Birding in Kimwarer Valley

We went out birding on Sunday morning, a dull and wet day. Although there wasn't the normal abundance of birds in and around the dam, we did see Pied Kingfishers and Malachite Kingfishers, Grey Herons and Common Squacco Herons, Hamerkops, African Jacanas, Cattle Egrets and a flock of Black Crakes.

Two hours later we drove back towards the offices. In a dip in the road with thick bush on the edges, I spotted mousebirds. People don't often stop for or look at mousebirds. They're a common sight and can be a major pest if you have a fruit orchard. However, even though we see them here often, I've never been able to get a good photo. Grant stopped so I could!

 Speckled Mousebird

The Speckled Mousebird is a generally brown bird with a very long tail and a disctinctive head crest. A gregarious species, they occur in woodlands, scrub and cultivated areas.

Sit up dear. The lady's taking a photo

While I watched these birds on my camera screen, I noticed another, stockier and very colourful bird sitting near them. Before I could focus, it flew away. That evening Grant and I drove down to the same area. As we arrived, I spotted the same colourful bird perched on a branch.

The Red-and-yellow Barbet (Female)

This is a very distinctive red and yellow bird with a large red bill and black crown. The wings and tail are black spotted with white and yellow. The underparts are yellow with an orange wash on the chest. There is a black and white spotted chest band and a black streak down the throat. The female is similar but lacks the black throat streak and has a red crown tipped with black.

This morning as my post is aired, Grant and I will be travelling to Nairobi. He has business in the city and we should be motoring home tomorrow. He's thrilled that I've decided to leave my laptop at home. (Must remember to pack my knitting!) I 've arranged to meet up with a blogger friend. More about this later.

Till then, bless you - all!