Searching for reptiles and amphibians – affectionately termed “herping” – is an interesting pastime that often gets the enthusiast deep into fascinating habitat in far-away places – just like birding! Unlike birds, however, the vast majority of herps do not make themselves noticeable in any way – they...

Although our flight had been delayed and we didn't arrive at the start of the trail until midmorning, the Amazon rainforest had already bountifully rewarded our initial efforts. There was a flood of new birds and wave after wave of lifers poured from the forest. Before we even crossed the wooden bridge into the...

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It’s all relative. I feel lucky, considering. Chatting with friends and colleagues in Ecuador, Colombia, South Africa and even other countries where simply leaving one’s house is hardly possible, I’m thankful to have some freedom of movement during this trying time. And never have I been so thankful for...

Over the weekend I visited the seaside suburb of Kommetjie in Cape Town. It was spring tide today and the waves were huge and there were many surfers out enjoying their freedom in the ocean. I found a small bay and noticed a few African Oystercatchers feeding on the rocks, thankfully the tide was low, so I was...