05
Mar
One of the most surreal experiences of my 30-day African adventure was searching for and photographing the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. This rare bird is a prized sighting for birders and wildlife photographers alike, and I was lucky enough to find it in Kruger National Park.
The Search Begins
Our journey began with a guided safari drive accompanied by two rangers armed with shotguns. One scouting the river and the other leading us through the bush—we set off in search of the elusive Owl. The reality of being on foot in dense forest, where we could potentially encounter crocodiles, hippos, or other wild animals, added a layer of excitement and tension to the experience.
A Rare Sight
According to Roberts Bird Guide of Greater Kruger National Park, the Pel’s Fishing Owl is a rare resident, largely confined to the Luvuvhu and Olifants river systems, with small populations along the Crocodile, Sabie, Klaserie, Singwedzi, and Limpopo Rivers. Less than 30 breeding pairs are thought to exist within Kruger National Park, their numbers threatened by riparian habitat destruction caused by elephants.
Despite its rarity, our expert guides, Dennis and Abel from Olifants camp, helped us find the owl remarkably quickly. Perched high in the greenery, it was expertly camouflaged, making it difficult to spot at first. We waited patiently for the breeze to shift the leaves, revealing brief glimpses of this magnificent bird.
A Moment to Remember
Standing beneath the canopy, I was struck by the sheer wonder of the moment. Though initially nervous about being so exposed in the wilderness, I focused on capturing a glimpse of the owl, leaving my fate to the universe. The challenge of getting a clear shot added to the complexity of this adventure.
There it was—watching us just as intently as we watched it, reminding me this encounter wasn’t just about photographing a rare bird; it was about stepping into its world, even if only for a moment. The combination of anticipation, awe, and respect for nature made it an experience I will never forget.
QUICK FACTS
- Habitat – Densley wooded riparian forest with large shady trees overhanging water.
- Diet – They love fish, including catfish, squeakers and bream, but are also known to like small crocodiles and frogs
- Size – around 63 cm (25 inches) long with a wingspan of around 153 cm (5 feet)
- Breeds – nests in large riparian forest tree cavities like Sycamore Fig or Jackalberry trees, usually every second year
Happy birding. I hope you get to see a Pel’s Fishing Owl, too. N x
