Written and photographed by Andre Botha
There is a largish leadwood tree near Nandzana waterhole in South Africa’s Kruger National Park which contains a much sought-after nest cavity that has been used by a range of species over the years.
Lilac-breasted roller, pearl-spotted owlet, yellow-billed hornbill, glossy starling, as well as tree squirrels, have been recorded using this cavity to nest or roost in. Sought-after real estate!
On the morning of the 30th of May, I witnessed a tussle between one of the current occupants of the nest, a pair of brown-headed parrots, and a tree squirrel that dared to venture too close to the nest.
The parrot pursued the squirrel several times and physically attacked it by biting it at least six times in about 20 minutes.
The squirrel eventually retaliated and fought back, twice charging at the parrot and trying to bite it.
Fortunately, the parrot was too quick and evaded serious damage while the squirrel’s tail looked quite the worse for wear. It eventually scuttled down the tree and out of sight.
The parrot stretched its wings in victory and went to the nest to share the news that all was safe before heading into the mopane-veld to forage.
I was spell-bound to witness this little battle before heading back to work. Always something worthwhile out there…
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