West Coast – Lamberts Bay Jakkalsvlei
About the Birding
The wetland can be observed from numerous points along its southern bank. The best place to observe birds from is the site of the old bird hide (-32.0884, 18.3175). The parking area (-32.0889, 18.3168) and foot path still exist and allows the visitor within reasonable distance to the waterbody. Depending on water levels, this area attracts large numbers of Greater Flamingos, Egyptian Geese, Cape Teal, and many small waders.
About the Birding Site
Lamberts Bay is a small fishing village 250 km north of Cape Town. There are several ways to reach the town, the quickest would be along the N7 to Piketberg then the R366 to Het Kruis and then the R365 to Lamberts Bay. The alternate route would be the R27 to Velddrif and then the coastal road through Dwarskersbos and Elands Bay to Lamberts Bay. From a birding perspective there are two notable sites, Jakkalsvlei wetland on the northern edge of the town and Bird Island, which is accessible via a causeway from the fishing harbour.
Other Related Information
Access and facilities:
No costs apply.
Recommended accommodation nearby:
Lamberts Bay has a wide variety of accommodation available to the visitor, from a hotel to self-accommodation to camping facilities.
Key species:
Cape Gannet, Crowned Cormorant, Cape Cormorant, Kelp Gull, Hartlaub’s Gull, Swift (Great Crested) Tern, Greater Flamingo, Lesser Flamingo, Cape Teal, South African Shelduck
Contact details:
Additional information can be sourced from:
CapeNature
Website: https://www.capenature.co.za/