Bushveld birding can be a very involved and complicated business, or very simple!
However it can also be very rewarding once one makes the effort and gets over the apparent inferiority of birds vs the Big Five mammals.
There will always be a bird nearby in the bush, regardless of time of day or location, which is a major plus point. Also, there are hundreds and hundreds of species that may appear at a moment's notice, so the surprise factor is high for the keen observer.
It is impossible to give a full description of the activity in a few pages, but there are definitely a few basic elements that can be taken into account should one wish to optimise spending some time on birds.
Water
This is a big attraction for virtually all birds, especially in the dry months from April to October. Most drink daily, but also rely on water for bathing whenever possible. Of course some species rely on water sources for their food as well! In other words, while a waterpoint may be good for waiting for animals, there will be a steady stream of birds that will also enable one to while away the hours productively.
However, the bird kingdom is so diverse that different species approach water in different ways, obviously. Therefore waders, swimmers and raptors would prefer the larger stretches of water in dams and rivers, while the more numerous smaller types prefer much smaller pools, ponds and puddles. In my experience the best median size for a body of water would be a natural pan or river pool about the size of a small swimming pool. This caters for a wide variety and can enable one to get quite close to the action, so to speak.
However, even a small bird bath can provide endless entertainment in a camp or picnic spot and you don't even have to move from your verandah or campsite!
To be continued.
Peter!
