We were travelling from Singida to Tabora, birding along the way. We were not in a hurry, so the two of us were able to spot different bird species and admire the beautiful landscapes. We were driving slowly when we spotted a Martial Eagle perched on a dead tree, gripping a struggling dik-dik in its talons. After a while, it began dismembering its prey. It was a rare moment for me to witness such an episode, and I felt nothing cruel about it — the eagle must eat, after all. She is endangered, while her prey is not and multiplies far more quickly.
The scenery through the rice farms was stunning, with an elegant bird — the Black-headed Heron — its striking dark cap and long neck poised as it searched for insects. Nearby were Hammerkops and Open-billed Storks. At Sekenke we saw an Eastern Chanting Goshawk (Melierax poliopterus) perched on a rock, scanning for prey. Moments later, we heard the repeated calls of a Red-chested Cuckoo (Cuculus solitarius), a common resident of forest edges, woodlands and gardens. The slopes of Sekenke reminded me of a time years ago when a lorry we were following lost its brakes. Fortunately, the skilled driver managed to divert it safely near a cliff by the roadside.
By noon we arrived in Igunga, a small yet vibrant area with beautiful surrounding landscapes.
After lunch, we were delighted to watch a traditional Sukuma “Bugobogobo” dance at a wedding ceremony. Later, we strolled through the markets and nearby streets. On the ground, we spotted a charming little bird — the Village Indigobird (Vidua chalybeata) — feeding on seeds beside the Red-billed Firefinches that it parasitises.
By sheer coincidence, I met Jacob, an old friend who lives in Igunga. He told me about his farming work and explained the Igunga Eco-Village projects. A few minutes later, a tiny Grey-backed Camaroptera called from deep within a thicket, drawing my attention. I told Jacob how much I love birds, and that I wished to see more. He advised me to visit Loya Swamp, which he described as a birdwatching hotspot, and he offered to accompany me. I decided to spread my wings.
Loya Swamp was vibrant, and the highlight of our visit included sightings of the Blue-billed Teal, Black-toed Lapwing, Bank Swallow (also known as the Sand Martin), the White-rumped Shrike, Montagu’s Harrier, and a flock of beautiful Garganey (Spatula querquedula) — known locally in Swahili as Bata Mchirizi Mweupe. These migratory birds breed in flooded fields in Europe and Asia before travelling to Africa. The males were easily recognised by the bold white stripe over the eye. They were busy and quiet, dipping their bills into the water to catch insects and small invertebrates.
Today’s adventure reminded me of Napoleon Bonaparte’s famous words: “Until you spread your wings, you’ll have no idea how far you can fly.”
It was a rare moment for me to witness such an episode, and I felt nothing cruel about it — the eagle must eat, after all. She is endangered, while her prey is not and multiplies far more quickly.
