Wednesday, 16th October 2019
After a few days of cold, windy weather with patches of sunlight, the 16th October was one of those beautiful days that greeted us as we left Durban early to be ready to bird at 07.00 when the reserve opened. A truck stuck on the road was not a deterrent but just a slight inconvenience. Eleven people attended. Unfortunately Sithembiso Majoka had to pull out at the last moment, but we were guarded and guided most competently, by the person he had asked to take care of us.
We began with a walk around the dam and across the bridge – we could hear the birds but it was still slightly chilly. However, as the sun began to warm the high trees, we were treated to more and more sightings along the river path. Malachite sunbird, Grey-headed sparrow, Sombre greenbul, Dark-backed weaver, Grey waxbill and black-throated wattle-eye were some of the highlights recorded.
Grey waxbill 
Black-throated wattle-eye 
Grey-headed sparrow 
Dark-backed weaver
We had to turn around near the end of the path as the vegetation was thick but once again on the bridge, we watched water birds and the village weavers and a few Red bishop birds building and chattering away. We then moved to the other side where there was a plethora of Black saw-wings, swooping and then clustering on branches. On to the famous nesting corner where we were not disappointed.
It had become very hot by the time we all met on the verandah for some refreshment and to compare lists. Some left for the aManzimtoti estuary to see if more shorebirds and waders could be added to their lists. All in all, a superb day.
The usual culprits were seen but highlights were Grey waxbill, Black Saw-wing Swallow and Little-rush warbler. 52 species in all.
Report by Lesley Frescura and photos by Maxine Carter
