NHOMPHU SERIES COLLECTION

The Oxpecker takes a moment to check me out.

Nhomphu Cheka means "nose check" in Tsonga.

As the sun beat down, the massive buffalo herd, numbering 200 strong, paused along the well-worn tracks, seeking respite amidst the dusty grass and shrubs. With intermittent lowing, a few of the beasts drew nearer, accompanied by a fluttering flock of oxpeckers. Their moment had arrived, and they wasted no time, descending upon the buffalo in a flurry, each seeking its own morsel.

While some of the birds scappered along the buffalo's broad back, others sought out more enticing prospects. One daring oxpecker leaped from the buffalo's head, making a brief stop at its tufted ear before darting in a zigzag pattern toward its nose. Pausing momentarily to assess its target, it then plunged downward, positioning itself beside the buffalo's flared nostril and using the bright sunlight to hunt for parasites. With a swift motion, it dug itself deep into the recesses of the cavernous opening, finding success in its quest.

The oxpecker, though diminutive in stature, leaves a lasting impression, particularly for me. It was amidst this very buffalo herd that I first encountered its captivating presence. Observing its symbiotic relationship with these colossal creatures left me intrigued. Yet, it was the bird's remarkable adaptations that truly captured my imagination. Despite its small size, it adeptly clings to the buffalo's back, utilising its sharp claws and stout legs for stability. Its tail feathers, uniquely designed, function as a stabilising tripod as it delicately scavenges for parasites.

Endemic to the expansive landscapes of sub-Saharan Africa, the oxpecker thrives in various open habitats. However, its survival hinges on the presence of specific ticks and the animals that harbour them. While not currently endangered, its population faces decline, both in numbers and distribution. The prospect of losing these and countless other creatures from our world weighs heavily on my mind. Though they may not belong to the renowned Big Five, their modest size and crucial role in ecological balance are undeniable. Each encounter with an oxpecker in its natural habitat fills me with a profound appreciation for the intricate web of life it represents.

Feathered Friends Collection

Welcome to our feathered friends, with their flights of fancy, twitchers' delight, and the lightest touch.

Ever-present in our lives, birds fill the skies, settle in tree branches, and thrive on the ground. Their movements fill us with delight and awe; their silence is broken by delightful songs or anxious craws. This collection celebrates these moments in time with our feathered friends.