Strandfontein birding notes from Otto Schmidt

Otto Schmidt submitted some interesting notes and photos from his birding at Strandfontein this week. I’ve included his notes below:

Hadeda vs SG Mongoose

You will know the “bridge” (two poles) spanning the canal at the western end of pan P2. As I approached it, a grey mongoose crossed over from the P2 side. Very soon afterwards two Hadedas landed on the bridge. The mongoose then tried to return across the bridge, but each time he came too close to the Hadedas, one of the birds pecked at him and he had to retreat. After 3 or 4 attempts, he gave up and headed off along the far side of the canal. I managed to get a couple of pictures, one of which is attached for interest.

Orange-throated Longclaw

Having been so engrossed by the goings-on, I hadn’t noticed a pair of Cape Longclaw walking towards the vehicle. As I had been stationary for some time, they took no notice of the vehicle and wandered by within about two metres, giving the most stunning views (see above). Incidentally, there were still good numbers of Barn Swallows around, especially yesterday morning, as well as Ruff, Common Ringed Plover and Little Stint, so summer is perhaps not quite over yet.

Thanks Otto.

David Winter

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