Bird watching

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Being at the southernmost point of the migratory route from Europe and the Steppes of Russia makes the West Coast a must in the birder’s calendar.  The diversity of vegetation and many lagoons, marshes and river estuaries support huge migrant Palaearctic populations.

Over 250 species have been recorded, some 65 of which are seabirds, including Flamingoes, a variety of duck species and the striking African Black Oystercatcher that breeds both onshore and on the offshore islands.  Bring a new dimension to your outing and join a pelagic trip and visit the outlying islands or to get a bird’s eye view, paddle along the coastline in a sea kayak.

From Rietvlei at Milnerton, headquarters of SANCOB where injured seabirds are rehabilitated and released to Bird Island at Lambert’s Bay, bird watching can be both fun and fulfilling.

Besides the nature  reserves, birders should visit the hides on the banks of the Berg River (Velddrif), the West Coast Fossil Park and the golf club in Vredenburg.  Also highly recommended is Verlorenvlei, north of Rocher Pan – another “hotspot” with its roost of Terns.  The mountainous backdrop is home to the Black Eagle and sandveld vegetation supports birds such as Cape Penduline Tit, Titbabbler and the Back Korhaan.  On Britannica Heights at St Helena Bay, four of the Lark species can be seen.

Many of the larger species can be seen from the comfort of the car, in particular the Black Harrier whose home is the West Coast National Park lying alongside the R27, the Lanner and Peregrine Falcons and the Booted Eagle.

Whether it be walking along the shoreline of Dwarskersbos or exploring the reed beds of Langebaan lagoon, birders can be assured of a rewarding day.