Page 24 - Intra Muros November Issue 2025

ESTATE EVENT

BIRDWATCHING EXPEDITION:

A PIERCINGLY COLD MORNING FULL OF

FEATHERED SURPRISES

n Saturday, 4 October at the The blacksmith lapwing – a fighter The southern fiscal – a predator in
Silver Lakes Nature Reserve, on with wing-weapons action
Oan unexpectedly cold summer When Lance introduced us to the blacksmith The morning also delivered a dramatic
morning, a group of about 30 birdwatchers lapwing, he didn’t just talk about its call or moment: a southern fiscal caught a Cape
– ranging from beginners to seasoned habitat; he showed us what makes this bird a wagtail – right before our eyes. With its
enthusiasts – gathered at the lower dam true warrior. Hidden in its wings are needle- sharp beak, it tore the prey apart and
for a birdwatching expedition. It was led sharp spurs – natural weapons used to defend carefully handed morsels to its mate, who
by Lance Robinson, one of Gauteng’s most its nest and chicks. Lance showed photos of in turn fed their chicks in the nest. It was
respected bird experts. Despite the biting these impressive tools and explained how an a raw, honest glimpse into nature’s cycle
chill and overcast skies, spirits were high attack from a lapwing is not just intimidating, – a reminder that even the most beautiful
and the thirst for knowledge even higher. but literally painful. A small bird with a big birds are part of a delicately balanced
attitude, ready to fight for what’s his. ecosystem where survival can be brutal.
The expedition took off with a swirl of
black-headed gulls flying overhead – as if
specially sent to kick off the day’s sightings.
Lance immediately began to share and
explain, and after a bit of confusion about
the meeting point, the group quickly came
together.

The pied kingfisher – an acrobat of
the water’s edge
One of the morning’s first stars was the pied
kingfisher, which dazzled us with its bright
colours and lightning-fast movements. Like
a tiny helicopter, it hovered above the dam,
suspended mid-air, before suddenly diving
straight into the water to catch a fish.
Every dive was precise, every emergence
triumphant. This was no ordinary bird; it
was a masterclass in aerial acrobatics.

22 | INTRAMUROS NOVEMBER 2025