Pigeon Valley has much to offer
The walks are organised by the Friends of Pigeon Valley and take place every second Saturday of the month at 7.30am.
THE first monthly walk of 2017 at Pigeon Valley Nature Reserve drew an enthusiastic group who were delighted to experience the birds, trees, reptiles, mammals and other forms of nature that this urban reserve has to offer.
According to Crispin Hemson, leader of the Friends of Pigeon Valley group, visitors observed 53 bird species and were struck by the rapid growth of the vegetation after recent rains.
The walks are organised by the Friends of Pigeon Valley and take place every second Saturday of the month at 7.30am, with the group meeting at the entrance to the reserve in Princess Alice Avenue. Conditions vary according to the time of year.
“The reserve is a gem of biodiversity despite its urban setting. It is unique, in particular because of the winter presence of the endangered Spotted Ground-Thrush and the very rare Natal Elm and Forest Loquat trees (Celtis midlbraedii and Oxyanthus pyriformis),” said Crispin.
He said the reserve boasts a bird list of about 150 species, a tree list of 105 species and a butterfly list of 88. Recently, the uncommon Short-barred Sapphire was found in the reserve.
Those interested are welcome to join the walks by contacting Crispin Hemson on hemsonc@gmail.com.
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