In this special episode, I’m joined once again by my good friend Calvin Harris — not the DJ, the birder! This time, we’re recording from a deck at Ndumo Game Reserve, surrounded by the sounds of the African bush. You might even hear a Wood Owl or Nightjar calling in the background as we chat.

Ndumo has long held legendary status in South African birding circles, often spoken about as one of the best reserves in the country for bird diversity. But in recent years, its reputation has become mixed — with stories of decline, poor access, and safety concerns.

In this honest and unfiltered episode, we ask the big question: Is Ndumo still worth visiting as a birder in 2025?

We talk about:

• Our real-time experiences in the reserve — the birds we saw (129 species in winter!), the walks, the staff, the accommodation, and the challenges.
• Why this is truly a birder’s reserve — raw, wild, and rewarding for those who are willing to go the extra mile.
• What kind of birder will thrive here (and who might find it frustrating).
• The incredible birding highlights — from Verreaux’s Eagle-Owls to swarms of Openbills and magical moments in fig forests and floodplains.

Whether you’re planning a trip to Zululand, looking for your next birding adventure, or simply want to be inspired to visit underappreciated places, this is a must-listen.

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

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-store

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

Links from show:

Birding at sea, birding on shore, and a life list of 742. In this episode, Tristan Spurway shares flock-to-Marion highlights, his move to the Garden Route, beginner-friendly hotspots, and practical tips for pelagic ID. We also chat vlogging, photographing fast flyers, and why slowing down can make you a better birder. Tune in for laughs, lessons, and albatross-level awe.

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

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-store

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

Links 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-store

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

Links 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-store

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

Links 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-store

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

Links 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 outside

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

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-store

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

Links from show:

Birding Ecotours https://www.birdingecotours.com/

In part two of our conversation, we dive into Mark’s love for wildlife photography, particularly his striking black-and-white fine art style. He shares his creative process, the role of storytelling in conservation photography, and how guiding has influenced his work behind the camera. We also discuss his interest in elephant behavior and communication—an area of research he’s deeply passionate about. Whether you're a photographer, nature lover, or aspiring conservationist, this episode is a must-listen!

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: