A new docu-series dubbed ‘Called by Birds’ is celebrating a unique aspect of South Africa’s heritage by exploring our long and rich connection to birds:
South Africa (03 October 2024) — Wildlife filmmaker Johan Vermeulen is celebrating South Africa’s cultural heritage in a way feathered South Africans, and those fascinated by them will greatly appreciate, thanks to his new docu-series, ‘Called by Birds’.
In the series endorsed by Birdlife SA, Johan takes us into the curious and captivating world of South Africa’s birdlife, which—spoiler alert—extends far beyond the skies.
There’s a lot of local history to do with our birds, and often in unexpected places. For example, as ‘Called by Birds’ showcases, in a cave deep in the Cape Fold Mountains, a hidden history with birds at the heart, unfolds.
Here, there are rock art depictions of how our ancestors revered birds as symbols of spirituality and a connection to the natural world.
Further down the historic line, there’s bird folklore and all the fascinating stories so rich in symbolism and tradition that connect us to birds and form a part of our heritage.
Not to mention the sheer beauty of the rulers of our skies (and mornings in the case of the humble Hadeda).
Says Johan:
“Birds have always been an integral part of South African culture, symbolising everything from good fortune to spiritual connections. Through this series, I hope to not only showcase the beauty of birds but also highlight their significance in our cultural heritage, and importance in our everyday lives.”
Johan shares that the development of the series started with a simple curiosity when he got his hands on a signed, first-edition copy of ‘The Birds of South Africa’ by Dr. Austin Roberts.
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“A simple curiosity soon became a magical journey of discovery into South Africa’s birding history and the people drawn to our cheerful, feathered friends. There was a story to tell. A story that goes back way further than the 1940 Roberts bird book. Stories of early naturalists driven by adventure and discovery, and an obvious obsession with South Africa’s diverse and intriguing birdlife.
But there was more to discover. Long before bird books, South Africa was full of colourful stories of beliefs, omens, and superstitions, a beautiful collage of bird folklore across cultures,” Johan shares.
Every episode of Called by Birds gives a glimpse into this culmination of beauty and storytelling; with stunning cinematography to boast. Above and beyond igniting connection and curiosity, Johan shares that he hopes Called by Birds will help people reconnect with nature.
“If we can love birds, we can love the environment, and if we can love the environment, the world will be a much better place,” Johan concludes.
You can watch the first episode here.
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