NATURE is a passionate subject for Briardene resident, Thami Mabina. So much so that he has fashioned a career for himself around it.
Starting out as a volunteer, the 34-year-old has been a professional bird guide at the Durban Green Corridor’s Green Hub at the Umgeni River for almost six years. Guiding other nature lovers to these feathered treasures and facilitating a mutual love and respect for nature are what Mabina lives for.
“In nature, everything is connected. Birds play a bigger role in the eco-system than people assume. They help spread the seeds of flowers and trees and help foster indigenous plants. Without them, other species would suffer. It is fascinating to see how everything fits together. I love that I have an opportunity to help people understand how it all works,” he said.
This has especially become an important subject for the guide in recent months, as the effects of pollution on the local wildlife have been highlighted. This year alone, the Northglen News has reported on three birds in the area that have been impacted by discarded fishing line.
In May, uMgeni residents were horrified when they discovered a dead Woolly-necked stork entangled in a tree with fishing line, and in July residents spotted a Goliath heron that had swallowed some fishing line. A large knot could clearly be seen hanging from the bird’s beak.
“I find it very sad to see the pollutants affecting our lovely birds and I find it frustrating that people can be so careless, knowing there are animals that feed along the river. The other day we saw a pelican that had a piece of plastic stuck on its leg,” he said.
As a response, Mabina has now opted to include nature and pollution education during his guides. With his extensive knowledge on the hundreds of birds that can be found along the river, Mabina can also help avid bird watchers track down those elusive species.
“I have learned to understand how the birds function. Knowing their habitat, their feeding patterns and their behaviour helps me locate them,” he explained.
His favourite species, he said, are the Fork-tailed drongos and mousebirds. The passionate bird expert offers guides five days a week.
Bookings can be made through the Durban Green Corridor on 031 322 6026/7.
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