-chat, Olive Bushshrike, Blue Waxbill, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Southern Black Tit, Yellow-breasted Apalis, and a drumming Bearded Woodpecker. The lively chatter of resident Green Wood Hoopoes gave them away, and we paused to admire their tail-fanning display antics.
As our walk continued, we picked up species like White-fronted Bee-eater, Cape Glossy Starling, Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Bar-throated Apalis, Sombre Greenbul, Black-headed Oriole, Bronze Mannikin, Cape White-eye, White-browed Scrub Robin, and a Gorgeous Bushshrike. We even spotted a pair of Mocking Cliff Chats perched on a rooftop, and overhead, several Purple-crested Turacos dazzled with their flight.
Toward the end of our walk, we chatted about a recent sighting of a Bateleur over Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate. This is an excellent bird for the area and typically more associated with Kruger. Just as we were wrapping up, an adult Martial Eagle flew over carrying prey in its talons, a spectacular and rare moment. Even more exciting is the knowledge that a pair of these endangered raptors is breeding on the estate, with a juvenile spotted by several residents.
It was a magical morning of birding at the estate, and we’re reminded once again how lucky we are to have such phenomenal birdlife right here in the Lowveld. Whether it’s winter or summer, Likweti always delivers.
We recorded a total of 61 species, an impressive count for a chilly winter’s day.
