Please share with us a little more about yourself.
I am a passionate conservationist and have dedicated my life to contributing to the conservation of biodiversity on our precious planet. My hobbies revolve around travelling, especially to remote areas, and bird photography. My training is in zoology, and I was employed as a Specialist Nature Conservation Scientist with the Northern Cape government for 18 years. I’ve been the CEO of BirdLife South Africa since October 2008.
What inspired you to go into bird conservation?
A love for the natural world. My grandfather, with whom I frequently travelled to various destinations in the northern parts of South Africa, was the person who introduced me to nature. I started out with birdwatching and later went on to bird photography.
How can people contribute to making a difference?
People can contribute in many different ways; these include changing one’s lifestyle by recycling, planting indigenous plants or even walking rather than driving, where possible.
It’s very important for people to know, love and appreciate birds and the natural world. Our BirdLife network of over 2 million birders, scientists and local volunteers help us track, follow, analyse, conserve and understand every bird species in the world. You can become a member or donate to this cause here: https://www.birdlife.org/support-us/
What has been your favourite endangered bird sighting?
There have been many, including Martial Eagles and Wandering Albatrosses. I also get a thrill out of watching common garden birds going about their daily business.
What is the most rewarding aspect of bird photography?
Capturing the unique behaviour of a bird, and then sharing the images with people who appreciate birds and the natural world.
When going on a trip, what would you say are the most important items to have with you?
My wife, Tania, our Landcruiser, ZEISS binoculars, Canon camera gear, (the 500mm lens is my favourite!), a hat, a flask, and a portable bird hide.
Where in South Africa would you say are your most recommended bird watching/photography locations?
The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Conservation Area without a doubt! In and around Gauteng: Rietvlei Nature Reserve and Marievale are good places to take bird photographs.
What is the most difficult aspect of photographing birds?
To have the patience to sit and wait for birds to do something out of the ordinary. It helps to have knowledge of bird behaviour so that one can anticipate something that may be interesting and worth photographing.
What does the future of bird conservation look like?
BirdLife South Africa and other conservation organisations have already changed the fate around for some threatened species, such as the African Oystercatcher and the Black-browed Albatross. We are working hard to ensure that the threats to all endangered birds are addressed and that the population status of these species improves.
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