From binoculars and bird feeders, to bird proofing, bird conservation and birdcall software - there will be something to pique the interest of the most casual observer's at this year's Sasol Birds & Birding Fair.
To be held at the Johannesburg Zoo from 28 to 29 May 2011, this Sasol, BirdLife South Africa, Africa - Birds & Birding and Johannesburg Zoo initiative promises to be a one-stop shop for all sorts of bird-related goodies. And the entrance fee has been reduced to R35 for the duration of the event.
Visitors to the fair can look out for bird paintings by Diane Weiman and bird feeders and bird food to attract birds to urban gardens by Elaine Reed. In addition, there will also be environmentally-friendly products on display, from solar geysers from Solartech, to environmentally-friendly bird proofing and gutter cleaning requirements from Go Away Bird.
If it's binoculars you're interested in, the bird fair offers a host of optic delights at the BirdLife Shop and Lynx Optics and Carl Zeiss will be on hand to offer guidance on the perfect pair of binoculars for your needs and pocket.
Reading material in the form of bird books or field guides will be on offer from Peter's Guide Books. Visit the Konkoit stand - a new social internet tool for birdwatchers and, if you want to hone your bird-call skills, the PDA Solutions stand is for you.
Looking for a perfect gift? Africa Geographic, Africa – Birds & Birding and Getaway will also have a stand at the fair, so why not pop along and get a subscription for that special person in your life?
If you need a break from the urban jungle, then check out the Mopane Bush Lodge, Mutapa Hotels and Resorts, and Transfronteir Destinations stands to find the perfect place for a relaxing birding holiday.
It goes without saying that there's a strong focus on protecting our feathered friends and people interested in conservation will be able to visit the BirdLife South Africa stand and become a member of South Africa's largest bird conservation NGO.
The Endangered Wildlife Trust's Bird of Prey Programme will also be there to answer your questions about raptor conservation and the Southern Ground-Hornbill Project. In addition, you'll be able to find out how the Mount Moreland Conservancy is protecting the millions of Barn Swallows that roost near King Shaka International Airport in KwaZulu-Natal.
You can also visit Margi Brocklehurst at the Jane Goodall Institute stand or the ladies at the FreeMe Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. And of course, let us not forget the hosts, the Johannesburg Zoo, which will have a stand showcasing its awareness, education and conservation projects.
Once you're inside, all fair activities are free, including lectures by leading ornithologists, demonstrations and guided bird walks around the zoo by BirdLife South Africa-trained guides.
-Ends-
Notes to the editor:
Highlights of The Fair
Saturday 28 May 2011
| Time |
Title |
Presenter |
09h00-
14h00 |
Beginner bird photography - workshop* |
Robbie Aspeling |
| 10h00 |
Gardening is for the birds – creating a bird-friendly garden |
Malcolm Hepplewhite |
| 12h00 |
Swallows, swifts and martins – why they are what they are! |
Stephan Terblanche |
| 14h00 |
Desert birds and climate change |
Dr Andrew McKecknie |
| 16h00 |
The changing bird species of Johannesburg – what is here and what is no longer here |
Geoff Lockwood |
Sunday 29 May 2011
| Time |
Title |
Presenter |
| 09h00 – 14h00 |
Beginner bird photography - workshop* |
Robbie Aspeling |
| 10h00 |
South African Bird Atlas Project 2 (SABAP2) – how atlasing assists conservation planning |
Dieter Oschadleus |
| 12h00 |
Migratory birds of prey |
Ulrich Uberprieler |
| 14h00 |
Bird territories – more than just a place to stay |
Geoff Lockwood |
| |
|
|
* This workshop has been compiled to enable the bird enthusiast to venture out into the world of bird photography and will cover the following topics:
1. Getting started
2. Equipment recommendations for new bird photographers
3. What camera settings to use to achieve the best results
4. Exposure, exposure compensation and working with histograms
5. Basic composition
6. Basic field techniques
7. Birds in flight photography
The workshop and lectures are on a first come first served basis.
A Migration Game for children will take place twice during the morning and afternoon on both days. Visit the BirdLife South Africa stand for more information.
