A good season for owls at Limpopo-Lipadi

Limpopo-Lipadi has long been known for its owls, and lately the Reserve has been rewarding us with some very special sightings. Over the years we have recorded a remarkable range of species here, from the Southern White-faced Owl, pearl-spotted owlet and the spotted eagle-owl to the giant Verreaux’s eagle-owl, barn owls, and even the elusive Pel’s fishing owl.

The Southern White-faced Owl has given us two special moments of late. This distinctive and charismatic nocturnal bird is easily recognised by its striking white facial disk, bright orange eyes and prominent ear tufts. Its mottled grey plumage makes for excellent camouflage, and as a night bird it usually roosts quietly in dense vegetation, so daytime sightings are rare.

That is what made the first occasion so exceptional. In broad daylight, two co-owners came across a breeding pair with a chick, occupying an old buffalo weaver nest. These owls do not build their own nests, relying instead on abandoned structures or natural cavities, so the find offers a valuable glimpse into their breeding behaviour here on the Reserve.

Then, on an evening drive, another Southern White-faced Owl treated us to a little hide and seek, sitting partly obscured by a tree trunk and peering out at us. During that same stay we were also rewarded with wonderful sightings of Verreaux’s eagle-owls and spotted eagle-owls, both featured here. It was a reminder of just how rich the Reserve can be, also after dark. Keep your eyes and ears open on the night drives, you never know which of our owls might appear.

Want to be a part of Limpopo-Lipadi’s adventures? For discreet information on share sales, contact invest@limpopo-lipadi.org. To book a safari, request our rates via reservations@limpopo-lipadi.org or via WhatsApp: (+267) 76770191.