This trip report was provided by Johan van der Westhuizen.
Despite the unfavourable weather conditions, 10 birders in 3 vehicles left the Onrus OK parking area at 7:30 am in high spirits, destination the “van der Stel pass”. At the Karwyderskraal turnoff from the R43, 6 more birders in 3 vehicles joined the group. The convoy then drove along the Karwyderskraal road and as can be expected the more common birds such as Guineafowl, Hadeda Ibis, Egyptian geese and spur-winged Geese were soon ticked off. A Rock Kestrel glided past, followed by a Yellow-billed Kite, which was a “first” for the season for most of the group. Brimstone Canaries were spotted feeding next to the road. In the field opposite the “dump”, 2 Denham’s Bustards were spotted, which resulted in brakes being slammed on and everyone disembarking, with the photographers trying their best to take photographs of the distant birds in the early morning light. Two more Bustards flew in but unfortunately landed on the other side of the hill.
At the first official stop at the Steel Bridge, the birders mingled and welcomed the 2 new members. Levaillant’s Cisticola, Common Waxbill, White-throated Swallows, Blue Cranes, Yellow-billed Ducks and Cape Robin Chat amongst others were soon added to the growing bird list. Reports also came in of Capped Wheatear, Large-billed- and Red-capped Lark being spotted on the way. The convoy then made its way along the Swartrivier road. The Canola fields were in full bloom and with the green wheat fields, made for some spectacular scenery. Landscape photography was embraced, and the birds played second fiddle for a change. Numerous birds were active in the fields and along the road. African Pipits, Southern Red Bishops and Cape Canaries amongst others, were reported by those not distracted by the scenery.
After driving along the N2 and the Villiersdorp road the Hawston View gravel road was a welcome relief as birding could be done at a more leisurely pace. The convoy stopped at the grove of Blue gum trees for a much-needed coffee break. A Greater Honeyguide was calling but the movement of the trees in the strong wind made it impossible to spot. Birds seen were Malachite Sunbirds, Cape White-eye, Karoo Scrub Robin and Cape Batis.
The next stop at the dilapidated building next to the road on the “van der Stel pass” were unsuccessful as the Western Barn Owl usually found there, was nowhere to be seen. The convoy slowly made its way up the pass, but only Cape Bunting were added to the list. At the turn-around point the group spent some time scanning the nearby cliffs for the Verreaux’s Eagles often found there. Two people reported spotting an Eagle briefly, and this motivated everyone to search the cliffs in earnest. A nest was spotted and resulted in some hilarious direction giving. Suddenly a pair of Verreaux’s Eagles took to the skies, to the delight of all watching. A male Southern Double-collared Sunbird joined in the excitement and perched close-by, affording plenty of photo opportunities.
On the way back to Botrivier, the convoy stopped at a well-known birding spot to try and attract a Greater Honeyguide sometimes found there. The only birds responding however were a competitor, a Male Klaas’s Cuckoo and a flock of Cape Canaries. An African Dusky Flycatcher was spotted perching on a fence post from where it launched numerous attacks on a variety of insects.
At the Goedvertrouw Estate the group stopped for lunch. Streaky-headed Seedeaters were abundant, feasting on the ripe Wild Figs and Amethyst Sunbirds were spotted feeding on the flowers of a Coral Tree. Swee Waxbills, Olive Thrushes, Cape Bulbuls and Cape Weavers further entertained the appreciative birders. The group then disbanded, each completing the rest of the journey in their own time.
The final bird species count of 82 was encouraging given the unfavorable birding conditions. This added to the enjoyment of birding in these amazing and beautiful locations. Those who have not birded the Swartrivier road and “van der Stel pass” before, were duly impressed by its beauty and tranquility.
The next Birdlife Overberg outing is on the 27th of September 2025 to the Stanford area where a bird ringing demonstration will be attended, followed by a visit to Flower Valley and Platbos Forest.