Birding at Van Loveren

There are over 900 species of birds in Southern Africa, many of which can be seen to great advantage in the more popular game viewing areas, but if you’re particularly interested in birds, there is one spot you shouldn’t miss.

The Retief family’s beautiful wine farm, Van Loveren, lies on the road between Robertson and Bonnievale. The environment is safe, peaceful and will be sure to leave you feeling rejuvenated. Senior citizens will find the walk easy-going as there are no obstructions or steep incline. The section of the path along the Breede River is shaded by tall blue-gum trees and is pleasantly cool, even in warm weather.

The summer months are best for bird-watching and approximately 100 species can be recorded in a day, which is not possible anywhere else in the Robertson area. Look out for the Tambourine Dove who may appear unexpectedly. If you listen carefully, you will hear the Greater and Lesser Honeyguides and the Olive, Cardinal and Ground Woodpeckers before you see them.

Along the cliff face, where shrubs and aloes grow, you will see the Cape Rock-thrush and also the Cinnamon-breasted Bunting… if you are lucky.  The cliff face is a favourite hunting ground for the Lanner Falcon.  When you have passed the blue-gum trees and reached the turning point of the walk, look out for the pair of Fish Eagles and their nest  - they have nested there for several years. 

As you walk back along the river, be on the lookout for for the Red-billed Firefinch, the Red-billed Quelea and the Water Thick-knee.  Sometimes there are ducks on the river, including Yellow Billed Duck, Red-billed Teal, the Cape Shoveller and, where the water flows swiftly, the African Black Duck.

The walk will take approximately two hours, depending on how often you stop to watch and listen.