The Common Wattle-eye, probably more correctly named Brown-throated Wattle-eye and is sometimes called Scarlet-spectacled Wattle-eye. Interesting names and I can see immediately why it would be called Scarlet-spectacled and Common Wattle-eye could refer to it being widespread but Brown-throated refers to the female only. I have examined the pictures below and can’t find even a […]
The Giant Kingfisher is the largest of the kingfishers although hardly a giant measuring around 45cm long. It’s Africa’s largest species of Kingfisher. As we can see from the pictures below, they are not called Kingfishers for nothing. They are truly a king among kingfishers. Where can we find the Giant Kingfisher? Not generally seen
The Long-tailed Glossy starling (Lamprotornis caudatus) is a member of the starling family of birds. You will find them all over The Gambia and of course at Footsteps too. The photo (below left) was taken at our bird hide and the natural feature of water there is really delivering the goods with regard photos. All of the photos in this
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The Pink-backed pelican, such an incredible bird, his mouth can hold more than his belly can🤣. Some years back my good friend Nuru from the Gambia reptile centre in Kartong, rescued a pelican that had had its beak cut. There are a few reasons why this may happen. It could be the bird has run
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Levaillants Cuckoo pictured below at our purpose-built pool. Not only is the pool now well established but also you would not know it was man-made. A wide variety of birds frequent it each day. Because the hide is elevated and roofed you get great photos and are cool and comfortable while taking them. Bird info
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The Hamerkop takes its name from the shape of its head, it has a long bill and crest at the back that looks somewhat like a hammer. It comes from the Afrikaans word for the hammerhead. It’s easy to see why from the pictures below although I think it should have been named ice pick! You find
The African Harrier-hawk is a medium to large bird of prey. We are lucky enough to see him on a regular basis because we are just next door to Kunfoong protected forest where he likes to be. He looks like he’s wearing matching socks and a mask, nice to be co-ordinated ! Where is the
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