This club birding weekend, in the Gravelotte/Leydsdorp area, was held at Maranda Farm.  The lodge was situated on the top of a koppie overlooking the surrounding bushveld and mountains. 

Johan took this weekend opportunity to set up some nets for bird ringing.  The number of birds about on Friday evening made us think we could be in for plenty of ringing work on Saturday morning.  However, come Saturday morning it was cool and damp with some breeze; so instead of  plenty of captives there were very few.  Black crowned Tchagra, Rattling Cisticola, Re-billed Quelea, and a Green Winged Pytilia (Melba Finch) were caught, measured, ringed and released.  On Sunday, Johan and helpers tried again but the weather had deteriorated further with some drizzle and some breeze keeping the birds inactive.  Ringing was abandoned at 10H30 having caught only one more Rattling Cisticola

The total species count of 57 for the whole weekend was far below what could be expected for this area.  Of note were the following: the large number of Grey Penduline Tits, which seem to be much commoner during our winter months; a few Violet Backed Starlings (Plum Coloured) which must be stragglers as the main groups departed a few weeks ago.

The lovely location and accommodation and facilities had everybody agreeing that the Club will certainly utilize this place again.