After Anne’s work was done in Lilongwe, we traveled to the nearby Dzalanyama Forest Reserve for a little R&R, and nearly as soon as we arrived, we were greeted by this amazing little red-throated twinspot aka Peters’s twinspot (Hypargos niveoguttatus) methodically foraging on the forest floor near our cabin. I was able to spot it in the same area nearly every day we were there, so it must be finding something.
Similarly, this sharp-looking white-browed robin-chat aka as Heuglin’s robin (Cossypha heuglini) was often foraging in the same area. I had spotted one several times in Lilongwe, but it had evaded my camera, so I was very happy to have another opportunity to make a portrait.
Our cabin was located at the top of a small bluff above a small and picturesque stream, which attracted a lot of birds, including this shy black-backed puffback (Dryoscopus cubla),
and this surprisingly bold mountain wagtail aka long-tailed wagtail or grey-backed wagtail,(Motacilla clara), which was the only bird I believe I ever saw actually at the water.
The stream, of course, was a great source for all manner of flying insects, and so we were treated to two different flycatchers. This first one is a grey tit-flycatcher (Fraseria plumbeus)
known for flicking and fanning its tail.
The second one is a similar-looking ashy flycatcher (Fraseria caerulescens)
who sang me the faintest little song instead.
Anne and I are now back in Delft for a bicycle conference, and my presentation is this afternoon, so I’ve gotta run, but I’ll have more pictures for you tomorrow from deeper into the amazing Dzalanyama Forest Preserve.
Signs of Life in Estabrook Park 