Byron Grobler of WildWild Journeys has set out on a birding challenge to see how many South African birds he can spot in one year.
South Africa (30 January 2026) – As an avid birding enthusiast, when Byron Grobler’s YouTube video about a South African birding challenge popped up as a recommendation, I clicked on it right away. It was interesting to see his passion for birds and watch his bird count climb on his first days of the challenge, which he has called On The Wing.
Not only was it interesting to see how many unique birds Bryon spotted in his first few days, but that he was able to do so just a short drive away from my own home. I was invested and ready for the next instalment of this series. I had to know a little more about it, so I reached out to Byron and, in an exclusive interview, he shared what inspired the project and what he hopes to accomplish in the year to come.
Byron shares his adventures in South Africa on his YouTube channel WildWild Journeys. My partner and I first came across his content when he did the Pufuri Traverse, which instantly went onto our respective bucket lists. Now the next adventure is Byron’s birding challenge, which will take him to all corners of South Africa, finding some of our most unique birds as well as shining a light on our endangered species and the more common birds we know and love.
Speaking to the moment this bird challenge idea first landed in his mind, Byron shares that he was looking for rock paintings when the beautiful Verreaux’s Eagle flew by.
“In November (2025) I spent a weekend in Clarens with my girlfriend and her family. The two of us went for a casual morning walk with the intention of seeing some different birds. We got a bit lost while searching for rock paintings and somehow found ourselves on top of a small mountain, admiring the views. Out of nowhere, an inquisitive Verreaux’s Eagle came gliding just a few meters past us at eye level – so close that we could see its eyes locked on us for the duration of the fly by.”
He described the moment as pure awe and excitement. The rush reminded him that filming safari-related content wasn’t just about the Big 5, but that the smaller creatures bring their own form of enjoyment.
“The idea of attempting what’s called a ‘birding big year’ and documenting it was born about a week later.”
Birding is one of the most accessible wildlife hobbies a person can do. One needs only to sit on their patio to see the diversity around us.
“The thing about birds is that you can find them almost anywhere and we just happen to live in one of the most naturally diverse countries in the world, meaning there are plenty of different species (around 850 recorded species). It’s really just a great excuse to explore new natural places all over South Africa with a specific intention in mind.”
While the bird life is a massive draw, Byron looks forward to all the added perks that come with this challenge. He will be getting outdoors, hiking, travelling and indulging in healthier pursuits along the way.
His interest in birds started gradually. First, with his father pointing out the species in their garden ten years ago, and then with his own experience, one similar to that of his Verreaux’s Eagle encounter. Becoming a safari guide also helped develop a deeper appreciation overall.
We asked Byron more about the challenge, how it works and what the rules are.
“The South African Birding Big Year is an annual birdwatching challenge where participants aim to see and log as many bird species as possible within South Africa over a calendar year. It’s inspired by the broader “Big Year” concept in birding, similar to popular ones in the US or other regions, but localized to South Africa.
In short, it comes down to doing things honestly, respectfully and ethically. You’ve got to be certain about the identification before logging it. I’m using an app called BirdLasser to log and keep track of the list, which is linked to official challenges and contributes to science and research.
For myself, the rule is I need to see the bird, not just hear it. On that topic, no playback of calls will be used to ‘call in’ birds. Of course, filming as many of the birds as possible for the On The Wing series is important for me which adds a welcomed creative challenge. Finally, I always want to take the route which leads to the best story and adventure while out there.”
Byron jokes that he can get quite competitive, but this challenge isn’t so much about the numbers as it is about the intention and process. In the past month, focusing on the intention of being outdoors, working towards a goal and challenging his routine has already started paying dividends.
“I can say that I feel noticeably happier and healthier in every way. Birding, whether you’re in your garden or travelling around building a list, is an incredibly easy way to improve your life. It slows you down, brings your awareness to your senses and brings you into the present moment. The most surprising thing I’ve learned is that there is a massive community of bird enthusiasts out there that have already been very friendly and supportive!”
While the journey is only just beginning, Byron says it already feels special. He is excited to visit the coast, where not only is the landscape stunning, but the birdlife is beautiful too.
One of the things we chatted about that Byron is very aware of, is the balance between capturing moments and just soaking them in.
“If filming something (especially myself talking to the camera) feels like it’s bringing on a feeling of stress or anxiety, I have to put the camera down for a while and remember why I’m there. It shouldn’t feel like ‘work’. By remembering that, documenting it all becomes easier and that vibe translates into the video.
In terms of filming nature, wildlife and now mostly birds? The process of doing that is what actually helps bring me into the present moment and connect with my surroundings.”
We also touched on what Byron sees as success, beyond the number count and he reiterated that it’s the healthier lifestyle that would be a big win.
“Success would firstly look like having a better understanding of myself, nature and our relationship with it as humans. Then to share the journey in a manner that helps others want to do the same in their own unique way. That’s the greater goal.”
In closing, Byron shares his hopes for how this challenge affects others. As viewers of his adventures, he hopes that they slow down to notice the natural world around them.
“It’s becoming more difficult to do these days, but taking time to slow down and get a little lost in the beauty of nature can only lead to positive things.”
As for advice for those wanting to start birding, who may be intimidated by sheer number of birds or thinking they need the latest gear, he says forget that stuff!
“Birding or any experience in nature should never be rigid. If you want to remember that Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler as the bird with the funny name and you managed to just have a moment with it, then you’re birding. Very often, birding starts by simply noticing the birds around you at any given moment and maybe over time figuring out what it is and what makes it interesting, just like my dad and I 10 years ago. The amount of apps out there now to help with that make it very easy. So start with that Crested Barbet calling in your garden, check out what other Barbets exist and get curious in a non-serious way…”
“A little curiosity goes a long way. Very often it starts with the less obvious senses like hearing something that catches your attention. Instead of filtering it out, try noticing it on a deeper level and let your mind wonder – what is that? The obvious next step is to investigate, then, let the good things unfold…”
The Crested Barbet is a menace in my garden, one of the louder birds (bar the hadeda) and extremely bossy. You won’t miss it once you identify it!
On The Wing is the series documenting Byron’s attempt at a South African Birding Big Year. New episodes will be out every three weeks throughout the year on the WildWild Journeys YouTube Channel. You can also follow along via Instagram and Facebook.
Watch the first episode below and subscribe to join the year-long journey. If anything, you may find a few hidden gems to travel to. We certainly did!
Sources: GTG Interview
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