GRAAFF-REINET NEWS — Birding is big in South Africa.

In Graaff-Reinet especially there is a great diversity of bird life to discover if you know where to look.

In the Camdeboo National Park nearly 260 bird species have been recorded, with an interesting ecotonal mix including species typical of both the Great Karoo and Eastern region avifaunas.

It is for that reason that - in 2009 - the members of the SANParks Honorary Rangers organised an annual event which has since established Graaff-Reinet as one of the country's avian hotspots!

The eighth annual Camdeboo Birding Weekend will be held next weekend, March 17 and 18, in Graaff-Reinet and its surrounding national park.

Many avid birders have already registered to participate in the weekend's activities which include many guided excursions during which the area's extensive selection of birds can be spotted.

A total of 138 different species were ticked from the park’s bird list during last year’s event - not as many as what was expected due to the dry conditions experienced at the time.

Along with the African olive pigeon and a Red-backed shrike, spotted near the Khwalimanzi hide, almost 260 species can now be ticked off the park’s birding list.

You might even be lucky enough to spot the Great White Pelican.

Don't wait, register to participate in the weekend's activities by contacting the park’s Senior People and Conservation Officer, Rosemary Scheepers on 049 892 3453.

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