Bird watching in Hermanus
The diverse habitats presented by mountains, fynbos, coastal lowlands, forests, lagoons, river and sea result in an incredible diversity of bird species in Hermanus. All the habitats are easily accessible and local guides are happy to assist visiting bird watchers.
In each of the various habitats Hermanus bird watchers can look forward to spotting endemic and often threatened species. Fynbos endemics include the Cape Sugarbird, Victorin’s Warbler, the Protea Seedeater and the Orange-breasted and Southern Double collared Sunbirds. Regional endemics include the Cape Spurfowl, Cape Bulbul and the Cape Long-billed Lark. Marine endemics include the Caspian Tern, Hartlaub’s Gull, the African Black Oystercatcher, Whitefronted Plovers and the seasonal visit of the rare Damara Tern in summer. The majestic Verreaux’s (Black) Eagle has been seen in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve Mountains and more often Black Harriers are seen. Spotted Eagle Owls are a common sight and Barn Owls are occasionally seen or heard. Large flocks of Greater Flamingos frequent the lagoons at Bot River and Klein River and are also seen on The Pan in Vermont. The country’s national bird, the Blue Crane, is a prominent priority and pairs can be seen on the farmlands on the outskirts of Hermanus.
There are several accommodation establishments in Hermanus that specialise in “Twitchers” and cater to their specific demands (contact the Hermanus Tourism office for details). This is a result of many residents sharing a sincere passion for the beauty and incredible habits of birds. Make yourself at home and rely on local advice on where to point your pair of binoculars or camera.
Although bird enthusiasts will be in their element, even those with little knowledge about the different species will be entranced by the flittering vivid colours and sweet melodic tunes. Simply lounging in the outdoors will elicit the fascinating show of the birds found in the Overberg.
Birdlife Overberg is one a growing number of birding clubs and an excellent source of information at birding@overberg.co.za
