Swooping in for the Kill
Diving down from above, it glided past the cruiser and ever so elegantly perched on a branch a few metres ahead. It was then that we could clearly identify the Dark Chanting Goshawk with its dark grey plumage and orange legs and bill. This large bird of prey was now patiently waiting for the right moment, wanting to gain the ultimate reward, scanning its surroundings with the super vision that those intense eyes provide. Trying to spot any movement from small mammals like squirrels, scrub hares and mongoose, as well as smaller birds and reptiles in the area that will be the next unfortunate victim to the gripping and sharp talons of the Goshawk.
We were now eagerly joining the game of patience. It is not often that one gets to witness a kill on Safari, and every slight chance of an opportunity sends chills running through your veins. It is typical behaviour of these carnivorous birds when foraging to hunt from a perch, or whilst walking on the ground. It pursues the prey fast, both on wing and foot. These birds are usually solitary and occasionally in monogamous pairs, preferring areas with tall and broad-leafed trees.
Just as we were getting comfortable in our view of this majestic bird, it suddenly started spreading its wings and flew down from the perch sight. It spotted something, and within a few seconds it was swooping in for the kill. It's always fascinating to think that one can spend so much time waiting for an event, and when the time comes it's over in a matter of seconds. This long legged predator, had swooped in to catch a lizard that was trying to make a break for it, and just as he thought he was in the clear he was gripped with the talons and ripped open in the sharp bill of the goshawk.
We were all sitting in awe as we witnessed this exciting spectacle unravel before our very eyes. Our patience had paid off and we went from watching a perching bird to witnessing a kill. That's what we call a typical day out in the bush; where a situation can change with the snap of the fingers.
