Podcast · Tech & Science

The Birding Life Podcast Network

by The Birding Life Podcast Network · English · Tech & Science

The Birding Life Podcast Network brings you a mix of shows all about African birding and nature. We're here to connect you with birds, the great outdoors, and the amazing people we meet along the way. Tune in and join us on our adventures!

New episodes: Several times a week
Typical length: 58 min
Latest: 13 Oct 2026
Language: English

Latest episode

13 Oct 2026 · 41 minNew

TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 9 - Making the Most of Your Local Patch

Today's episode is going to be a little bit different. Normally, I have a guest joining me on the podcast, but today I've decided to do something that I've actually been putting off for quite some time, and that is recording a solo episode! I must admit, I'm a little bit nervous about doing this, so please be kind! But I thought this would be a great opportunity to share something that I'm really passionate about, and that is local birding. I've written quite a bit about this recently in my Daily Birder articles, but I thought it would be nice to have a bit of a relaxed conversation about it…

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Earlier episodes 29 most recent

S1 · E4 · 9 Oct 2026 · 40 min
SnA Youth Birders Podcast - Season 1 Episode 4 - Juan van den Heever - From Photography to Environmental assessments
Juan van den Heever is a wildlife photographer, birder and conservationist who has made quite a name for himself in the world of wildlife photography. Having been named a runner-up in the prestigious Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition and had one of his photographs featured on the cover of a David Attenborough book, Juan has already achieved some incredible milestones in his career. But his journey doesn’t stop behind the camera! Juan has recently moved into the world of Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs), taking his passion for the natural world into the field of…
S15 · E8 · 6 Oct 2026 · 54 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 8 - Learning to Listen: How Sound Recording Changes Your Birding
In this episode of The Birding Life Podcast, I sit down with Barry Forbes for a conversation about sound recording and the way it can completely change how we experience birds. Rather than a formal interview, this episode is a relaxed discussion about Barry’s journey into birding, how he became interested in recording bird sounds, and what he has learnt along the way. We chat about how sound recording can improve your ability to recognise and remember bird calls, how it encourages you to slow down in the field, and how it can change the way you approach birding altogether. Barry also shares…
S7 · E4 · 2 Oct 2026 · 35 min
YWP Podcast - Season 7 Episode 4 - From the Field to the Future with Joshua Winter
With the chaos of putting together the final bits and pieces for the YWP Exhibition later this month, Gabby found time for a quick catch-up with a familiar face to the Birding Life, Joshua Winter. It’s been a busy year for Josh too. While there may have been fewer wildlife trips than usual, he’s spent plenty of time in the field, gaining hands-on experience working with wild animals in the Waterberg and on the outskirts of Johannesburg as he continues his journey into veterinary science. In this episode, Josh shares some of the wildlife work he’s been involved in, what happens behind the…
S15 · E7 · 28 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 12 min
TBL Podcast - The Big Year of African Sounds: The Story So Far
In this week's episode we are going back to a project that we first spoke about right at the beginning of the year, the Big Year of African Sounds. The idea behind the project is simple, but incredibly important. Africa has some of the most remarkable birdlife in the world, but when it comes to sound recordings, many of our species are still poorly represented in major sound libraries. So this year, birders across the continent have been encouraged to get out into the field, press record, and help build a much stronger library of African bird sounds. And a lot has happened since we first…
S1 · E3 · 25 Sep 2026 · 58 min
SnA Youth Birders Podcast- Season 1 Episode 3- Tristan Spurway- From Bird Call ID to Rarity Hunting This Summer
Tristan is the host of the SnA Youth Birders podcast and forms a core part of the Admin team of the SnA Youth Birders group itself. He is a rising star on the social media front and aims to be a bird show host and a conservation personality one day. He is an experienced birder with many years under the belt- guiding both privately and for Birdlife South Africa. He is well known for his exceptional bird call ID skills and his love of having a million different hobbies going on at once. Tristan recently visited Uganda and has been sharing some of his stories and posts across his social…
S15 · E6 · 21 Sep 2026 · 49 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 6 - Inside the King Shaka Bird Radar Project
If you are a birder from KwaZulu Natal, you will probably know Mount Moreland. During summer, an estimated three million Barn Swallows gather there to roost in the reedbeds, creating one of the great birding spectacles in the province. But Mount Moreland is also an important wetland supporting a much wider range of wildlife. What makes the story even more interesting is that this enormous concentration of birds sits right next to King Shaka International Airport. That creates an unusual challenge. How do we better understand the movements of millions of birds around a busy airport, protect…
S7 · E3 · 18 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
YWP Podcast - Season 7 Episode 3 - Wildlife, Science & a Little ZooLogic
What happens when three young scientists with a shared fascination for the natural world come together? You get ZooLogic ZA. In this episode, Gabby sits down with Devon, Ross and Strijdom to talk wildlife, science, conservation and the curiosity that keeps pulling them deeper into the natural world. From rhino research and snake handling to insects, butterflies and the stories hidden in the ecosystems around us, the conversation explores their individual journeys as well as what brought ZooLogic together. It’s a fun, fascinating conversation with three young people proving that science…
S15 · E5 · 14 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 1 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 5 - Themba Robin: Birds, Birders and Comedy
This week's episode is a little bit different, and a lot of fun. My guest is Themba Robin, a South African comedian, content creator, actor, MC and voice artist, known for his satirical takes on everyday South African life and for finding humour in the things most of us walk straight past. And that is part of what makes this conversation so interesting. Birders are a very particular bunch. We have our habits, our obsessions, our strange little routines, and sometimes it takes someone from outside the birding world to point out just how funny some of it actually is. So in this episode, Themba…
S1 · E2 · 11 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
SnA Youth Birders Podcast - Season 1 Episode 2 - Anton Schultz- A Young Big Year
Anton is well-known for his incredible Big Birding Year in 2019 where he managed to see over 800 bird species. Today we sit down and look back at that big year- his highs, his lows, his lifers and his dips. Anton shares with us how he raised money for White-winged Flufftail conservation whilst managing to fund his very own big year. Anton gives advice for youngsters potentially looking to do their own big year and for those looking to become better birders. We also look at the exciting SnA Youth Birders Newsletter coming out in October which will be filled with loads of fantastic articles.…
S15 · E4 · 7 Sep 2026 · 47 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 4 - Eddie Germiquet: Every Bird Name Has a Story
We identify birds by name, we learn them by name, and we talk about them by name. But how often do we stop and ask where those names actually come from, what they mean, or what stories sit behind them? My guest today is Eddie Germiquet, author of South African Birds by Name , a book that explores the origins and meanings behind the names of our birds. Eddie’s own background makes him particularly well suited to this subject. His life has included birds, languages, research, ministry and a deep curiosity about words and where they come from. In this episode, we are going to get to know Eddie,…
S7 · E2 · 4 Sep 2026 · 1 hr 16 min
YWP Podcast - Season 7 Episode 2 - Creating Content in the Wild - Nardus Taljard
Nardus Taljard has built an impressive online community around something he genuinely loves, wildlife, Kruger and the stories that unfold in the wild. But what does it actually take to turn that passion into a successful digital platform? In this episode, Gabby sits down with Nardus to chat about the journey behind the content, from growing an audience and working with brands to photography, conservation, the realities of social media and some of the unexpected opportunities that have come his way. We also get into the responsibility that comes with having a voice online, why authenticity…
S14 · E3 · 31 Aug 2026 · 1 hr 9 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 3 - Finding Kenya's Lost Red Weaver
My guest today is Kenyan birder, guide and ornithologist James Apolloh Omenya, who was part of an expedition into the Boni Forest region of Kenya in search of two of the country’s lost birds, the Red Weaver and the Tana River Cisticola. The expedition involved difficult travel, motorbikes, local guides, security concerns, armed escorts, and a search through a part of Kenya that very few birders will ever get to experience. And then, on 3 July 2026, James and his team found what they had gone looking for. The Red Weaver, a bird that had not been scientifically documented for 12 years. James…
S1 · E1 · 28 Aug 2026 · 1 hr
SnA Youth Birders Podcast - Season 1 Episode 1 - Daniel Engelbrecht - The Bird Man from Limpopo
Welcome to episode one of the SnA Youth birders podcast! This podcast has been created to share birding with a younger generation and to help those parents that are raising young naturalists. We chatted with one of Southern Africa’s top young birders- Daniel Engelbrecht. He gives us insight into his recent trip to Uganda and his upcoming African trips. We chat about his love for bird call recording and the African Big Year of sounds. Dan shares his birding advice for young birders and parents with children they’d like to turn into birders. He shares his birding background and tells us about…
S15 · E2 · 24 Aug 2026 · 49 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 2 - What Is a CAR Count and Why Should Birders Care?
Today we are chatting about a citizen science project that has been running for more than 30 years and has become an incredibly valuable source of information about some of South Africa’s large terrestrial birds. I am joined by Dr David Ehlers Smith, Science and Spatial Planning Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa, to talk about CAR, or Coordinated Avifaunal Roadcounts. We are going to unpack what a CAR count actually is, why these counts are done, what decades of data are telling us about species such as cranes, bustards, Secretarybirds and other large terrestrial birds, and,…
S7 · E1 · 21 Aug 2026 · 59 min
YWP Podcast - Season 7 Episode 1 - The Wild World of Tony Park
What happens when a once-in-a-lifetime trip to Africa becomes a lifelong obsession - and ultimately the backdrop to an extraordinary writing career? Internationally bestselling author Tony Park joins Gabby Sykora for a conversation that goes far beyond the pages of his novels. From more than three decades of African adventures to wildlife crime, conservation, unforgettable characters and the wild places that continue to inspire his stories, Tony shares the experiences, encounters and occasional chaos behind a life spent writing Africa. With 24 novels, 10 non-fiction biographies and a…
S12 · E1 · 17 Aug 2026 · 58 min
TBL Podcast - Season 15 Episode 1 - Tristan Spurway - The Sound of a New Generation
Welcome to Season 15 of The Birding Life Podcast, Africa's biggest birding podcast. It is great to be back and kicking off another season of conversations with the people who make the birding world what it is. And for our first episode, I'm joined by someone who certainly isn't a stranger to the podcast. Tristan Spurway has joined us before, but a lot has happened in his birding journey since we last properly caught up. Tristan has developed a real passion for bird sounds and sound recording, including getting involved in the Big Year of African Sounds. He's also been creating some fantastic…
S6 · E7 · 30 Jul 2026 · 24 min
YWP Podcast - 2026 World Ranger Day Special with Saving the Wild's Jamie Joseph
On this special World Ranger Day edition of the podcast, Gabby sits down with conservation activist and Saving the Wild founder Jamie Joseph for one of the most powerful conversations we have had. While rangers continue to risk their lives protecting South Africa’s wildlife, Jamie reveals why the biggest battle is not always fought in the bush, but in the courtroom. Together, they unpack why so many rhino poachers never see prison, how corruption is undermining conservation, and why specialised wildlife courts and stronger legislation could change everything. Jamie also shares more about…
S14 · E10 · 6 Jul 2026 · 58 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 10 - More Than a Million Bird Sightings: The Story Behind Bindo
One of the things that has changed dramatically in birding over the last few years is the role that technology plays in helping us enjoy birds, keep records, contribute to conservation, and connect with other birders. Today we are going to be talking about an app that has made a significant impact on the Southern African birding community. If you've spent any time around birders recently, chances are you've heard people talking about Bindo. What started as an idea to get more people interested in birds has grown into a platform that now contains more than a million bird sightings. It has…
S6 · E5 · 3 Jul 2026 · 48 min
YWP Podcast Season 6 Episode 5 - Chacma Baboons, Human Conflict and the Meaning of Coexistence with Dr Paula Pebsworth
In this episode, Gabby is joined by primatologist Dr Paula Pebsworth from the Chacma Baboon Project for a thoughtful conversation about one of southern Africa’s most intelligent, adaptable and often misunderstood animals: the chacma baboon. Baboons are deeply social animals with complex relationships, strong learning abilities and important ecological roles, yet they are also frequently at the centre of human-wildlife conflict. From farms and homes to waste, crops and tourism spaces, the overlap between people and baboons can quickly become emotional, difficult and deeply divided. Paula…
S14 · E9 · 29 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 17 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 9 - Return of the Oystercatcher: Stories of Hope in a Changing World
There are some guests who simply make you think differently about birds, conservation, and our place in the natural world. Today's episode is a special one because it marks Episode 200 of The Birding Life Podcast. When I started this podcast, I never imagined that we would reach 200 episodes. Along the way we've spoken to birders, guides, photographers, conservationists, scientists, authors, and some truly remarkable people from around the world who share a passion for birds. Before we begin, I would love to ask a small favour. This podcast has never really been about numbers. It's always…
S14 · E8 · 22 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 4 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 8 - The Wildlife Photographer's Guide to Better Birding
One of the things I love about birding is that there are so many different ways to enjoy birds. Some people love chasing rarities. Some people love atlasing. Some people enjoy bird photography. Others simply enjoy spending time in nature. My guest today is someone who has spent decades behind a camera. Rory Baker is a professional wildlife photographer, photography educator, and founder of Rory Baker Photography. Over the years, he has photographed everything from wildlife and birds to architecture and commercial projects, while helping hundreds of photographers develop their skills. What…
S6 · E4 · 21 Jun 2026 · 52 min
YWP Podcast - Season 6 Episode 4 - Small Actions, Big Impact: The Fight for Pangolins
Today, Gabby Sykora is joined by Dr Kelsey Skinner, Executive Director of the African Pangolin Working Group, for a powerful conversation about conservation, perseverance, and one of the world's most threatened mammals. Together, they explore the work being done to protect pangolins from illegal wildlife trade, the challenges of rescue and rehabilitation, and the growing efforts to secure a future for these remarkable animals. Dr Skinner shares insights into the African Pangolin Working Group, the realities of working on the frontlines of conservation, and the inspiring story of Kulu, a…
S14 · E7 · 15 Jun 2026 · 1 hr 2 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 7 - The Future of Birding is Here - Liam Botha & Connor Barr
If you're listening to this episode on the day it is released, tomorrow is Youth Day in South Africa. It is a day when we celebrate the young people of our country, and for this episode, I wanted to hand over the microphone to two young people who are making a difference in the world of nature and conservation. My first guest is Liam Botha. Liam is a birder, herper, wildlife photographer, artist, and YouTuber. Despite his young age, he has already developed a deep passion for the natural world. In our conversation, Liam shares how a love of snakes, nurtured by parents who encouraged him to…
S14 · E6 · 8 Jun 2026 · 37 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 6 - The Ultimate Guide to Birding Limpopo Pt 2
Welcome back to part two of our birding journey through Limpopo with Daniel Engelbrecht. In this episode, we continue our journey into some of Limpopo's most iconic birding destinations. We visit the forests of Magoebaskloof, explore the legendary Soutpansberg mountains, and then head north into one of South Africa's greatest birding regions, the northern Kruger National Park. Along the way, Daniel shares practical advice, target species, favourite birding sites, and some of his own memorable experiences from years spent birding this remarkable province. This episode is brought to you in…
S6 · E3 · 5 Jun 2026 · 54 min
YWP Podcast - Season 6 Episode 3 - Every Action Matters: Growing Hope with Roots & Shoots South Africa
In this episode Gabby is joined by Maru from Roots & Shoots South Africa, the youth program of the Jane Goodall Institute, for a conversation about hope, action, and the incredible role young people can play in shaping a better future. We explore what it really means to make a difference, how conservation begins much closer to home than many people realise, and why curiosity is often the first step towards meaningful action. From community gardens and citizen science to storytelling and environmental education, Maru shares how young people across South Africa are creating positive change for…
S14 · E5 · 1 Jun 2026 · 51 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 5 - The Ultimate Guide to Birding Limpopo Pt 1
When many birders think about South Africa's top birding destinations, places like Kruger National Park, Cape Town, or Zululand often come to mind. Yet tucked away in the northernmost corner of the country lies a province that offers some of the most diverse and rewarding birding anywhere in southern Africa. Daniel grew up in Limpopo, has birded the province extensively for many years, and has become one of the leading voices when it comes to birding in the region. In this first of a two part series, we begin exploring this bird rich province. Daniel does not hold back as he freely shares…
S14 · E4 · 26 May 2026 · 58 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 4 - Byron Grobler. The Big Year Beyond the List
In today’s episode, I am joined by photographer, filmmaker, conservation storyteller, and birder, Byron Grobler. Byron is the founder of WildWild Journeys, and earlier this year he announced on his YouTube channel that he would be taking on a birding big year. In this honest and thought-provoking conversation, Byron shares more about his journey, and how two significant encounters in the bush would shape the way he sees birds, wildlife, and the natural world around him. This episode goes far beyond simply finding birds. We unpack what it means to interact ethically with nature, and how that…
S6 · E2 · 22 May 2026 · 47 min
YWP Podcast - Season 6 Episode 2 - Jamie Smart: Just 10 Years Old & Already Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year
At just 10 years old, Jamie Smart has already achieved something most wildlife photographers only dream of: being crowned Young Wildlife Photographer of the Year at the Natural History Museum in London. But this conversation is about far more than an award. Jamie is one of those young photographers who reminds us that age does not limit the way someone can see, feel, and understand the natural world. Behind her winning image is a young storyteller with genuine curiosity, patience, and a beautifully observant eye for wildlife. In what honestly felt like one of my most special conversations…
S14 · E3 · 18 May 2026 · 40 min
TBL Podcast - Season 14 Episode 3 - Junior Gabela. Zululand, Birding and a Life in the Field
Junior Gabela is a name known to many South African birders. Those who have birded with him will tell you about his incredible birding skills and his ability to find some of Zululand’s most sought-after species. In this episode, I sit down with this well-known Zululand bird guide to hear more about his story. In this conversation, we don’t just get to know Junior the birder. We dig deeper into the people and places that shaped his journey. For those who may never have visited Zululand, we also unpack the incredible birding in the region, along with where to find some of the area’s special…

About The Birding Life Podcast Network

The Birding Life Podcast Network is a English tech & science podcast from The Birding Life Podcast Network. Melo plays each episode straight from the publisher's own feed — no ads added, no account needed — and remembers where you stopped, in this browser only.

Publisher: The Birding Life Podcast Network
Language: English
Category: Tech & Science
New episodes: Several times a week
Typical length: 58 min
Latest episode: 13 Oct 2026
Feed: RSS — paste into any podcast app
Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1517318161

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