The developments, by Friends of the Liesbeek with the City of Cape Town, to allow flood waters easier access to the pans situated at Raapenberg Wetland, have not only assisted and benefited the community in flood alleviation but have also benefited the wider bird community. The rapid, torrential rain received on the 17th of April, allowed the Liesbeek River to spill into and subsequently inundate the wetland’s pans, creating a safe haven for a variety of bird species. The most talked about has to be the Greater Flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus), who have found the wetlands to be a fine roosting ground. Other bird species include the Great White Pelican, Grey Heron, Pied and Malachite Kingfishers, Yellow-billed Duck and Cape Teal to name but a few.
Work done by the Liesbeek Maintenance Project and the Kader Asmal River Cleaning Project to ensure the encroachment of reeds is kept at bay, has allowed for greater visibility to the various areas of the wetland. Both the South African Astronomical Observatory and River Club Golf Course offer bird hides with views over the wetland. We ask that you simply check with security at either establishment to gain access.
Happy birding!
The flooded pans at Raapenberg Bird Sanctuary.
Greater Flamingos taking time off
Pelicans among many other species making use of the wetland
