Learn more about the best bird-watching locations

Crocworld Conservation Centre will be hosting the latest in a series of environmental talks on September 14. The talk in will be entitled ‘Birds and birding along the sub-tropical southern KwaZulu-Natal coast; a wealth of colourful forest birds and more!”, and will be presented by renowned avian expert David Allan.

For the past 17 years, David has been the curator of birds at the Durban Natural Science Museum, before which he worked at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute for African Ornithology and the Avian Demography Unit at the University of Cape Town. His vast experience in his field is evident in the series of books he has published on the subject. As well as writing several books on birds of prey, he co-authored a new book entitled ‘Geographical Variation of Southern African Birds’, and was a senior editor for ‘The Atlas of Southern African Birds’. David is a popular public speaker on a wide range of avian subjects and also serves on the National Rarities Committee of Bird Life South Africa.

In this talk, David will focus on revealing and describing the best birding spots in the area, and will explain the beautiful species that each one offers. The subtropical conditions of the lower KZN area are ideal for forest birds, and are home to some of the most sought-after and spectacular species on the subcontinent. This bountiful area also boasts several world-class birding destinations in the form of wild and sprawling nature reserves, all with excellent walking trails along which the birding riches can be sampled. As well as forest species, David will explore the possibilities offered by other habitats, including valley bushveld, grassland, estuaries and the coastline itself.

Guests should arrive at Crocworld Conservation Centre at 8.30am. The talk is expected to last for an hour and a half, from 9am to 10.30am, after which tea, coffee and muffins will be served. Tickets are R70 per adult, with a discounted price of R30 for pensioners and students.

Booking is essential, and payment secures your place. Please send proof of payment, or arrange to pay on the day. To make your reservation contact Nolean Allun, at 039 9761103/ 083 6549651 or e-mail crocworld@cbl.co.za