The annual Pels Fishing Owl Survey along the Olifants river in central Kruger NP took place from 22-25 June 2008 with the aim of gathering data about a number of species such as Raptors, Storks, Lapwings, Hippos and of course the Owls.

The area surveyed was a stretch of 90km starting from near the Phalaborwa gate to just below Olifants camp and the 15 volunteers were divided into 2 teams to each walk 45km over 4 days. Armed with a guide and enough ammunition to 'feel safe' the teams split up early on Sunday morning and were dropped off at relevant positions along the river, hoping that the hippos would remain river bound.

Although the river levels were flowing at optimal levels, making it difficult to cross between north and south banks, there was some concern as to the condition of the river after recent reports of a number of dead crocodiles that were found. Sadly there still seems to be a large amount of siltation and effluent from mines further upstream running through this pristine area and only one fish was seen breaking the surface during the 4 days, while no smaller fish were seen in the shallows.

As the team walked, the positions of all birds, nests and faeces deposits were GPSed with the aid of CyberTracker GPS software as well as recording the flock sizes, male/female/juvenile and behaviour comments. This data is then compared with previous years to draw up conclusions as to the state-of-health of the river

Of the fish-eating birds, bird-counts were unfortunately significantly lower than during previous years with ony 2 egrets (of any sort), 3 pairs of Pels, less than 10 pairs of fish eagles, and very few storks being seen along the 90km. The river abounded with a number of other specials though such as Brownheaded Parrots and Greyrumped Swallows, while some other great sightings included a hippo carcass that attracted 28 Hooded, 6 Cape and 40 Whitebacked vultures as well as several opportunistic Tawny Eagles. A Giant Kingfisher also provided entertainment by hovering and diving ala Pied Kingfisher style in the wake of 3 Cape Clawless Otters that made their way upstream. He was eventually successful for his efforts. Also a Whitebacked Nightheron was flushed.

The nights of course were the most entertaining. Pitching tent just off the river bank was a nerve-racking experience and all night long the sounds of hippos rumbled down the river. Growling leopards and yelping hyaenas were also regularly heard with one hyaena heard sniffing at the edge of the tents one night. Fortunately smelly feet probably deterred further investigation. The next morning footprints criss-crossed through the camp and the evening fire had died down to a few embers.

Thanks to Andre Botha and BoPWG from EWT for organising an unforgettable experience, and being concerned enough to gather data for this pristine area
 
Kevin Ravno