The Birding Life Podcast Network

Tristan is the host of the SnA Youth Birders podcast and forms a core part of the Admin team of the SnA Youth Birders group itself. He is a rising star on the social media front and aims to be a bird show host and a conservation personality one day.

He is an experienced birder with many years under the belt- guiding both privately and for Birdlife South Africa. He is well known for his exceptional bird call ID skills and his love of having a million different hobbies going on at once. Tristan recently visited Uganda...

If you are a birder from KwaZulu Natal, you will probably know Mount Moreland. During summer, an estimated three million Barn Swallows gather there to roost in the reedbeds, creating one of the great birding spectacles in the province. But Mount Moreland is also an important wetland supporting a much wider range of wildlife.

What makes the story even more interesting is that this enormous concentration of birds sits right next to King Shaka International Airport.

That creates an unusual challenge. How do we better understand the movements of millions of birds around a busy...

What happens when three young scientists with a shared fascination for the natural world come together? You get ZooLogic ZA.

In this episode, Gabby sits down with Devon, Ross and Strijdom to talk wildlife, science, conservation and the curiosity that keeps pulling them deeper into the natural world. From rhino research and snake handling to insects, butterflies and the stories hidden in the ecosystems around us, the conversation explores their individual journeys as well as what brought ZooLogic together.

It’s a fun, fascinating conversation with three young people proving that science doesn’t have to s...

This week's episode is a little bit different, and a lot of fun.

My guest is Themba Robin, a South African comedian, content creator, actor, MC and voice artist, known for his satirical takes on everyday South African life and for finding humour in the things most of us walk straight past.

And that is part of what makes this conversation so interesting.

Birders are a very particular bunch. We have our habits, our obsessions, our strange little routines, and sometimes it takes someone from outside the birding world to point out just...

Anton is well-known for his incredible Big Birding Year in 2019 where he managed to see over 800 bird species. Today we sit down and look back at that big year- his highs, his lows, his lifers and his dips. Anton shares with us how he raised money for White-winged Flufftail conservation whilst managing to fund his very own big year. Anton gives advice for youngsters potentially looking to do their own big year and for those looking to become better birders.

We also look at the exciting SnA Youth Birders Newsletter coming out in October which will be...

We identify birds by name, we learn them by name, and we talk about them by name. But how often do we stop and ask where those names actually come from, what they mean, or what stories sit behind them?

My guest today is Eddie Germiquet, author of South African Birds by Name, a book that explores the origins and meanings behind the names of our birds.

Eddie’s own background makes him particularly well suited to this subject. His life has included birds, languages, research, ministry and a deep curiosity about words and where th...

Nardus Taljard has built an impressive online community around something he genuinely loves, wildlife, Kruger and the stories that unfold in the wild.

But what does it actually take to turn that passion into a successful digital platform?

In this episode, Gabby sits down with Nardus to chat about the journey behind the content, from growing an audience and working with brands to photography, conservation, the realities of social media and some of the unexpected opportunities that have come his way.

We also get into the responsibility that comes with having a voice...

My guest today is Kenyan birder, guide and ornithologist James Apolloh Omenya, who was part of an expedition into the Boni Forest region of Kenya in search of two of the country’s lost birds, the Red Weaver and the Tana River Cisticola.

The expedition involved difficult travel, motorbikes, local guides, security concerns, armed escorts, and a search through a part of Kenya that very few birders will ever get to experience.

And then, on 3 July 2026, James and his team found what they had gone looking for. The Red Weaver, a bird that had not be...

Welcome to episode one of the SnA Youth birders podcast! This podcast has been created to share birding with a younger generation and to help those parents that are raising young naturalists.

We chatted with one of Southern Africa’s top young birders- Daniel Engelbrecht. He gives us insight into his recent trip to Uganda and his upcoming African trips. We chat about his love for bird call recording and the African Big Year of sounds.

Dan shares his birding advice for young birders and parents with children they’d like to turn into birders. He s...

Today we are chatting about a citizen science project that has been running for more than 30 years and has become an incredibly valuable source of information about some of South Africa’s large terrestrial birds.

I am joined by Dr David Ehlers Smith, Science and Spatial Planning Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa, to talk about CAR, or Coordinated Avifaunal Roadcounts.

We are going to unpack what a CAR count actually is, why these counts are done, what decades of data are telling us about species such as cranes, bustards, Secretarybirds and other large terrestrial bi...

What happens when a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa becomes a lifelong obsession - and ultimately the backdrop to an extraordinary writing career?

Internationally bestselling author Tony Park joins Gabby Sykora for a conversation that goes far beyond the pages of his novels. From more than three decades of African adventures to wildlife crime, conservation, unforgettable characters and the wild places that continue to inspire his stories, Tony shares the experiences, encounters and occasional chaos behind a life spent writing Africa.

With 24 novels, 10 non-fiction biographies and a brand-new release, King of Beasts, Tony has built a...

Welcome to Season 15 of The Birding Life Podcast, Africa's biggest birding podcast. It is great to be back and kicking off another season of conversations with the people who make the birding world what it is.

And for our first episode, I'm joined by someone who certainly isn't a stranger to the podcast. Tristan Spurway has joined us before, but a lot has happened in his birding journey since we last properly caught up.

Tristan has developed a real passion for bird sounds and sound recording, including getting involved in the Big Year of African...

On this special World Ranger Day edition of the podcast, Gabby sits down with conservation activist and Saving the Wild founder Jamie Joseph for one of the most powerful conversations we have had.

While rangers continue to risk their lives protecting South Africa’s wildlife, Jamie reveals why the biggest battle is not always fought in the bush, but in the courtroom. Together, they unpack why so many rhino poachers never see prison, how corruption is undermining conservation, and why specialised wildlife courts and stronger legislation could change everything.

Jamie also shares more about Saving th...

One of the things that has changed dramatically in birding over the last few years is the role that technology plays in helping us enjoy birds, keep records, contribute to conservation, and connect with other birders.

Today we are going to be talking about an app that has made a significant impact on the Southern African birding community. If you've spent any time around birders recently, chances are you've heard people talking about Bindo.

What started as an idea to get more people interested in birds has grown into a platform that now contains more...

In this episode, Gabby is joined by primatologist Dr Paula Pebsworth from the Chacma Baboon Project for a thoughtful conversation about one of southern Africa’s most intelligent, adaptable and often misunderstood animals: the chacma baboon.

Baboons are deeply social animals with complex relationships, strong learning abilities and important ecological roles, yet they are also frequently at the centre of human-wildlife conflict. From farms and homes to waste, crops and tourism spaces, the overlap between people and baboons can quickly become emotional, difficult and deeply divided.

Paula shares the story behind the Chacma Baboon Project in...

There are some guests who simply make you think differently about birds, conservation, and our place in the natural world.

Today's episode is a special one because it marks Episode 200 of The Birding Life Podcast.

When I started this podcast, I never imagined that we would reach 200 episodes. Along the way we've spoken to birders, guides, photographers, conservationists, scientists, authors, and some truly remarkable people from around the world who share a passion for birds.

Before we begin, I would love to ask a small favour.

This podcast has never really...

One of the things I love about birding is that there are so many different ways to enjoy birds. Some people love chasing rarities. Some people love atlasing. Some people enjoy bird photography. Others simply enjoy spending time in nature.

My guest today is someone who has spent decades behind a camera. Rory Baker is a professional wildlife photographer, photography educator, and founder of Rory Baker Photography. Over the years, he has photographed everything from wildlife and birds to architecture and commercial projects, while helping hundreds of photographers develop their skills.

What makes today's conversation...

Today, Gabby Sykora is joined by Dr Kelsey Skinner, Executive Director of the African Pangolin Working Group, for a powerful conversation about conservation, perseverance, and one of the world's most threatened mammals.

Together, they explore the work being done to protect pangolins from illegal wildlife trade, the challenges of rescue and rehabilitation, and the growing efforts to secure a future for these remarkable animals.

Dr Skinner shares insights into the African Pangolin Working Group, the realities of working on the frontlines of conservation, and the inspiring story of Kulu, a young pangolin whose journey from...

If you're listening to this episode on the day it is released, tomorrow is Youth Day in South Africa. It is a day when we celebrate the young people of our country, and for this episode, I wanted to hand over the microphone to two young people who are making a difference in the world of nature and conservation.

My first guest is Liam Botha. Liam is a birder, herper, wildlife photographer, artist, and YouTuber. Despite his young age, he has already developed a deep passion for the natural world. In our conversation, Liam shares how a...

Welcome back to part two of our birding journey through Limpopo with Daniel Engelbrecht.

In this episode, we continue our journey into some of Limpopo's most iconic birding destinations. We visit the forests of Magoebaskloof, explore the legendary Soutpansberg mountains, and then head north into one of South Africa's greatest birding regions, the northern Kruger National Park.

Along the way, Daniel shares practical advice, target species, favourite birding sites, and some of his own memorable experiences from years spent birding this remarkable province.

This episode is brought to you in proud partnership with...

In this episode Gabby is joined by Maru from Roots & Shoots South Africa, the youth program of the Jane Goodall Institute, for a conversation about hope, action, and the incredible role young people can play in shaping a better future.

We explore what it really means to make a difference, how conservation begins much closer to home than many people realise, and why curiosity is often the first step towards meaningful action. From community gardens and citizen science to storytelling and environmental education, Maru shares how young people across South Africa are creating positive change for people...

When many birders think about South Africa's top birding destinations, places like Kruger National Park, Cape Town, or Zululand often come to mind. Yet tucked away in the northernmost corner of the country lies a province that offers some of the most diverse and rewarding birding anywhere in southern Africa.

Daniel grew up in Limpopo, has birded the province extensively for many years, and has become one of the leading voices when it comes to birding in the region.

In this first of a two part series, we begin exploring this bird rich province. Daniel...

In today’s episode, I am joined by photographer, filmmaker, conservation storyteller, and birder, Byron Grobler.

Byron is the founder of WildWild Journeys, and earlier this year he announced on his YouTube channel that he would be taking on a birding big year.

In this honest and thought-provoking conversation, Byron shares more about his journey, and how two significant encounters in the bush would shape the way he sees birds, wildlife, and the natural world around him.

This episode goes far beyond simply finding birds. We unpack what it means to interact ethically wi...

At just 10 years old, Jamie Smart has already achieved something most wildlife photographers only dream of: being crowned Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum in London.

But this conversation is about far more than an award.

Jamie is one of those young photographers who reminds us that age does not limit the way someone can see, feel, and understand the natural world. Behind her winning image is a young storyteller with genuine curiosity, patience, and a beautifully observant eye for wildlife.

In what honestly felt like one of...

Junior Gabela is a name known to many South African birders. Those who have birded with him will tell you about his incredible birding skills and his ability to find some of Zululand’s most sought-after species. In this episode, I sit down with this well-known Zululand bird guide to hear more about his story.

In this conversation, we don’t just get to know Junior the birder. We dig deeper into the people and places that shaped his journey. For those who may never have visited Zululand, we also unpack the incredible birding in the region, alon...

Last week, we kicked off this conversation with Cameron Blair, and if you listened to Part 1, you’ll know just how good that was.

In this episode, we pick up where we left off and go even deeper. We continue unpacking Cameron’s thinking around birding, his approach to cisticolas, and how to move from guessing to actually understanding what you are looking at in the field.

There is a lot of practical value in this episode, especially if you want to grow in confidence with tricky groups like cisticolas. And as the conversation unfolds, you...

In this episode of The Birding Life Podcast, we sit down with the incredible Sacha Dench -often known as the “Human Swan” - whose work has taken conservation storytelling to extraordinary heights.

From flying thousands of kilometres alongside migratory birds to leading some of the most ambitious conservation expeditions in the world, Sacha has redefined what it means to raise awareness for wildlife. But behind the adventure lies something deeper – a powerful commitment to connecting people with nature in a way that truly inspires change.

In this conversation, we explore the stories behind the flights, the ch...

A few months ago, on an atlas bash in the Free State, I met Cameron Blair. After some great evening conversations about birding, and especially his love for cisticolas, I knew I had to get him onto the podcast.

We sat down last week to record what was meant to be one episode, but it quickly turned into two. So this is the start of a special two-part conversation with a fascinating ornithological student. We unpack how a project he started at just 12 years old, along with where he grew up, shaped his journey into birding.

In this episode, I chat with Etienne Marais. This is a really special conversation, and one that I think you are going to get a lot of value from.

We recorded this episode in person at Zaagkuilsdrift Bird Sanctuary and Lodge. Not only did we get to sit down for this conversation, but I also had the chance to spend some time birding at the lodge and enjoyed some really special sightings during my stay.

In this episode, we take a deep dive into the world of warblers. This is a group of birds that...

Join Erin and Paige as they detail there journey through Botswana and Zambia on Josh's wild birding holiday!

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

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This is Part 2 of my conversation with Cassie Carstens, the Secretarybird Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa.

In the first episode, we explored Cassie’s journey into bird conservation, what shaped his passion for birds, and some of the experiences and lessons that led him to the work he is doing today. If you haven’t listened to Part 1 yet, I would highly recommend going back and starting there.

In this second part of the conversation, we go deeper into the conservation work around the Secretarybird. We unpack the challenges facing the species, how research and...

In this episode I bring you the first of a two part conversation with Cassie Carstens, the Secretarybird Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa.

Before we begin, a big thank you to Summerveld Country Lodge for allowing us to record this episode on their premises. The lodge is located in Outer West Durban, and if you ever find yourself in the area, it’s well worth a visit. They serve outstanding food and the service is absolutely excellent.

This episode is much more than just a conversation about conservation. It’s an honest look at the...

In Part Two of my conversation with Brent Coverdale, we shift the focus from what is being done to what still needs to change.

Building on Part One, this episode explores the challenges facing threatened species conservation - from funding and land-use pressures to public perception and policy. Brent reflects on the role of people in conservation, the responsibility that comes with knowledge, and where young voices, photographers and birders fit into the bigger picture.

This episode is about perspective, accountability, and hope, and why conservation isn’t just the job of scientists, but of ev...

In this episode I’m joined by Anton Schultz for an honest and wide ranging conversation about birding, passion, and personal growth.

Anton’s journey began like many others. A love for nature as a kid, a family trip to Kruger, and a field guide placed in his hands that opened up a whole new world. What started as curiosity quickly turned into deep commitment, eventually leading him to take on a full birding Big Year.

We talk about how his approach to birding has changed over time. From list driven birding and chasing lifers, to s...

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

In this episode we dive into the fascinating world of rare birds in Southern Africa. There is really only one person who could join me for this conversation, Trevor Hardaker.

Together, we look back at some of the best rare bird sightings from Southern Africa in 2025, as well as the birders who found them. But this episode goes beyond the highlights. We get practical and unpack how to improve your chances of finding rare birds in the field, how to submit sightings, how records are assessed, and how it is decided which birds make it onto the...

After sharing the stage with Brent Coverdale at the 2025 BirdLife South Africa Owl Awards, it felt only fitting to sit down and continue the conversation — not under the spotlight, but behind the scenes.

In part one of two episodes, we focuses on the work behind the work - what it really takes to protect threatened species like Blue Swallows, vultures, cranes, cheetah and elephants. Brent shares what his role involves day to day, from field monitoring and aerial surveys to management plans and decision-making that quietly shapes the future of our wildlife.

This is an ho...

In this episode, I’m joined by three special guests whose stories are all connected to one remarkable place. Ntsikeni Nature Reserve lies in southern KwaZulu Natal, between Underberg and Kokstad. Today we explore the people, the conservation work, and the birds that make this reserve so special.

At the heart of this episode is a conversation with Dalu Ngcobo, recorded late one night at the lodge in the reserve. Dalu is a BirdLife South Africa accredited bird guide from the local community, and his story alone will make you want to experience Ntsikeni for yourself.

...

In this episode, we bring you the second half of our two-part conversation with Faansie Peacock.

In this episode, we dig even deeper into the topics that matter — from the ethics of birding, how we engage with rare birds, the role of technology in modern birding, and the importance of building community. Faansie also shares how becoming a dad has shaped his perspective on birds and life, and why curiosity, humility, and joy should always be part of the journey.

This episode is proudly associated with Firefinch App. Firefinch is more than just an app. It...

As a new season of the YWP Podcast begins, Gabby returns to the Kruger National Park under very different circumstances.

Recent floods have left parts of Kruger damaged, roads washed away, and access limited and this is a powerful reminder that even places we see as timeless are shaped by nature’s force. In this opening episode, Gabby reflects on what it means to move through wild spaces on nature’s terms, drawing from a chaotic teenage camping trip to Pafuri and contrasting it with the reality of returning to a park in recovery.

This epis...