Photographer: Markus Lilje   Destination: Angola

The previously war-torn nation of Angola is one of the world’s least known birding frontiers. Already 16 endemics have been described, many of which were only known as specimens until very recently, and new discoveries remain a distinct reality for the few birders who venture to this exciting country. In fact, on our 2011 Rockjumper tour, our team was the first to photograph and announce a potentially new species of oliveback.

Amongst the endemics is the striking Angola Cave Chat that derives its name from its tendency to favor caves in which to roost and shelter. An extremely localized species, it is confined to only four known areas on the escarpment of western Angola, with this particular bird having been photographed by Markus Lilje on the fabulous Tundavala Escarpment. This is just one of many special birds that can be expected on our upcoming Angola – Endemics Overland Adventurefrom 9 to 27 September 2012. This off-the-beaten track camping expedition will seek out all the Angolan endemics and a host of near-endemics and other African specialties. Targets include the recently rediscovered Swierstra’s Francolin, Braun’s Bushshrike and White-headed Robin-Chat, the beautiful Red-crested Turaco, Gabela Bushshrike, Gabela Helmetshrike, Gabela Akalat, Red-backed Mousebird, Anchieta’s Barbet and Pulitzer’s Longbill, to name just a handful of possibilities!

Co-leading this adventure are David Hoddinott and Jonathan Rossouw, undisputedly two of Africa’s most experienced birders and tour leaders. If you would like to reserve one of the few remaining places on our 2012 Angolan tour, please contact the Rockjumper office for further details.