Pafuri, located in the far north east corner of the Kruger National Park is indeed iconic as a birding destination. Low lying, and flanked by the Limpopo river the mix of yellow fever trees and stately baobabs is home to at least fifteen highly sought after bird species on the SA list. Of these two enjoy special status as key targets for visiting birders.

Sunset at Pafuri

First there is the Mottled Spinetail of frustratingly similar flight appearance to Little Swift but distinguished by a narrow white line across the vent and a ‘pinched’ appearance as the secondary feathers taper inwards towards the body.

Mottled Spinetail

Mottled Spinetail

Best viewing site is the ‘Big Tree’, a baobab that is both the favoured roost and nesting site within its  hollow core, located west of Pafuri in the adjacent homeland.

Of the two swift -like spinetail species the tiny Bohm’s is by far the most charismatic with a very short, almost insignificant tail, and distinctive bat-like wing suited for short glides and rapid bursts of speed as it wheels about erratically above the Luvuvhu river at dusk.

Bohm’s Spinetail aka Bat-wing Spinetail

Bohm’s Spinetail aka Bat-wing Spinetail

Bohm’s Spinetail aka Bat-wing Spinetail

For more info on birding and bird tours in South Africa contact Patrick on info@avianleisure.com