Ep. 33 Mist nets, mimicry and misadventures with Malcolm Wilson in Uganda

The air on the edge of Kibale Forest in western Uganda is alive with anticipation as we gather round the ringing table to see which feathered firsts will be revealed by our birding experts. In Episode 33 of the award-winning East Africa Travel Podcast, the muzungu adds tantalising new bird sightings to her lifelist and I sit down with legendary birder Malcolm Wilson and explore the science - and magic - of bird ringing. Listen as my guests handle delicate sunbirds and dodge sharp raptor talons as we discuss: Which nocturnal animal did I identify through its footprint on my morning walk along the forest trails? What's the scientific purpose behind bird ringing? Which rare bird species and elusive wildlife were attracted by the newly dug pond at Sunbird Hill? Chattering Yellowbill is the new name for which shy forest cuckoo? (And why does the renaming of birds drive amateur birders like me around the twist?) Join me, Charlotte Beauvoisin, author of Diary of a Muzungu on location to hear how one person's passion for birds trained the first generation of Uganda's expert birders.   Welcome to my world! Tune in to the award-winning East Africa Travel Podcast for the dawn chorus of a tropical rainforest, gorilla tracking adventures and the sound of waves lapping on an Indian Ocean beach. Join me on my morning nature walks (mind we don't slip in an elephant pothole!) and listen in to illuminating chats with conservationists and intrepid travellers in Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania and Rwanda. Sign up to my occasional newsletter. Visit www.eastafricatravelpodcast.com for detailed transcripts. Follow Charlotte Beauvoisin, Diary of a Muzungu on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.