Birds of the Karoo Ecology and Conservation - BirdLife South Africa
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Birds of the Karoo Ecology and Conservation
Contents
Acknowledgements ii
Introduction 1
Aims of this booklet 1
About BirdLife South Africa 1
The Karoo – climate and geography 2
Birds of the Karoo 4
Bird tourism opportunities 7
Species descriptions and ecology 8
Large terrestrial birds and raptors 8
Other raptors/birds of prey 10
Other large birds 14
Waterbirds 15
Other waterbirds 16
Larks 18
Other passerines 23
Managing crow impacts on livestock 33
Habitat management 34
Conclusion 51
References and further reading 52
Cover image: Malachite Sunbird
i
Acknowledgements This work is based on the research carried out during the BirdLife South Africa Karoo Birds Research and Conservation Project, conducted from 2017-2019, made possible thanks to a donation to BirdLife South Africa from Mrs Gaynor Rupert. In addition, the project partnered with the SANBI Karoo BioGaps Project, supported by the National Research Foundation of South Africa (Grant Number: 98864), awarded through the Foundational Biodiversity Information Programme (FBIP), a joint initia- tive of the Department of Science of Technology (DST), the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI). AL wishes to thank Richard Dean for his time, insights and comments. Domitilla Raimondo of SANBI is thanked for the invitation to become part of the SANBI Karoo BioGaps project. Gigi Laidler and Carol Poole are thanked for all their groundwork. Campbell Fleming is thanked for assistance during surveys during 2017, and Eric Herrmann for hard work in the field in 2018. Thanks to Adrian Craig and Salome Willemse for assistance with atlassing efforts. Thanks to Joseph Steyn, Mark Anderson and Kerry Purnell for comments on drafts of this book. Thank you also to Stefan Theron for completing the Afrikaans translation and Ernst Retief for reviewing the Afrikaans version. The many landholders who allowed us access to their land and provided coffee and conversation are especially thanked, as are the several landholders who facilitated our surveys by offering a place to stay. Dankie julle almal! Image credits All images are the authors’ own except for the following: Page 8 - Martial Eagle, Jay van Rensburg Page 11 - Northern Black Khoraan, Chris Van Rooyen Page 14 - Blue Crane, Jonh Tinkler Page 15 - Black-winged Stilt, Chris Van Rooyen Recommended citation Wright DR, Theron S, Lee ATK 2019. Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation. BirdLife South Africa. Johannesburg, South Africa. ii
Layard’s Tit-babbler
iii
Secretarybird
Introduction
Aims of this booklet specifically to its birds and biodiversity.
In many instances these are shared
The Karoo landscape and culture is threats and we hope that knowledge
unique and has maintained its aesthetic of them may also support action to
for many generations, whilst other areas mitigate their impact on our biodi-
have succumbed to excessive devel- versity. Finally, the booklet provides
opment and change. In many respects, conservation recommendations and
the landholders, primarily private and actions which can be taken by interested
communal farmers, are the key custo- landholders, private farmers, communal
dians of this landscape. This includes property owners, environmental organ-
being responsible for the birds and isations and government agencies. In
other biodiversity which call this area this way, the booklet intends to support
home. The work of BirdLife South Africa the people and organisations already
has shown that agriculture and birds undertaking conservation initiatives in
can happily coexist and the traditional the Karoo, whilst also encouraging action
sheep farming of the region can support from all who call the region home.
biodiversity. However, certain threats to
this region and its biodiversity remain. About BirdLife South Africa
Threats in some instances are even
increasing, in particular due to mining Vision
and renewable energy facilities. The aims
of this booklet are to educate and inspire BirdLife South Africa wishes to see
people to take action where necessary, a country and region where nature
or continue with existing positive actions and people live in greater harmony,
which support the conservation of the more equitably and sustainably.
region’s birds and biodiversity. The
booklet firstly introduces a suite of the Mission
bird species which occupy the region,
specifically including those charismatic BirdLife South Africa strives to
species which may spark an interest in conserve birds, their habitats and
birds, as well as the endemic species biodiversity through scientifically-based
which occur nowhere else in the world! programmes, through supporting
The species descriptions and images the sustainable and equitable use of
should assist interested parties with natural resources and by encouraging
identification, whilst also providing an people to enjoy and value nature.
introduction to the ecology of these
birds. The Karoo endemic species are
part of South Africa’s unique natural heri-
tage and it is our responsibility to create
awareness of these birds and encourage
people to support their conservation. In
addition, the booklet describes some of
the threats to the Karoo landscape and
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 1
The Karoo – climate has created an incredible array of
and geography unique habitats exploited by different
and remarkable plants and animals,
The Karoo sensu lato describes the arid many adapted to life at its harshest.
south-western zone of South Africa. It
is a diverse region from all perspectives: The region consists of two climatically
historical, geological, and environmental, and botanically distinct biomes: the
stretching from the Atlantic Ocean in Succulent Karoo with predominantly
the west to beyond the Gariep (Orange) stable winter rainfall, and Nama Karoo
River in the north-east. This includes with predominantly higher summer rain-
the flowering carpets of the Namaqua- fall but where amounts vary significantly
land, to the seemingly empty Aberdeen between years. The Nama and Succulent
plain, the extremely dry Tankwa and Karoo together cover over 450 000 km2,
Richtersveld, whispering grasslands of approximately 25-30% of South Africa
Bushmanland, snow-capped heights and at least 25% of Namibia’s surface
of the Hantam and escarpment of the areas. As this is an arid zone, annual
Great Karoo. It is a region of contrasts rainfall is low (50-400 mm) and is
and extremes, bounded by Fynbos often highly localized, varying annually
to the south, grasslands to the east, in amount and timing. There are two
and deserts to the north. This juxta- notable rainfall gradients across the
position of biomes and environments region: firstly, seasonality, with rainfall
Biome
Nama Karoo
Succulent Karoo
−24
−26
−28
−30
−32
N
−34
0 100 200 300 400 500 km
16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32
The two biomes that make up the ‘Karoo’ are floristically very different. Black squares mark the
locations of survey areas visited by the author team during 2017 and 2018.
2 BirdLife South Africa
Thunderstorm over the Karoo
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 3
transitioning from winter rainfall in the
west, through aseasonal, to summer
rainfall in the east. Secondly, mean
annual rainfall amounts also show a
general pattern of increase from west
to east, and from north to south. The
variability of the rainfall and long dry
spells or severe regional droughts create
a mosaic so that high and low resource
areas occur as patches in the landscape.
The Karoo also experiences a dramatic
range of temperatures, from frost and
snow prone high-altitude areas (e.g.
-16°C at Sutherland), to extremely hot
central regions bordering the Kalahari
Desert (up to 50°C at Vioolsdrif). Stark’s Lark, a nomadic granivore
Many iconic mammals are found in Resident species of birds tend to main-
the Karoo. Springbok and Steenbok tain low densities and wait for rainfall
are common antelope and endan- events, whereas nomadic species search
gered species, such as Riverine for rich resource patches scattered in
Rabbit and Black-footed cat, also time and space, so that their respec-
occur. There are negative percep- tive densities likewise vary temporally
tions associated with species, such as and spatially. Resident birds tend to be
Black-backed Jackal and Caracal. insectivorous or omnivorous, and often
become habituated around human
Birds of the Karoo habitats: the Familiar Chat, Karoo Scrub
Robin and Mountain Wheatear are
The Karoo, used in this booklet to good examples. Certain species have
mean both Succulent and Nama Karoo become very dependent on humans
biomes (see map on page 2), is rich in the landscape, notably House and
in species for an arid region: over 407 Cape Sparrow. These, as well as Pied
bird species, of which 294 species are Starlings, do very well where supple-
considered typical of the region (Dean mental feed is given to livestock.
1995). The Nama Karoo has a high
species richness of nomadic birds which Homesteads on farms provide many
move into areas following high rainfall, resources for birds, and as such tend
such as Lark-like Bunting, Black-eared to have higher species richness than
Sparrowlark, Grey-backed Sparrowlark the surrounding landscape. As well as
and Stark’s Lark. Both the Succulent and supplemental food, there is usually water,
Nama Karoo have high species richness trees, shrubs and watered gardens, which
of larks (Alaudidae) compared with provide food and nesting places for
other biomes. While typically referred birds. Red-eyed Bulbuls, Cape Weavers,
to as LBJs, due to their seemingly drab Cape Robin-Chats, Karoo Thrush and
appearance, they have unique calls and mousebirds all love Karoo garden envi-
life-history strategies and, with a bit ronments. Sheds for livestock provide
of interest, can readily be told apart. nesting resources for Speckled Pigeon,
4 BirdLife South AfricaKaroo Scrub Robin
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 5Little Swift, Rock Martin and swallows.
Agricultural pastures are frequented by
Spur-winged Geese, Cape Francolin,
Red-capped Lark, Sacred Ibis and many
other species. Irrigated lands have
resulted in the expansion of Hadeda Ibis
and Egyptian Goose into the Karoo.
However, those birds restricted to the
Karoo (the endemics) are normally found
in naturally occurring veld. The following
10 species are endemic to the Karoo:
Karoo Korhaan, Karoo Lark, Red Lark,
Sclater’s Lark, Black-eared Sparrowlark, Familiar Chat
Karoo Eremomela, Cinnamon-breasted
Warbler, Namaqua Warbler, Karoo
Long-billed Lark and Barlow’s Lark.
The following have core ranges
strongly centred on the Karoo (Karoo
Near-endemic): Cape Long-billed Lark,
Large-billed Lark, Ludwig’s Bustard,
Grey Tit, Sickle-winged Chat, Karoo
Chat, Karoo Scrub Robin, Rufous-eared
Warbler, Black-headed Canary, Layard’s
Tit-Babbler and Pale-winged Starling.
Namaqua Sandgrouse
In addition, a variety of arid zone species
have at least half of their distribution
range in the Karoo, e.g. Fairy Flycatcher,
Karoo Prinia, Grey-backed Cisticola, Pririt
Batis, White-throated Canary, Namaqua
Sandgrouse, Namaqua Dove, Double-
banded Courser and Dusky Sunbird. Of
the species reliant on the Karoo, two
are considered species of conservation
concern: Ludwig’s Bustard (Endangered)
and Red Lark (Vulnerable), with Sclater’s
Lark listed as Near Threatened. A subset
of the most iconic Karoo birds, including
the endemics and near-endemics, are
Grey-backed Sparrowlark described in further detail here.
6 BirdLife South AfricaBird tourism opportunities are popular with birdwatchers. Old,
well established farmsteads with tall
Avitourism, or people who travel for the trees, shallow dams, as well as good
purpose of birdwatching, is one of the farm tracks for exploring surrounding
fastest growing nature-based tourism rangelands, are ideal for this purpose.
activities worldwide: in South Africa
the market is about 40 000 people Knowing which species are important to
per year. Birdwatchers tend to spend birdwatchers can be a valuable service
more money compared to other tour- to visiting birdwatchers, and we highlight
ists, and encouraging birdwatchers to some of these species in the following
visit your establishment can be of great pages. Getting up close and personal
benefit. Read more about Bird-friendly with birds is a highlight for birdwatchers;
establishments and their requirements for example, in bird hides or around
here: www.birdlife.org.za/go-birding/ habituated wild birds. Birds can become
bird-friendly-establishments/ easily tolerant of people’s presence if
they are regularly fed. However, one
Many Karoo landholders have infra- should also ensure that birdwatchers
structure (jaghuisies, etc) that can be abide by a standard code of conduct and
tailored to provide facilities for visiting do not disturb sensitive birds unduly; for
birdwatchers. The biggest attraction example, birds on nests. People watching
to birders are the endemics, the birds birds should be familiar with the bird
found only in the Karoo and nowhere watchers’ code of ethics: www.birdlife.
else. Places that have a variety of org.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/01/
habitats that support a variety of birds BLSA-Code-of-Conduct-Eng.pdf
Birdwatchers scanning for Larks and other arid zone species
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 7Species descriptions and ecology
Large terrestrial birds and raptors
Martial Eagle/Breëkoparend
Polemaetus bellicosus
Verreaux’s Eagle/Witkruisarend
Aquila verreauxii One of the largest raptors in South
Africa and the world, they have a dark
A very large black raptor, frequenting chocolate brown head and neck, with a
mountainous areas of the Karoo, where slight crest, which contrasts with a cream
they nest on cliffs. In flight the bird has coloured, slightly flecked breast, and
distinctive white panels on the underside dark brown back and wings. They range
of the wings, and a large white “V” on the across much of South Africa but are in
back, and white rump. Their preferred serious decline due to multiple threats,
food is the rock hyrax (dassie), but also including habitat loss, persecution, elec-
take other small mammals, such as young trocution and collision with infrastructure.
antelope, baboons, monkeys or hares. While often seen as a threat by small live-
Occasionally observed to scavenge, they stock farmers, a variety of prey including
only take livestock rarely, probably when mongoose, antelope, hares and even
no natural food can be found. Gener- jackals are taken. Often seen roosting on
ally, they provide a valuable service to electricity pylons, on which they also nest
landholders by controlling species that occasionally. They prefer open, wooded
compete with livestock for natural food. habitats, like the Kalahari, but also grass-
land and Karoo, where they are very rare.
Conservation status
National: Vulnerable; Conservation status
Global: Least Concern National: Endangered; Global: Vulnerable
8 BirdLife South AfricaPale Chanting Goshawk/Bleeksingvalk Greater Kestrel/Grootrooivalk
Melierax canorus Falco rupicoloides
A common, medium-sized, pale grey A raptor, smaller in size than the Pale
raptor, with fine grey barring on the Chanting Goshawk, and with an overall
breast, and bright red legs and cere rufous-brown appearance. The rufous-
(small area just above the bill). In flight, brown colouring is broken by dense
the white wings contrast with the black black and brown barring on the back
wing tips. They frequent arid and semi- and wings. Preys primarily on insects,
arid shrublands including the Karoo and such as termites and grasshoppers,
Kalahari habitats. They are often seen but may also take small birds, reptiles
conspicuously perched on telephone and mammals. They are also often
poles or other infrastructure from visible perched on telephone poles
which they scan for suitable prey, which or as they hover whilst hunting. They
includes mostly small mammals such as like to build their nests on windmills.
rodents, but also small birds and reptiles.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 9Other raptors/birds of prey
Other typical raptors in the Karoo include
Black-shouldered Kite, Rock Kestrel,
Jackal Buzzard and Gabar Goshawk.
Black-chested Snake-eagle and Booted
Eagle also occur, the latter mostly in
summer. The Endangered Black Harrier
passes through between their winter
breeding grounds of the Cape Floristic
Region and summer hunting grounds of
Lesotho and the Drakensberg. Most other
eagles are vagrant. White-backed Vulture
occasionally occur in the north, and Cape
Vulture to the east, but are also rare.
Secretarybird/Sekretarisvoël
Sagittarius serpentarius
A very large, upright raptor with a
predominantly grey body, and black
feathers on its thighs, above long,
bare legs. They’re often seen walking
through the veld and prefer more open
grassland habitats where they hunt
snakes and other reptiles, small birds, Jackal Buzzard
rodents, amphibians and even hares,
using their strong legs and feet to strike Globally important roosts of hundreds
and kill their prey. They have a distinc- (and at some roosts thousands) of Lesser
tive yellow-orange facial skin, and a Kestrel occur in tall stands of trees at
crest of feathers often seen standing various towns such as Victoria West,
up in the wind. They nest on the top of Hanover, De Aar and as far south as
flat trees and are under threat due to Uniondale. This species migrates to South
habitat loss across South Africa. They Africa from Asia. Flocks of the migratory
are prone to entanglement with fences Amur Falcon can also be seen in the
and collision with overhead cables. eastern Karoo. Lanner Falcon, with its
rufous cap, and Peregrine Falcon (dark
Conservation status cap) are found in pairs at low densities,
National: Vulnerable; Global: Vulnerable with Lanner more associated with land-
scapes which are treed, and Peregrine
with mountains and cliffs. Pygmy Falcon
are found associated with Sociable
Weaver nests in the north-eastern Karoo.
Nocturnal raptors include Barn Owl,
10 BirdLife South AfricaSpotted Eagle Owl and Cape Eagle Owl,
with other owl species becoming more
frequent closer to the Kalahari. Spotted
Eagle Owl is the most frequently seen,
often perched along fences or telephone
poles from dusk and through the night.
Lesser Kestrel Spotted Eagle Owl
As apex predators, raptors are very
vulnerable to chemicals. For instance,
DDT and other organochlorines can
result in the thinning of eggshells in Black
Harrier, and likely most raptors. Raptors
are vulnerable to secondary poisoning
associated with rodent control, i.e. if
they eat rodents that have died after
consuming rodent baits the birds can
also die. Rodents killed using poison
baits should be properly disposed of, i.e.
buried or burnt. Owls provide a valuable
pest control service: a breeding family
of Barn Owls can easily eat over 10
mice a day. You can attract owls to your
property by placing owl boxes, which
are easy to build or buy: www.birdlife.
org.za/old-navigation/owl-boxes
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 11Kori Bustard/Gompou Ludwig’s Bustard/Ludwigse pou
Ardeotis kori Neotis ludwigii
Considered to be one of the heaviest A large terrestrial bird, which is nearly
flying birds in the world at approx- one metre tall. They have a rufous-brown
imately 15.7 kg, and standing more colour back with white underbelly, and
than one metre tall! The distinctive dark grey-brown fore-neck with a rusty
fine grey barring on the neck, brown orange hind-neck. Their diet consists of
back and white underbelly, together a wide variety of food including insects,
with the very large size and prominent small reptiles and mammals and also
crest on the back of the head assist in plant berries and seeds. As with many
identification. They walk through open other large birds and raptors, they are
habitats, such as the karoo, grass- particularly vulnerable to collisions with
lands and savanna, preying primarily powerline infrastructure. Much of their
on insects and large reptiles such as core distribution is centred on the Karoo,
lizards, snakes and chameleons. They where they favour dwarf-shrubland habi-
are threatened due to collisions with tats. To the east and south their range
infrastructure and through loss of habitat. overlaps with the Denham’s Bustard,
which prefers grassland habitats.
Conservation Status
National: Near-threatened; Conservation status
Global: Near-threatened National: Endangered;
Global: Endangered. Near-endemic.
12 BirdLife South AfricaKaroo Korhaan/Vaalkorhaan Northern Black Korhaan/
Eupodotis vigorsii Witvlerkkorhaan
Afrotis afraoides
This species appears uniform grey-brown
in colour, with the black chin and black Similar in shape and size to the Karoo
eye contrasting the rest of the body. They Korhaan, but with a pitch black neck,
are of a similar shape to the bustards, breast and underbelly in the males.
but smaller in size: similar in size to the Females are a uniform rufous-brown
Northern Black Korhaan. Karoo Korhaans colour with fine black barring on the back
have more melodious frog-like calls. They and neck. The males also have a conspic-
prefer shrubland to grassland habitat, uous white cheek patch. They are often
but also make use of agricultural fields. located by the very loud keraak-ker-
This species also feeds on small reptiles, aaak-kerraak calls given during the terri-
insects and plant matter which it finds as torial display flight or from the ground.
it walks through the more open habitats. As omnivores they feed on insects,
Groups of three are frequently seen. seeds, plant material and small reptiles.
They are not threatened and common
Conservation status throughout much of the north-east-
National: Near threatened; Karoo where grass cover dominates.
Global: Least concern. Endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 13Other large birds White Storks can be seen flying over-
head, occasionally stopping to forage on
The eastern Nama Karoo is home to large their way south; and Black Stork appear
numbers of Blue Crane, South Africa’s intermittently here and there. Blue
national bird. Grey-crowned Crane have Korhaan are found where Nama Karoo
been seen in agricultural fields associ- interfaces with grassland, e.g. Mountain
ated with irrigation in the Eastern Cape. Zebra National Park in the eastern Karoo.
Blue Crane Black Stork
White Storks
14 BirdLife South AfricaWaterbirds
Pied Avocet/Bontelsie Black-winged Stilt/Rooipootelsie
Recurvirostra avosetta Himantopus himantopus
The upturned bill of the Pied Avocet The all white head, shorter bill and
is diagnostic, with its black and long red legs of this wader distin-
white plumage. A pair or flock grace guishes it from the Pied Avocet. Pairs
many shallow dams and pans. are often found on small, shallow
dams, while congregations can get
fairly large on larger water-bodies.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 15Other waterbirds
The ephemeral pans and dams of the
Karoo can host large congregations of
waterbirds, including Red-billed and
Cape Teal, Yellow-billed Duck, Greater
and Lesser Flamingo. Cape Wagtail,
Blacksmith Lapwing, Kittlitz’s and
Three-banded Plovers can be seen along
the shore of most long-lasting water-
bodies, with the occasional African
Spoonbill. Over summer, a variety of
migrant waders appear, including Curlew
Sandpiper, Little Stint, Ruff, Common
Greenshank, Wood, Common and Marsh
Sandpipers. These are best identified
using dedicated field guides, such as
Faansie Peacock’s Waders of Southern
Africa. Reed beds around dams can team
South African Shelduck/Kopereend with a wide variety of birds, including
Tadorna cana African Red Bishop, Levaillant’s Cisti-
cola and various warbler species.
One of the region’s few obviously
sexually dimorphic geese, the male There are few flowing rivers in the
has a grey head and the female has a Karoo, with the notable exception being
white face and black crown. The Karoo the Orange/Gariep River. This, and
is a population stronghold for this other rivers of the Eastern Cape, host
southern African endemic species. a wide variety of birds with life histo-
ries associated with water, including
Pied and Giant Kingfisher, Reed and
White-breasted Cormorant, African Fish
Eagle, African Black Duck, Hamerkop,
Goliath Heron and various egrets.
Where the Karoo meets the sea on
the west coast, a variety of coastal
birds can be observed, and estu-
aries are particularly prolific birding
spots, home to further varieties of
coastal waders, gulls and more.
16 BirdLife South AfricaCommon Tern roost, West Coast
Malachite Kingfisher
Kittlitz’s Plover (with Grey-headed Gull)
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 17Larks
Large-billed Lark/Dikbeklewerik Karoo Lark/Karoolewerik
Galerida magnirostris Calendulauda albescens
A heavy-built and robust lark species, This species forms part of a larger
with a large, heavy bill relative to other complex of related birds, which also
lark species, with yellowish base. A small includes the Red Lark and Barlow’s Lark.
crest on the back of the head and heavy The Karoo Lark is the smallest and has
streaking on the breasts also helps with the heaviest streaking of these species,
identification. They are often the most with the breast streaking extending on
conspicuous lark species in an area due to the belly and flanks. Colour often
to their highly vocal nature. They have depends on the sands where they
a melodious, repeated call often likened occur. They prefer slightly denser and
to ‘open-the-squeaky-gate’. They are taller vegetation, and often forage on
most likely to be confused with Sabota open sandy patches between larger
Larks to the east of their range, which bushes, where they feed on a variety of
are superficially similar but prefer to insects and plant material. They perform
perch on bushes and imitate other birds. aerial display flights, hovering high and
Much of their distribution centres on the calling, especially after rain. They are
Karoo region where they are a common most common in the Namaqualand,
resident. They are not threatened, with Tankwa and Hantam Karoo, but absent
a population estimate of more than from Bushmanland and eastern Karoo.
750,000 individuals for the Karoo. The population size is estimated to
be more than 700,000 individuals.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo endemic.
18 BirdLife South AfricaRed Lark/Rooilewerik Barlow’s Lark/Barlowse lewerik
Calendulauda burra Calendulauda barlowi
One of the only threatened Lark species A highly range restricted species,
in the Karoo region, with a total popula- occurring between Port Nolloth and the
tion size estimated at 47,000 individuals. Orange River mouth in the Northern
They are restricted to the northern and Cape, and into the Sperrgebiet of
western Karoo region, from Concordia Namibia. This species is not yet consid-
across Bushmanland to south of Brand- ered a full species by certain authorities
vlei and eastwards to Vanwyksvlei, and as it is genetically similar to the Dune
absent elsewhere. They are associated Lark of Namibia. It is also thought to
with habitats that have good grass and hybridise with the Karoo Lark in their
shrub cover. The larger size and heavier contact zone, and their calls are basi-
build separate it from the Karoo Lark. cally indistinguishable. In comparison
The reddish colouration contrasts with to the Karoo Larks they appear grey in
the white belly, and streaking is restricted colour, with fine streaking on the upper
to the upper breast. A pair will defend breast, but with a slightly longer bill
a territory of several hectares, where than the other “karoo lark complex”
males perform hovering display flights species. They are often located on the
with melodious ‘trp trp t trr-rip’ calls ground, foraging below bushes and
sometimes up to 100 m up, but usually occasionally using their bills to dig up
20-40 m. The Red Lark is replaced by prey. The presence of this species was
the superficially similar Fawn-coloured negatively correlated with heavily grazed
Lark where the Karoo meets the Kalahari. veld in poor condition. Their very small
Their threat status is primarily due to population size, estimated at less than
their restricted range and impacts on 7,000 birds in South Africa, warrants
habitat quality, especially overgrazing. further conservation attention. Usually
seen in pairs or small family groups.
Conservation status
National: Vulnerable; Conservation status
Global: Vulnerable. Endemic. Not threatened. Karoo Endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 19Karoo Long-billed Lark/ Cape Long-billed Lark/ Karoolangbeklewerik Weskuslangbeklewerik Certhilauda subcoronata Certhilauda curvirostris One of the most characteristic sounds This is another highly range-restricted of the Karoo is the long descending lark species, found only in sandy zones ‘wheeeooo’ call of the Karoo Long-billed of the strandveld and Succulent Karoo Lark, often given during a dramatic vegetation along the west coast of diving display flight. This is not to be South Africa. Their distribution is entirely mistaken for the Eastern Clapper Lark, restricted to a very narrow band down with its wing beat and ascending whistle, the west coast. According to the latest often performed as a high aerial display estimates, its range extends less than flight. The Karoo Long-billed Lark is 5,000 km2 and the population is esti- one of the “long-billed lark” complex of mated at less than 40,000 individuals. South Africa, which also includes the The call is very similar to the Karoo Long- Cape Long-billed Lark, Agulhas Long- billed Lark, but the bill is visibly longer, billed Lark and Eastern Long-billed and overall the bird is larger in size. Lark. The Karoo Long-billed is the most They appear a uniform grey colour, with widespread of the four species, with a streaking on the breast. Usually in pairs. range extending almost 250,000 km2, bounding the Cape Long-billed Lark in Conservation status the west, Agulhas Long-billed Lark south Not threatened. Karoo Endemic. of the Cape Fold Mountains, and Eastern Long-billed Lark associated with the grasslands of the east. The long-billed larks are generally larger than the other lark species, with a diagnostic long, slightly de-curved bill. This bill is used extensively during foraging as the bird digs for insects, flips stones or breaks apart termite nests. Often in pairs. 20 BirdLife South Africa
Sclater’s Lark/Namakwalewerik Sabota Lark/Sabotalewerik
Spizocorys sclateri Calendulauda sabota
A very small, highly range-restricted lark This lark is usually seen calling from
species which favours gravel plains or the top of a bush or small tree,
stony desert scrub, where it camouflages where they imitate the calls of many
well with its habitat. The dark “tear drop” other birds. A medium-sized, streaky
stripe below the eye is fairly diagnostic lark, they are associated with the
at close range, along with the heavy bill. Nama Karoo and savannas, being
They are an overall buffy-brown grey absent from the Succulent Karoo.
colour, with indistinct streaking on the
breast. This species is often difficult
to see, and easiest located at drinking
troughs or other water points, where
it occurs in small to large groups.
Conservation status
National: Near threatened;
Global: Near threatened. Karoo Endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 21Spike-heeled Lark/Vlaktelewerik Black-eared Sparrowlark/
Chersomanes albofasciata Swartoorlewerik
Eremopterix australis
Probably the most widespread and
commonly encountered lark across the Confined to the north-west portion
Karoo, this lark is fairly easily iden- of the Karoo biome in South Africa,
tified by the pale throat, and short, the overall black appearance of the
white tipped tail. Small family groups male, with chestnut coloured wings
of 2-6 birds forage on the ground contrasting with the rest of the body
through habitats with low shrubs. make them the most easily identifiable
of the Karoo endemics. They are a highly
nomadic and irruptive species, which
move around the landscape in response
to rainfall. In the right habitat and
conditions they can be very common,
forming large flocks, but are generally
scarce. They can form mixed flocks with
Grey-backed Sparrowlarks, which are
more widespread, and more frequently
observed visiting drinking troughs.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Endemic.
22 BirdLife South AfricaOther passerines
Karoo Chat/Karoospekvreter Sickle-winged Chat/Vlaktespekvreter
Cercomela schlegelii Cercomela sinuata
The Karoo Chat is a near-endemic Slightly smaller than the other chat
which appears mostly grey, and slightly species, this chat most closely resembles
larger than the other chat species. It the very common Familiar Chat. Unlike
is important to check the tail feathers the Familiar Chat, they are not common
and rump when trying to identify the around homesteads or modified habitats,
various chat species; the Karoo Chat has and do not flick their wings as much.
a grey rump with few white feathers on The back is pale grey-brown in colour,
the edge of the tail. It feeds primarily contrasting with the more pale under-
on insects, either foraging on the parts. The tail pattern is diagnostic, with
ground or flying down to the ground a rusty-pink rump and black triangle on
from a perch. This species is negatively the tail feathers. They also have an indis-
associated with increasing grass cover, tinct white eye ring. Forages in a similar
preferring scrub and low bushes. Most way to Karoo Chat, but may spend more
chats are found in pairs, with one often time on the ground hunting for insect
conspicuously perched on a shrub while prey. They are mostly associated with
the other forages on the ground. cooler, upland parts of the Karoo, espe-
cially the Hantam area, but mostly rare or
absent from the central Karoo. A near-en-
demic, primarily isolated to South Africa,
but also occurring in southern Namibia.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 23Tractrac Chat/Woestynspekvreter Ant-eating Chat/Swartpiek
Cercomela tractrac Myrmecocichla formicivora
Juvenile pictured above. A smaller bird with an overall chocolate
brown colour, broken only by the white
This species is the lightest in colour of primary feather wing patches, which are
the chats, with an overall pale grey-white clearly visible in flight. They are often
appearance. The plain white rump and spotted hovering above the ground
white edging to the tail feathers is also whilst calling during their display flight,
diagnostic. Forages for invertebrate prey or perched prominently on an anthill,
from a fence post or similar perch. They as the name suggests. They forage in
are associated with more arid environ- family groups, primarily on termites,
ments, especially the Tankwa. Research ants and other insects and occur widely
suggests they are less common than across the country and further north.
the Sickle-winged Chat with approxi-
mately half the population size. Their
range extends far north into Namibia.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
24 BirdLife South AfricaKaroo Scrub Robin/Slangverklikker Karoo Eremomela/Groenbossanger
Erythropygia coryphaeus Eremomela gregalis
A common near-endemic occurring A tiny bird of approximately 11-12 cm,
across the Karoo region and parts of with a distinct grey cap, green back and
southern Namibia. They are a uniform a bright yellow eye. The grey-greenish
dark grey colour, with a distinctive white back contrasts with the white underbelly
stripe above the eye. The bird also often and yellow vent (base of the tail). A fairly
cocks its tail upwards and flashes the common resident of the western Karoo,
white edges to the tail feathers. They with family groups occurring at a density
are also negatively associated with of 4 -5 individuals per km2. Research indi-
grass cover, preferring more bushy cates that they are negatively associated
habitats. They are often located by with increasing grass cover, as with other
their alarm call, heard from a perch or Karoo endemics, preferring shale ridges
deep within a bush. The song has a and outcrops with scrubby habitat.
wide variety of chattering notes and
whistles. Their Afrikaans name comes Conservation status
from their ability to find snakes and give Not threatened. Karoo Endemic.
the alarm call to warn other animals.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 25Cinnamon-breasted Warbler/ Namaqua Warbler/Namakwalangstertjie
Kaneelborssanger Phragmacia substriata
Euryptila subcinnamomea
This small bird is often overlooked as
An uncommon species with a total it prefers skulking within Phragmites
population of approximately 60,000 reedbeds near watercourses; however
individuals. They are isolated to rocky the loud “trilling” call can give it away
slopes, boulder fields and gorges in arid and distinguishes it from the similar,
areas, where their cinnamon coloura- but more streaky, Karoo Prinia. The
tion provides good camouflage with back and flanks are a rufous brown
lichen and rocks of the same colour. colour which contrasts with the white
The reddish breast band, rufous head breast with faint streaking on it. They
and rufous coverts at the base of the are associated with habitats near water
tail, with the reddy-brown back give an and increasing vegetation height, likely
overall grey and reddish appearance. linked to the reed beds and acacia trees
They prey on small insects and may be of the drainage lines they prefer. An
best located by their call due to their endemic bird with only a very small part
camouflage. The call is a loud, piercing of its distribution in southern Namibia.
whistle sound - chwee-chwee-chwee.
Conservation status
Conservation Status Not threatened. Karoo Endemic.
Not threatened. Karoo Endemic.
26 BirdLife South AfricaRufous-eared Warbler/ Grey Tit/Piet-tjou-tjou-grysmees
Rooioorlangstertjie Parus afer
Malcorus pectoralis
This species’ Afrikaans name comes
As the name suggests, the bright red from a portion of their loud call, which
ear patch is distinctive. The back is grey also includes a variety of whistles, but
with streaking, whilst the plain breast primarily “piet tjou tjou”. The distinc-
contrasts with a black bar between tive black crown, black neck and black
the breast and throat. One of the more throat contrast with a white stripe under
common and widespread species of the eye. Although widespread, they
the Karoo region, with a population are not always regularly encountered,
estimate of more than two million at a density of less than one individual
individuals. Pairs or family groups per km2. They often make their nests
forage for invertebrates on the ground in hollow posts associated with kraals.
or among the scrubby karoo plants They mostly forage in pairs or family
and are also detected by their piercing groups, feeding on insects, and occa-
call. A near-endemic, also occurring in sionally on spiders, fruit or larvae.
Namibia and parts of southern Botswana.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 27Black-headed Canary/Swartkopkanarie Layard’s Tit-babbler/Grystjeriktik
Crithagra alario Sylvia layardi
This small arid-zone canary has a distinc- A small grey bird with striking white
tive black head and black breast, with a iris, with a dark-grey to black tail and
bright rufous back and wings, with black white vent (area under the tail), as well
edges to the wing tips. A fairly common as fine grey streaking on the white
arid zone species with approximately throat and upper breast. A near-en-
455,000 individuals. They forage in demic which primarily occurs in arid
small to large flocks and are nomadic, habitats, including the Karoo and dry
moving in response to good conditions. parts of the Fynbos biome, restricted
They primarily feed on seeds and other to South Africa and southern Namibia.
plant material, and sometimes drink in Most commonly associated with rocky,
large numbers when water is available. scrub dominated mountain slopes,
they are usually replaced by Chest-
Conservation status nut-vented Tit-babblers in acacia
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic. dominated drainage lines or wood-
lands. They are good mimics, and pairs
forage in bushes for insects and fruit.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
28 BirdLife South AfricaPale-winged Starling/Bleekvlerkspreeu Red-eyed Bulbul/Rooioogtiptol
Onychognathus nabouroup Pycnonotus nigricans
As the name suggests, the pale white A medium-sized bird approximately 20
wing patch is fairly diagnostic, although cm in length. Their dark brown backs
only visible in flight. The all blue-black contrast with the pale underparts. The
appearance contrasts sharply with the black crest and bright red eye ring are
pale wing, and they have a striking pale diagnostic, together with the yellow
or yellow eye which distinguishes them vent found in other bulbul species.
from the similar Red-winged Starling. A common species of the arid zone
A larger bird at almost 30 cm in length, with a density of approximately 4.5
with a total population size estimated individuals per km2. It occurs in South
at less than 150,000 individuals in Africa and Namibia. They can occur in
South Africa. Colonies and flocks are flocks around fruiting trees and human
associated with mountains and rocky settlements, feeding also on other plant
hillsides in the arid zone, but they are material such as flowers. They are also
generally absent from the Karoo plains closely associated with water sources.
unless foraging in nearby wooded
drainage lines. Drinks frequently and Conservation status
feeds primarily on insects and fruit. Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 29Cape Sparrow/Gewone Mossie Southern Masked Weaver/
Passer melanurus Swartkeelgeelvink
Ploceus velatus
The male “mossie”, as it is more
commonly known, has a black head and A typical weaver bird with bright yellow
very distinctive white “C” marking on breast and olive-green colouration on
the head, with a rufous coloured back, the back and wings, contrasting with the
grey neck and white underparts. They dark black face mask. They are highly
are very common across the region, with sociable and will often form colonies
a total population estimated at more with their traditional basket shaped nests
than 6 million individuals and a density hanging in groups in suitable trees. Their
of approximately 20 individuals per km2. loud, “swizzling” call is also diagnostic.
They make conspicuous messy nests, They occur in a wide variety of habitats
often in thorn trees. They are often found across South Africa and further north.
near homesteads and feed primarily
on seeds and other plant material.
Conservation status
Not threatened. Karoo Near-endemic.
30 BirdLife South AfricaSociable Weaver/Versamelvoël Lark-like Bunting/Vaalstreepkoppie
Philetairus socius Emberiza impetuani
As the name suggests, these birds are One of the most common birds of the
highly gregarious, always occurring Karoo, although also quite nondescript in
in large groups. Their extremely large plumage. The population was estimated
nests, with multiple chambers, can be at more than 17 million individuals, with
seen across the northern parts of the a density of up to 71 individuals per km2.
arid Karoo and Kalahari regions, often on They are fairly small, with fairly uniform
telephone poles. They are a pale brown brown plumage with a faint white eye
colour, with mottled marks on their stripe. Nomadic, they are often encoun-
back and a grey bill contrasting with a tered in small groups or large flocks
black chin. Their over-sized nests are across the region, and frequently at
an important part of the ecology of the water sources, where they are usually
region, providing habitat for species such among the most common birds.
as Pygmy Falcon, lizards and snakes.
Conservation status
Not threatened.
Endemic to southern Africa.
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 31Dusky Sunbird/Namakwasuikerbekkie Southern Double-collared Sunbird Cinnyris fuscus The quintessential sunbird of the arid zone, males with blackish heads and pale bellies, this species can be very common where shrubs, like Lycium (kraaldoring) or Melianthus (kruidjie-roer-my-nie) are in flower, but rare otherwise. Sunbirds are easily told apart: the bright green Malachite Sunbird can be common where flowering aloes are found in the Karoo, and the small, multi-coloured Southern Double-collared Sunbird is restricted to the interface of the Karoo and Cape Floristic Region to the south and east. 32 BirdLife South Africa
Managing crow impacts The Pied Crow has increased dramat-
on livestock ically across the Karoo in recent years
as it has adapted well to human modi-
There are three corvid (crow) species fied landscapes and climate, nesting
that occur across the Karoo. The all-black in predator inaccessible powerline and
Cape Crow is an insectivorous species, telephone line infrastructure, as well
which can occur in large flocks, but is as windmills. It has filled the ecological
more commonly seen in pairs. It does not niche left by now scarce or extinct
eat meat, unlike the other two species, vultures, scavenging frequently on
and is useful for controlling insects like roadkill or livestock. It can occur in very
locusts. White-necked Ravens and Pied large numbers near abattoirs or slaughter
Crows are superficially similar to each houses and in Opuntia orchards. While
other, except the white on the raven it can be useful for identifying areas
is restricted to the neck only (it has a of activity of jackal or caracal, it is
black belly) and has a heavier bill. The now viewed as a pest by many land-
raven prefers rocky or mountainous holders, especially in areas where it has
habitats, as it nests mostly on cliffs. It learned to peck the eyes of sheep.
scavenges on dead animals, including
sheep, but has not been reported to
harm livestock. Generally, this is a useful
species filling the important role of
scavenger in mountainous regions.
The all black Cape Crow
Pied Crow showing the distinctive White-necked Raven
white breast
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 33Habitat management In this section a number of challenges or such as mining, mineral extraction and threats to the birds and biodiversity of electricity infrastructure, to more local the Karoo are described, along with the scale impacts such as inappropriate appropriate conservation actions and fencing and secondary poisoning. It is solutions to help mitigate each of these important for people and organisations threats. These range from large-scale to be made aware of these challenges threats with potential severe impacts, for biodiversity so that they may take A view over the grassy Karoo plains near Hanover, eastern Karoo. 34 BirdLife South Africa
action where possible. Given the scale concern that protected areas in the
of potential development in the Karoo, Karoo are markedly skewed to the
there is concern that there are few higher rainfall areas, and are particularly
formally protected areas in this biome. inadequate for the protection of the
The Karoo has the lowest percentage endemic and nomadic species of birds.
of protected area coverage of any of
South Africa’s biomes. There is also
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 351.1 Challenge forests and alter avian communities.
During our recent BirdLife South Africa
Mining, mineral extraction survey, no extractive activity related to
and energy production ‘fracking’ was observed. An overview of
the potential impacts on biodiversity and
The Karoo region contains a wealth of avifauna has been conducted (Holness
mineral resources which can be exploited et al. 2016). This research suggests
for commercial gain and play an that under the “Big Gas scenario”, as
important role in South Africa’s economy much as 15% habitat loss could result
and development. Whilst it is essential from wellpads alone for species such as
that certain areas be set aside and used Karoo Long-billed Lark, Karoo Chat and
for mineral extraction, it is also important Rufous-eared Warbler. Taking additional
that high priority biodiversity areas be habitat loss and disturbance along roads
avoided. Existing mineral extraction has into account, it is not unreasonable to
included diamonds, gold, iron ore and expect declines of as much as 20% in
other metals. There are also new and the abundance of the above species.
emerging threats where the impacts of Increased road networks and traffic will
mineral extraction and mining have been likely also have negative effects on birds.
poorly quantified, including uranium
mining and shale gas extraction, i.e. The BirdLife South Africa survey iden-
fracking. Large-scale mining activities tified 30 of 100 of the most commonly
lead to an irreversible loss of habitat encountered species whose presence
with knock-on impacts on species was associated with the presence of
which rely on the habitat in those areas. water. These species are all likely to
Additional associated impacts include be either attracted by the presence of
pollution of water sources, air, noise and water in the landscape (and are thus
light pollution. Contamination of water especially vulnerable to the presence
sources is of particular concern in an of potentially contaminated water that
arid environment such as the Karoo. will be a feature of shale gas explo-
ration) or use habitat closely tied to
Fracking water (e.g. Namaqua Warbler).
The recently completed “Karoo BioGaps” In addition to that modelling, a species
study undertaken by the South African analysis of life-history traits was
National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) conducted on the main Karoo bird
was initiated to address biodiversity community. According to this analysis,
information gaps across the southern 40% of >200 species associated with the
Karoo area which is defined by shale-gas Karoo are directly or indirectly reliant
extraction concessions. 52% of the Nama on water or associated habitat. This is
Karoo and 10% of the Succulent Karoo because some interactions between
biomes fall within potential concessions species and water are subtle. For
(Todd et al. 2016). At least one study on instance, swallows frequently use mud
the impact of shale-gas extraction has for nest construction; several species
identified an impact of this activity on roost in, on or near water or water
bird communities: Farwell et al. (2016) associated habitats (e.g. Phragmites
suggest that shale gas development reedbeds), or may be reliant on insect
has the potential to fragment regional biota that thrive in aquatic environments.
36 BirdLife South AfricaCertainly, shale-gas exploration in this the potential and existing impacts
arid environment spells bad news for on birds, and mitigate these where
biodiversity and especially birds given possible, through proactive engagement
that research shows water to be an with the renewable energy industry.
important predictor of species richness
and abundance for many species. 1.2 Solution
Maintaining a shared vision
of the Karoo landscape
The current, predominant land use
of agriculture allows for the coexis-
tence of birds, biodiversity and people
across the Karoo, given that the veld
is managed sustainably. Concerns
over fracking, uranium mining or other
unsustainable activities are shared by
both conservationists and landholders
reliant on livestock for an income. The
knock-on impacts of large transport
trucks associated with mining and the
Renewable energy developments cumulative impacts of mining activities
in the general environment will also
BirdLife South Africa supports the devel- negatively affect farming activities. All
opment of renewable energy to augment landholders are encouraged to register
our power needs and replace the more as interested and affected parties for
damaging energy production associated infrastructure or mining developments
with coal mining. However, it is essen- within their region or local area. This
tial that the development of renewable will ensure that they may have input
energy facilities does not lead to further into such developments. Conservation
negative impacts on the environment. organisations and committed land-
Alternative energy development in the holders should work together wher-
form of wind turbines and solar energy ever possible to develop and maintain
facilities is experiencing rapid growth a shared vision for the landscape,
currently in South Africa, and various bird ensuring the conservation of South
species, dominated by raptors, have died Africa’s natural and cultural heritage.
after colliding with wind-turbines. There
are also collision risks associated with There are a number of useful resources
large solar energy facilities. In addition available on the BirdLife South Africa
to the facilities themselves, there may website: www.birdlife.org.za/what-
be further negative impacts on birds we-do/terrestrial-bird-conservation/
due to the powerline infrastructure and what-we-do/birds-renewable-energy/
distribution network associated with
these facilities. In order to mitigate
these impacts, BirdLife South Africa has
developed the Birds and Renewable
Energy Project, which aims to assess
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 372.1 Challenge (Kudu, Mountain Reedbuck, Rhebok).
Blue Crane was observed entangled on
Electricity grid and other infrastructure one occasion and entanglement has
been reported for Secretarybirds.
Pylons and the electric grid infrastruc-
ture, essential for moving electricity
around the country, pose a major threat
to the long term viability of populations
of Ludwig’s Bustard and other species,
which are prone to collisions with the
overhead cables (Shaw et al. 2015).
Eskom has a wide variety of bird scaring
devices that can be deployed on these
lines, but retrofitting is costly. Facilitating
the deployment of these devices is a
large conservation initiative that needs
further attention. In addition, Cape
Vulture fatalities, through electrocution Eagle Owl on fence
on pylons are still recorded, and so pylon
design needs continued attention. The use of electric fences around some
camps, or even entire farms seems to
Fencing have solved or limited the problem
of jackal predation of sheep for some
The Karoo is criss-crossed by thousands farmers. These are usually low line
of kilometres of a variety of fences, electric fences, although more expen-
used traditionally for controlling move- sive fences need to be used to keep
ment of livestock, as well as restricting out caracal, which easily climb fences.
the movement of problem animals. The most frequently observed electrical
Fences impact birds in a variety of fences are low strand (about 20 cm
ways, causing direct mortality through from the ground) along mesh fences,
snagging on barbed wire; snaring and primarily to control jackal movement.
snarling (when limbs become entangled However, of major concern is tortoise
in loose strand wires); direct impact bycatch. This is especially a problem in
(strand fences through wetlands pose the eastern Karoo regions where large
a large threat to low flying birds); and Leopard Tortoises are especially prone to
barriers for movement of terrestrial being caught on electric fences, where
birds (Secretarybirds and korhaans). they die slow and horrible deaths.
Big fence projects in effect create 2.2 Solution
population islands for species unable to
cross fence lines, although this problem Bird-friendly infrastructure
likely does not extend to many bird
species. However, strike rates with fences Reducing infrastructure collisions
is likely a cause of mortality for large, Visibility devices must be deployed on
low flying bird species. Entanglement new infrastructure developments since
with single strand fences was frequently overhead cables are a major source
observed for jumping game species of mortality for cranes and bustards
38 BirdLife South Africa(Boshoff et al. 2011, Jenkins et al. 2010, fence visibility with flappers, old bottles,
Shaw et al. 2010). Eskom and the Endan- metal containers, or similar items will
gered Wildlife Trust (EWT) maintain an alert birds to the presence of a fence and
active partnership regarding improving this also helps prevent Springbok and
the safety of electricity grid infrastruc- other game running into fences. Please
ture for birds and can be contacted and consider the needs of terrestrial birds,
alerted to problem powerlines. Land- like Secretarybirds, when placing fences,
holders can contact Eskom to report as they can restrict bird movement.
problem lines and request the installa-
tion of visibility devices as required. Use of single electric strands rather
than fixed, multi-strand fences to
control livestock movement could also
be considered. To combat the bycatch
on fences related to tortoises or other
animals, electric fencing can be used as
long as temperature controlled timers
are used to allow tortoises to escape
during the warm periods in which they
are most likely to be mobile. These are
currently not in use at all, and it would
likely require legislation or a major
conservation campaign in order to
maintain tortoise-friendly electric fences.
Safety of dams and water-points
Hadeda on a wire Many bird species are vulnerable to
drowning in cement reservoirs. These
Mitigation of fencing impacts should be covered by shade netting,
There are several methods for mini- planks or even old corrugated iron if
mising the unintended impacts of fences at all possible. This will limit water loss
on birdlife, which are summarised in due to evaporation, and prevent animals
this BirdLife South Africa information accessing these sites. Drownings can
pamphlet: www.birdlife.org.za/wp-con- also be prevented by attaching a log,
tent/uploads/2019/05/Fences_Birds.pdf branch, pole or ladder to the side of the
reservoir, and thus allow birds to sit and
These include removing non-essential drink/bathe, but importantly also to
fences and maintaining fence tension. clamber onto if their feathers become
Replacing non-essential barbed wire wet and waterlogged. Simply including
with smooth wire should be considered, a few rocks in standard drinking troughs
especially for the top strands of long will aid the escape of most small animals.
camp fences, as these are especially Preventing animals dying in reservoirs is
likely to damage or snag birds like owls. good practise to maintain water quality.
Do not place fences through dams and
pans: these are associated with high bird
densities. Birds cannot see strand wires
under low light conditions and flying into
these can kill or maim birds. Increasing
Birds of the Karoo: Ecology and Conservation 39You can also read
