Chasing the African Pitta in Malawi: A Dream, a Missed Moment, and a Promise to Return
- Adam Cruickshank
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
To make sure you never miss a Daily Birder article, subscribe to our mailing list here.
“Here Pitta, Pitta. Here Pitta, Pitta.”
That was the voice I heard in a short video sent to me from Blue Zebra Island Lodge in Malawi. One of the staff members was calling out in hope, and for me, that video stirred something deep.
Since I started birding, the African Pitta has always been my dream bird. Born in the Eastern Highlands of Zimbabwe, then known as Rhodesia, I think the thrill of seeing this bird is not just in its breathtaking beauty but also in its connection to my roots. Even though I have lived in South Africa since I was five years old, there is something sacred about the country where you were born. Growing up, my parents shared many stories of Zimbabwe, stories that faded a little more when they passed away. Something inside me still longs to reconnect with the land of my birth, and somehow, chasing after the African Pitta feels like a way to link my story to theirs.
There are many places in Africa where you can try to see an African Pitta. In Southern Africa, birders often make a pilgrimage to Zimbabwe, with Mana Pools being one of the best-known locations. But if you are hoping not just to see the bird, but also to photograph it, Blue Zebra Island Lodge might be your best chance.
During the breeding season, several pittas nest right on the island. The team at Blue Zebra goes out of their way to protect them, closing off trails where the birds are nesting and setting up hides for photographers. Just before our trip to Malawi, the lodge sent us cell phone photos of African Pittas spotted behind the staff quarters. Not fancy shots, just simple, real photos of the bird I had dreamed of for years.
As we travelled through Malawi, the updates kept coming. The pittas were still there. But the timing was tight. It was right before they were due to migrate. Every day we hoped they would stay just a little longer. On the boat ride across Lake Malawi to Blue Zebra, none of us cared much about the scenery or even the other birds around us. All we could think about was seeing the bird.
We arrived. We got off the boat. After a quick welcome and orientation, we began the search.
We searched. And searched. And searched some more. But we were a day too late. Just one day.
No Pitta.
Of course I was disappointed, but I also knew right then that I had to come back. I had to try again.
If all goes well, this December I will return to Blue Zebra for two days. December is the best time to see them, and honestly, I cannot wait. There is something truly magical about birding on this island. It is big enough to explore and find great species, yet small enough to offer intimate encounters with the birds that call it home.
But this is more than just a birding trip.
It is a way to honour my family’s memory. It is a chance to reconnect with a part of my childhood still buried deep within me. One day, I will make my way to Zimbabwe. But for now, I will keep chasing the Pitta, a bird that to me is more than feathers and colour. It is a connection to my story, to my family, and something far bigger than myself.
Blue Zebra Island Lodge is a place I will always recommend. For birders, it offers a real chance at one of the continent’s most sought-after species. For travellers, it provides an experience that stays with you long after the trip ends. Whether it is your first birding adventure or one of many, this island is something special.
Listen to this podcast episode where we hear stories of people's encounters with the African Pitta - listen here
To find out more or to book your stay at Blue Zebra Island Lodge, visit their website https://bluezebra.mw or email info@bluezebra.mw
Comments