Girl (8) awarded for identifying 100 SA birds
FERNDALE – Eight-year old Gabriella Kleynhans identifies 100 bird species.
Gabriella Kleynhans (8) from Malanshof received a certificate for identifying 100 South African birds on 28 November.
Kleynhans is a member of BirdLife President Ridge and was presented with her award by John Human, the chairperson of the club.
This happened at the BirdLife South Africa National Big Birding Day where members were challenged to find as many bird species at the President Ridge Bird Sanctuary in a 24-hour period, as possible. The event was also used to raise money for bird conservation.
Members were divided into groups and spent a few hours listing the birds and a total of 42 species were recorded. Four other members – Jane Irvine, Celia and John Human and Gill Isaac also submitted a list of 101 species within a 8km radius of the President Ridge Bird Sanctuary.
Kleynhans’ grandmother Dee Cuthbertson said, “She always comes to the club with my husband and I, and has shown a fascination with the birds from a very young age.” She also added that Kleynhans would find birds at an early age and carry them around.
Kleynhans’ mother Natalie Kleynhans also commented that she is proud of her daughter, “I support her interest in animals and I encourage her to take it further and do it more.”
“I love animals and birds and I would like to inspire other children in the same direction,” commented Gabriella. She added that she enjoys being outside and playing games outdoors, instead of sitting inside and watching TV. “I like finding things, like little animals, and picking them up.”
Details: BirdLife President Ridge Celia Human, blpr@pitta.co.za
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