Tales of the Kgalagadi.

[Michele Nel]

Taking note of birds really makes you realise that no two trips to the Kgalagadi are the same . In February last year Black- winged Kites were dripping from the trees and Yellow-billed Kites were scarce. This year it was exactly the opposite . I only saw a handful of Black-winged Kites and only one of the provided me with a decent photographic opportunity.

However the Yellow-billed Kites ( and juveniles) provided me with many photographic opportunities. They were most active at Kwang, Cubitje Quap and Polentswa.

My most favourite photo is this one. It clearly shows the difference between adult and juvenile. Many visitors often mistake the juvenile Yellow-billed Kite for a Black Kite . In actual fact the Black Kite is seldom seen in Kgalagadi.

Kites flying and coming in to land.

[Michele Nel]

There is always a poser of note...

I believe this Yellow-billed Kite is practising "passive anting"
Anting is not 100% understood but it is thought that passive anting acts as way of ridding of ectoparasites, feather grooming, decreasing skin irritation during moult and sensory self-stimulation.

[Lisbeth]

The black-winged kite is a beautiful bird

Also in Kruger I have noticed this change in bird species from one year to another. One year it is the bee-eaters and the next the rollers a.s.o.

Great shots

[Richprins]

Brilliant stuff, Michele!

Your pics are of exceptional quality as always.

Also interesting info, and as you say a great study of the adult and juvenile together.

[Michele Nel]

The black-winged kite is a beautiful bird

Also in Kruger I have noticed this change in bird species from one year to another. One year it is the bee-eaters and the next the rollers a.s.o.

Great shots

Don't get me started on the Rollers......

[Michele Nel]

Brilliant stuff, Michele!

Your pics are of exceptional quality as always.

Also interesting info, and as you say a great study of the adult and juvenile together.

Thank you so much Richprins..:)

[Pumbaa]

Thanks so must, Michele,

as always incredible shots from all animals but I am a big fan of all your owls

Very well done

[Michele Nel]

Thanks so must, Michele,

as always incredible shots from all animals but I am a big fan of all your owls

Very well done

Thank you Pumbaa. I look forward to hearing your tales. I think my tales are relatively quiet compared to what you may have to tell us

[GavinW]

Great photos Michelle

[Mel]

Catching up here... and loooved those close up owl photos. Incredible shots!

Rock monitor - how cool to see it in camp! Only ever saw one so far and it was also extremely skittish not available for a proper photo shooting session.

Beautiful photos of the kites