In this episode, Luca, an incredibly knowledgeable birder with a deep passion for nature, photography, and conservation, joins Gabby to share his unique perspectives on birding. From discussing the challenges of Gabby considering herself a beginner birder to offering practical tips and tricks for improving observation skills, Luca’s advice will inspire both novices and seasoned bird enthusiasts alike.

Together, they explore the deeper, more thought-provoking aspects of birding: how it fosters patience, mindfulness, and a profound sense of connection to the natural world. Luca also shares the impact of bird sounds on his experiences and reveals how he captures the essence of a bird’s behavior through his wildlife photography.

Whether you’re new to birding or simply curious about the art of connecting with nature, this episode is packed with valuable insights, heartwarming stories, and a glimpse into the special bond between Luca and Gabby as they navigate the world of birds together. Stay tuned for the next episode, where they’ll continue to delve into the wonders of birding.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

In this episode, I’m thrilled to welcome back Dr. Anton Wolfaardt, Project Manager at the Mouse-Free Marion Project. Anton has dedicated his career to seabird conservation, and today, he takes us deep into the story of Marion Island—one of the most unique and ecologically important places on the planet. We’ll dive into the challenges and triumphs of restoring this remote island to protect its incredible birdlife, from the iconic albatrosses to lesser-known yet equally remarkable species.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

Mouse-Free Marion Project https://mousefreemarion.org/

Order your Vortex binoculars or scope here

With the new season still fresh we continue to share some thrilling content. Episode 2 of the Young Wildlife Photographers podcast features a continuation of my chat with Luke Allen, an intrepid bird guide and wildlife photographer. In this episode, Luke delves into his experiences exploring the Amazon rainforest and shares the raw beauty of life in Ecuador, from the awe-inspiring nature scenes to the bustling party atmosphere of the local culture. We touch on the challenges and unforgettable moments he’s encountered, the unique wildlife he’s photographed, and the unexpected yet deep connections he's formed with fellow birders in the Amazon. We also compare birding adventures in Ecuador to those in South Africa, highlighting what makes each experience so special.

Be sure to stay tuned for more captivating stories and incredible wildlife insights in this season—I’ve had some cracker conversations you won’t want to miss!

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

This week's episode is a blast from the past, as we revisit an interview from a few years ago with Michael Wright from Sustain Wildlife and Birding Safaris. In this episode, Michael shares his top five birding spots in KwaZulu-Natal, diving into the unique birds at each location and offering invaluable tips for visitors. This episode is perfect for anyone planning a birding trip in the province and especially helpful for those joining the Flock to Marion Cruise in January 2025.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

Email: michael@sustainsafaris.com

Website https://www.sustainsafaris.com/

305 Guest House https://www.305guesthouse.co.za/

Order your Vortex Binoculars or scope here

The first episode of season 8! Today I am joined by Jessica Humphreys. Besides being an avid birder, Jess is also passionate about saving the wildlife in the UK. Wildlife photography is one of her main hobbies and in 2023 she was crowned as the Young Amateur Photographer of the Year in the wildlife category. This is truly an episode not to be missed!

Jessica's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emerald_wildlife/

Generation Nature's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/generationnature24/

Our Beautiful Wild – Young Voices for Nature Film: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bzBgsTYUyqU

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

In this first episode, I have the privilege of speaking with one of South Africa's most well-known authors, John van de Ruit. John is best known for his *Spud* series, which was adapted into a film starring John Cleese. But what many might not know is that John is also an avid birder! In this episode, we delve into his journey as both an author and a birder, exploring how these passions intersect.

John’s latest book, Spud – The Reunion, is set to be released in November 2024. Be sure to follow us on social media, where we’ll be running a competition to give away a copy of the book. So, let's dive into this week’s episode of the podcast!

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Starting off the new season with some great content. Be sure to check in regularly as I've had some cracker conversations. In this episode of the Young Wildlife Photographers podcast, we chat with Luke Allen, a passionate bird guide, wildlife photographer, and explorer currently guiding in the heart of Ecuador. Luke shares insights into his birding journey, from leading impromptu birding tours at 15 to immersing himself in the vibrant ecosystems of Ecuador. We discuss the challenges and rewards of birdwatching in the Amazon, the surprising connections he's made with local birders, and how his experiences in Ecuador compare to birding in South Africa. Join Gabby as she chats to Luke while still on his incredible journey through Ecuador.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

In this first episode of season 10, I chat with John Kinghorn, the new Avitourism Project Manager at BirdLife South Africa. We’ll be diving into all the details about the upcoming Flock to Marion Cruise, setting sail in January 2025. This episode has everything you need to know about the cruise—why it’s a must-go event, the birds you can expect to see, how to prepare, what to pack, and much more.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

Flock to Marion website -https://www.birdlife.org.za/flock-to-marion-again-2025/

John Kinghorn - Email / Instagram

Clare Neal - Email