Junior Gabela is known to many birders, internationally, whom he had the privilege of guiding. He was born and grew up on the banks of Amatikulu Estuary in KwaZulu–Natal. It was here, as a young boy, he became interested in birds, inspired by the identification and teaching skills of the district’s Conservation Officer.

Junior qualified as a bird guide through Birdlife South Africa’s Training & Development programme. Amatikulu Eco Adventures offers a guided birding experience – through a variety of birding hotspots, including the Zululand Birding Route. Southern Africa has approximately 960 bird species, of which almost 70% are found in KZN, a direct result of the region’s diverse ecosystems.