South Africa Cape Wildflowers and Birds Aug-Sept 08

Cape Wildflowers and Birds

20th August – 2nd September 2008

Tour Leader: Ross Goode
Trip report Compiled by Tour Leader Ross Goode

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 2

Tour Summary

We began our Cape Birds and Wildflowers
tour on the Cape Peninsula, undoubtedly one
of the most scenic stretches of landscape in the
world, providing the perfect backdrop to the
start of the tour. We had heard that, due to the
above average rainfall experienced this season,
it was going to be one of the best wildflower
shows that the region had experienced in years
so spirits were therefore high and everybody
was excited to begin our search for the
Peninsula’s localised birds and famous
flowering plants. We began our exploration in
the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where
we were welcomed by the warm yellow blanket of blooming Leucospermum conocarpodendrum and
a couple of roadside stops quickly revealed the vast diversity of the unique flora of this area. The
shrubland habitat here is typical of the Fynbos biome and we located a variety of Protea species
namely Protea scolymocephala, Leucadendron salignum, Leucadendron xanthoconus, Protea
lepidocarpodendron and the stunning Mimetes fimbriifolius. Many fantastic Ericas were also found
with Erica coccinea, Erica plunkenetii, Erica cerinthoides and Adenandra villosa being the most
striking and obvious. A rewarding sight indeed to see these plants in bloom and equally rewarding
to get looks at the avifauna they support. Orange-breasted Sunbird, the delightful Cape Sugarbird,
gangly Common Ostrich, Southern Double-collared Sunbird, African Oystercatcher, Cape Gannet,
Cape Cormorant, Cape Grassbird and the colourful and vocal Bokmakierie all showed well.

The next morning we headed east of the city towards Rooiels, a picturesque little town nestled at the
base of the Hottentot Holland Mountains and the site for one of South Africa’s finest endemics, the
Cape Rockjumper. The weather forecast for the day had predicted a maximum temperature of
15oCelsius or 59oFahrenheit yet despite the cold we managed to locate the Rockjumper as well as a
Verreaux’s Eagle. We then we went to Stony Point in Betty’s Bay which is one of only two
mainland Jackass Penguin colonies in the world. We
enjoyed wonderful views of the penguins and were also
treated to views of White-breasted, Crowned, Cape and
Bank Cormorant as well as Rock Hyrax trying to warm
themselves in the little sun that occasionally peeped
through the clouds. Next stop was Harold Porter Botanical
Garden, a place that showcases typical plants of the area, as
well as having intact coastal mountain fynbos and forested
kloofs, rivers with thick riparian vegetation and wetland
habitat gardens. Notable flora on entering the gardens was
most definitely Leucospermum reflexum and South Africa’s
National flower Protea cynaroides as they were in full
bloom. We explored the coastal mountain fynbos in the
gardens and were rewarded with great looks at Brimstone
Canary, Grey-backed Cisticola, Cape Francolin, the shy
and secretive Swee Waxbill and a true highlight, the
beautiful localised endemic, Victorin’s Warbler. On the
drive back to Noordhoek we made a short stop at
Strandfontein for waterfowl species. Cape Teal, Cape

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Shoveler, Red-billed Teal and Southern Pochard were all nestled in the wind sheltered bays of the
ponds. All three species of Grebe were present, a huge flock of Greater Flamingo, Kelp and
Hartlaub’s Gull and good numbers of waders such as Black-winged Stilt, Pied Avocet and Curlew
Sandpiper that were continually being put to flight by a marauding Peregrine Falcon.

On our final morning on the peninsula we explored the world famous Kirstenbosch Botanical
Gardens and nearby Constantia Greenbelts. The pleasing landscapes and spectacular floral displays,
particularly those of the Proteas, Ericas, Restios and bulbous plants, were a highlight of our visit, as
well as the great birds which included Malachite Sunbird, African Olive Pigeon, Southern Boubou,
Cape Batis, Black Sparrowhawk, Forest Canary, Bar-throated Apalis and Forest Buzzard. Leaving
the peninsula, we made our way up the west coast towards Langebaan to begin our exploration of the
wildflowers and birds further north. Before we got to Langebaan we stopped in at Tinie Versfeld
Wildflower Reserve that for most of the year resembles an abandoned field, however in spring it
clearly undergoes a spectacular transformation. This area was bursting with life, a mosaic of vastly
different coloured and shaped flowers and avian activity was at an all time high with birds displaying
and vocalizing all around. Wachendorfia paniculata was the first large and strikingly beautiful
flower that caught our attention and when you started looking around, nestled between the tussocks
of grass were different shades of colour. Deep blues of Moraea tripetala and Babiana angustifolia,
a subtle peach and yellow centred Moraea flaccida, large clusters of the striking salmon-pink,
maroon centred Diascia longocornis were also seen. A yellow and violet almost orchid like looking
flower caught my attention, Sparaxis villosa but the botanical delights where most definitely the
endemic rose-pink, Romulea eximia and bright yellow-orange Spiloxene canaliculata. Large-billed
Lark, Cape Longclaw, Cape Weaver, Yellow and Southern Red Bishop, Levaillant’s Cisticola and
Pied Starling were all seen well and as its name suggests, the tiny Cloud Cisticola was seen
displaying high up in the sky.

Only five minutes drive from our accommodation
in Langebaan and we were in West Coast National
Park (WCNP), a very important reserve conserving
an exceptional range of important natural assets
including marine and terrestrial biodiversity. In the
marine environment, the lagoon system is an
important feature accounting for the spatial
diversity of marine fishes as well as forming part of
a safe habitat for breeding populations of five Red
Data seabird species, namely African Penguin,
Bank Cormorant, Cape Cormorant, Cape Gannet
and African Black Oystercatcher. Other important
aquatic habitats include fresh water wetlands and
salt marshes, of which, the salt marshes in the park account for 32% of the salt marsh habitat in
South Africa. Situated in the diverse Cape Floral Kingdom the West Coast National Park is
significant in terms of floral diversity especially because its dominant vegetation type is Sand Plain
Fynbos, poorly represented in any other protected area and is therefore a conservation priority of the
park. We certainly were not having good luck with the weather, as a maximum temperature of
13oCelsius or 55,4oFahrenheit had been predicted for the day causing havoc with the wildflower
display but fortunately not having as a dramatic effect on the quality of birding. Despite low
temperatures, rain and increasing wind speeds as the day progressed we still explored every corner
of the park from wader bird hides to the Postberg flower section, investigating wetlands, salt
marshes and beaches. Unfortunately not a single flower was noted but Grey-winged Francolin, South
African Shelduck, Lesser Flamingo, the incredible Black Harrier, Southern Black Korhaan, White-

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backed Mousebird, Grey Tit, Long-billed Lark, Karoo Scrub Robin, Fiscal Flycatcher and White-
throated Canary all showed quite well. The Postberg area was alive with mammals and we enjoyed
Mountain Zebra, Eland, Grey Rhebok, Gemsbok, Bontebok, Steenbok, Red Hartebeest, Blue
Wildebeest and brilliant Bat-eared Fox.

From the West Coast, Strandveld we headed to Niewoudtville on the Bokkeveld Plateau. On the
drive we stopped at the Berg River estuary where we got good looks at Chestnut-banded Plover and
then near Clanwilliam we had amazing views of Blue Crane and Jackal Buzzard. Just south of
Clanwilliam we got good looks at Little Rush Warbler, Cape Siskin, Fairy Warbler, the endemic and
sought-after Protea Seedeater and Cape Rock Thrush. From here we headed north onto the
Bokkeveld Plateau that is dominated by different vegetation known as renosterbos, hence known as
renosterveld. This renosterveld vegetation type is rich in annuals and geophytes and is the reason
why it is claimed to be one of the world’s most exciting wild flower areas, especially with spring
flower displays being unsurpassed for their beauty and diversity. Niewoudtville (officially, ‘The
Bulb Capital of the World’) was once again a little disappointing with regard to flower displays as
the weather had turned foul once again but the few blossoms that we did identify and admire did not
fail to impress. Most of these wildflowers, like the birds seen, are core endemics like Aloe
krapohliana, Bulbinella latifoli, Moraea miniata and Sparaxis metelerkampiae. Some of the fine
avian delights on show for us included the stately Ludwig’s Bustard, Cape Clapper Lark, Grey-
backed Sparrowlark, Namaqua Warbler, Pale-winged Starling, Karoo Thrush, Mountain Wheatear
and Karoo and Ant-eating Chat. We also enjoyed super views of the sought-after Ground
Woodpecker, a really special find as this bird belongs to a monotypic genus and is a true South
African endemic!

Leaving Niewoudtville we descended the
Bokkeveld Plateau and headed north through
Namaqualand toward Springbok. Namaqualand
is a narrow stretch of arid country that extends
for 200 kilometers along the south-west coast, a
band a little more than 80 kilometers wide,
flanked on the east by the Bushmanland Plateau
and on the west, by the low-lying Coastal Plain.
We had been driving for a couple of hours when
the sun started shining and temperatures began
rising, finally we might get to experience one of
these fine spring flower displays. The further
north we headed, the warmer it got and as a result
fields on the road side had transformed into incredible blankets of colour. The entire drive into
Namaqua National Park we enjoyed a sea of bright colour, predominated by Dimorphotheca sinuate,
Heliophila ampexicauluas coronopifolia. A unique mega-endemic phenomenon as most of the
plants found here are endemic and this is the only desert in the world that has such an extravagant
and diverse spring flower display. We then headed into the heart of rugged Namaqualand and to the
town of Springbok. Only fifteen kilometers out of town, the spectacular Goegap Nature Reserve
holds the finest example of true Namaqualand, with its sandy plains and granitic koppies (rocky
outcrops) coloured yellow-orange with blossoms of diasies like Dimophotheca sinuate and Tripterus
amplectens. Meanwhile the hillside landscapes were filled with mauve colours of Ruschia robusta
and Drosanthenum hispidium. As the reserve is home to no less than 600 species of flowering plant
that produce one the greatest flower displays on earth, we were fortunate to be surrounded by a
kaleidoscope of colour, a surreal setting in which to go birding! With the stage set it started to come
alive by delivering specials such as Pririt Batis, Black-eared Sparrow-Lark, Karoo Eremomela,

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Orange River White-eye, Dusky Sunbird, Damara and Black-headed Canary and lastly our most
prized and sought after bird, the charismatic Cinnamon-breasted Warbler.

Leaving wild flower country behind us, we made our way towards Augrabies Falls NP but first made
a productive stop in an area with arid mountains, rocky canyons and stony gravel plains close to
Pofadder. We scanned the gravel plains and cattle water troughs and were rewarded with looks at
Lark-like Bunting, Fawn-colored, Stark’s Lark and Pale-chanting Goshawk. Lastly we scanned an
area known as the Koa Dunes, the world’s best site for Red Lark and found the bird displaying
above its red sand dune habitat. We then headed onto the boulder-strewn landscape of Augrabies
Falls National Park where the Orange River plunges through a narrow gorge. Highlight birds
included Alpine Swift, Black Stork and very secretive African Reed Warbler.

From Augrabies we headed further
north to one of Africa’s greatest parks,
the Kgalagadi Transfrontier National
Park (KTNP). This wilderness covers
over 40 000 km2 between South Africa
and Botswana and is one of very few
conservation areas of this magnitude
left in the world. On the drive we had
fantastic sightings of Sociable
Weaver’s in their giant nests as well as
the associated and uncommon African
Pygmy Falcon. The Kalahari is an arid
region with an annual rainfall of 200
mm per annum while the word
Kgalagadi derived from the San language and means "Place of thirst". Red sand dunes, sparse
vegetation and the dry riverbeds of the Nossob and Auob show antelope and predator species off at a
premium as well as being a haven for birders especially when interested in birds of prey. Our two-
night stay afforded good looks at Yellow Canary, Kalahari Scrub Robin, Black-chested Prinia, Ashy
Tit, Burchell’s and Namaqua Sandgrouse, Northern Black Korhaan, Kori Bustard, day time sightings
of Pearl-spotted Owlet and Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Secretarybird, Martial Eagle, Black-chested
Snake Eagle and White-backed Vulture. Good numbers of mammals including Springbok,
Gemsbok, Red-Hartebeest and Blue Wildebeest were sighted with highlights being Lion, Black-
backed Jackal, endearing Cape Fox and an African Wild Cat that lay next to the road in morning
sunlight.

We made our way from the KTNP towards Calvinia, crossing the Orange River where we had great
views of African Black Duck, Goliath Heron and Giant Kingfisher. We then stopped in the one
horse town of Brandvlei, situated on the plains of central Bushmanland, which hosts one of the
world’s highest diversity of Larks. The maximum daytime temperature was 5oCelsius or
41oFahrenheit and despite the freezing weather, we still managed to locate Sclater’s Lark and get
good looks at the same time! The route from Calvinia to Ceres through the Tanqua Karoo had been
closed because of the snowstorms the evening before, forcing us to make the long route round to
Ceres and enter the Tanqua from the southern side in order to try catch up on specials we had
missed. Still bitterly cold we managed to pick up on the thinly distributed and often difficult
Maccoa Duck, Layard’s Tit-babbler the little bird we were desperately searching for, Cape
Penduline-Tit.

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From Ceres it was onto Cape Town and Cape Town International Airport where we bid our farewells
after an enjoyable tour!

Photo Credits: Ostrich, Southern Black Korhaan, Aloe krapohliana, Sparaxis metelerkampiae and African Wild Cat by
Gregory Bond, Cape Sugarbird by Rainer Summers

Annotated List of Birds recorded

Nomenclature and taxonomy follows the IOC List of Please cite: Gill, F. and M. Wright. 2006.
Birds of the World: Recommended English Names. Princeton NJ: Princeton University Press.

Total species recorded (250)

According to species in Southern Africa: E = Endemic to South Africa, NE = Near-endemic to
South Africa, ESA= Endemic to Southern Africa, NESA = Near-endemic to Southern Africa, BE =
Breeding-endemic to South Africa, WCNP = West Coast National Park, KTNP = Kgalagadi
Transfrontier National Park.

Ostrich Struthionidae

Ostrich Struthio camelus

Several individuals were seen on scattered days throughout the tour with notably close sightings in

the West Coast NP.

NOTE: some authorities regard the subspecies S. c. molybdophanes of dry East Africa as a distinct species: Somali

Ostrich. The form we observed would remain with the nominate Common Ostrich S. camelus. The IOC recognises this

split.

Guineafowl Numididae

Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris

Recorded on most days of the tour.

NOTE: The nominate N. m. meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl, is sometimes regarded as distinct from the western (N. m.

galeata) West African Guineafowl and the southern, which we recorded, (N. m. mitrata) Tufted Guineafowl. IOC does

not as yet recognise these splits.

Pheasants & Partridges Phasianidae

Grey-winged Francolin (E) Scleroptila afra

Our first sightings of this endemic francolin were in WCNP.

Cape Spurfowl (NE) Pternistis capensis

We enjoyed numerous sightings in the Cape Peninsula, West Coast NP and Ceres.

Common Quail Coturnix coturnix

Recorded vocalizing in the grasslands around Niewoudtville.

Swans, Geese & Ducks Anatidae

Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca

Commonly recorded at wetlands throughout, recorded on most days of the tour.

Spur-winged Goose Plectropterus gambensis

We had many sightings near water and in moist fields in the wetter parts of the region.

South African Shelduck (NE) Tadorna carna

Our First sighting was in WCNP again in Niewoudtville.

Cape Teal Anas capensis

Encountered in good numbers at several sites in the Western Cape.

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African Black Duck Anas sparsa

A pair were seen on the Orange River on route to Calvinia.

Yellow-billed Duck Anas undulata

Seen at Strandfontein, Tinie Versveld and Niewoudtville.

Cape Shoveler (NESA) Anas smithii

We had good numbers of this near endemic at Strandfontein with scattered sightings enjoyed at a

few other locations.

Red-billed Teal Anas erythrorhyncha

Recorded at strandfontein and at a wetland near Niewoudtville.

Southern Pochard Netta erythrophthalma

Good numbers seen at Strandfontein.

Maccoa Duck Xyurma maccoa

Thinly distributed and not an easy bird in SA, seen on a dam in Ceres.

Penguins Spheniscidae

Jackass (African) Penguin (NE) Spheniscus demersus

We visited the Stony Point (Betty’s Bay’s) penguine colony, which is one of two main land

colonies in the world, comprising two to three thousand penguins.

Albatrosses Diomedeidae

Black-browed Albatross Thelassarche melanophrys

Approximately 3 of this common albatross were seen off the Cape of Good Hope.

Petrels & Shearwaters Procellariidae

White-chinned Petrel Procellaria aequinoctialis

Approximately 10 were seen off the Cape of Good Hope..

Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus

At least 20 were seen off the Cape of Good Hope.

Grebes Podicipedidae

Little Grebe (Dabchick) Tachybaptus ruficollis

First recorded at Strandfontein and again at Langebaan and in Ceres.

Eared (Black-necked) Grebe Podiceps nigricollis

Recorded at Strandfontein

Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus

About four birds were seen at Strandfontein.

Flamingos Phoenicopteridae

Greater Flamingo Phoenicopterus roseus

Good numbers (hundreds) seen Strandfontein and again at West Coast NP and Veldrif.

Lesser Flamingo Phoenicopterus minor

Recorded in low numbers at West Coast NP and at Veldrif, Berg River Estuary.

Storks Ciconidae

Black Stork Ciconia nigra

A couple of birds seen over the gorge at Augrabies Falls NP.

Sacred Ibis Ibises & Spoonbills Threskiornithidae

Threskiornis aethiopicus

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Commonly recorded at wetlands throughout the tour.

NOTE: The Malagasy T. e. bernieri and Aldabran T. e. abbotti are sometimes split off as Madagascar White Ibis (T.

bernieri). This is accepted by the IOC.

Hadada Ibis Bostrychia hagedash

This noisy bird was commonly recorded at scattered locations throughout the tour.

Glossy Ibis Plegadis falcinellus

Recorded at Strandfontein.

African Spoonbill Platalea alba

Recorded at Veldrif on the Berg River Estuary.

Herons, Egrets & Bitterns Ardeidae

Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis

Commonly recorded throughout.

NOTE: This group is sometimes split into 2 species, the nominate Common Cattle Egret and the Asian/Australasian

Eastern Cattle Egret (E. coromanda). This split is recognised by the IOC.

Grey Heron Ardea cinerea

Seen Strandfontein, WCNP and Veldrif.

Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala

This is typically a grassland species where grasshoppers constitute the bulk of its diet, recorded

almost daily in the southern areas of the tour.

Goliath Heron Ardea goliath

Recorded on the Orange River, this is the largest heron in the world,

Purple Heron Ardea purpurea

This species was recorded at Strandfontein.

NOTE: The Cape Verde Islands A. p. bournei is sometimes split off as Cape Verde Purple Heron or Bourne’s Heron.

Little Egret Egretta garzetta

First recorded at Stony Point.

NOTE: Some authorities lump Little, Western Reef (E. gularis) and Madagascar’s Dimorphic (E. dimorpha) Egret into

a single species. This treatment is not widely accepted and the IOC splits them.

Pelicans Pelecanidae

Great White Pelican Pelecanus onocrotalus

We encountered this species in low numbers at Strandfontein and West Coast NP.

Boobies and Gannets Sulidae

Cape Gannet (BE) Morus capensis

Small numbers seen from the Cape of Good Hope.

Cormorants & Shags Phalacrocoracidae

Reed Cormorant Phalacrocorax africanus

Recorded at freshwater wetland habitats on six days of the tour.

Crowned Cormorant (NE) Phalacrocorax coronatus

First recorded at the Cape of Good Hope and at Stony Point.

Bank Cormorant (NE) Phalacrocorax neglectus

This rare and highly threatened species was scoped at Stony Point in Betty’s Bay.

White-breasted Cormorant Phalacrocorax lucidus

This common species was seen at most wetland sites on tour, both at the coast and inland.

NOTE: The white-breasted African subspecies of the widely distributed Great Cormorant P. carbo is sometimes

considered a different species: P. lucidus. The IOC separates these species.

Cape Cormorant (BE) Phalacrocorax capensis

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This is the common saltwater cormorant around the Cape and we saw good numbers on the Cape
Peninsula.

Anhinga & Darter Anhingidae

African Darter Anhinga rufa

We encountered this species at Strandfontein and on the Orange River.

NOTE: The resident African form P. rufa is sometimes lumped with the Asian P. melanogaster and the enlarged species

called Darter. The IOC accepts these splits.

Falcons & Caracaras Falconidae

Pygmy Falcon Polihierax semitorquatus

This very endearing little raptor was seen well just north of Upington and in Kgalagadi.

Rock Kestrel Falco rupicolis

We had sightings of small numbers on all but two days of the tour.

NOTE: The IOC has split the distinctive Rock Kestrel F. rupicolis we observed from the nominate Common Kestrel F.

tinnunculus.

Greater Kestrel Falco rupicoloides

We enjoyed a couple of sightings of this species in KTNP and again close to Kenhardt.

Red-necked Falcon Falco chicquera

We enjoyed a couple of sightings of this species in KTNP.

Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus

We had good views in Kgalagadi NP between Twee Revieren and Nossob.

Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus

Our first sighting was most memorable with this species hassling waders at Strandfontein.

Hawks, Kites, Eagles & Vultures Accipitridae

Secretarybird Sagittarius serpentalis

Good numbers were recorded in the KTNP.

Black-winged Kite Elanus caeruleus

Seen in scattered localities throughout.

NOTE: This species complex is occasionally split into three species. Black-winged Kite E. caeruleus, which is found in

Africa and Asia, Black-shouldered Kite E. axillaris, which is found in Australasia and White-tailed Kite E. leucurus,

which occurs throughout North and South America. The IOC accepts this split.

Black Kite Milvus migrans

Recorded in low numbers from Langebaan to Niewoudtville .

NOTE: This locally breeding form of the Black Kite M. migrans is considered by most authorities as a distinct species,

Yellow-billed Kite M. parasitus. This is not split by the IOC.

African Fish-Eagle Haliaeetus vocifer

Only heard at Augrabies Fall NP.

White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus

Recorded in KTNP on both days in the park.

Black-chested Snake Eagle Circaetus pectoralus

We recorded this species at Twee Revieren and at Nossob in KTNP.

African Marsh-Harrier Circus ranivorus

Sightings were had at Strandfontein and West Coast NP.

Black Harrier (NE) Circus maurus

This spectacular raptor was seen in West Coast NP and near Niewoudtville quartering over low

vegetation.

Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus

Recorded only once in the KTNP.

Pale Chanting Goshawk (NESA) Melierax canorus

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 10

Encountered regularly in the northern drier parts of the tour.

Black Sparrowhawk Accipiter melanoleucus

Seen at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Jackal Buzzard (NE) Buteo rufofuscus

Good numbers of this endemic were seen through Namaqualand.

Forest Buzzard (E) Buteo trizonatus

We had at least three birds flying over head, close to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

NOTE: The IOC splits this species from Mountain Buzzard B. oreophilus of East Africa.

Verreaux’s Eagle Aquila verreauxii

Sighted at Rooiels and again near Niewoudtville.

Booted Eagle Hieraaetus pennatus

We had two wonderful sightings of this bird, in mountainous areas on the Bokkeveld Plateau and in

Namaqualand on route to Ceres.

Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus

Great sighting had of this huge raptor in KTNP.

Bustards Otididae

Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori

Fantastic views of this bird were had in the KTNP.

Ludwigs Bustard (NE) Neotis ludwigii

Recorded in Niewoudtville.

Karoo Bustard (Korhaan) (E) Eupodotis vigorsii

This species was unfortunately only heard in Springbok.

Black Bustard (E) Eupodotis afra

We had our first sighting in WCNP and again on route to Niewoudtville.

White-quilled Bustard (NE) Eupodotis afraoides

Very similar to the above species, we recorded this species on route to and in Kgalagadi NP.

Rails, Gallinules & Coots Rallidae

Black Crake Amourornis flavirostra

This species was heard at Strandfontein.

African Swamphen Porphyrio madagascariensis

Seen at Tinie Versveld.

NOTE: This cosmopolitan species is currently in taxonomic review and several forms are expected to be recognised as

distinct species. The form we recorded would then become African Swamphen (P. madagascariensis.) Other forms to be

recognised may include Indian Swamphen (P. poliocephalus,) Philippine Swamphen (P. pulverulentus) and Eastern

Swamphen (P. melanotus). The IOC does not accept these splits

Common Moorhen Gallinula chloropus

Our first sighting was at Strandfontein then at WCNP and just outside Niewoudtville.

Red-knobbed Coot Fulica cristata

Seen at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Cranes Gruidae

Blue Crane (NE) Anthropoides paradisea

A great sighting of our national bird was enjoyed by all on the road side on route to Niewoudtville.

.

Thick-knees Burhinidae

Spotted Thick-knee Burhinus capensis

We recorded this species in the Niewoudtville area.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 11

Oystercatchers Haematopididae

African (Black) Oystercatcher (NE) Haematopus moquini

With a population of only 4800 it is fortunate that this species is commonly seen in most of the

Western Cape. We encountered at the Cape of Good Hope and again at WCNP.

Stilts & Avocets Recurvirostridae

Black-winged Stilt Himantopus himantopus

Small numbers encountered regularly at wetlands throughout the tour.

Pied Avocet Recurvirostra avosetta

Our first encounter of this species was at Strandfontein.

Plovers & Lapwings Charadriidae

Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus

Recorded almost daily at wetlands in southern part of the tour.

Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus

Recorded in WCNP and in KTNP.

Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola

Small numbers sighted in West Coast N.P.

Kittlitz’s Plover Charadrius pecuarius

First encounter was at West Coast N.P and again at Berg River Estuary.

Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris

Seen daily at wetland sites between WCNP and Springbok.

White-fronted Plover Charadrius marginatus

Small numbers recorded at West Coast N.P, and again at Berg River Estuary.

Chestnut-banded Plover Charadrius pallidus

Small numbers recorded at West Coast N.P, and again at Berg River Estuary.

Jacanas Jacanidae

African Jacana Actophilornis africanus

We found this species at Zaagkuildrift on the first day, Nsumo Pan and Muzi Pans in Mkhuze GR

and in Enseleni NR.

Sandpipers & Allies Scolopacidae

Wimbrel Numenius phaeopus

Our sightings of this species were from the hides at West Coast N.P.

Eurasian Curlew Numenius arquata

A couple were seen among the many waders at West Coast NP.

Common Greenshank Tringa nebularia

Recorded at West Coast N.P, and again at Berg River Estuary.

Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola

Recorded at West Coast N.P.

Common Sandpiper Actitis hypoleucos

Recorded at West Coast N.P.

Curlew Sandpiper Calidris ferruginea

Small flocks recorded at Strandfontein, West Coast N.P. Berg River Estuary.

Ruddy Turnstone Arenaria interpres

A small group of about 10 were seen in West Coast NP.

Sanderling Calidris alba

We encountered about fifty birds in the West Coast NP, the first 3 were seen at St. Lucia.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 12

Little Stint Calidris minuta
Recorded at Berg River Estuary.

Gulls & terns Laridae

Kelp Gull Larus dominicanus

Commonly recorded along the southern and Western Coast of South Africa.

NOTE: Recent work suggests that the Kelp Gull complex L. dominicanus may be split into as many as four species, the

form we saw would become Cape Gull L. vetula which breeds in South Africa. Not accepted by the IOC.

Grey-hooded Gull Larus cirrocephalus

Recorded in WCNP.

Hartlaub’s Gull (ESA) Larus hartlaubii

Seen daily around the Cape Peninsula.

Caspian Tern Sterna caspia

Low numbers of this large tern seen in West Coast NP.

Sandwich Tern Sterna bengalensis

Good numbers were seen at Strandfontein and in West Coast NP.

Swift Tern Sterna bergii

The Cape Peninsula and West Coast N.P.

Sandgrouse Pteroclididae

Namaqua Sandgrouse Pterocles namaqua

Good numbers were seen in Namaqualand and in the Kalahari.

Burchell’s Sandgrouse Pterocles burchelli

Recorded drinking at a water trough in Kgalagadi NP.

Doves & Pigeons Columbidae

Common Pigeon Columba livia

Common in urban centres throughout.

Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea

Commonly recorded in urban centres in the Cape

African Olive Pigeon Columba arquatrix

We had good views of several in heavily wooded areas in the Cape Peninsula..

Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata

Recorded daily in the wetter South-western Cape.

Ring-necked Dove Streptopelia capicola

Widespread and common throughout Southern Africa, found in more open and drier country than

the previous species.

Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis

Commonly encountered at most locations on tour.

Namaqua Dove Oena capensis

Small numbers recorded in more open and drier country for example in Zaagkuildrift and Satara in

Kruger NP.

Owls Strigidae

Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl Bubo lacteus

A single bird was seen very well on the Nossob River Bed in the morning.

Pearl-spotted Owlet Glaucidium pearlatum

Our best views of this little owlet were at our camp in Twee Revieren

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 13

Swifts Apodidae

African Palm Swift Cypsiurus parvus

Recorded on route to KTNP.

Alpine Swift Tachymarptis melba

Good numbers were recorded Augrabies Falls NP.

Little Swift Apus affinis

Recorded on a regular basis throughout the tour.

White-rumped Swift Apus caffer

A summer breeding visitor seen in Augrabies Falls NP.

Bradfield’s Swift Apus bradfieldi

A challenging species to see in South Africa, Augrabies Falls NP to Kgalagadi.

Mousebirds Coliidae

Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus

Recorded on the first day of the tour.

White-backed Mousebird (NESA) Colius colius

Our first sighting was West Coast NP

Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus

Seen in Niewoudtville and in Springbok.

Rollers Coraciidae

Lilac-breasted Roller Coracias caudatus

A pleasure to see, recorded on our way out of KTNP.

Kingfishers Alcedinidae

Malachite Kingfisher Alcedo cristata

Seen at a wetland site near Niewoudtville.

Giant Kingfisher Megaceryle maxima

We found this massive kingfisher on the Orange River outside Upington.

Pied Kingfisher Ceryle rudis

The world’s most widespread kingfisher, was recorded at the Berg River Estuary and on the Orange

River.

Bee-eaters Meropidae

Swallow-tailed Bee-eater Merops hirundineus

Good views were had in the KTNP.

Hoopoes Upupidae

African Hoopoe Upupa africana

This bird was recorded at scattered sites throughout the tour.

NOTE: The Hoopoe complex has had a confusing taxonomic history, with one to four species being recognised by

various authorities. The IOC splits the group into three forms, Madagascar (U. marginalis), Eurasian U. epops and

African Hoopoe (U. africana), with the fourth species the white-winged African form often split by other authorities as

West African Hoopoe (U. senegalensis).

Barbets Ramphastidae

Acacia Pied Barbet (NESA) Tricholaema leucomelas

Recorded at Niewoudtville and again at Augrabies Falls NP.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 14

Hornbills Bucerotidae

African Grey Hornbill Tockus nasutus

We had good views in KTNP.

Southern Yellow-billed Hornbill (NESA) Tockus leucomelas

Only two birds were seen flying parallel to the road on our way out of KTNP.

Woodpeckers & Allies Picidae

Ground Woodpecker (E) Geocolaptes olivaceus

Very good looks were obtained of this stunning endemic near Niewoudtville.

Cardinal Woodpecker Dendropicos fuscescens

Seen in an acacia lined drainage line in Niewoudtville.

Wattle-eyes and Batises Platysteiridae

Cape Batis (NE) Batis capensis

A pair of this endearing little bird were seen in Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Pririt Batis (NESA) Batis pririt

A dry country species, which we saw near Niewoudtville, Springbok and Augrabies Falls.

Bushshrikes & Allies Malaconotidae

Bokmakierie (NESA) Telophorus zeylonus

A very attractive bird seen frequently in South-Western Cape.

Southern Boubou (NE) Laniarius ferrugineus

This beautiful songster was seen at scattered localities, most noteable sighting being at

Kirstenbosch.

Crimson-breasted Shrike (NESA) Laniarius atrococcineus

Several were recorded during our stay at KTNP.

Shrikes Laniidae

Common Fiscal Lanius collaris

This is a common bird throughout the Cape and was seen on almost every day of the tour.

NOTE: The form L. marwitzi is sometimes split off as Uhehe Fiscal occurring in East Africa. The IOC accepts this

species.

Drongos Dicruridae

Fork-tailed Drongo Dicrurus adsimilis

We recorded this species for the first and last time at the KTNP.

NOTE: This species was often lumped with the forest dwelling Velvet-mantled Drongo (D. modestus) of East and West

Africa within Fork-tailed Drongo D. adsimilis but the split has been recognized by the IOC as well as by most other

authorities.

Crows, Jays & Magpies Corvidae

House Crow Corvus splendens

This introduced pest was seen around Cape Town International Airport.

Cape (Black) Crow Corvus capensis

This widespread species was seen regularly on tour.

Pied Crow Corvus albus

Seen at most sites throughout the tour.

White-necked Raven Corvus albicollis

A Corvidae that prefers mountainous areas, it was first recorded at the Cape of Good Hope.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 15

Rockjumpers Chaetopidae

Cape Rockjumper (E) Chaetops frenatus

Soon after arriving in the Hottentots Holland mountains we were treated to fantastic views of this

highly sought-after endemic!

Tits Paridae

Ashy Tit (NESA) Parus cinerascens

Our first sighting was at Augrabies and then in the KTNP.

Grey Tit (NE) Parus afer

This scarce tit was seen on several occasions, West Coast N.P. Niewoudtville and Springbok.

Penduline Tits Remizidae

Cape Penduline Tit (NESA) Anthoscopus minutus

We managed to find a single bird at Karoopoort just north of Ceres.

Swallows & Martins Hirundinidae

Brown-throated (Plain) Martin Riparia paludicola

Regularly seen at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Banded Martin Riparia cincta

A summer visitor to grassland areas, we saw a few birds at Tinie Versveld on the West Coast.

Rock Martin Ptyonoprogne fuligula

Encountered almost daily at scattered localities throughout the tour.

NOTE: This confusing polytypic complex is being reviewed for multi-species splitting. Within the African populations,

three potential species exist. The southern African nominate form P. f. fuligula would remain as Rock Martin and the

more northern populations would become Red-throated Rock Martin (P. pusilla). Palearctic birds would become Pale

Crag Martin (P. obsolete). The IOC accepts Pale Crag Martin as being a different species..

White-throated Swallow Hirundo albigularis

Commonly recorded at most wetland sites on the tour.

Pearl-breasted Swallow Hirundo dimidiata

A pair were recorded between Darling and Tinie Verrsveld.

Greater Striped-Swallow (BE) Cecropis cucullata

This intra-african migrant was seen at Kirstenbosch and in Springbok.

Larks Alaudidae

Clapper Lark (NESA) Mirafra apiata

This species was heard and finally seen at the Waterfall in Niewoudtville.

NOTE: This species may be split into as many as three species, Cape Clapper Lark, the one we observed M. apiata,

Eastern Clapper Lark, M.fasciolata and Agulhas Clapper Lark, M.marjoriae. The IOC splits Cape Clapper Lark and

Eastern Clapper Lark into two species..

Sabota Lark (NESA) Mirafra sabota

We managed good sightings of this little songster in KTNP.

NOTE: Some authorities consider the thickbilled form, Bradfield’s Lark M. bradfieldi of Western Southern Africa a

separate species. This is not widely accepted.

Karoo Long-billed Lark (NE) Certhilauda subcoronata

Seen well close to Aggeneys between Springbok and Augrabies.

Cape Long-billed Lark (E) Certhilauda curvirostris

We had very brief flight views of two birds in Postberg Section of WCNP.

Red Lark (E) Certhilauda burra

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 16

This species can sometimes be elusive; however we managed views of one displaying bird in

Arggenyes.

Spike-heeled Lark (NESA) Chersomanes albofasciata

Located a pair on route from Augrabies to KTNP.

NOTE: The Tanzanian isolate C. a. beesleyi is considered a separate species by some authorities, Beesley’s Lark. The

IOC accepts this split.

Red-capped Lark Calandrella cinerea

A commonly recorded lark, Often flushed off the road in open country with short grass cover.

NOTE: The African Red-capped Lark complex (C. cinerea) was lumped within the Greater Short-toed Lark complex (C.

brachydactila) but is now considered distinct by most authorities. Several distinctive groupings have now been split off

from Red-capped Lark, including Blanford’s Lark of Ethiopia (C. blanfordi).

Large-billed Lark (E) Galerida magnirostris

Our first sighting was at Tinie Versveld, perched on the fence next to the vehicle vocalizing

Sclater’s Lark Spizocorys sclateri

A dedicated search for this species near Brandvlei yielded this difficult endemic.

Stark’s Lark (NE) Eremalaudi starki

We had two birds, with crest showing nicely, at a watering trough in Aggenyes.

Fawn-coloured Lark Mirafra africanoides

We had great views of good numbers, our first sighting was in Aggenyes and many more in

Kgalagadi NP.

Black-eared Sparrow-Lark (NE) Eremopterix australis

Our first sighting was of a flock of ten birds in Goegap NR, Calvinia.

Grey-backed Sparrow-lark (NESA) Eremopterix verticalis

This common and gregarious species was encountered in large numbers throughout the drier parts

on the tour.

Cisticolas & Allies Cisticolidae

Grey-backed Cisticola (NE) Cisticola subruficapilla

The common cisticola in the Western Cape.

Levaillant’s Cisticola Cisticola tinniens

We saw this species in good numbers at wetland sites from the Cape to Niewoudtville.

Neddicky Cisticola fulvicapilla

We only heard this species at Rooiels and at Harold Porter Botanical Gardens.

Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis

This common cisticola was heard in grassland from Tinie Versveld to WCNP.

Cloud Cisticola Cisticola textrix

We had typical Cloud Cisticola views of this tiny species displaying high up at Tinie Versveld and

better views between WCNP and Veldrif.

Rufous-eared Warbler (NE) Malcorus pectoralis

We had excellent looks, daily between Cape and Springbok, of this beautiful near endemic.

Black-chested Prinia (NESA) Prinia flavicans

A species associated with arid areas, recorded daily in the Kalahari.

Karoo Prinia (NE) Prinia maculosa

A species of typical scrubby Karoo habitat and was common throughout the tour.

NOTE: This species used to be lumped with Drakensberg Prinia (P hypoxantha) as Spotted Prinia but is now

considered a separate species by most authorities including the IOC.

Namaqua Warbler (NE) Phragmacia substriata

We were treated to wonderful views in Nieuwoudtville and in Augrabies N.P.

Bar-throated Apalis Apalis thoracica

Our first and only sighting was in the Costantia Green Belts flanking Kirstenbosch BG.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 17

NOTE: Forms of Bar-throated Apalis are split by some African authorities as Namuli Apalis (A. lynesi), which is

endemic to Mt. Namuli in N. Mozambique, Taita Apalis (A. fuscigularis) found only in the Taita Hills of SE Kenya, and

Yellow-throated Apalis (A. flavigularis), which is endemic to S. Malawi. There is likely to be further splitting of this

group.

Cinnamon-breasted Warbler (NE) Euryptila subcinnamomea

Another extremely elusive species that we saw well at Goegap N.R. in Springbok.

Family Uncertain Incertae sedis

Fairy Warbler (NE) Stenostira scita

This boldly-patterned endemic was seen exceptionally well on several occasions on the tour.

Bulbuls Pycnonotidae

African Red-eyed Bulbul (NESA) Pycnonotus nigricans

This species was commonly seen around Augrabies Falls.

Cape Bulbul (E) Pycnonotus capensis

One of the most common endemics, we had many sightings throughout the South Western Cape.

Sombre Greenbul (Bulbul) Andropadus importunus

Seen and heard daily in the Cape Peninsula, inhabiting forested and well wooded valleys.

Family Uncertain Incertae sedis

Eastern Nicator Nicator gularis

This is a tough species to see well. Only two participants managed views of this bird but heard it all

over Mkhuze GR and at St. Lucia.

Old World Warblers Sylviidae

Victorin’s Warbler (E) Cryptillas victorini

This is without a doubt one of the most difficult species to see. Our luck was in, we had great views

of this skulky endemic, in its montane fynbos habitat in Harold Porter Botanical Gardens.

Little Rush Warbler Bradypterus baboecala

Comparable views of this reed bed inhabitant would be very difficult to obtain, a pair showed

unbelievably well at Paleisheuwel south of Clanwilliam.

Knysna Warbler (E) Bradypterus sylvaticus

The master of Skulkers, we heard this species really close, movements in thick tangles was the best

we could achieve.

Cape Grassbird (NE) Sphenoeacus afer

Small numbers of these lovely warblers were seen at several sites in the Cape Peninsula.

African Reed (Marsh) Warbler Acrocephalus baeticatus

Seen reasonably well in a Phragmites reed bed in Augrabies Falls NP.

NOTE: This is a confusing taxonomy that is still under debate, particularly in regards to A.b. cinnamomeus (Cinnamon

Reed Warbler) and A.b. avicenniae (Mangrove Reed Warbler).

Yellow-bellied Eremomela Eremomela icteropygialis

A small party afforded us great looks as we arrived in the KTNP.

Karoo (Yellow-rumped) Eremomela (NE) Eremomela gregalis

We enjoyed lengthy views of a small group of these Karoo specialists in the Goegap NR in

Springbok. Another species that can often be tricky to find.

Cape (Long-billed) Crombec Sylvietta rufescens

Recorded at Niewoudtville and again at Karooport..

Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler (NESA) Parisoma subcaeruleum

A species of acacia savanna, we had many encounters at several localities with our first sightings

close to Niewoudtville.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 18

Layard’s Tit-babbler (NE) Parisoma layardi

This little near endemic was seen in the Tankwa Karoo near Karoopoort.

Sugarbirds Promeropidae

Cape Sugarbird (E) Promerops cafer

This showy endemic is always a highlight of any tour to South Africa. We had good sightings in the

Cape of Good Hope NR.

White-eyes Zosteropidae

Cape (Pale) White-eye (NE) Zosterops pallidus

A fairly common species throughout its range.

NOTE: This species has recently been split by the IOC into a further species, Orange River White-eye Z.capensis, which

occurs in Western Southern Africa, and further splitting may still occur.

Orange River White-eye (NE) Zosterops capensis

This delicately patterned insectivore was seen at Springbok and Augrabies.

NOTE: Refer to previous species.

Starlings Sturnidae

Common Starling Sturnus vulgaris

Another attractive but none the less unwanted alien. This species is unfortunately plentiful

throughout the Cape.

Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea

Our first sighting of this gregarious species was of a flock in WCNP.

Cape Starling (NESA) Lamprotornis nitens

One of the more widespread species, seen at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Pied Starling (E) Spreo bicolor

Good numbers of this common endemic was seen throughout the tour.

Red-winged Starling Onychognathus morio

Recorded at most sites throughout the tour, often in association with man and mountainous regions.

Pale-winged Starling (NESA) Onychognathus nabouroup

A bird of mountainous areas we recorded small numbers in Nieuwoudtville and again at Agrabies

Falls.

Thrushes & Allies Turdidae

Olive Thrush Turdus olivaceus

A common and confiding species seen in the guest house garden Cape Town .

NOTE: This polytypic species complex may be split into many as ten different species, and several are already

generally accepted eg Taita Thrush (T. helleri). The main north/south split is in Tanzania with the northern birds

becoming Abyssianian Thrush (T. abyssinicus) and the nominate form known as Olive Thrush. Karoo Thrush (T. smithi)

occurring in Western South Africa has recently been split from the nominate group. The IOC accepts these mentioned

splits.

Karoo Thrush (NE) Turdus smithi

This thrush occurs in completely different habitat to the latter and was encountered in

Niewoudtville and Karoopoort.

Old World Flycatchers Muscicapidae

Cape Robin-Chat Cossypha caffra

A fairly common garden species; we had sightings throughout the tour.

Kalahari Scrub Robin (NESA) Cercotrichas paena

This species was encountered in KTNP.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 19

Karoo Scrub-Robin (NE) Cercotrichas coryphaeus

A common inhabitant of the Karoo biome.

Eurasian Stonechat Saxicola torquatus

Commonly seen throughout the tour.

NOTE: The IOC recognises the split of African (S. torquata) and Common (S. rubicola) Stonechats (the latter a

Palearctic species), which is not followed by all authorities. Further splitting may occur in both groups including the

highland Ethiopian form (S. t. albofasciata) that may become Ethiopian Stonechat.

Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata

Encountered on several occasions at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Mountain Wheatear (Chat) (NESA) Oenanthe monticola

Another attractive species seen around rocky areas in Niewoudtville, Springbok and Karoopoort.

Karoo Chat (NESA) Cercomela schlegelii

A common endemic restricted to the Karoo.

Tractrac Chat (NESA) Cercomela tractrac

Some what less common than the previous species, encountered in Niewoudtville and around

Brandvlei.

Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris

A widespread species recorded throughout the Cape.

Ant-eating Chat (NESA) Myrmecocichla formicivora

An attractive species with prominent white wings and a dark body that was encountered at scattered

localities on tour.

Cape Rock Thrush (E) Monticola rupestris

We had wonderful scope views of a bird at Paleisheuwel.

Chat Flycatcher Bradornis infuscatus

An arid country bird recorded first on route from Springbok to Augrabies.

Marico Flycatcher Bradornis mariquensis

We saw several birds during our time in the Polokwane NR and again in Kimberley.

Fiscal Flycatcher (NE) Sigelus silens

First birds were seen in WCNP and throughout the South Western and Northern Cape.

African Dusky Flycatcher Muscicapa adusta

A flycatcher of forest and woodland, single bird seen at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Sunbirds & Spiderhunters Nectariniidae

Orange-breasted Sunbird (E) Anthobaphes violacea

This absolute stunner was commonly recorded in fynbos on the Cape Peninsula.

Malachite Sunbird Nectarinia famosa

This stunning species was recorded at scattered localities on tour.

Southern Double-collared Sunbird (E) Cinnyris chalybeus

Commonly encountered throughout the Cape region.

Dusky Sunbird Cinnyris fuscus

This dry country species was recorded at Springbok and Augrabies.

Old World Sparrows Passeridae

Sociable Weaver Philetairus socius

One cannot help notice the large colonial nests often attached to telephone lines in the most arid of

areas. We first recorded this species en route from Springbok to Augrabies.

House Sparrow Passer domesticus

Widespread and common in urban areas throughout.

Cape Sparrow (NESA) Passer melanurus

Certainly our smartest sparrow recorded throughout the tour.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 20

Southern Grey-headed Sparrow (NESA) Passer diffusus

Seen almost daily on the way to WCNP and again in the Kalahari.

NOTE: The Grey-headed Sparrow complex P. griseus has been split into five full species with the South African form

being given the name P. diffusus.

Weavers & Allies Ploceidae

Scaly-feathered Weaver (NESA) Sporopipes squamifrons

This dry country species was first seen near Pofadder in the Northern Cape.

Cape Weaver (E) Ploceus capensis

This fairly common endemic was recorded regularly at several sites throughout the tour.

Southern Masked Weaver Ploceus velatus

A commonly recorded species present throughout the tour.

NOTE: African Masked Weaver P. velatus is sometimes split into the nominate Southern Masked Weaver which we

recorded and the more northerly occurring Vitelline Masked-Weaver P. vitellinus. This split is accepted by the IOC.

Southern Red Bishop Euplectes orix

We recorded this species on several days of the tour.

Yellow Bishop Euplectes capensis

This species was seen at several sites with our first sightings at the Cape of Good Hope.

Waxbills & Allies Estrildidae

Common Waxbill Estrilda astrild

A waxbill often associated with wetlands. Seen at scattered localities throughout the tour.

Swee Waxbill (E) Estrilda erythronotos

A beautifully patterned waxbill, we had great views of a flock in Harold Porter Botanical Gardens

Indigobirds Viduidae

Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura

Small numbers of this aggressive little brood parasite, often called the “King of Six”, were

encountered at Niewoudtville.

Wagtails & Pipits Motacillidae

Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis

Regularly recorded at most locations on tour.

African Pied Wagtail Motacilla aguimp

Seen at Augrabies Falls.

Cape Longclaw (E) Macronyx capensis

This wonderfully bright and attractive species was best seen in WCNP.

African Pipit Anthus cinnamomeus

Recorded in Niewoudtville area.

NOTE: African pipit taxonomy is in disarray and much further research is required in the phylogeny of this grouping.

Several forms which are considered subspecies are likely to become full species in their own right and several new

forms are surely still to be described. The identification of two new species of pipits from an urban hockey field in

Kimberley, South Africa, provides an excellent illustration regarding how little is know about African pipits and how

little attention has been paid to them.

Long-billed Pipit Anthus similis

A couple of birds were seen around rocky areas at Niewoudtville.

Finches & Allies Fringillidae

Common Chaffinch Fringilla coelebs

Only heard while in the Constantia Greenbelts in Cape Town.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 21

Cape (Yellow-crowned) Canary (NE) Serinus canicollis

Commonly encountered this species throughout the South Western Cape.

NOTE: This species complex is sometimes split into two, the nominate southern group would remain as Cape Canary

and the form which occurs in East Africa would become Yellow-crowned Canary (S. flavivertex.) The IOC accepts this

split..

Forest Canary (E) Crithagra scotops

This uncommon endemic was seen in the Constantia Greenbelts in Cape Town.

Black-throated Canary Crithagra atrogularis

This species was recorded on route to the KTNP.

Yellow Canary (NESA) Crithagra flaviventris

This bright yellow canary was recorded near Augrabies.

Brimstone Canary Crithagra sulphurata

This species was recorded regularly in the South Western Cape.

White-throated Canary (NESA) Crithagra albogularis

This large canary was recorded regularly in the dry west.

Streaky-headed Seedeater (NESA) Crithagra gularis

Seen at Paleisheuwel in Protea stands.

Protea Canary (E) Crithagra leucoptera

One of the most commonly missed endemics, we had brilliant views at Paleisheuwel.

Cape Siskin (E) Crithagra totta

A pair were seen on cliff face at Paleisheuwel.

Black-headed Canary (NE) Crithagra alario

Good numbers of this near endemic seen at the Goegap Reserve in Springbok

NOTE: Northern race leucolaema has mainly white face and less extensive black markings on breast. This species is

split by some authorities as Damara Canary Alario leucolaema. This split is not accepted by the IOC.

Buntings Emberizidae

Lark-like Bunting (NESA) Emberiza impetuani

This bunting is ubiquitous in the arid west, we recorded it near Pofadder at Aggeneys.

Cape Bunting Emberiza capensis

A rather attractive species that was commonly recorded while in South Western Cape.

NOTE: The IOC has recently elevated the former Cape Bunting subspecies E.c.vincenti of central Malawi to E Zambia

to full species status, Vincent’s Bunting (E.vincenti).

MAMMAL SPECIES LIST (27 species)

Note: Names and taxanomical order of the land mammals follow that of ‘ The Kingdon Field Guide
to African Mammals’; additional names are given in parenthesis and are likely to appear other
popular field guides.

Cheek-Pouch Monkeys Cercopithecidae

Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus

This species is fairly common in wilder parts of Southern Africa, we saw several troops at the Cape

of Good Hope and near Ceres.

Hares & Rabbits Leporidae

Smith’s Red Rockhare Pronolagus rupestros

Several were encountered at Augrabies Falls NP.

Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis

This species was seen on our night drive in Augrabies Falls NP.

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 22

Squirrels Sciuridae

South African Ground Squirrel Geosciurus inauris

Commonly seen in the Northern Cape, Augrabies Falls.

Rats & Mice Cricetidae & Muridae

Striped Mouse Rhabdomys pumilio

A good number of these rodents were seen on our tour.

Single-striped Mouse Rhabdomys pumilio

One of these rodents was seen crossing a footpath in West Coast N.P.

Groove-toothed Rat Otomys sp

We encountered this species in WCNP.

Dogs & Allies Canidae

Cape Fox Vulpes chama

Seen in the KTNP.

Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas

Sightings in the KTNP.

Bat-eared Fox Otocyon megalotis

These adorable creatures were enjoyed during the day at WCNP and Springbok.

Mongooses Herpestridae

Small Grey Mongoose Herpestes pulverulenta

Seen on near Niewoudtville.

Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata

We enjoyed several sightings in the KTNP.

Suricate (Meerkat) Suricata suricatta

Several of these delightful creatures were seen en route to Springbok.

Genets & Civiets Viverridae

Common (Small-spotted) Genet Genetta genetta

Seen near Twee Revieren in the KTNP .

Hyraxes Procavidae

Rock Hyrax (Dassie) Procavia capensis

An animal of rocky terrain through most of the Cape where the habitat was suitable.

Zebras Equidae

Cape Mountain Zebra Equus zebra zebra

A very localized endemic species that was seen well in WCNP.

Bovids & Horned Ungulates Bovidae

Eland Taurotragus oryx

This monstrous antelope was seen in Cape of Good Hope and West Coast N.P.

Gemsbok (Southern Oryx) Oryx gazella

Up to seventy of these stunning antelope were seen in the arid west WCNP and good numbers in

KTNP.

Grey Rhebok Pelea capreolus

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 23

We had good looks at these elegant antelope in the grasslands of WCNP.

Blue Wildebeest (Brindled Gnu) Connochaetes taurinus

This comical mammal was seen in WCNP and KTNP.

Red Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus

Recorded at WCNP and in KTNP.

Bontebok Damaliscus dorcas pygargus

A very handsome antelope that was seen in the Cape Of Good Hope NP and WCNP.

Springbok Antidorcas marsupialis

This attractive gazelle was seen frequently in grassland habitats in the Cape and common in KTNP.

Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus

Seen on most days in the Northern Cape where the bouldered habitat is found.

Steenbok Raphicerus campestris

These dainty antelope, famed for their habit of burying their dung, were observed at several

localities on tour.

Fur Seals Otariidae

Cape Fur Seal Arctocephalus pusillus

This cold-water dweller was seen in the icy waters off the Cape Peninsula and WCNP.

Whales Balaenidae

Southern Right Whale Eubalaena australis

We had good views in the bay at Simons Town.

Notable flower species:

This region is home to in excess of 9000 flowering plants, many of which are difficult to identify to
species level. This list is by no means definitive or scientific but rather a casual expression of the
most salient plants seen during our time in the Cape. At times the exact species is uncertain; these
are suffixed by (pr), indicating the probable species.

Cape of Good Hope NR

Leucospermum conocarpodendrum
Protea scolymocephala
Leucadendron salignum
Leucadendron xanthoconus
Protea lepidocarpodendron
Mimetes fimbriifolius
Erica coccinea
Erica plunkenetii
Erica cerinthoides
Adenandra villosa
Delosperma litoale
Capelio tabularis
Nemesia affinis
Oxalis obtusa
Oteospermum ciliatum
Dimorphotheca pluvialis
Drosera trinervia (pr)
Pelargonium sp
Lobelia sp

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 24

Leucospermum reflexum Gordons Bay to Bettys Bay
Psoralea affinis West Coast (Tinie Versveld)
Protea cynaroides
Langebaan to Niewoudtville
Dimorphotheca pluvialis
Wachendorfia paniculata Niewoudtville
Moraea tripetala
Babiana angustifolia
Moraea flaccida
Diascia longocornis
Sparaxis villosa
Romulea eximia
Spiloxene canaliculata
Tulbagia capensis
Cysticapnos vesicarius
Hermannia sp
Trachyandra sp.
Hermannia sp
Pelargonium sp
Lobelia sp.
Felicia sp.
Lachenalia sp

Heliophila amplexicaulis
Heliophila arenaria
Hemimeris racemosa
Senecio cakilefolius
Oxalis flava
Arctotheca calendula
Arctotis angustifolia
Heliophila lacteal
Moraea tripetala
Gazania tenuifolia
Lapeirousia jacquinii
Nemesia liguata
Aizoon paniculatum
Ornithogalum canadense
Diascia whiteheadii
Hemimeris racemosa
Moraea flaccida
Grielum humifusum

Aloe krapohliana
Alonsoa unilabiata
Bulbinella latifolia

Trip Report - RBT Wildflowers 2008 25

Bulbinella nutans
Cyanella hyacinthoides
Cyphia digitata
Dolichos decumbens
Hebenstretia robusta
Hesperantha vaginata
Moraea miniata
Moraea vespertina
Salago punguicula
Sparaxis metelerkampiae
Microlama sagittatum
Alonsoa unilabiataI
Sparaxis pillansii
Felicia tridactylis
Gazania lichtensteinii
Osteospermum acanthospermum
Osteospermum pinnatum
Gorteria diffusa
Lachenalia mutabilis
Lachenalia elegans
Lachenalia zebrina
Geissorhiza heterostyla
Bulbinella eburniflora
Dolichos decumbens
Nemesia cherianthus
Nemesia azurea
Cotula bipinna
Cotula microglossa
Diascia cardiosepala
Zaluzianskya violacea
Polycarena formosa
Hebenstretia robusta
Lotonis hirsute
Gladioulus watermeyeri
Nylandtia scoparia
Ixia rapunculoides

Niewoudtville to Springbok

Wurmbea strita
Microlama sagittatum
Lebeckia sericea
Tripteris amplectans
Dimorphotheca tragus
Ihlenfeldia excavate
Romulea citrine
Gazania leiopoda
Grielum humifusum
Trachyandra bulbinifolia
Trachyandra falcata
Oxalis namaquana
Oxalis blastorrhiza