There was elation from nature lovers to see new fencing being erected around the Umdoni Bird Park last week. No-one was more pleased to see progress on protecting Toti’s little gem than ward 97 councillor, Andre Beetge.
Although the bird park does not fall in his ward, he has championed its protection and maintenance over the years. The fence, which is 2.4m high, will enclose the park at a length of 1.2km. The existing precast fence is being removed and replaced with clear view fencing. The project will cost R1.7 million and be completed by the end of September.
Local birder Pam Featherstone said the 4.5-hectre park provides an important sanctuary for birds, with over 150 bird species recorded, including the endangered spotted ground thrush, rare and elusive narina trogan and is a very important safe space for ducks and geese. “This sanctuary allows them to come for their yearly molt in safety, as geese drop all their flights while molting, which leaves them extremely vulnerable.
It has also homed many and acted as a safe breeding ground for many years. Unfortunately due to the water quality issues and disturbances at the park, most have dispersed. Rare blue duiker and Cape clawless otter also used to frequent the bird park.”
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