Greater Plettenberg Bay – Bitou wetlands & Keurbooms
About the Birding
Bitou Floodplain (-34.00296, 23.3540) – Depending on the water levels, Common Greenshank, Black-winged Stilt, Glossy Ibis, Three-banded, Common-Ringed and Kittlitz’s Plover can be found on the Bitou Pan. Also look out for Blue Crane, Spur-winged Goose and African Spoonbill. Pied Avocet, South African Shelduck and Red-billed Teal. In summer Wood Sandpiper, Curlew Sandpiper, Little Stint and Ruff are also found on the Pan.
About the Birding Site
Bitou Wetlands have some incredible mudflats and reedbeds, which attract several birds, especially in summer. The mudflats on the Keurbooms River, especially in front of Goose Marsh are quite the same, and the number of waders can be astonishing.
The upper Keurbooms River becomes more forested, which gives even more bird diversity. Up to 100 species can be seen in these areas in a day, many of which are forest specials or unique waders.
Other Related Information
Bitou Wetlands (roadside birding): -34.00333, 23.35568 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/GpMF8QQcvkfkYnHH7)
Goose Marsh: -34.02427, 23.38859 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/sGmLm7g3TTLXYUB68)
Cape Nature picnic site and boat launch: -34.00186, 23.40174 (https://maps.app.goo.gl/7iTS8CVMtsenSsyR7)
There are numerous tourist facilities around these areas, including picnic sites, bathrooms, and fuel stations.
The Cape Nature picnic site charges a day visitors site, but Goose Marsh is free to access. Canoes can be hired from the picnic site to access the upper Keurbooms river.
Text Prepared by:
Justin Ponder
Key species:
Blue Crane, Common-ringed Plover, Curlew Sandpiper, Bar-tailed Godwit, Knysna Turaco, Grey Cuckooshrike, Narina Trogon, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, Half-collared Kingfisher, African Finfoot