Birds are more than just a beautiful part of our world, they are indicators of the health of our environment. When birds thrive, nature thrives, and so do we. At Westerman’s, we’re passionate about protecting and celebrating our incredible birdlife, which is why we proudly support BirdLife South Africa.
Who is BirdLife South Africa?
BirdLife South Africa is the country’s leading bird conservation NGO, dedicated to the study, protection, and conservation of South Africa’s birdlife. BirdLife plays a crucial role in ensuring the survival of our nation’s diverse bird species through science-driven conservation initiatives, advocacy, and education.
What they do
BirdLife works tirelessly to protect birds and their habitats. Their key conservation efforts include:
- Terrestrial bird conservation
Protecting key bird species and their habitats across South Africa.
- Seabird conservation
Addressing threats to seabirds, including habitat degradation and bycatch.
- Policy and advocacy
Engaging with policymakers to influence environmental laws and regulations that benefit bird conservation.
- Empowering people
Educating and empowering communities to protect and appreciate birdlife.
- Science and innovation
Conducting research and monitoring projects to guide effective conservation actions.
BirdLife South Africa’s work aligns with four key conservation aims:
- Save species
Preventing extinctions and maintaining or improving the conservation status of bird species.
- Conserve sites and habitats
Conserving, improving, and enlarging sites and habitats that are essential for birds and other biodiversity.
- Encourage ecological sustainability
Using birds as a means to conserve biodiversity while improving people’s quality of life.
- Enable positive change through people
Integrating bird conservation into community livelihood initiatives.
BirdLife South Africa also connects people with birds through multiple engaging resources:
African Birdlife Magazine
A beautifully curated bimonthly publication featuring stunning photography, informative articles, and the latest conservation updates. As a member, you’ll receive six issues per year, keeping you connected to the world of birds.
South Africa Listers’ Club
A dedicated community for birders who enjoy keeping a life list of species they’ve encountered. This club encourages friendly competition, sharing of sightings, and deeper engagement with birding as a lifelong passion.
Birdle
Birdle is an engaging and educational word game created in collaboration between Raining Rock Studio and BirdLife South Africa. Designed to encourage more people to learn about birds and conservation, Birdle is perfect for players of all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just starting out, this fun game helps raise awareness about bird species while providing an enjoyable challenge.
GoBirding Platform
An innovative resource for birders of all levels, providing birding routes, checklists, hotspot recommendations, and up-to-date sighting reports to enhance the birdwatching experience across South Africa.
Why should we conserve birds?
Birds play a vital role in our ecosystems and offer significant value to society:
Ecosystem services
Birds help control pests, pollinate plants, and disperse seeds, making them essential to a balanced environment.
Economic contribution
The birdwatching industry is a growing economic force, supporting tourism and job creation.
Cultural and ethical value
Birds hold cultural, ethical, and spiritual significance, particularly in Africa, where they are woven into local traditions and artwork. They inspire artists and frequently appear on coins, banknotes, and postage stamps.
Indicators of environmental health
Rich bird diversity is often an indicator of healthy ecosystems, signaling the overall state of the environment.
How you can support BirdLife South Africa
There are many ways to help BirdLife South Africa continue their essential conservation work:
- Become a member
Join BirdLife South Africa and actively support conservation. As a member, you will receive six issues of African Birdlife magazine, 12 e-newsletters, a digital membership certificate, bird call ringtones, and Bird of the Year wallpapers for your computer and mobile device. Most importantly, your membership directly contributes to protecting South Africa’s birds and their habitats.
- Give a green gift
Consider gifting a BirdLife South Africa membership to a loved one and share the joy of bird conservation.
- Make a donation
Every contribution helps protect birds and their habitats. Donations may contribute to your B-BBEE scorecard and are eligible for an 18A tax certificate where applicable. You can donate online at BirdLife’s secure donation page.
- Support bird-friendly businesses
Westerman’s wild bird products are endorsed by BirdLife, meaning that when you buy our bird seed, suet, and other products, you’re directly contributing to conservation.
- Join a birding club
Connect with other bird lovers, learn more about birds, and participate in citizen science projects.
- Spread awareness
Share BirdLife South Africa’s work with your friends and family to help build a community of bird conservation advocates.
Westerman’s and bird conservation
At Westerman’s, we share BirdLife’s deep passion for birds. Our wild bird products help provide birds with the nutrition they need, while our commitment to conservation ensures that we’re always giving back to the birding world. By choosing Westerman’s, you’re not just feeding birds, you’re supporting a movement dedicated to protecting them. BirdLife South Africa is truly giving conservation wings and we’re honoured to be part of that journey. Let’s work together to help South Africa’s birds prosper.
