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The Birding Life Podcast Network brings you a mix of shows all about African birding and nature. We're here to connect you with birds, the great outdoors, and the amazing people we meet along the way. Tune in and join us on our adventures!
205 Episodes
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In this episode, we’re diving into Part 2 of our conversation with top South African birder, Dom Rollinson.If you missed Part 1, hit pause and go listen to that episode first — we covered some amazing birding areas in Southern Africa and laid the groundwork for what’s to come in this follow-up episode.In Part 2, we continue our journey across the region, exploring even more top birding hotspots, lesser-known gems, and areas every serious birder should have on their radar. Dom shares insider tips, personal stories, and the kind of local knowledge that can only come from years in the field.Whether you’re planning a birding trip, building your Southern Africa lifelist, or just love hearing passionate people talk about birds — this episode is for you.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Birding Ecotours - https://www.birdingecotours.com/
In this episode, I’m joined by a familiar voice and returning guest, Dom Rollinson. Dom is not only one of South Africa’s top birders and a highly respected tour guide with Birding Ecotours, but he also brings a wealth of academic and field experience to every conversation.This is the first of a two-part episode, where we take a deep dive into Dom’s picks for the top birding areas in Southern Africa. Whether you're a local birder looking for your next trip or an international guest planning your first visit, this episode is packed with practical info, expert insights, and personal stories. From rare endemics to world-class wildlife, we’ll explore the best destinations, what birds to target, when to go, and what makes each area unique.This episode is brought to you in proud partnership with Birding Ecotours—offering small group and custom-made birding adventures in over 100 countries worldwide. If you’re serious about birds, it’s time to travel with the best. Visit birdingecotours.com and turn your birding bucket list into reality. Spots fill fast—don’t miss out!So, grab your binoculars, open your field guide, and let’s jump into part one of this value-packed conversation with Dom Rollinson!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Birding Ecotours - https://www.birdingecotours.com/
In this episode of The Birding Life Youth Podcast, Josh chats to his friend India Jardine about their recent trip to Botswana. India runs us through the highlights of our stay and enchants us with the many stories we came home with!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:
Trevor Hardaker joins The Birding Life Podcast for a focused look at his journey and work. He founded Southern African Rare Bird News in 2008 and still sends the daily reports. He chairs BirdLife South Africa’s National Rarities Committee. He co-runs Zest for Birds pelagic trips off Cape Town. In 2007 he became only the second birder to pass 900 species in the Southern African region.Trevor shares the story behind the rare bird email, early influences, and the grind of gathering reliable reports every day. He talks about twitching, local patch birding, and a few standout rarities. He reflects on young birders, listing changes under the new Avilist, and why community and conservation matter.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Zest for Birds - https://www.zestforbirds.co.za/
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back one of my favorite guests, Pieter Verster, joining us all the way from just outside Kruger National Park. Pieter is not only a passionate birder but a champion of atlasing—a powerful, rewarding way of birding that directly contributes to conservation.In this episode, we unpack what atlasing is, why it’s so valuable, and how it can take your birding to the next level. Whether you’ve never heard of a pentad or you’re already logging lists, this conversation is packed with practical advice, personal stories, and insights to inspire you to get involved.We’ll explore how atlasing sharpens your birding skills, builds community, and helps protect the birds we love. Pieter also shares tips for getting started, finding access, staying safe, and discovering hidden gems in your area. This is one of those conversations that will make you want to grab your binoculars and head outsideVisit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza
In today’s episode, I’m joined by expert guide and long-time Birding Ecotours team member Dylan Vasapolli. From remote escarpment forests to sprawling miombo woodlands, Dylan shares what it’s like to bird Angola — a land filled with rare endemics, untapped habitats, and unforgettable adventure. We cover what makes Angola such a unique destination, what kind of birder it’s best suited for, and the “holy grail” birds that make this a must-visit location.Whether you’re looking to join a future tour or just want to learn more about this exciting destination, this episode is packed with everything you need to know about birding in Angola.Grab your coffee, your notebook, and your bird list — and let’s get into it.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Birding Ecotours https://www.birdingecotours.com/
Recorded on board the Flock to Marion Cruise, I had the incredible opportunity to speak with two field researchers, Danielle Keys and Leandri de Beer — women who’ve spent months living and working on Marion Island, one of the most remote and wild places on Earth.They share what life is like on the island, from preparing for a 13-month stay to navigating extreme weather, and the highs and lows of field research in such an isolated environment. But more than that, they offer an honest and heartbreaking look at the devastating impact invasive mice are having on Marion’s seabirds — and why this matters.Their first-hand experiences bring to life the urgent need for the Mouse-Free Marion Project, one of the most important island restoration projects in the world today. This is a cause that needs your support — not just for the birds, but for the sake of preserving one of the last truly wild places for future generations.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Visit the Mouse-Free Marion Website - https://mousefreemarion.org/
As with many of this season’s episodes, this one was recorded on the Flock to Marion cruise. So far, we’ve heard from many of the older folk who joined the cruise — but today, it’s all about the youth! In this episode, we hear from four inspiring young birders. They’ll share their experiences on the cruise, their own birding journeys, and why they believe Marion Island must be restored.We kick things off with Caleb de Beer, followed by Matteo Risch, Nicolas Hopkins, and finally, super-achiever Jurie Blignaut. To wrap up the episode, we hear from BirdLife South Africa’s Avitourism Project Manager, John Kinghorn.One episode, four incredible young voices!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:BirdLife South Africa - https://www.birdlife.org.za/
In this special episode, recorded onboard the Flock to Marion Cruise, I have the privilege of speaking with Holly Parsons.Holly is the passionate founder of the Albatross Lovers Facebook group, an artist, and a conservationist whose life took an extraordinary turn after two traumatic brain injuries. Through a deep connection with albatrosses, she found healing, purpose, and a mission to raise awareness for these majestic seabirds.We talk about her journey from international relations to birding, how art became a form of therapy, and why she’s committed to supporting vital conservation efforts like the Mouse-Free Marion Project. This is an episode that will inspire you, challenge you, and remind you of the power of birds to transform lives.If you love this episode, be sure to check out the show notes for links to Holly’s work and how you can support BirdLife South Africa in their mission to protect our incredible seabirds.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:BirdLife South Africa https://www.birdlife.org.za/Albatross Lovers Facebook Group https://web.facebook.com/groups/albatrosslovers
In this episode, I sit down with Rogen Machin from Canon South Africa to talk about the incredible role photography plays in birding and conservation. We discuss Canon’s involvement in the cruise, the evolution of bird photography, and how new technology is changing the game for birders and photographers alike. Rogen also shares his personal journey back into birding and what it’s been like experiencing the seabirds of the Southern Ocean firsthand.Beyond the cameras and lenses, this episode is also about conservation. The seabirds of Marion Island face a dire threat from invasive mice, which attack and kill chicks and even adult birds. BirdLife South Africa is leading vital efforts to protect these birds and their breeding colonies. If you’re passionate about seabirds and conservation, please consider supporting their work.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:BirdLife South Africa https://www.birdlife.org.za/
In this episode, I’ll be interviewing Hans Larsson, one of the world’s leading bird illustrators. We’ll talk about his first experience birding in the Southern Ocean, what it was like guiding on the cruise, and his incredible work illustrating Seabirds: The New Identification Guide alongside Peter Harrison MBE.Joining me as a co-host is Josua Wenzel, one of South Africa’s most talented young bird artists. Later in the show, Josua will have his own segment, where he chats artist-to-artist with Hans about the craft of bird illustration, the challenges of painting seabirds, and how first-hand experience influences their work.Beyond the art, this episode is also a reminder of what’s at stake. The seabirds of Marion Island are under serious threat from invasive mice, which attack and kill chicks and even adult birds. The Mouse Free Marion Project is working to remove these threats and restore this critical breeding ground. If you love seabirds, please consider supporting this essential conservation effort.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Mouse-Free Marion Project website - https://mousefreemarion.org/Hans Larsson Website - https://www.hanslarssonbirdart.com/Josua Wenzel Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/the_scribbleworks/
In this episode, we are honored to welcome back Peter Harrison, MBE, for his second appearance on the podcast! A world-renowned seabird expert, artist, and conservationist, Peter has spent a lifetime studying, illustrating, and championing these incredible ocean wanderers. He has written and illustrated more than a dozen books, including his latest masterpiece, SEABIRDS: The New Identification Guide—a definitive resource for seabird lovers around the world.In this conversation, Peter shares his deep passion for albatrosses, the challenges these birds face, and why the Mouse-Free Marion Project is one of the most urgent conservation efforts of our time.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Mouse-Free Marion Website - https://mousefreemarion.org/Peter Harrison MBE Website - https://www.peterharrisonseabirds.com/
In this episode, I have the privilege of chatting with Dr. Stuart Butchart, the Chief Scientist at BirdLife International. But before we dive into that conversation, we’ll hear from Mark Anderson, the CEO of BirdLife South Africa, who will share his reflections on the success of the cruise and the vital work being done to protect Marion Island.Marion Island is home to some of the world's most iconic seabirds, including the magnificent Wandering Albatross. However, invasive mice have had a devastating impact on these birds, threatening their survival. BirdLife South Africa is leading the charge to address this crisis through the Mouse-Free Marion Project. For just R1000, you can sponsor a hectare and directly support the efforts to eradicate these mice, ensuring a safer future for the island's precious birdlife. To get involved, visit the BirdLife South Africa website.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Mouse-Free Marion Website - https://mousefreemarion.org/
This week, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation with someone I’ve been hoping to feature on the show for a long time—Jordan Ralph. Jordan’s birding journey is nothing short of inspiring, and his adventures have taken him to some of the most breathtaking and remote locations on Earth, including Madagascar and even Antarctica. Whether you’re preparing for the upcoming Flock to Marion Cruise or just passionate about birds and nature, this episode will have something for you.In this episode, Jordan and I talk about his experiences preparing for and birding in the Southern Ocean, the role of people in conservation, and why the Flock to Marion Cruise is a must-do for every birder. Plus, we share some laughs about bogey birds and reflect on the amazing birding community that keeps us all inspired.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza
In this special episode, we’re revisiting an iconic conversation with none other than Peter Harrison—ornithologist, artist, conservationist, and adventurer. Often described as the David Attenborough of the seas, Peter’s life has been a celebration of seabirds and their mysterious, untamed world.We discuss his lifelong love for seabirds, the fascinating process behind creating his groundbreaking field guides, and the conservation challenges facing seabird populations today. Whether you’re an avid birder, a conservation enthusiast, or simply someone who loves a good story, this episode promises inspiration, insight, and a touch of goosebumps!Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Order your copy of Seabirds: The New Identification Guide hereFound out more about the Flock to Marion Cruise here
n this episode, we have the privilege of chatting with Peter Cavanagh, a bird photographer and author of the fascinating new book How Birds Fly. Peter’s work bridges the worlds of art and science, offering birders a deeper understanding of the mechanics and marvels of flight. From personal birding stories to insights into groundbreaking research, this conversation will open your eyes to the incredible design and adaptability of birds in the air.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Peter Cavanagh Website: https://www.petercavanagh.us/
In this episode, I’m joined by Mark Tittley—a mentor, birder, and productivity coach—who shares his fascinating journey into birding, the life lessons he's learned along the way, and how he balances birding with the rest of life. Whether you're a seasoned birder or just starting out, Mark's wisdom will inspire and challenge you to approach birding—and life—with intentionality.We also discuss practical tips to get organized for birding trips, the importance of fostering a welcoming community for birders, and the value of mentorship in this incredible hobby.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show: If you’re interested in developing your personal productivity, consider check out this page (https://bit.ly/YouCanBeProductive) to find out more and connect with Mark for a free introductory chat about his course.
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome Mark Brown, a distinguished South African ornithologist, conservationist, and now author of Roberts Sunbirds and Sugarbirds of South Africa. Mark’s journey in conservation, from Nature’s Valley to leading pivotal research projects, is one of commitment, resilience, and a true passion for birdlife. We dive into his experiences, the stories behind creating this stunning book, and the fascinating world of sunbirds and sugarbirds. Mark shares some amazing insights, from the challenges of fieldwork to the intricate details of sunbird physiology, and the dedication required to bring this book to life.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Get the Sunbirds Of Southern Africa book here
In this episode, I welcome back an all-time favorite guest, Faansie Peacock. Today, we’re diving deep into his latest project, "The Chamberlain Guide to Birding Gauteng 2". Known for his passion and expertise, Faansie takes us through Gauteng’s unique birding spots, sharing fascinating insights into local species, conservation efforts, and a few stories from his own birding adventures. This guide is not just a list of birding sites; it's a call to experience the diversity of Gauteng with a fresh perspective.So, settle in as Faansie and I uncover the heart of Gauteng birding and the inspiration behind this comprehensive guide."Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Get a copy of The Chamberlain Guide to Birding Gauteng 2 here Order your Vortex binoculars or scope here
In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Dr. Anton Wolfaardt, Project Manager at the Mouse-Free Marion Project. Anton has dedicated his career to seabird conservation, and today, he takes us deep into the story of Marion Island—one of the most unique and ecologically important places on the planet. We’ll dive into the challenges and triumphs of restoring this remote island to protect its incredible birdlife, from the iconic albatrosses to lesser-known yet equally remarkable species.Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-storeIntro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialzaLinks from show:Mouse-Free Marion Project https://mousefreemarion.org/Order your Vortex binoculars or scope here
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