Tilodi Wilderness is set in the great bushveld, less than 2 hours from Johannesburg and 1.5 hours from Pretoria. Tilodi, named after the Long-tailed or Magpie Shrike, offers excellent birding in a superb setting, guaranteed to ease city stress and stimulate the senses.

The 4 000ha wilderness offers the classic African bush experience with the added bonus of a wide diversity of habitats, which ensure that you will see a range of exciting birds including a number of Southern African endemics.

Breakaway with Babblers
The setting is amidst dark, brooding hills and mature burkea and saricea woodlands cover most of the reserve. In the summer months, these woodlands are visited by a host of migrants including Striped and Jacobin Cuckoo’s and the stunning Grey-hooded Kingfisher, which is joined by the brilliant cousin, the more familiar Woodland Kingfisher. Resplendent Redheaded Weaver is common, but easier to see at the lodge. Other specials here include Bennett’s Woodpecker, European Golden Oriole and Scops Owl.

An outstanding birding destination
South of the lodge, the habitat is mixed acacia thomveld and some more open plain areas. Here Southern Pied-Babbler and Crimson breasted Shrike are common, as are Kalahari Robin, and the gems of the thornveld: Violet-eared and Black-cheeked Waxbill.

Place of the Shrikes
Redwing Lodge itself is a wonderful place to do some excellent birding in the most relaxing fashion possible. The outstanding verandah, serves as a superb viewing deck overlooking a waterhole. African Fish Eagle, Lilac-breasted Roller, Plum colored Starling and Red-billed Buffalo Weaver are regular. Waxbills such as Violet-eared, Black-cheeked and common use a small tree just in front of the bar area as a staging post on their way to drink. A stroll around the lodge will produce a host of bushveld birds, including camp residents like Crimson-breasted Shrike, Burnt necked Eremomela and Lesser Striped Swallow.

Get Spoilt!
Overall Tilodi is one of the outstanding birding destinations within striking distance of Johannesburg, and well over 100 species can be expected in a Weekend. Overseas birders can look forward to the possibility of 26 species, which are essentially endemic to Southern Africa. A list of birds that have been sighted at Tilodi, with handy references to Roberts and Newman’s, appears on the website. Visitors can be assured of superb cuisine and highly professional staff will cater to your shims. Get Spoilt!