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Does anyone know where one can find information on what birds one can see in Central and Southern Kruger in August? According to Krugerpark.co.za a few migratory birds start returning in anticipation of spring, with the majority of migratory birds returning Sept-Dec.

Hi there Graham5000

Don't know if you came right under the birds thread, but I can give you some tips on birding and what migrants to expect in the Southern/Central Kruger around August

Unfortunately it just falls short of the main migrate window which really starts to heat up in October and ends April.

But you might be lucky enough to see the Wahlbergs Eagle's back as they start coming back around August.

Give me some idea as to what you are looking for then I might be able to give you some tips!!

Hi Graham5000,

actually quite a few birds return by August. Common Sandpiper, Wood Sandpiper, Wahlberg's Eagle, Yellow-billed Kite, Little Stint to name a few.

You also have some interesting birds such as Cape Batis which moves in from higher altitudes and birds like Dusky Flycatcher are present in real big numbers.

We were in Southern Kruger last year August and I am sure I have a trip list of the birds we saw lying around somewhere. So just to follow up on Daan's question. Let us know what exactly it is that you are after and we would be able to help you even more.

Yip, Dusky Flycatcher is quite common around Skukuza camp, found them there 2 years ago around August.

Forgot about those Yellow Billed Kite's!!

Thanks for your replies. I am interested on birds of prey, and my wife really likes colourful birds.

Would be nice to photograph some yellow billed kites!

Migrating raptors are not going to be back in good numbers yet in August, but my opinion is that because of the lack of dense leaves on tree you will have a better chance of spotting raptors.

Af for colorful birds, there will be loads of them, albeit not migrants. Set up against the dull landscape as a background your colors will "pop" even more.

Even though approximately half of Kruger's birds are migrants, there will still be loads around to see and photograph in August.

I love birding Kruger in August. Also the best time to find Pel's Fishing-Owl as the rivers have suitable pools at this time for the Owls to hunt from.

Enjoy!

Buy Roberts Bird Guide ISBN 978-1-77009-638-7
http://www.robertsbirds.co.za/kruger-guide.htm

This is a bird bible for the KNP with all the info you are looking for.

Last year we went on a walk and a game drive with a guide from Shingwedzi in August (I think his name was Bishop). He was very knowledgeable about birds and those returning. We had a keen birder on the drive and the guide was able to give him exact details about nest location of Wahlberg's Eagle and another large bird whose name I have forgotten! If you are up that way try to catch up with him.