The Amethyst, Greater Double-collared and Orange-breasted Sunbirds are all fairly common in the fynbos – particularly in the winter months, when most plant species are in bloom. Cape Sugarbird is conspicuous in stands of mature proteas and Victorin’s Warbler call from thickets; however, seeing the latter species requires patience and perseverance. Cape Rock Thrush, Bokmakierie, African Stonechat, Yellow Bishop, Cape Canary, and Common Waxbill are all common in fynbos scrub near the entrance.

Riverine forest along the Van Staden’s River and in the Van Staden’s Pass are reliable sites to look for Narina Trogon in the summer months. Other species present include Knysna Woodpecker, White-starred Robin, Yellow-throated Woodland Warbler, Dark-backed Weaver and Knysna Warbler. African Crowned Eagle nest nearby and are sometimes seen soaring over the reserve. The river itself holds Half-collared Kingfisher and, occasionally, African Finfoot.

The nearby Lady Slipper Mountain is blanketed in montane fynbos and is the closest place to Port Elizabeth at which to see several key fynbos endemics. Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird and Cape Siskin are all reasonably common. Protea Canary is infrequently reported, but birders should be mindful of this species among the common Streaky-headed Seedeater. Victorin’s Warbler are present in dense fynbos near the summit. Cape and Sentinel Rock Thrushes prefer rocky areas near the summit – alongside Familiar Chat, Cinnamon-breasted Bunting, and Long-billed Pipit. Cape Rockjumper is no longer present. Raptors on the mountain include Rock Kestrel, Forest Buzzard, Booted Eagle, Little Sparrowhawk, Black Harrier, and both Peregrine and Lanner Falcons.

Key species:

Cape Sugarbird, Orange-breasted Sunbird, Olive Bushshrike, Narina Trogon