South Coast – Oribi Conservancy/ Idwala Nature Reserve (NPC Cimpor)
About the Birding
The Oribi Conservancy/Idwala Nature Reserve is a relatively recent development in the UmzimKulwana River valley, virtually forming an extension of the well-known Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve (treated separately). The area has a somewhat drier climate than Oribi Gorge and is characterised by more open valley and bushveld vegetation, though many species are common between the two reserves.
About the Birding Site
The South Coast Birding Route in KwaZulu-Natal – spanning from Durban to the southern provincial border between KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape – comprises a variety of rich sub-tropical habitats ranging from coastal and inland wetlands to extensive grasslands, woodlands and forests. The forest birding to be had in this region is arguably some of the best anywhere in South Africa, featuring an interesting community of birds that is intermediate between the rich afromontane and coastal forests.
Other Related Information
Directions:
Take the N2 in the direction of Kokstad from Port Shepstone. Travel through the Marburg industrial area. Pass through four sets of traffic lights and then proceed for about 9km after the final traffic light to the turnoff on the right, poorly signposted Oribi Flats East (If you miss the turnoff you will come to Merchison Hospital, turn back – you have gone too far) …
Key species:
White Starred Robin, Cape Vulture, Narina Trogon, African Finfoot, Brown Scrub-robin
Contact details:
For more information, or to make arrangements to visit, please contact:
Tel: +27 (0)39 687 8900