Nightjar Training & Safaris

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Nightjar Training & Safaris

Est. in 2015, offering tailored onsite FGASA training, mentoring & assessments for the Guiding industry. FGASA endorsed with an in-house Assessor.
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As an extension of this, we also offer unique Lowveld based safaris and privately guided experiences. Nightjar was established in 2015 when it was noticed that there was a severe lack of affordable training & advancement opportunities for the existing guide market. Particularly, the types of training which would allow staff to learn & gain qualifications on-the-job, without having to travel off-si

te for days, or even weeks, to conduct training and thereby hampering productivity levels for the employer. As we know, in the highly competitive world of tourism & hospitality, it is vital for game lodges to stay a step ahead of the competition to maintain their edge. One of the key aspects to achieving this is by retaining staff who have top-notch, relevant skills. For individuals, the same applies in order to ensure a long & prosperous career in the industry. Thus, Nightjar was created to provide this vital service to Game Lodges & Field Guides throughout Africa. Our main goal is to provide all inclusive & completely tailored, affordable on-site training packages with the highest standards in mind, without requiring down-time for the lodge and/or staff member. Nightjar's consultants are a unique blend of highly skilled, qualified and knowledgeable specialists in their respective fields, offering advice & training on everything from field guiding, trails guiding and rifle handling to front-of-house training & unique tailored private safaris & educational safaris throughout Africa. Nightjar is a FGASA Endorsed Specialist Training Provider with an in-house Assessor (Charles Delport). Visit www.nightjar.co.za or email [email protected] for more information.

05/11/2024

During a recent private safari, we had the privilege of observing a male Boomslang, a fascinating, and seldomly seen snake.

Boomslang, with its characteristic egg-shaped head and large, prominent eyes, possesses exceptional vision. Its coloration varies, with males typically displaying a vibrant green hue, while females are often brown. Juveniles, on the other hand, can be black.

While not inherently aggressive, the Boomslang possesses a potent haemotoxic venom, requiring utmost caution and respect.

Boomslangs are oviparous, laying eggs in tree hollows. Their incubation period is remarkably long, lasting approximately three months.

*We encourage responsible wildlife viewing and emphasize the importance of observing these magnificent creatures from a safe distance.

27/10/2024

When you're racing back to Walkers River Camp to beat the incoming storm, but the Giraffe Pride are waiting for you in front of the camp, with the sky showing off in the background. What a memorable sighting for our guests!

19/10/2024

The dynamic nature of our industry means there's always something new to learn (and sometimes old information to be remembered), even for the most seasoned bush professionals.

Just finished up another session of ongoing guide training with the incredible guiding team at Silvan Safari. Their commitment to continuous learning is evident in their regular on-site upskilling sessions with Nightjar Training, which includes bush walks, training drives, astronomy sessions, and even classroom-based activities for those scorching Lowveld days.

By consistently refreshing their skills & depth of knowledge, this team ensures they're always at the top of their game, providing exceptional experiences for their guests. Well done team!

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

10/10/2024

𝗡𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗰𝗲: 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘄/𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 #𝗙𝗚𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗔𝗥𝗛 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗯𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗻𝗱 𝗼𝗳 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿!

Next assessment date (Hoedspruit): 𝐌𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐲, 𝟒𝐭𝐡 𝐍𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒.

Please note: Bookings are essential & space is limited.

Nightjar Training is a FGASA-endorsed specialist delivery partner.
𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑜𝑟: 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑒𝑠 𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡

www.nightjar.co.za | [email protected] | 082 971 7654

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

10/10/2024

Marabou Storks, although generally described as scavengers, will predominently feed on live prey during their nesting period. This coincides with the end of the dry season, when catfish are readily available! This allows for their chicks to feed on 'gentler' food items than carrion.

Marabou also are considered to be the land based bird with the biggest wingspan, growing up to an average of 2,6m, however, individuals have been recorded to have a wingspan of up to 3,2m.

05/10/2024

𝗘𝗺𝗯𝗮𝗿𝗸 𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻 𝗨𝗻𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗟𝗼𝘄𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗶 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗡𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗷𝗮𝗿 𝗦𝗮𝗳𝗮𝗿𝗶𝘀 🐾🐘🦏🦒

Nightjar Training & Safaris (www.nightjar.co.za) proudly introduces 𝙉𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙟𝙖𝙧 𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨, a dedicated division specializing in crafting exceptional, bespoke privately guided safari experiences in the Lowveld (Timbavati, Klaserie, Sabi Sands, Thornybush etc). We cater to couples, families, and friend groups seeking an unparalleled exploration of South Africa's premier safari destination.🇿🇦🌍

𝙉𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙟𝙖𝙧 𝙎𝙖𝙛𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨 𝙙𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙪𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙜𝙝:
𝗠𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗰𝘂𝗹𝗼𝘂𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝗧𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: We collaborate with you to curate bespoke itineraries that seamlessly integrate with your group's size, interests, and preferred pace. Whether you prioritize exhilarating wildlife encounters or a rejuvenating immersion in nature, our expert team ensures an unforgettable journey.

𝗨𝗻𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗘𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝘀𝗲: Our highly qualified and experienced guides possess an intimate understanding of the Lowveld's diverse ecosystem. Their passion for wildlife & expert level of knowledge translates into insightful commentary and an advanced level of understanding of guest needs & safety, maximizing your safari experience.

𝗨𝗻𝗿𝗶𝘃𝗮𝗹𝗲𝗱 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲𝘀: For those seeking the ultimate in comfort and exclusivity, we offer private-use and shared luxury safari offerings within renowned Big 5 private Lowveld reserves. Immerse yourselves in unparalleled opulence while experiencing the thrill of the African wilderness.

Nightjar Safaris offers more than just a safari; it's an opportunity to reconnect with nature, create lasting memories, and experience the wonders of the Lowveld private reserves in unparalleled style.

Contact us today to discuss your dream Lowveld safari and let us craft the perfect itinerary for you: [email protected]

01/10/2024

This huge discarded dung ball, opened by a hungry honey badger, was found on a trails guide assessment yesterday. These types of finds always make for great talking points on trails!

Dung beetles create intricate dung balls with various forms of animal and plant waste, which in turn serves as both food and a nursery for their offspring.

The dung ball's structure is remarkably complex, with a tougher outer layer protecting a nutrient-rich interior. This ensures the survival of the beetle larvae (provided a honey badger doesn't interfere with the process!). By creating these balls, the dung beetles are also cleaning up decomposing waste and, as the balls are usually buried, contribute to soil health & aeration, helping to maintain a balanced ecosystem. 🪲

.guides.association.of.sa

23/09/2024

𝗟𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗺𝗶𝗻𝘂𝘁𝗲 𝗮𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆! 𝗥𝗲𝗻𝗲𝘄/𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗽𝗹𝗲𝘁𝗲 𝘆𝗼𝘂𝗿 #𝗙𝗚𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝗔𝗥𝗛 𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗼𝗻 𝗪𝗲𝗱𝗻𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆, 𝟮𝟱𝘁𝗵 𝗦𝗲𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 (𝗛𝗼𝗲𝗱𝘀𝗽𝗿𝘂𝗶𝘁 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮).

Please note: Bookings are essential & space is limited.

Nightjar Training is a FGASA-endorsed specialist delivery partner.
𝐴𝑠𝑠𝑒𝑠𝑠𝑜𝑟: 𝐶ℎ𝑎𝑟𝑙𝑒𝑠 𝐷𝑒𝑙𝑝𝑜𝑟𝑡

www.nightjar.co.za | [email protected] | 082 971 7654

The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

19/09/2024

What a way to start the day!

We had a truly incredible encounter with majestic White Rhino while conducting FGASA mentored trails training. As the sun peeked through the mist, we embarked on an early morning walk and stumbled upon these magnificent creatures feeding along a river.

The best part? They were completely oblivious to our presence! This is exactly how wildlife encounters should be - respectful, awe-inspiring, and unforgettable.

10/09/2024

Recently, we witnessed an interesting spectacle: a hyena clan on the move, relocating their den site. This is a critical event in the life of a hyena family, ensuring the safety and well-being of their young.

One particularly poignant moment unfolded as a young cub, reluctant to leave its familiar home, was gently coaxed by its mother. A combination of gentle nudges and, in some cases, a bit of maternal lifting, ensured the cub's safe transition to the new den.

Hyena den relocations are driven by a complex interplay of factors, including population density, den hygiene, and the availability of resources. By relocating their dens, hyenas can minimize the risk of disease transmission, ensure adequate ventilation, and provide their offspring with the best possible environment for growth and development.

This captivating display of maternal instinct and clan cooperation serves as a powerful reminder of the remarkable intelligence and social complexity of these often misunderstood creatures.

04/09/2024

The Grey-headed Bushshrike, often overlooked as a simple insect eater, showcases its adaptability in the wild. This opportunistic bird has been observed hunting larger prey, including rodents and even snakes, as demonstrated in this encounter with a Yellow-bellied Sandsnake.

The recent cold snap in the lowveld likely slowed the snake's movements, making it a vulnerable target. This incident highlights the importance of understanding the intricate dynamics of the ecosystem and the diverse dietary habits of its inhabitants.

28/08/2024

During a recent guiding skills development workshop in the Sabi Sands, we stumbled upon this Mopane bee nest.

These often overlooked (and guides will agree, somewhat annoying) creatures do play an important role in the ecosystem, and their unique characteristics make them a worthy subject for any guide.

Mopane bees are small stingless bees native to Southern Africa. Despite their fly like behaviour and appearance, they are not flies, but rather small, social bees. They are particularly fond of moist areas, often gathering on sweaty skin, hence the nickname "sweat fly/bee."

While these bees may seem insignificant, they are important pollinators for various species of fruit-bearing trees.

Their nests, typically constructed in trees or underground, are characterized by their small, waxy entrance tubes. Inside these tubes, the bees deposit eggs along with a droplet of dark honey to nourish the developing larvae.

Keep an eye out for these fascinating little nests on your next bush walk, it's a great conversation subject.🐝🐝🐝

23/08/2024

This incredible pangolin shows the power of nature's adaptations. Its tough keratin scales, which can account for roughly 20% of its body weight, are a truly impressive defense mechanism.

During a recent game drive, we witnessed the incredible resilience of this small pangolin. Lions attempted to "unroll" it, but the scales held strong against their powerful bites. We even see signs of saliva on the scales, a testament to the pangolin's successful escape!

This rare encounter serves as a powerful reminder of the vital importance of pangolin conservation. These fascinating creatures, with their unique adaptations, face numerous threats, mainly due to poaching. From a guide's perspective, we can assist conservation efforts in many ways, but properly educating guests on this topic will have a far-reaching & long-term impact on conservation efforts.

18/08/2024

African Wild Dogs are highly social canids that live in packs with a complex social hierarchy, where teamwork and cooperation are essential for survival. Play is crucial to strengthen these bonds among pack members.

August is usually a great month to view these special animals as we are approaching the end of the peak of their denning season, and pups are being introduced to the outside world.

14/08/2024

Assessment Tip: Sundowner stops are more than just a scenic break. Assessors often utilize these moments to evaluate a guide's ability to foster connections and engage with diverse guests on a personal level.

Beyond knowledge sharing, a guide's capacity to create memorable experiences through authentic interactions is crucial. Sundowners offer a unique opportunity to observe these skills in action.

10/08/2024

𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗹𝗱 𝗟𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗗𝗮𝘆: 𝗔 𝗥𝗲𝗳𝗹𝗲𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

Today, World Lion Day, serves as a critical reminder of the iconic lion's precarious position in our ecosystem. For those of us privileged to witness these apex predators in their natural habitat, a deep understanding of their ecology, behavior, and conservation challenges is paramount.

As guides, we hold a unique responsibility to educate our guests about the complexities of lion conservation. It is essential to dispel myths, promote scientific understanding, and inspire action. By sharing accurate information about lion populations, threats, and conservation efforts, we empower our guests to become advocates for these magnificent creatures.

Let us use this day to recommit ourselves to ethical guiding practices, supporting research initiatives, and collaborating with conservation organizations. Together, we can contribute to a future where lions not only survive but thrive.

09/07/2024

Big congratulations to Charles Delport, our Head Trainer & Professional Guide, on achieving his SKS Astronomy Qualification! This is Charles's 2nd SKS qualification, and he's on track to completing his 3rd by year-end. 👏💪

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Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate
Hoedspruit
1380

Website

http://nightjar.co.za/

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Videos

During a #FGASA apprentice trails mentored walk earlier this week, we had an perfect encounter with this elephant bull. Perfect, from the perspective of a trails guide, of course! 👣🥾 The group was well positioned for optimal viewing from a safe distance. The natural barrier & steep banks of the dry riverbed ensured guest safety with minimal disturbance to the elephant, which remained calm throughout the encounter. Even though he was aware of our presence, he resumed feeding in a relaxed state. This is a prime example of responsible trails guiding – prioritizing safety and wildlife well-being while creating unforgettable nature experiences on foot. #iamfgasa #fgasaassessor #FGASAmentor #trailsmentor #trailsguide #guidetraining #mentor #onfoot #bushwalks #walkingsafaris #africaonfoot #safariguide #elephant #walkingwithgiants #wildlife #nature #natgeowild

Wrapping up a week of guiding & assessments with various lodges in the magical Timbavati Private Nature Reserve. The Lowveld never disappoints. 🌟 The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

Trails guiding is a passion, not just a career choice. 🐾 Walking in areas of dangerous game is exciting and keeps you on your toes, but also provides a platform to explore and educate your guests, fellow guides and ultimately yourself, about the intricacies and wonders of the natural world.🌿 We've had a few good weeks of mentored trails walks and the trails season has only just begun! 💪 #trailsguide #trailsmentor #fgasa #safari #nature #wildlife #explore #onfoot The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

Big game sightings are always exciting, but let's not forget about the amazing smaller flora and fauna that make every walk unique! As a trails guide, it's critical to have a wide knowledge base on the natural world, so you can share fascinating insights with your guests throughout the walk. With a slower pace and more opportunities to see the smaller critters, every gap in conversation is a chance to explore the hidden wonders of the bush. Remember, we're only a small part of a very large ecosystem, and understanding the interconnectedness of all living things is key to being a great guide. So start brushing up on your broader bush knowledge before your next walk and get ready to share the magic of the natural world with your guests! #trailwalks #floraandfauna #natureguide #wildlifesightings #hiddenwonders #nightjartraining #trailsguide #trailsmentor #fgasaassessor #FGASAmentor #onfoot #nature The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa

When it comes to impressing the ladies, this dung beetle knows just how to roll. Meet the telecoprids, or rollers, who can form balls weighing up to 50 times their own weight. These balls serve as a source of food, a way to impress potential mates, and a breeding ground. Watch as they quickly roll their creations away from the competition. www.nightjar.co.za #safari #wildlife #photosafari #photographicsafaris #africansafari #trailsmentor #greaterkruger #tourism #krugernationalpark #southafrica #gameviewing #animalplanet #animals #wildlifephotography #gamedrive #lowveld #guidetraining #safariguide #fieldguide #fgasa #safariseason #instawildlife #earthcapture #fgasamentor #dungbeetle #science #nature #gross #reels

And that's a wrap on 2022. A huge thank you to everyone who shared in our most memorable sightings and here's to many more in 2023! www.nightjar.co.za

This morning was Sunset female's turn to show off her beauty, providing us with one or two close up walk-by's. www.nightjar.co.za

Trails 2022, we logged almost 700 walking hours, with nearly 200 dangerous game encounters for the year! Enjoy a quick recap on some of the reasons we love to trails! Will you be joining in 2023? www.nightjar.co.za The Field Guides Association of Southern Africa #trailsguide #trailsmentor #walk #reels #hiking #walkingsafari #fgasa #fieldguide #fgasaassessor #bush #bushwalks #wildlife #onfoot #africaonfoot #safari #reelsinstagram #videooftheday #wildlifevideos #reeloftheday

Lion pride venturing into unknown territory looking to expand their own. www.nightjar.co.za

After the recent rain, we have been witnessing mass eruptions of winged alate termites. During these eruptions, many organisms, such as this Wolf Spider, take full advantage of the abundance of food that's around.