BirdingDirect (2025)

01/07/2025

Found along the wide rivers of Africa, these unusual birds forage along the shoreline, picking invertebrates from the ground. Although often said to do so, there’s no evidence they clean the teeth of basking crocodiles. Nesting takes place on exposed sandbars, where they dig surprisingly deep scrapes. To protect their eggs from the intense tropical heat, they often leave them partly buried during incubation, using water absorbed in their belly feathers to cool the surrounding sand.

Despite its name, the Egyptian Plover is found in several countries beyond Egypt, with Ghana being one of the best places to see it. Ghana is also home to some of Africa’s rarest and most sought-after species, including White-necked Rockfowl, White-crested Tiger Heron, Hartlaub's Duck, White breasted Guineafowl, Congo Serpent Eagle, Long-tailed Hawk, and Rufous Fishing Owl.

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30/06/2025

The African Pitta is one of Africa’s true birding gems, with buff underparts, a vivid green back, red undertail, and an iridescent blue wing patch. Found on the forest floor or in dense thickets, it is a highly elusive species, often remaining completely still and silent for long stretches, making sightings particularly rewarding. It forages quietly among leaf litter, often remaining still for minutes at a time while watching for insects like termites, ants, beetles, and caterpillars. The legendary elusiveness of the African Pitta renders it as a highly sought-after species, particularly in the south of its range, where it can actually be targeted during the height of the breeding season in December. We have several local guides on the Birding Direct platform who have vast experience with locating this spectacular avian gem.

Zimbabwe is a country of remarkable habitat diversity and striking scenery, offering excellent opportunities for birders. It is home to a number of sought-after species, including Swynnerton's Robin, Roberts's Warbler, Chirinda Apalis, Blue Swallow, Boulder Chat, Zambezi Indigobird, Cinnamon-breasted and Miombo T**s, as well as Eastern Miombo, Variable, Shelley's, and Bronzy Sunbirds.

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26/06/2025

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"Africa is a continent of vast landscapes, rich cultures, and remarkable biodiversity. Its varied habitats, from montane forests and arid plains to dense swamps and tropical rivers, offer some of the most exciting birding on Earth. Below, we explore a selection of iconic species and destinations across the continent, each offering its own unique mix of birdlife, scenery, and wildlife experiences."

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25/06/2025

Indonesia is one of the world’s most biodiverse nations, made up of thousands of islands stretching across Southeast Asia and into the Pacific. From towering volcanoes and dense rainforests to coral-fringed coastlines, its landscapes are as different as they are breathtaking. The country’s culture and distinctive island traditions further enhance the experience of exploring this vast and vibrant archipelago.

With over 1,600 bird species, including an astounding 400 endemics, Indonesia is an ideal destination for a birding adventure. Highlights include Wilson’s Bird-of-paradise, Bali Myna, Maleo, Hylocitrea, Sulawesi and Ivory-breasted Pittas, Salmon-crested Cockatoo, and Black-chinned Monarch. From the highlands of Papua to the forested slopes of Sulawesi and the beaches of Bali, Indonesia remains an endlessly rewarding destination for nature lovers.

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24/06/2025

Bhutan is a small, landlocked kingdom nestled in the eastern Himalayas, known for its stunning mountain landscapes and deep-rooted Buddhist traditions. Bhutan has managed to retain vast expanses of pristine forest, making it one of the most environmentally intact countries in Asia. The country’s dzongs (fortress-monasteries), fluttering prayer flags, and vibrant festivals offer a cultural richness that complements its natural beauty.

For birders, Bhutan is a treasure trove of sought-after Himalayan species. It has a huge range in elevation, from just 150 meters (490 feet) in the Southern foothills to over 7500 meters (24,600 feet) in the Northern Himalayas, this range in elevation and intact habitats support an extraordinary range of birdlife, including several regional specialties and globally threatened species. Key targets include Satyr Tragopan, Himalayan Monal, Blood Pheasant, Ibisbill, Ward’s Trogon, Rufous-necked Hornbill, Beautiful Nuthatch, and Fire-tailed Myzornis. Whether birding through broadleaf forests or crossing impressive mountain passes, Bhutan offers an unforgettable blend of scenery, birds, and culture.

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23/06/2025

Sri Lanka is a small island nation off the southern tip of India, known for its cultural heritage, ancient cities, and beautiful natural landscapes. Despite its compact size, the country offers great ecological diversity, from coastal wetlands and lowland rainforests to cool montane forests and arid plains. Its well-developed infrastructure, welcoming atmosphere, and striking scenery make it a rewarding and accessible destination for nature and culture alike.

For birders and wildlife enthusiasts, Sri Lanka is especially appealing. The island is home to over 500 bird species, including 34 endemics such as Serendib Scops Owl, Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, Red-faced Malkoha, and Crimson-backed Flameback. Key birding regions include the lowland rainforests of Sinharaja and Kithulgala, the cool highlands around Nuwara Eliya, and the open terrain of Yala National Park. In addition to its birdlife, Sri Lanka also supports exciting mammals like Asian Elephant, Leopard, Sloth Bear, and Purple-faced Langur, making it a well-rounded destination for nature travel.

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20/06/2025

India is a land of immense diversity, culturally, geographically, and ecologically. Stretching from the towering Himalayas to the palm-fringed coastlines of the south, it offers some of the most exciting birding and wildlife experiences anywhere. The country is justly renowned for its bird species and iconic mammals, and few places offer the same blend of vibrant culture, scenic landscapes, and natural history.

Its wealth of habitats supports an abundance of birds and mammals, including Bengal Tiger, Asiatic Elephant, Asiatic Lion, Indian Leopard, and Red Panda. With an impressive bird list of over 1,350 species, India is home to many sought-after highlights. In the northeast, species such as Temminck’s Tragopan, Bengal Florican, Black-breasted Parrotbill, Ward’s Trogon, and Beautiful Nuthatch can be found in remote forested hills and riverine plains. Further south, the Western Ghats Mountains are home to Painted Bush Quail, Red Spurfowl, Nilgiri Wood Pigeon, Malabar Imperial and Grey-fronted Green Pigeons, as well as Malabar Grey and Great Hornbills.

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19/06/2025

China is a large and mega-diverse country. From the Gobi Desert to the Himalayas, it covers an array of remarkable habitats. It also boasts a fascinating history, stretching from the Xia Dynasty through the Mongol invasion. This legacy is preserved in iconic landmarks such as the Great Wall of China, the Forbidden City, and the Terracotta Army, each offering a fascinating window into the country’s long and complex past.

China is home to around 1,420 bird species, 60 of which are endemic. Its diverse habitats support a wide array of birdlife, with the province of Sichuan standing out as a top destination, holding half of China’s endemic species. The country is also renowned for its pheasants. Some of the standout species are White-eared, Blue-eared, Blood and Lady Amherst’s Pheasants, Chinese Monal, Verreaux’s Monal-Partridge, Sichuan Partridge, Cabot’s Tragopan, Spoon-billed Sandpiper, and Crested Ibis.

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18/06/2025

Our themed weekly mailer is packed with fascinating birds and facts from all around the globe. ⁠
⁠
Sign up on our website to receive it every week!⁠

"From the rainforests of Sri Lanka to the peaks of the Himalayas, Asia offers some of the most varied and rewarding birding on Earth. This vast continent is home to rich cultures, dramatic landscapes, and an excellent diversity of birdlife. From dazzling endemics in Indonesia to high-altitude specials in Bhutan, these standout destinations promise unforgettable birding experiences paired with striking scenery and cultural depth. "

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17/06/2025

Home to scattered islands in clear blue waters, ancient ruins, and timeless hilltop villages, Greece blends natural beauty with a rich cultural legacy. From Santorini and Corfu to Mykonos, visitors can island-hop through charming villages, sample local cuisine, or explore iconic landmarks like the Acropolis in Athens.

Greece’s varied geography, from forested mountains and wetlands to Mediterranean scrub and island coastlines, supports a rich and diverse birdlife. Positioned along a major migratory flyway, the country offers excellent opportunities for both resident and migratory species across multiple regions. Key species include Black-headed Bunting, Eurasian Scops Owl, Little Owl, Lesser Kestrel, and Great Spotted Cuckoo. With its blend of accessible habitats, bird diversity, and cultural highlights, Greece remains a rewarding destination for birders exploring the Mediterranean.

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13/06/2025

Morocco is a friendly and culturally rich nation, and one of only three countries with coastlines on both the Atlantic and Mediterranean. Its bustling towns and cities are filled with vibrant bazaars selling everything from aromatic spices to intricate crafts. A visit to Morocco blends history and modernity, where the flavours of traditional cuisine and the rhythm of daily life offer a vivid taste of the country’s character.

Morocco’s varied landscapes, from rugged mountains and open woodlands to desert plains and coastal lagoons, support a rich mix of North African birdlife. Among the key species are Northern Bald Ibis, Eleonora’s Falcon, Houbara Bustard, Balearic Shearwater, Marbled Duck, Barbary Partridge, Audouin’s Gull, Cream-coloured Courser, Crowned, Spotted and Black-bellied Sandgrouse. The range of habitats makes it easy to enjoy Morocco’s standout birds in a variety of scenic and memorable locations.

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12/06/2025

Italy stands out for its magnificent historical architecture, art, world-famous cuisine, and diverse landscapes that provide a scenic backdrop for both cultural exploration and nature-based experiences. From the Colosseum to the Doge’s Palace in Venice and the Sistine Chapel, these iconic landmarks offer a vivid journey through centuries of history.

Italy offers rewarding birding year-round, with a mix of local specialities and seasonal migrants moving between Europe and Africa. From wetlands and river deltas to coastal lagoons and alpine foothills, its varied habitats are home to species such as Ferruginous Duck, Pygmy Cormorant, Collared Pratincole, Slender-billed and Mediterranean Gulls, Bearded Reedling, and Eurasian Penduline Tit, all set against a backdrop of remarkable cultural heritage.

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