This trip report was provided by Johan van der Westhuizen.
Thirteen birders in four vehicles left the Eastcliff SPAR at 07:00, destination the beautiful Platbos Forest Reserve. A quick stop at the Bird Hide at “Willem Appel se Dam” to join up with another birder, allowed for some special sightings, amongst others African Swamphen, White-backed duck, Black Crake & Pearl-breasted Swallows. There were also Black Sparrowhawk and Rock Kestrel fly-overs.
We left Stanford with 25 Bird species already logged on the outing list. Another five birds were added before we arrived at our next destination. The Forest at Witkrans / Flower Valley turned out to be very productive, with around twenty species logged. Another birder joined here. Specials including Knysna Woodpecker, Cardinal Woodpecker and Amethyst Sunbird. Bokmakierie & Southern Boubou were heard but not seen. Some of the members, mostly ladies, got distracted by the beautiful surroundings and ample plant life and had to be reminded that we were on a Birding outing.
After a quick cup of coffee and with muffins supplied by one of the members, we left for our ultimate destination, the enchanting Platbos Forest Reserve. While still sorting out the administrative requirements, a report was received of a Tambourine Dove seen by two birders on the way to the toilet. What a sighting! The forest, as always, was green and lush and we opted to follow the roads as this at least allows glimpses of the birds as they fly over.
Birds could constantly be heard, but very few were seen. Two African Olive Pigeons were seen high up in the canopy, but photography was challenging to say the least. Only five bird species were added to the list during the visit to the Platbos Forest Reserve.
Lunch was enjoyed in the forest near the car park, before venturing deeper into the forest again to visit the “Old Tree”. The 1000-year-old Milkwood was indeed a sight to behold. The nearby Maze entertained a few of the members for a while before everyone returned to the vehicles. After saying their goodbyes, the group disbanded, each vehicle returning home in its own time.
A quick stop at “Die Vette Mossel” next to Kleinrivier Lagoon produced a few more birds, such as Water Thick-knee, Cormorants, Gulls & Terns.
What a way to end an otherwise challenging day!
Our next outing is on the 26th of September 2026 to the “van der Stel” Pass.