Water bird opulence leads to new bird watching routes

Following a water bird count which revealed 73 different species of water birds living in the Vaal area, the Vaal dam was proclaimed an Important Birding Area (IBA) in 2003. The opulence of birdlife is still observed today. 

In response to this, a partnership between Sedibeng Tourism, Gauteng Tourism, Vaalnest Boutique Hotel, other stakeholder and SA Birding emerged to create new bird watching routes in the area.

Two routes will be available for exploration. These include the Midvaal route and the Sedibeng route. Viewers will also find various accommodation spots available along the routes.

“The routes will provide the local community, as well as visitors from other areas, with the opportunity to increase their knowledge on birds and simply enjoy viewing the different species that make up the rich birdlife in the area.” This is according to Keith Attwell, general manager at 

Vaalnest Boutique Hotel.

The routes will be unveiled at the Gauteng Tourism stand at the ICC Conference Centre in Durban from 11 to 14 May 2012. Interested parties looking for more information should contact Keith Attwell on 016 372 1075 or e-mail Keith at keith@vaalnest.co.za.