This is the 55th in an ongoing series that highlights the riches of Pigeon Valley, the urban nature reserve in the heart of Glenwood. The focus of this article will be on the Natal Spurfowl.
These birds were once rarely encountered in Pigeon Valley, but the long grass at the main reservoir and the thickets of the reserve now provide ample space for them. Early in the morning I will hear the cacophonous cackle of the Spurfowl, and, walking round the trails, I frequently flush one or a family group that flies up in a panic, calling loudly. According to the literature, they scatter and will each seek a spot of deep cover.
ALSO READ: Exploring Pigeon Valley: The young ones
The Spurfowls have a complex and attractive design that they seem reluctant to share with the viewer, no doubt because they do look very edible to bird-fanciers – they are sought after by a range of raptors and no doubt also by humans. I recently found a sad skeleton that had been picked clean by a raptor. They are most active early and late in the day, foraging in the leaf litter and topsoil for the grubs they favour most.
Crispin Hemson chairs the Friends of Pigeon Valley, a group that undertakes clearing of alien plants, keeps records of bird and mammal sightings and alerts management to any problems.
The Friends have a monthly walk at 7.30am on the second Saturday of each month. Email: friendsofpigeonvalley1@gmail.com.
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