This blog was written by Matthew Orolowitz (the Birding Ecotours Fellow of Grasslands Conservation) on 04 June 2025.
Birders have long been at the forefront of conservation efforts, and their passion for spotting and documenting birds contributes to a wealth of knowledge about species’ distributions, behaviours, and population trends. In South Africa, where Botha’s Lark (Spizocorys fringillaris) faces an uncertain future, birders and citizen scientists can play a critical role in helping researchers and conservationists better understand this threatened species.
Birding the high-altitude grasslands in search of Botha’s Lark.
Why Botha’s Lark needs citizen scientists
Botha’s Lark is one of South Africa’s least-known and most endangered birds. Found only in the high-altitude grasslands of the eastern Highveld, this species has suffered significant habitat loss due to various factors, such as a change in land-use practices. As most of the species’ range falls on private land, conservationists rely on private landowners and volunteers to help monitor populations and track changes in their habitat.
Traditional scientific studies are time-consuming and resource-intensive, making it difficult for researchers to conduct large-scale surveys across the species’ fragmented range. This is where citizen science becomes invaluable. By recording sightings, collecting habitat data, and reporting observations, birders can provide critical information that informs conservation strategies.
How birders can contribute:
- Submit sightings on Birdlasser and eBird – Platforms like Birdlasser (https://www.birdlasser.com) and eBird (https://ebird.org/home) allow birders to log Botha’s Lark sightings, providing researchers with real-time distribution data.
- Photograph and record behaviour – High-quality photos and behavioural observations can help identify key characteristics such as breeding activity, feeding habits, and interactions with other species.
- Participate in grassland bird surveys – Joining organised bird surveys in known or potential Botha’s Lark habitats can increase detection rates and provide more systematic data for analysis.
- Engage with landowners – Birders visiting farms and other private properties can encourage landowners to adopt biodiversity-friendly practices, such as sustainable grazing management and habitat protection.
- Monitor habitat changes – Noting changes in grassland conditions, such as increased bush encroachment, ploughing, or new developments, can help conservationists assess emerging threats to Botha’s Lark populations.
The power of citizen science in conservation
Citizen science has already played a crucial role in uncovering ecological trends worldwide. From tracking migratory birds to monitoring species responses to climate change, public participation in data collection has proven to be a game-changer. For Botha’s Lark, which remains understudied, expanding citizen science efforts could lead to significant discoveries about its range, movement, and habitat preferences.
One example of successful citizen-driven conservation is the use of bird atlas data. South Africa’s Southern African Bird Atlas Project 2 (SABAP2) relies solely on birder submissions. As Botha’s Lark populations continue to decline, more targeted atlassing efforts in suitable grassland habitats will be needed.
A call to action
The survival of Botha’s Lark depends not just on scientists and conservation organizations, but on a broader community of birders, landowners, and nature enthusiasts who care about the future of South Africa’s grasslands. By contributing sightings, advocating for habitat protection, and spreading awareness, citizen scientists can help turn the tide for this imperilled species.
Every observation counts. Whether it’s a single sighting on Birdlasser and eBird, or participation in a dedicated survey, these collective efforts can make a real difference. The challenge is great, but with the combined power of scientific research and citizen science, Botha’s Lark still has a fighting chance.
Support conservation through travel
By booking a trip with Birding Ecotours, you directly support the conservation of Botha’s Lark. A portion of the proceeds from each tour goes towards ongoing research and habitat protection efforts for this critically endangered species. With Birding Ecotours, you can explore the world’s biodiversity and play a meaningful role in preserving it for generations to come.
For more information, please contact Matthew Orolowitz ([email protected])
Birding Ecotours Fellow of Grasslands Conservation
