Some visit Southern Africa to go on safari. Some want to immerse themselves in all kinds of water-related activities, and then some people travel here to see with their own eyes the exquisite array of birdlife. With a myriad of exotic looking fauna and flora, avid birdwatchers can truly get their fix of beautiful species of the avian variety.
According to Go Africa there are up to nine hundred species of the winged animal in South Africa alone; and the best time to catch them is between the months of October and March. Southern Africa offers birdwatchers a scenic destination where the sight of an impressive animal such as the African elephant can be out-shone by just a glimpse of a rare bird. It is because of its varied climates and landscapes that so many species can be found here.
The ostrich is a funny-looking bird; it is large and flightless with grey (female) or black (male) feathers. They have long necks and very large feet, and are native to Africa. Their strong, muscular legs allow them to run speeds up to 70 km/h, it is the fastest bird on land. If you want to get up close with this bird you should make a turn at Oudtshoorn. This town in the Karoo is a haven for the large bird, and is the place to sit on or ride an ostrich. You can couple this experience with a visit to the Cango Caves nearby.
Another strange looking bird is the secretary bird; it is one of my favourites. This intriguing bird has long, thin legs, grey and black feathers and an interesting “Mohawk” on its head and neck. Mostly found in sub Sahara, you can see one of these elegant creatures at the predator bird sanctuary at Spier Wine Estate, just outside of Cape Town. You can also visit the cheetahs while at the estate.
Birds in SA report that the southern region of Africa is home to some of the most colourful of its species including the red-billed firefinch whose plumage is bright and richly coloured. There is also the Narina Trogon with a mixture of green, red and black feathers, and a longish tail.
If it is birds of prey you’re after then you’ll want to see the martial eagle, the large (and varied) family of owl, falcons and kestrels. The skill, might and sheer beauty of these birds while resting or in action is breathtaking.
If you plan on visiting the southern region of Africa with bird watching in mind it would be best to purchase an indigenous bird book. This will help you to look up the kinds of birds you see along your travels. You can also chat to your tour operator about the best places to see local birds in their natural habitat. Even in the cities you’ll find a plethora of bird life especially along the coast; just the other day I spotted a number of ostriches walking along the beach at Cape Point!
Jade Scully is a copywriter excited about writing copy and stories, blogging about the world and editing. She currently and regularly publishes her stories on a number of blogs. Jade loves animals and hopes to begin writing copy for the animal rescue charity TEARS as her contribution to the cause.
