The reserve is also notable for being a reliable place for Common Quail in the summer months. These secretive birds can be heard across the reserve, but you will have to work hard to see one!

Other regular species include 3 species of lark, namely Red-capped, Large-billed and Cape Clapper. The latter which is difficult to observe except in the spring months when performing its distinctive display flights. Cisticolas are also well represented, with Levaillant’s, Zitting and Grey-backed all being fairly common along with the Cloud Cisticola. African Pipits, Capped Wheatears and Cape Longclaws are often seen foraging out in the open fields. The small dam in the reserve attracts a variety of birds including Black Winged Stilts, Cape Teals, Yellow-billed Ducks and occasionally African Snipe.

Spring brings migrants such as European Bee-eaters, Namaqua Dove, Common Quail and a variety of swallows including Pearl-breasted, Barn, White-throated and Greater Striped. If you are lucky you will see some Blue Cranes in the fields of the reserve, but they are often seen flying over the neighbouring farmlands.

The reserve comes to life every spring with carpets of wildflowers, and duly attracts large crowds. Birding around the section closer to the public is best avoided, with your attention paid to the quieter parts.

Key species:

Cloud Cisticola (Nominate subspecies), Common Quail, Cape Longclaw, Blue Crane, Capped Wheatear, African Snipe, Red Capped Lark, Large Billed Lark