16th March 2024

Once we had navigated the challenges of getting a whole group of cars through the gates, we started the day by scanning the dam near the reserve’s entrance. Cumberland Nature Reserve is a fantastic destination for birding, just outside of Pietermaritzburg. Sadly, the reserve is not open to day visitors. This shows the value of being part of a bird club, as you get to access these kinds of venues with a group of like-minded people. 

The walk through the wet grass to the dam was well worth it. We were treated to a wide range of species, including a pair of African Swamphens moving alongside the reeds on the far side of the dam. African Jacanas moved over the foliage on the water, and a Malachite Kingfisher sat perched a few meters above the water, masterfully looking for its next catch. Black Saw-wings swooped effortlessly over the top of the water. It was also exciting to see African Black Ducks on the dam! Other species we managed to see included Reed Cormorant, Burchell’s Coucal, Spur-winged Goose, and African Darter.

The trees around the dam’s sides also provided some good species for the morning. Golden-tailed Woodpecker, Yellow-rumped Tinkerbird, Gorgeous Bushshrike, and Chinspot Batis called while we spent time on the pier at the dam. We managed to see Yellow-throated Bush Sparrow, Willow Warbler, Southern Black Tit, and a small flock of Red-billed Oxpeckers in the trees near the dam. One of the highlights in the trees, as a Grey-crowned Crane sunning itself and posing for some great photos.

The morning had gotten off to a good start, and we were looking forward to what we would still see. On the convoy drive to the picnic area, we saw a Long Crested Eagle.

The picnic area is normally a great spot to spend some time birding. After some refreshments under the trees, we started to see what we could find. We were able to record a Lazy Cisticola at the picnic site, which allowed the newer birders to brush up on their LBJ identification skills. A Common Buzzard allowed us all to practice identifying brown raptors. We managed to record a Cape Grassbird, which was calling noisily alongside the path and allowed us brief views. We were also able to record Bar-throated Apalis, Yellow-fronted Canary, Neddicky, and Southern Fiscal, among other species.

We made our way across the small bridge to start a walk along the top of the valley that winds its way through the reserve. We scanned the cliff faces, hoping to see some special species, but sadly they were mostly quiet. Steve Davis’ good identification helped us to record not only Lesser-striped but also Greater-striped Swallow. We got some distant views of the chunky Croaking Cisticola. The walk along the cliff face, although it was very hot, allowed us to see and hear species such as Yellow-throated Longclaw, Lesser Honeyguide, Orange-breasted Bushshrike, and Rock Martin. We were really lucky to get an up-close sighting of a pair of stunning Mocking Cliff Chats.

We took some time to enjoy the view over the river. This allowed us to not only record some more species but also take in the beauty of the reserve. Along the river, we saw a Goliath Heron, along with a Cape Wagtail.

In need of refreshments and a break from the relentless sun, we started to make our way back to the picnic site. On the way back, we saw a Yellow-billed Kite, which was later in the day than we expected to first record this species.

Under the trees at the picnic site, we ate, went through the bird list, spoke about the upcoming Flock to Marion Cruise, and enjoyed each other’s company. We managed to see a healthy total of 96 species, and for those who stayed later, we added a Groundscraper Thrush to the total.

Report by Adam Cruickshank