Nature Reserves

Marievale Bird Sanctuary

 

Egyptian Goose

Kolgans

(Alopochen aegyptiaca)

Marievale Bird Sanctuary forms part of the greater Blesbokspruit, a registered Ramsar wetland and is one of South Africas best

birding spots. Marievale Bird Sanctuary in situated south east of Nigel in the Blesbokspruit catchment area. The sanctuary

consists of shallow water permanently inundated with reeds and surrounded by grassland. The wetland was artificially formed by the

mining activities in the surrounding area, causeway were build, which affectively dammed up the Blesbokspruit to form the wetland.

The Sanctuary boast with a list of over 280 bird species. Marievale Bird Sanctuary not only offers wetland bird species, but also

provides the visitor with an array of Highveld grassland inhabitants.

 

Malachite Kingfisher

Kuifkopvisvanger

(Alcedo cristata)

There are a number of hides on the reserve. Provide birders and bird photographers with some of the best opportunities,

not only to admire the abundance of wetland and grassland species but also create outstanding images.

 

Cape Shoveler

Kaapse Slopeend

(Anas smithii)

 

Black-winged Stilt

Rooipootelsie

(Himantopus himantopus)

 

Hottentot Teal

Gevlekte Eend

(Anas hottentota)

 

Red-billed Teal

Rooibekeend

(Anas erythrorhyncha)