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-store

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

Links 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-store

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

Links from show:

Mouse-Free Marion Website - https://mousefreemarion.org/

Peter Harrison MBE Website - https://www.peterharrisonseabirds.com/

Join me as I chat with young birder Robyn Phipps, fresh off the incredible Flock to Marion 2025 birding cruise! Robyn shares her once-in-a-lifetime experience, from the thrill of spotting seabird lifers to the unforgettable moments on board. We dive into the highlights, the camaraderie among birders, and what it was like to be part of such a unique conservation-driven adventure. Whether you were on the cruise or living vicariously through the stories, this episode is not to be missed!

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, 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-store

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

Links from show:

Mouse-Free Marion Website - https://mousefreemarion.org/

Wow it's already the end of the year! To celebrate I invited my friends Amy, Nic and Taryn to reminisce about the highlights of 2024. In the process we also came up with strange looking birds and revealed all about our illustrious holiday to Marakele National Park! I hope you enjoy the last episode of the season and year!

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:

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-store

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

The Birding Life Youth Podcast Christmas Special! In today’s episode I am joined by 3 of my friends - Nic, Taryn and Amy. We talk about what birds remind us of Christmas and we play “Guess that Christmas bird”. Hopefully this new style of episode is a fun and entertaining change from the normal ones! Have a merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

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 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-store

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

Links from show:

Order your copy of Seabirds: The New Identification Guide here

Found out more about the Flock to Marion Cruise here

In this episode, I sit down with Keanu Canto, a full-time Computer Science student at the University of Pretoria, passionate birder, and budding plant photographer. Keanu is no stranger to the youth birding community, and tonight, he shares his inspiring journey of balancing academic life with his love for nature.

We dive into what sparked his passion for birding, his take on twitching with a student budget, and his transition from bird photography to capturing the intricate beauty of plants. Keanu also shares tips for young photographers, his approach to leading birding expeditions, and how platforms like iNaturalist foster deeper connections with citizen science.

As we wrap up, Keanu offers a glimpse into his dream photography project and his plans for the future. Whether you're a seasoned birder, a curious photographer, or someone looking for inspiration, this chat promises a fresh perspective on the joys and challenges of pursuing your passions.

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:

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-store

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

Links from show:

Peter Cavanagh Website: https://www.petercavanagh.us/