Kruger National Park is famous for its “Big Five” animals. But did you know that South Africa’s most famous game reserve is also home to the “Big Six”?
Nothing to do with mammals, though. In fact, this intriguing moniker refers to six species of birds that can be found in and around the reserve.
Their size and impressive appearances make them easy to recognise. What’s more, their visibility (save for one of these birds) makes them a must-see for eagle-eyed visitors.
WHO ARE THE BIG SIX?
Whether you’re a keen birdwatcher or just biding your time until night falls to search for the “Secret Seven”, these six avian animals won’t disappoint.
They include the following:
1. KORI BUSTARD
The kori bustard is the heaviest flying bird in Africa, if not the entire world. A large male can weigh as much as 19 kilograms and can possess a wingspan of up to 275 centimetres. You’ll find this tall, light brown-coloured bird prowling the veld for lizards, rodents and plant-like berries.
2. LAPPET-FACED VULTURE
The lappet-faced vulture is a massive creature, generally standing at a height of 105 centimetres. According to eBird, it’s recognisable for its “bullish, naked, square head, a bulky bluish-yellow beak and wrinkled loose skin (lappets) on the face.”
The vulture is a scavenger, meaning it usually feeds on the remains of animal carcasses.
3. MARTIAL EAGLE
Found in open savannah areas, the martial eagle looks akin to the mythical gryphon. Sporting a hook-sharp beak, a speckled white belly and a crest of feathers on its head, this lordly avian is one of the largest eagles in Africa. It uses its formidable talons to prey on small mammals, reptiles and other birds.
4. PEL’S FISHING OWL
Much like the Secret Seven, it’s rare yet wonderful to see a Pel’s fishing owl. This ginger-coloured bird, which inhabits the far north areas of Kruger National Park, is nocturnal. This means that it’s active at night.
If you’re lucky enough, you might see the owl prowling the park’s large watercourses, where it hunts for fish.
5. SADDLE-BILLED STORK
A tall and lanky creature, the defining features of the saddle-billed stork are its black-and-white plumage and its red, yellow, and black bill. It typically hangs around ponds and shallow streams, on the lookout for fish and frogs.
6. SOUTHERN GROUND HORNBILL
The southern ground hornbill is a striking creature. Its stocky body is adorned in black feathers, emphasising the redness of its impressive wattle. It’s typically found in woodland, savanna and grassland areas.
The hornbill tends to walk long distances to forage for food, hunting for amphibians, reptiles and rodents.
A BIRD IN THE HAND IS WORTH BIG SIX IN THE BUSH
It’s a treat for you and other tourists visiting Kruger National Park to come across any of these Big Six birds, many of which are endangered, near-threatened or vulnerable.
So, keep a sharp lookout for these fine-feathered creatures while also maintaining a respectful distance. Also, let us know which of these birds you have spotted!
