SANParks.org Forums

(Sorry, don't know if I should open a new topic or latch onto another one somehow?)

Seen on Orpen Webcam.

What's this one on the right? Knob-faced duck? (Or something like that?) Or is it just something at the back that gives the effect on the bill? Would be nice to have a bird book here at work as well, but I guess I have to do SOME work...



Here's another photo that sort of shows the bill.

It is indeed a Knob-Billed Duck! Well spotted!

Not knowing the Park well (only been in on a couple of one-dayers ) - are these a common sight? Can't think that I've seen them on the cams before.

I have only ever seen them in Northern Kruger before, but I am aware of reports of it in the Satara area.

By no means still a lovely sighting.

Have seen them a few times in the Orpen area.

Nyandmandlovu - my sincere thanks for doing this for me. Wouldn't have known where to start.

Jane

I see ID'ers of note JenB and Moegaai lurking......

I certainly cannot say from the visual information of the individual birds what they are... but I'll hazzard a guess that a large number would be Red-billed queleas. Because it is at a waterhole, the likelihood is that this would be a mixed flock, maybe containing some Cape Sparrows, Southern grey-headed sparrows... even some weavers and the odd waxbill.

Thanks Johan
Interesting stuff.

Thanks Johan. They all seemed to be sticking together in one huge flock. All flew off together and all returned together, for about an hour. The comings and goings were super to watch.

Jane

Easy - can't you see? LBJ's Seriously I would go with my mate Joh in this one. Maybe also common waxbills.

I know this is almost impossible Any ideas which bird this could be

Shucks Tilandi, no, this one's too difficult. But I'm going to take a chance.

The size and GISS (slender body, longish tail, fairly long, thin legs) makes me lean towards Burchell's Starling...

You can see all that? Only joking.
Looking at the reflection (bird seems to be showing a crest) and what seems to be a quite longish tail I would guess Grey Go-away-bird.