In this episode Gabby is joined by Maru from Roots & Shoots South Africa, the youth program of the Jane Goodall Institute, for a conversation about hope, action, and the incredible role young people can play in shaping a better future.

We explore what it really means to make a difference, how conservation begins much closer to home than many people realise, and why curiosity is often the first step towards meaningful action. From community gardens and citizen science to storytelling and environmental education, Maru shares how young people across South Africa are creating positive change for people, animals and the environment.

We also dive into the lasting legacy of Dr Jane Goodall, the importance of finding hope in challenging times, and why conservation isn't only about protecting iconic species, but about understanding and caring for the interconnected world around us.

Whether you're already involved in conservation or simply wondering where to begin, this episode is a reminder that every action matters and that making a difference starts with the choices we make every day.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

Website: https://www.rootsandshoots.org.za/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roots.and.shoots.sa/

When many birders think about South Africa's top birding destinations, places like Kruger National Park, Cape Town, or Zululand often come to mind. Yet tucked away in the northernmost corner of the country lies a province that offers some of the most diverse and rewarding birding anywhere in southern Africa.

Daniel grew up in Limpopo, has birded the province extensively for many years, and has become one of the leading voices when it comes to birding in the region.

In this first of a two part series, we begin exploring this bird rich province. Daniel does not hold back as he freely shares information on what birds you can see, where to see them, and practical advice for birding some of Limpopo's top destinations.

Whether you are planning your first visit to the province or looking to discover new birding locations, these episodes will give you the information you need to put together an unforgettable Limpopo birding itinerary.

This episode is brought to you in proud partnership with Birding Ecotours, specialists in small group and custom birding adventures around the world.

While today's conversation focuses on the incredible birding of Limpopo, Birding Ecotours can help you experience some of the world's greatest birding destinations, from South Africa and the rest of Africa to Asia, Europe, Australasia, North America, South America, and beyond.

Whether you are looking for a scheduled tour or a custom birding adventure, their experienced team can help you find the perfect trip.

Visit www.birdingecotours.com to learn more.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Daniel's website https://birdingwithdaniel.com/

Daniel's email danielengelbrecht101@gmail.com

In today’s episode, I am joined by photographer, filmmaker, conservation storyteller, and birder, Byron Grobler.

Byron is the founder of WildWild Journeys, and earlier this year he announced on his YouTube channel that he would be taking on a birding big year.

In this honest and thought-provoking conversation, Byron shares more about his journey, and how two significant encounters in the bush would shape the way he sees birds, wildlife, and the natural world around him.

This episode goes far beyond simply finding birds. We unpack what it means to interact ethically with nature, and how that approach is shaping Byron’s big year journey. Along the way, there are some powerful reflections that I think many birders will connect with.

This is a fascinating conversation with someone who thinks deeply about birds, conservation, and storytelling, and I know you are going to enjoy it.

Visit our online store to get your birding related merchandise at great prices https://www.thebirdinglife.com/online-store

Intro and outro music by Tony ZA https://soundcloud.com/tonyofficialza

Links from show:

WildWild Journeys YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@WildWildJourneys

WildWild Journeys website https://wildwildjourneys.com/