Birds and birding in the Cape Winelands region Show details
BIRDS AND BIRDING IN THE CAPE WINELANDS REGION
The Cape Winelands District municipal region is internationally renowned as a top tourist destination. Think of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the Succulent Karoo: spectacular landscapes, beautiful wine estates and acclaimed wines, colourful people, stupendous mountain passes – the list goes on. One of the region’s little known assets is the diversity of species found here. Conservation International has proclaimed just two botanical Biodiversity Hotspots in Southern Africa: the Cape Floral Kingdom and the Succulent Karoo. Both of these unique plant kingdoms are well represented throughout the Cape Winelands region. Further, a large section of this municipal area has been declared as the Cape Winelands Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO.
The Cape Floral Kingdom hosts a diverse range of sought-after endemic bird species such as Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, Victorin’s Warbler, Protea Seedeater, Cape Siskin and many more. In the Succulent Karoo region several other unique species, such as Cinnamon-breasted and Rufous-eared Warblers, Karoo and Tractrac Chats, Karoo and Karoo Long-billed Larks and Karoo and Yellow-bellied Eremomelas, can be observed. A wide variety of exciting water and garden birds can also be found throughout the area.
This text from the ‘birdfinder brochure’, developed by Anton Odendal on behalf of BirdLife Overberg and sponsored by the Cape Winelands District Municipality, serves as an introductory overview to assist visitors in locating some of the most popular birds of the region, and describes locations where they could potentially be found. The reference numbers on the map are reflected in both the text and index. The text should be seen as a starting point to be used against the backdrop of the website. More comprehensive descriptions and details are regularly updated on the Cape Winelands web pages (www.westerncapebirding.co.za). GPS reference points are provided and a bird checklist for the Cape Winelands region is available at tourism outlets.
Reasons to go birding in the Cape Winelands Show details
REASONS TO GO BIRDING IN THE CAPE WINELANDS
The Winelands region does not have such a strong bird watching reputation as the Cape West Coast, the Overberg or even the Cape Peninsula. This is mostly due to a lack of marketing. Also, few birders journey through the Winelands when travelling from (let’s say) Clanwilliam to Hermanus. From a birding perspective it is perceived to be better to travel via known birding destinations such as the West Coast National Park, Rietvlei and Sir Lowry’s Pass. Thus, birders driving from Knysna to Cape Town would normally travel along the N2 where birding is often not that spectacular.
Let us introduce birders to the Winelands’ ‘slow birding’ concept by way of briefly introducing an alternative itinerary: from Knysna one can travel via the R62 – the route is scenically superior and offers many delightful alternative tourism products. It is when the Winelands region is reached, however, that the birder has a choice of different habitats to gain access to a diverse range of bird species. Visit McGREGOR and VROLIJKHEID NATURE RESERVE 4.8 to view endemic species associated with the Succulent Karoo and Cape Floral Kingdom, and take the opportunity to visit some of the superb wine estates in the area. The Breede River Valley further offers a variety of destinations where waterbirds are plentiful. A visit to the KAROO DESERT NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN 3.10 is a must by the time WORCESTER 3.5 is reached as this has several ‘Karoo species’, as well as many of the typical ‘garden species’ of the Western Cape. And why then race through the Huguenot Tunnel when BAINSKLOOF PASS 3.1 and its many endemic species associated with the Cape Floral Kingdom can be explored? An excursion like this should give the visitor access to most habitats that are recommended in order to see many of the region’s diverse bird species. Similar case studies can be undertaken for journeys between (eg) Hermanus and Sutherland (or, for that matter, Clanwilliam) or trips between the West Coast and Garden Route. Let us then turn our attention to the different habitats that are on offer in the region.
Where to find birds in the Cape Winelands District municipal region: The mountain passes: in search of the Western Cape's endemic birds Show details
WHERE TO FIND BIRDS IN THE CAPE WINELANDS DISTRICT MUNICIPAL REGION:
THE MOUNTAIN PASSES: IN SEARCH OF THE WESTERN CAPE’S ENDEMIC BIRDS
Many visitors are attracted to the Western Cape by the endemic birds associated with the Cape Floral Kingdom. In the Winelands region several of these species are found in the mountain passes. Only the main passes are mentioned here. The Du Toitskloof Pass between Paarl and Worcester, Bainskloof Pass between Wellington and Wolseley, Mitchell’s Pass between Wolseley and Ceres, Gydo Pass between Ceres and Citrusdal, Theronsberg Pass between Ceres and Karoopoort, and Cogmanskloof between Montagu and Ashton are recommended as great birding opportunities. There are safe and comfortable parking areas and picnic spots along most of these passes and ‘slow birding’ is advised here.
The fynbos vegetation and protea shrubs at these spots should be scrutinized for Cape Grassbird, Protea Seedeater, Cape Sugarbird, and Orange-breasted and Southern Double-collared Sunbirds. The dense vegetation along the various streams often supports Cape Siskin and Victorin’s Warbler and rocky outcrops support specials such as Cape Rockjumper, Cape and Sentinel Rock-Thrushes, Mountain Wheatear and Ground Woodpecker. Forest patches and alien growth should produce Acacia Pied Barbet, Cape Batis, Fairy and Fiscal Flycatchers, Karoo Prinia and Southern Tchagra. Overhead, watch out for Jackal Buzzard, Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle and Rock Kestrel drifting through the skies.
The Mitchell’s, Gydo and Theronsberg Passes, together with Karoopoort and Cogmanskloof, have a reputation for producing many species that are associated with the Succulent Karoo. Specials here include an astonishing variety of ‘little brown jobs’ (LBJs). These locations are the closest to Cape Town where ‘Karoo species’ can be found; these visits can even be undertaken as day outings. Birders travelling through the Winelands region are advised to add extra hours to their itineraries and spend more time in these magnificent mountain passes.
Garden birds, waterbirds and birds of prey Show details
GARDEN BIRDS, WATERBIRDS AND BIRDS OF PREY
The Cape Winelands region is known not only for its fynbos and Karoo specials. Many other unique species, that are often endemic or near-endemic to Southern Africa, can be found in a variety of habitats throughout the region. GARDEN BIRDS or related species that should be mentioned include Bar-throated Apalis, Cape Batis, Cape Bulbul, Cape Grassbird, White-backed Mousebird, Karoo Prinia, Southern Tchagra and Swee Waxbill, plus many more. Resident BIRDS OF PREY one should look out for include Jackal Buzzard, Verreaux’s Eagle, Black Harrier, African Marsh-Harrier, and Lanner and Peregrine Falcons. Accipiters include African Harrier-Hawk, African Goshawk, and Black and Rufous-chested Sparrowhawks. In summer expect to find migratory birds such as Steppe Buzzard, and Amur and Lesser Kestrels. A number of owls and night-jars also occur here. (This sounds like a real ‘name-dropping’ session!)
There can be no doubt that as far as WATERBIRDS are concerned the PAARL BIRD SANCTUARY 2.3 stands out as a top destination in the Cape Winelands. It is described in greater detail elsewhere. The Breede and Berg Rivers are the main water courses in the region and great birding opportunities exist at many places. Other recommended locations include the WEMMERSHOEK DAM near Stellenbosch, VOËLVLEI DAM XXX near Gouda, THEEWATERSKLOOF DAM 2.5 to the south of Franschhoek, and the BRANDVLEI and KWAGGASKLOOF DAMS near Worcester. Towards the arid Tanqua Karoo the TWEELING 6.1 and OUDEBAASKRAAL DAMS 6.9 stand out.
Do not underestimate the farm dams that are scattered throughout the region, but keep in mind that these are often on private property and that the normal birdwatching ethics apply in these cases. All three grebes can be encountered and flamingos and pelicans move through the area. Substantial numbers of heron, egret and rail, plus a diversity of ducks, are usually found. Osprey is often seen in summer and African Fish-Eagles are plentiful.
In birding circles the Stellenbosch area is probably best known for the JONKERSHOEK 1.1 and ASSEGAAIBOSCH 1.2 NATURE RESERVES, managed by CapeNature (www.capenature.co.za). Both of these reserves offer breathtaking mountain landscapes and good examples of mountain fynbos. Several hiking trails of varying length are available. The reserves are 9 km outside Stellenbosch along the Jonkershoek Valley Road. Special bird species here include Verreaux’s Eagle, African Fish-Eagle, the occasional Martial Eagle, several kingfisher species and typical fynbos-associated species such as Cape Sugarbird, Protea Seedeater and Orange-breasted Sunbird. Assegaaibosch is better suited for picnics and casual birding.
In the town itself the JAN MARAIS PARK and the BOTANICAL GARDEN can be explored for shorter birding outings – contact the tourism office for directions. There are many dams in the Stellenbosch district where a good selection of waterbirds can be found. These dams are unfortunately often along busy highways where extreme caution is advised, or on private property where permission for entry should be obtained.
Birders visiting Stellenbosch should include a visit to RADICAL RAPTORS (previously known as Eagle Encounters) 1.3. This birds of prey rehabilitation and awareness centre aims to rescue, rehabilitate and release birds of prey and raise community awareness on the plight of these birds. There are flying displays at 11.00, 13.00 and 15.00 (except Mondays) when birds can be studied, photographed and sometimes even handled. This is an experience not to be missed. Visit www.radicalraptors.co.za.
Birders are advised that the HELDERBERG NATURE RESERVE 1.4 in Somerset West and the peak of SIR LOWRY’S PASS 1.5 are very well known for some of the top fynbos-associated endemics. At the latter, extreme caution is advised as the N2 has to be crossed on foot. A visit to the TYGERBERG ZOO at Klapmuts can also be considered.
Birding at Franschoek - A valley and a pass Show details
BIRDING AT FRANSCHHOEK – A VALLEY AND A PASS
From Stellenbosch take the R301 over Helshoogte where interesting birding is available at places to stop. PNIEL 1.6 and the neighbouring villages of the Dwars River Valley could also be investigated. This area is at the foot of the Simonsberg Mountains and good pockets of fynbos vegetation can be found here, even though the area is dominated by terraced vineyards.
From here, turn right onto the R45 from where one or more of the wine estates can be visited for great garden birding. The WEMMERSHOEK DAM is reached off the R301 and is also worth considering for its waterfowl. Slow birding is the order of the day here as the cultural–historical background to this valley, award-winning wine estates and astounding mountain landscapes deserve extended time. FRANSCHHOEK 1.7, called the ‘gourmet capital of Africa’, is worth discovering as quaint shops, street cafés, restaurants and galleries create a unique atmosphere. Do not underestimate birding in the more quiet back streets of the village, though – specials such as Forest Buzzard, Martial Eagle, Cape Grassbird, Black Sparrowhawk, Amethyst Sunbird and Swee Waxbill can be encountered here. The FRANSCHHOEK PASS 1.8 is another of the magnificent passes in the Western Cape, where the lookout spots and picnic areas should be investigated. Keep an eye out for Cape Rock-Thrush, Cape Siskin, Orange-breasted Sunbird and many more of the region’s specials. This pass leads to the THEEWATERSKLOOF DAM 1.9 from where the birding hotspots of the Overberg region can be explored.
The CAPE WINELANDS BIOSPHERE RESERVE includes portions of the common boundaries of local municipal areas such as the Breede Valley, Drakenstein, Stellenbosch, Theewaterskloof and Witzenberg, and even parts of the City of Cape Town. It is registered under the Man and Biosphere (MaB) programme of UNESCO. This represents significant benefits for both sustainable development and biodiversity conservation throughout the area. Contact Quinton Balie (quinton@capewinelands.gov.za) to become a member.
The historical town of PAARL is best known for its wines, but birders regard two reserves here as the best places in close proximity to Cape Town to find several of the region’s endemic species.
More than 100 species have been recorded at the PAARL MOUNTAIN RESERVE 2.1 and the WILDFLOWER RESERVE 2.2 and should reward birders with many fynbos endemics such as Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, Protea Seedeater and Cape Siskin. There are several circular routes that meander around the three granite rocks of Paarl Mountain where visitors should keep their eyes peeled for Ground Woodpecker, Verreaux’s Eagle, Jackal Buzzard and Peregrine Falcon. This is an excellent spot for visitors to Cape Town who have little time to find the endemics of the region. The PAARL BIRD SANCTUARY 2.3 forms part of the town’s waste-water treatment plant and contains five large shallow ponds. Bird hides and diverse vegetation types allow for great birding and more than 140 species have been recorded here. The sanctuary is known for its huge numbers of waterfowl. Ducks include Cape Shoveler, White-backed and White-faced Ducks, Southern Pochard and all three teals. Be on the look out for African Purple Swamphen, Purple Heron, Baillon’s Crake, Little Bittern, Malachite Kingfisher, Black-crowned Night-Heron and Maccoa Duck. Both species of flamingo visit here nomadically; expect to find summer migrants such as White-winged Tern and a good selection of waders. The sanctuary also tends to attract surprising vagrants and in recent years Goliath, Green-backed and Squacco Herons, and American Purple Gallinule have caused quite a stir in Western Cape birding circles. Massive heronries also occur here and allow for outstanding photographic opportunities. African Fish-Eagles have been known to breed at the sanctuary. In summer African Marsh Warblers and African Paradise-Flycatchers can be found. Permits are needed to visit the sanctuary and these can be obtained from the tourism office (contact details elsewhere) or at the gate to the reserve itself. Prior arrangements need to be made to enter the sanctuary by vehicle over weekends, but visitors can walk through the gate.
Birding from Wellington to the Cederberg Show details
BIRDING FROM WELLINGTON TO THE CEDERBERG
The town of WELLINGTON 2.4 is probably best known in birding circles for the huge roost of Lesser Kestrels that occurs here in summer. Contact the local tourism office for details and directions. From PAARL travel north to Wellington where two options can be considered. The BAINSKLOOF PASS 3.1 can be taken to Wolseley and Ceres and eventually the Tanqua Karoo. This pass, described under the Witzenberg region, should be investigated as it gives access to most of the special endemic bird species associated with the Western Cape. Alternatively, travel north along the R44 that leads to Porterville (where a Blue Crane Route has been established) and the magnificent Cederberg mountains. The many birding delights of the Cape West Coast can also be reached along less busy roads such as the R45 and R311 (these diverge from the R44).
Many birders would not regard habitats along the R44 as good for birding as the road passes through what are known as ‘wheatbelts’. This is, however, the best area in the Cape Winelands where birds associated with wheatbelts can be found in relatively close proximity to Cape Town. This is Blue Crane country and both species of flamingo move through the area nomadically. Also expect to find Denham’s Bustard and Southern Black Korhaan, as well as Lesser Kestrel and Steppe Buzzard in summer. This is also a good area to practise one’s identification skills on LBJs. See if you can spot Karoo, Large-billed and Red-capped Larks, Cape Longclaw, African Stonechat and Capped Wheatear. Most of the region’s cisticolas, larks and pipits can be found along this road.
The VOËLVLEI DAM 2.5 is undoubtedly worth a visit – a wide variety of waterfowl can be found here. Specials include Malachite Kingfisher and SA Shelduck and most of the district’s ducks, grebes and teals. There are still good patches of renosterveld habitat remaining near this dam and one can try to locate Black Harrier and Secretarybird. TULBAGH and CERES can be reached from the village of GOUDA via the NUWEKLOOF PASS 5.1.
The Breede Valley starts at the foot of the BAINSKLOOF PASS 3.1 between Wellington and Ceres. The valley is best known for its wine estates, agriculture and trout fishing, but little information on birding in the area seems to be available. We recommend the following slow birding meander along the river through magnificent landscapes:
Start at the BERGSIG WINE ESTATE AND BISTRO 3.2 where a gentle birding trail is available, together with a bird checklist of the farm. The staff can give visitors advice on a range of self-catering options in the immediate area. Species here include Blue Crane, African Black Duck, Grey-backed Finchlark, Karoo Lark, Cape Sugarbird, and Cape and Sentinel Rock-Thrushes – the entire valley, in fact, offers a diversity of waterfowl, birds of prey and many endemic species associated with both the Cape Floral Kingdom and Succulent Karoo habitats. From here turn off onto the road to SLANGHOEK 3.3 that eventually reaches RAWSONVILLE 3.4 and WORCESTER 3.5. Travel leisurely and look for birds all along the river and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery of the Western Cape. Birdwatching can be very good at several of the wine estates along this route and visits to Die Watergat, Eensgevonden, Grietjiesdrif and Jason’s Hill wine estates, as well as the Slanghoek Mountain Retreat, are recommended.
Huge numbers of waterfowl can be found all along the Breede River once one has driven through Rawsonville and there are relatively broad road verges for most of the route. Look out for many different ducks, egrets, grebes, herons, teals and even African Fish-Eagle and Osprey.
Another great birding alternative for those wanting to travel towards Montagu and Route 62 is as follows: Turn right onto the R43 3.6, just before Worcester and then turn left to DOORNRIVIER 3.7. After just 400 metres turn left onto the dirt road marked SCHERPENHEUWEL and again do slow birding along the river. Birding can be outstanding on this drive. This road eventually reaches ROBERTSON at 3.8.
Birding along the N1 highway to the north Show details
BIRDING ALONG THE N1 HIGHWAY TO THE NORTH
The general consensus in birding circles is that one does not use the Huguenot Tunnel to reach WORCESTER 3.5. Consider taking either the DU TOITSKLOOF 3.9 or BAINSKLOOF PASS. Both of these passes give access to outstanding fynbos-clad mountain landscapes and associated endemic birds. Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird and both seedeaters are often identified along the descent of Du Toitskloof Pass, and the PICNIC SPOT 3.1 at the summit of Bainskloof Pass has developed a reputation as one of the birding ‘hotspots’ in the Western Cape. Look out for Fiscal and Fairy Flycatchers, Ground and even Olive Woodpeckers, Cape and Sentinel Rock-Thrushes and Cape Siskin. Cape Rockjumpers are often found among the higher rock-strewn areas and Verreaux’s Eagle, Peregrine Falcon and Rock Kestrel regularly patrol the skies. Victorin’s Warbler is common in the denser vegetation alongside the mountain pass.
Once Worcester is reached, a visit to the KAROO DESERT NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDEN 3.10 should be regarded as a must. This certainly is a botanical garden with a difference – the botanical delights alone make it worthwhile. The garden hosts well over 100 bird species, several of which are more readily found in drier Karoo landscapes. There are a number of private game reserves and wine estates in the Worcester area that are worth investigating.
From here one can choose to either travel to the Overberg via the R43 (several good dams are located along this road) or to the Little Karoo via the R60 and eventually Route 62. Also take note of the alternative dirt road to Robertson described in the previous panel.
The N1 takes one to the north via the Karoo and many different species can be expected as one travels towards Touws River and beyond. Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk and Greater Kestrel are common, the cryptic Karoo Korhaan can be found and Booted Eagle can be spotted in summer. Also, do not underestimate the picnic sites along this road – in particular, look for interesting chats and larks and a variety of cryptic LBJs.
There are many outstanding birding destinations available along this route and a brochure describing local birding hotspots and recommended routes, developed by members of the Robertson Bird Club, can be collected at the tourism office. The keys to the DASSIESHOEK NATURE RESERVE 4.1 can be obtained here. This municipal reserve is worth exploring as its 130-plus species include specials such as Tambourine Dove, Olive Woodpecker, Terrestrial Brownbul, Victorin’s Warbler, Cape Siskin and Protea Seedeater.
For those wanting to travel from here to the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve in the Overberg with its many forest species, a stopover at the Van Loveren Wine Estate is suggested. Get permission to explore the river’s verges. For casual birding a cruise on the ‘Breede River Goose’ at BONNIEVALE 4.2 is recommended.
Those deciding to travel to Montagu should ensure that birding time is spent at one of the parking areas along the COGMANSKLOOF RIVER PASS 4.3. The picnic area immediately after the tunnel is particularly profitable, with a good chance of spotting Cape Rockjumper, Cape and Sentinel Rock-Thrushes, and Mountain Wheatear. Consider walking back to the tunnel along the water’s edge – birding at this location is very rewarding. The village of MONTAGU 4.4 should be investigated, with several great birding opportunities on offer. The Montagu Eco Club have erected a bird hide at DIE LEIWATER DAM 4.5 and lots of time can be spent here studying and photographing roosting (and breeding) waterbirds. The MONTAGU NATURE GARDEN 4.6 is a small municipal reserve where birders can hike at leisure. Expect to find a diversity of species associated with the Cape Winelands. It is further claimed that the MONTAGU SPRINGS 4.7, with access to thermal mineral springs, features the largest waterfowl breeding colony in the Western Cape. There are several upmarket private nature reserves and game reserves in the Langeberg municipal area that can also be enjoyed. From here one moves on to the tourism delights of Route 62.
Birding at McGregor and Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve Show details
BIRDING AT McGREGOR AND VROLIJKHEID NATURE RESERVE
There can be little doubt that visitors travelling through the Cape Winelands should not miss a visit to McGREGOR 4.8 and the VROLIJKHEID NATURE RESERVE 4.9, managed by CapeNature and ably supported by the Friends of Vrolijkheid association.
The quaint village of McGREGOR offers a wide variety of outstanding tourism products and, as such, deserves a visit. For the birder, though, this is a ‘must do’: a variety of hiking trails and 2x4 and 4x4 trails are available, allowing access to species associated with water, fynbos and Succulent Karoo habitats. To crown it all, the village is right on the doorstep of Vrolijkheid. Notable trails of varying length include the De Krans municipal reserve on the edge of town and the Kleinberg and KingsRiver trails, but the ultimate birding tour is certainly the Rhebokskraal route that traverses country roads on the outskirts of the village. Information on this can be obtained from the Winelands web pages. A visit to the Donkey Sanctuary is also recommended.
The dirt road to STEENBOKSVLAKTE takes one to BONNIEVALE 4.2, where there is remarkable species diversity. VROLIJKHEID is for the birding connoisseur, giving access to many unique birds of the Cape Floral Kingdom and Succulent Karoo, as well as a huge diversity of waterbirds and raptors. Several trails are available, but the Heron Trail stands out as it takes visitors to no less than three bird hides. An added bonus is that Braille information placards, interpreting many interesting natural features, have been erected. For the lazier birder and those bound to wheelchairs there is an ENTRANCE GATE 4.10 that allows great birding at two of the hides. Special birds that we saw during our visit to the area include Karoo Scrub-Robin, African Fish-Eagle, Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk, Southern Tchagra, Karoo Lark, Ground Woodpecker, Denham’s Bustard and Southern Black Korhaan. For the serious birding visitor this area deserves more than just a single day. It is recommended that one of the many excellent accommodation establishments be supported and the entire area explored.
Birding in the Witzenberg region: Wolseley and Tulbagh towards Ceres and beyond Show details
BIRDING IN THE WITZENBERG REGION: WOLSELEY AND TULBAGH TOWARDS CERES AND BEYOND
This area allows for outstanding birding and is reached from either the BAINSKLOOF 3.1 or NUWEKLOOF 5.1 PASS. The WOLSELEY AREA 5.2 should not be underestimated and accommodation establishments such as Fynbos Guest Farm, Waverley Hills and White Bridge Farm offer great facilities from where the area can be explored. The KLUITJIESKRAAL ROAD 5.3 that starts in the village is one of the most underestimated waterfowl destinations in the region and an ideal road along which a huge variety of these birds can be viewed. Permits are obtainable from Demars Take-Aways at 023-2310063. At the end of this road one reaches VERREKYKER FARM 5.4. The gardens at the homestead host several species that are normally associated with forest habitats. Permission for entry should be obtained from the owner at 0825647415. From Wolseley the R46 can be followed to the historical village of TULBAGH 5.5. Most of the roads around Tulbagh lead one into vineyards and private property, and permission for entry should be obtained. Time should be spent in the village in order to take in the historical architecture, local art and great restaurants. The road that meanders north from the village towards the Groot Winterhoek Mountains is recommended as this takes one through a number of different habitats. As far as accommodation goes, birders might want to investigate the Silwerfontein Guest Farm – there is an interesting hiking trail and more than 200 species have been identified here. From Wolseley travel to Ceres, a town that can be described as being at the crossroads of a true Western Cape birding wonderland. From here the Tanqua Karoo is reached through either KAROOPOORT 6.3 or the KATBAKKIES 6.6 and SKITTERYKLOOF 6.11 PASSES. Visitors will arrive at CERES 5.7 via MITCHELL’S PASS 5.6, another of the fantastic passes in the region; time should be spent at the Ceres Mountain Fynbos Reserve. Make sure you stop for a meal at Die Tolhuis: birding along the trails in the lush gardens is outstanding.
There is a relatively short hiking trail in CERES 5.7 that can produce most of the special birds that are associated with the mountain passes of the Winelands. This trail starts at the pine plantation behind the hospital. Species regularly found here include Cape Rockjumper, the two rock-thrushes, Protea Seedeater, Victorin’s Warbler and Ground Woodpecker.
Ceres can also be used as a base to travel a circular route that allows access to the mountain pass specials and many fynbos and Karoo endemics. Take the R303 north past PRINCE ALFRED’S HAMLET and do slow birding along the GYDO PASS 5.8 about 15 km from Ceres. Take the WITZENBERG VALLEY TURN-OFF 5.9 and drive slowly to the base of the pass. From here, return to the R303. This section of the pass is particularly good for the two rock-thrushes and Ground Woodpecker, as well as raptors such as Verreaux’s Eagle and Jackal Buzzard, and Booted Eagle in summer. After a short distance north, take the DROËHOEK ROAD 5.10 eastward. Many Karoo species can be found along this road – pay particular attention to LBJs encountered here. Once the R46 is reached drive back to Ceres via the THERONSBERG PASS 6.2 and TWEELING DAM 6.1 that are later described. The latter normally has many waterfowl, but also look for all three pipits and Cape Longclaw on the southern side of the road. This circular route could easily produce more than 150 species if completed in about five hours.
When travelling north the R303 eventually takes one past OP-DIE-BERG to CITRUSDAL and the rugged Cederberg mountains. Alternatively, a dirt road that meanders through the KATBAKKIES 6.6 and SKITTERYKLOOF 6.11 PASSES leads to the birding delights of the Tanqua Karoo, which is described in the next panel. The Kagga Kamma Private Game Reserve is also reached along this road. Make sure you explore some of the many dams along the Citrusdal road. Remember to stop at ROCKLANDS DAM 5.11, where waterfowl abound. Look out for Maccoa and White-backed Ducks, and Black Stork at this location.
Birding from Ceres to Karoopoort and the Tanqua Karoo Show details
BIRDING FROM CERES TO KAROOPOORT AND THE TANQUA KAROO
About 10 km from Ceres along the R46 one passes the TWEELING DAM 6.1 that can be very rewarding, particularly during summer when large numbers of waterbirds and waders are present. This dam lies at the base of the THERONSBERG PASS 6.2 and here species such as Black Harrier, Grey-winged Francolin, Cape Clapper Lark and Cape Rock-Thrush can be spotted. KAROOPOORT 6.3 is about 45 km east of Ceres; time should be spent along the dry river bed, where Namaqua Warbler, African Reed Warbler, several canaries and even Cinnamon-breasted Warbler may be found. Inspect the acacia thickets along the drainage lines and look for Fairy and Fiscal Flycatchers and both tit-babblers. Mountain Wheatears are common along the rocky slopes and raptors such as Jackal Buzzard, Booted and Verreaux’s Eagles, and Rufous-chested Sparrowhawk may be spotted. Spend some time at the picnic spot about 200 metres beyond the turnoff to Sutherland. From here drive slowly along the R355 looking for several Karoo specials.
About 5 km along the road you will find small dams on the right hand side, and farther on, a large dam at 6.4. Look out for a variety of waterbirds, including SA Shelduck and African Rail, as well as raptors such as Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk and Greater Kestrel. A little farther on, two tillite hills are located where the base of EIERKOP 6.5 (on the right) can be searched for Karoo Eremomela, Rufous-eared Warbler, Karoo Lark and Tractrac Chat. Turn left to Kagga Kamma and Op-die-Berg 21 km after Eierkop. Stop at the ‘KATBAKKIES’ 6.6 picnic spot as this is the most reliable spot for Cinnamon-breasted Warbler. Also look for Pririt Batis, Yellow-bellied Eremomela, Ground Woodpecker and Long-billed Crombec. From here one can either return to Cape Town via Swartruggens and Op-die-Berg, or go back to the R355 and the Tanqua Karoo National Park. The Swartruggens road is best known for Cape Siskin and Cape Eagle-Owl. A word of caution: the roads in this remote and isolated area are often in poor condition – take enough fuel, fresh water and spare tyres.
Birding at Katbakkies and the Tanqua Karoo National Park Show details
BIRDING AT KATBAKKIES AND THE TANQUA KAROO NATIONAL PARK
The best time of year to visit the Tanqua Karoo is between August and October when the spring flowers display in breathtaking fashion and the majority of birds make the area come alive with their breeding displays and antics. The P2250 6.7 is reached 25 km after one has rejoined the R355. This road represents the best of Tanqua birding and specials to look out for include nomadic Ludwig’s Bustard and Black-eared Sparrowlark, as well as Tractrac Chat, Burchell’s and Double-banded Coursers, Karoo Eremomela and Karoo Korhaan. Raptors include Booted and Martial Eagles, Pale Chanting Goshawk, Greater and Rock Kestrels, and Black-breasted Snake-Eagle. Observant birders may also come across Lark-like Bunting, Black-headed Canary, a variety of larks, Namaqua Sandgrouse and Rufous-eared Warbler. Turn left to the TANQUA GUEST HOUSE 6.8 that now forms part of the National Park. Alternative accommodation is now also available in the Park – visit www.sanparks.org.za. The immediate area around the Tanqua Guest House affords great birding opportunities. The dense reeds and acacia thickets along the Tanqua River should produce Pririt Batis, Long-billed Crombec, Fairy Flycatcher, Dusky Sunbird, Namaqua Warbler and many more. The OUDEBAASKRAAL DAM 6.9 is a gem of a water mass in this arid landscape and one can expect to find large numbers of waterbird that include nomadic Greater Flamingo. Expect to find all three grebes, both cormorants and most of the ducks and herons of the region.
A birding visit to the TANQUA KAROO NATIONAL PARK 6.10 is highly recommended: it has a species list of 174 birds and 18 endemic species are wholly restricted to this area. The park gives a good summary of habitats that include desolate semi-desert scrub land, acacia thicket along the river and gullies and a dam. From here one can travel along the R355 to Calvinia or Sutherland and from there towards the Kalahari. It is recommended that the park be used as a stopover when travelling between Cape Town and the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park.
