South Coast – Uvongo (VUNGU) River Nature Reserve
About the Birding
The Uvongo (VUNGU) River Nature Reserve protects a small area of riparian forest, just upstream of the river mouth. The reserve extends over roughly 28 hectares and includes a number of short walking trails along the banks of the river, providing ample room to explore the lush riverine forests.
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:
The reserve is situated on the KZN south coast between Port Shepstone and Margate. The main road passes over the bridge spanning the Vungu River. The reserve stretches upstream from this bridge. Access can be gained by crossing the Vungu river bridge to the south bank, then turn in at the first road to the right, a few hundred meters along this road past the tennis courts, turn right to Striders Club House. There is plenty of shady parking space alongside the club house. The reserve is about 130km from Durban.
Key species:
Purple-crested Turaco, African Black Duck, Narina Trogon, Spotted Ground Thrush