Tshwane and Environs – Rietvlei Nature Reserve
About the Birding
An extremely productive reserve which in summer can see one expecting to see close on 100+ species in a single day’s birding. What makes this reserve even more appealing is its proximity to major residential areas. Not long after entering the reserve, about 500 meters from the entrance, is the Coot Corner’s hide which will provide you with excellent views over the dam. Numerous waterbird species can be seen from this hide including Reed Cormorant, African Purple Swamphen, Great Crested Grebe, Common Moorhen, Red-knobbed Coot and African Darter.
About the Birding Site
This reserve is a favorite birding spot for many birders due not only to the interesting variety of birds that can be found here, but also because of the excellent facilities as for example the 40kms of roads (30kms tarred) and three well maintained bird hides. The reserve also has several mammal species including Rhino, Buffalo, Hippo, and most recently, Cheetah.
Other Related Information
Access and facilities:
There is a basic coffee shop and restaurant in the reserve, as well as ablution facilities and picnic facilities as well.
GPS coordinates: S 25° 52′ 59.00″, E 28° 15′ 48.00″
Winter/Lockdown Times: 06:00 – 18:00 (last entry at 16:00).
Summer/No Lockdown Times: 05:30 – 19:00 (last entry at 17:00) Entrance Fees: R64 (Adults), R37 (Children between 7–17 years), R10 (Children between 3 –6 years).
Key species:
Cuckoo Finch (summer), Rufous-naped Lark, Wing-snapping and Cloud Cisticola, Great-crested Grebe, Secretarybird, Eurasian Hobby (summer), Orange River Francolin, Northern Black Korhaan, Spike-heeled Lark, Banded Martin, African Yellow Warbler, Fairy Flycatcher (winter), Plain-backed Pipit, Long-tailed Widowbird
Contact details:
N/A