We thought we had seen most of its diversity of birdlife, but the Chobe never ceases to disappoint. Over the years, we have witnessed some unique events and sightings including eleven birds on the IUCN Red List. Among these, three are endangered and two are critically endangered.

The Chobe is a treasure trove for birders and photographers alike.

Our last visit was no exception and the Chobe once again managed to deliver some exceptional sightings.

Just when we thought that we had seen the abundance of Chobe fish eagles in every possible pose, we witnessed a fish eagle catching a fish too large to lift out of the water. On that particular day the eagle resorted to dragging the heavy fish ashore to finally get airborne and it dropped from the clutches of the eagle, right back into the water. On the second attempt, it dropped again, this time right into the lap of a large male baboon sunning itself on the bank of the river – game over!

One of our most notable sightings included two Black Winged Stilts mating – a feature article which appeared in the March/April 2025 edition of the African BirdLife magazine.

The recent sightings on our latest trip in early April 2025 included the White-backed Duck, a small inconspicuous duck that sits low in the water among vegetation. It is seldom seen out of the water, but we observed it flying out, revealing a distinct white patch at the tail base.

Five Ground Hornbills were harassed by two Blacksmith Lapwings along the riverbanks.

More than twenty White Backed Vultures landed in a bare tree outlined by the morning sky’s orange glow.

Local guides said they’ve been searching for the Owl for more than eleven years after its roosting tree had been chopped down. Victor my regular guide who very knowledgeable and always manages to get me into the best position with the best light to capture stunning photographs.

We went out early one morning and our excitement was electric as we had finally found the Pels Fishing Owl. Its new roosting place was some 20 km away from its last known location.

I was fortunate to capture great photos of the owl perched nicely in the morning light in a large tree by the river.

Word spread quickly about the Pels Fishing Owl location, drawing many boats to view and photograph the highly sought after bird.

We tried to warn the other boats not to disturb the owl by getting too close. Unfortunately, not everyone heeded our warning and by early afternoon, the bird had been disturbed and was chased away. If the Pels Fishing Owl stares directly at you with wide-open eyes during the day, you are quite likely too close and the bird will most probably take flight shortly thereafter.

Understanding bird behaviour is crucial for observing and photographing them. Some birds are approachable, like Pied and Malachite Kingfishers and Little Bee-eaters, while others, such as African Pygmy Geese and African Finfoots, are skittish.

With this in mind, on one occasion, I used a very slow silent approach and I managed to capture some great close-up images of African Pygmy Geese after our guide silently manoeuvred the boat into a secluded water channel where the birds had landed. The geese remained calm and our presence did not disturb them at all. This method also worked well for me photographing the shy reclusive African Finfoot.

While it is common for tour operators to try pleasing their guests, this often results in them getting too close and disturbing certain species. As photographers and bird enthusiasts, it’s important to respect nature and avoid creating any disturbances that could lead to disrupting them and their environment.

Capturing images of beautiful birds brings me immense joy. I love sharing these special moments with fellow bird and nature enthusiasts who may not have been so fortunate as to witness these creatures first-hand in the wild. Perhaps one day, the Chobe will reward them with great sightings too.

• Finfoot, African Podica senegalensis                               VU
• Goose, African Pygmy Nettapus auritus                          VU
• Heron, White-backed Night Gorsachius leuconotus    VU
• Hornbill, Southern Ground- Bucorvus leadbeateri       EN
• Jacana, Lesser Microparra capensis                                VU
• Kingfisher, Half-collared Alcedo semitorquata             NT
• Owl, Pel’s Fishing Scotopelia peli                                    EN
• Pelican, Pink-backed Pelecanus rufescens                     VU
• Stork, Yellow-billed Mycteria ibis                                    EN
• Vulture, Hooded Necrosyrtes monachus                         CR
• Vulture, White-backed Gyps africanus                            CR

Key: 

CR Critically Endangered / EN Endangered / VU Vulnerable / NT Near Threatened

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dave and Peter Dooley, who have become more than just returning guests over the years. Their passion for the Chobe, their dedication to capturing its wonders, and their generous spirit have left a lasting impression on our team. Each visit is a joy, and we are honoured to welcome them with open arms every time they return. The Chobe continues to reveal its secrets to those who truly appreciate it – and few embody that spirit more beautifully than the Dooley brothers.

© Dave Dooley (2025). All rights reserved.
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