Botanical gardens create bird lovers paradise

POORTVIEW – Birds of a feather will flock together for the African Bird Fair this weekend.

September 2, 2016

Amy Ingram 1 minute read

Are you a bird-lover, conservationist, outdoor enthusiast or looking for a family day outdoors? Then, the African Bird Fair that will return to Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens for the third time, is the place for you.

The fair, which will run on 3 and 4 September, offers a programme which includes topical lectures, guided walks and entertainment for the children.

Did you know, The Cape robin-chat was voted SA’s favourite bird in 2015? A poll held on Birdlife South Africa’s website, had approximately 11 per cent of the 10 000 voters name the Cape robin-chat the favourite. Don’t let the size or colour of this bird fool you. It is an aggressive, territorial nester.

Did you know, South Africa’s National Bird, the blue crane, is listed as a vulnerable species and conservation measures, such as breeding facilities have been established?

Want to know more? The Cape robin-chat and blue crane will be discussed at the fair among other activities. The guided bird and garden walks, which start from 8am, will have you learning the importance of birds and bird calls. Other activities will include Zeiss optics demos at the waterfall.

More than 50 exhibitors are expected to sell their wares and promote nature conservation. The Black Eagle Project Roodekrans will present and allow the eagles to be viewed from their high-powered telescopes. This is especially exciting as the new black eagle female, Makatsa, was seen bringing a large branch to the nest earlier in the month.

Ronny Tshabalala, spokesperson for the botanical gardens said, “South Africans need to be proud of and enjoy the splendour that makes up the terrain we have and hence, we call upon families to come and appreciate an African-unique event at a magnificent outdoor arena.”

There are also spot prizes to be won. Admission will be R50, with a reduced rate for scholars at R25.

Details:Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens, 086 100 1278.