Orange Ground-Thrush (Zoothera gurneyi)
This small, shy and elusive bird may be identified by its dark brown upper parts and two characteristically white wing bars. It has predominantly orange under parts with a white belly and undertail. Another characteristic feature is a small white patch behind the dark brown eye. It has a black bill and light pink legs and feet. The moderately crepuscular Orange Ground-thrush occurs solitary or in pairs in montane forest where it forages the forest floor for insects, worms and fruits. It is classified as an uncommon resident which may partake in seasonal altitudinal movement.
Directions
Orange Ground-thrush is comparatively reliable on the Bush Pig forest walk in the Mariepskop Nature Reserve. They may be located by their call in the early morning approximately 1 to 2 km into the trail. From Hoedspruit take the R 527 towards Lydenburg and turn left onto the R 531 towards Acornhoek. Continue along the road until you locate the Kruger to Canyons Birding Route Mariepskop sign board and turn right at S 24°32'25.93" and E 31° 1'30.89". Turn right onto the first dirt road and continue along the dirt track. Stay to the right at the old saw mill and continue until you reach the Mariepskop Office where you can purchase an entrance permit. Once through the boom gate follow the concrete road to your left as it starts to climb to the summit. You will be able to locate the Bush Pig forest walking trail on your right hand side. Contact birding site guide Thabelo Sekome on 0849552975 for assistance.
GPS Coordinates
| Location | Latitude | Longitude |
| Mariepskop Office | 24°35'7.39" S | 30°51'46.18" E |