Pied Crows usually nest in trees, but they are increasing in tree-poor shrublands in southwestern SA because powerlines offer alternative nest sites. This may aid their spread into the range of Angulate and Geometric Tortoises, both of which are vulnerable to predation by crows.
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🌍️ 🐦‍⬛ This World Migratory Bird Day, we highlight how research at the FitzPatrick Institute advances our understanding of bird migration. Through our research, we provide valuable insights into bird movements, distribution, and conservation.
#AfricanOrnithology #WMBD2026 #WorldMigratoryBirdDay

Climate change and powerlines may be helping Pied Crows expand their population and range in South Africa. Research shows that warming favours population increases, while powerlines provide nesting sites that can facilitate their spread.
doi.org/10.1111/ddi....
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These long-distance migrants have separate breeding and non-breeding ranges. Males travel across Africa before returning to breeding grounds with their spectacular elongated flight feathers. #AfricanOrnithology

FitzPatrick Institute PhD student Michelle Risi is using long-term datasets on Northern and Southern Giant Petrels to understand how seabirds breeding on sub-Antarctic islands are responding to environmental change.
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www.acap.aq/latest-news/...

🪶 Built to impress! During the breeding season, male Pennant-winged Nightjars grow spectacularly long flight feathers, transforming their silhouette in the air as they perform elaborate display flights. #AfricanOrnithology

🥚 Nesting on the ground in the summer heat is not for the light-hearted! Pennant-winged Nightjars lay 1–2 eggs in a shallow scrape on the ground under the hot sun and must protect them from the intense heat throughout the day. #AfricanOrnithology