Birding Pugu Hills Forest (Kazimzumbwi) - Day Trip Report
The day began with the tranquility of a Sunday dawn. Our guest was picked up around 5:30 AM on December 22, 2024. and we navigated the quiet streets of the city, where few people were awake, and traffic was minimal. Excitement filled the air as we set off on our birding and photography adventure. Upon arrival, the gatekeeper opened for us just as the first light of day began to break. The forest was alive with the morning symphony of birds, their calls echoing through the stillness.
As we entered, the melodious cries of the Common Bulbul (Dark-capped) greeted us, though the bird itself remained elusive, likely waiting for the sun to warm the forest. Soon, we heard the distinct call of a Brown-hooded Kingfisher and, shortly after, the vibrant sounds of a Green-backed Camaroptera. These understory species were hidden within the dense shrubs, adding an air of mystery to our trek.
Further, a Crested Longbill responded energetically to playback calls but was too agile to capture in photos as it darted between the shrubs. Another highlight was the call of the endemic Tanzanian Illadopsis (puguensis), formerly known as Pale-breasted Illadopsis (Illadopsis rufipennis), a unique sighting in the forest.
Descending deeper, we arrived at a wetland area where the lowland Tiny Greenbul and the Collared Sunbird flitted through the trees. The highlight was a magnificent Giant Kingfisher, whose size and striking features left our guest amazed. Not far from the water, we spotted a Striated Heron, and the bright sunlight made it a perfect moment for photography.
As we ventured further, a sudden movement revealed a Black Goshawk flying gracefully across our path. This raptor perched on a nearby tree, giving us ample time to admire and photograph it. My guest, an avid fan of raptors, was especially thrilled by this sighting.
On our way back, we observed several weavers building nests high in the trees. The interplay of farmland, grassland, and forest created a biodiverse haven where we encountered species like the Red-billed Firefinch and Brown-hooded Kingfisher. Each bird presented unique challenges for observation and photography, adding to the day's excitement.
As the day progressed, we saw more activity: a Yellow Bishop, a Red-faced Cisticola, Bat Hawks, and even a Zanzibar Red Bishop. The forest’s understory and canopy bustled with life, including a crowning moment when we encountered an African Harrier Hawk perched prominently, its reddish hue glowing under the late-afternoon sun.
Bat Hawk (Macheiramphus alcinus). Photos by Joe Ndekia.
We concluded our journey near an open savanna where an African Hawk-Eagle soared majestically on thermal currents. Watching it rise effortlessly was a fitting end to a day filled with awe and discovery.
Bird species observed: 54
