A Birding Adventure at Walkersons

Wake up to the sound of birdsong and the embrace of nature at Walkersons Hotel & Spa. Nestled on the outskirts of Dullstroom, our private estate spans 800 hectares, offering a haven for birdlife enthusiasts and those seeking an escape from busy city life.

We invite you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of our surroundings and keep your eyes peeled for the common and not so common birds to be seen on Walkersons Estate.

Birding Bliss

For keen twitchers, Walkersons is a birding paradise. The diverse ecosystem of our expansive grounds provides a habitat for an array of bird species. From vibrant sunbirds to majestic raptors, every step on our mapped routes becomes a journey into the world of winged wonders.

Being located in the greater Dullstroom area, a renowned birding hotspot, Walkersons Estate offers opportunities to spot both endemic and migratory species. Binoculars in hand, let your senses soar as you encounter the rich tapestry of birdlife of Dullstroom.

Take a look at some of the recent sightings below:

Groundscraper Thrush

After an early start to the rainy season we’re looking forward to highlighting the beauty of the season. There’s nothing quite like the beauty of the Dullstroom highlands and one of the aspects we love most is the birds!

We’re highlighting one of our favourite Walkersons residents, the Groundscraper Thrush. These striking foragers can be seen speeding across the Walkersons lawns, stopping abruptly in an upright stance and flicking their wings.

Be sure to keep a look out for them on your next visit!

African Wood Hoopoe

African Hoopoes are beautifully distinctive with their cinnamon-coloured crown and black, white and rufous banded wings. Common throughout South Africa, they feed on large insects and their larvae by foraging in short grassy patches or bare ground – in the video on Instagram, you can see this specimen probing the ground with its bill.

We’ve spotted two, while only one African Hoopoe is in image. Here’s hoping we have a mating pair!

Greater Striped Swallow

The Greater Striped Swallow is a common breeding inter African migrant that occurs throughout Southern Africa. It breeds mainly in South Africa, Namibia and southern Zimbabwe. It is migratory wintering further north in Angola, Tanzania and southern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Greater striped swallows feed on flying insects and small fruits. They prefer dry open country, such as grassland, and have a preference for hills and mountains – especially in areas of human habitation like Walkersons Hotel & Spa.

Ducks

Always on the hunt for the tastiest, crunchiest snails – you will spot our resident ducks making themselves quite at home around Walkersons Hotel & Spa.

The duck ponds are undoubtedly a favourite spot for them, and little ones staying in the hotel delight in watching their antics daily – especially when they have chicks.

Other common Bird Species in Dullstroom:

Cape Robin-Chat: Recognized by its distinctive melodic song, the Cape Robin-Chat is a common sight in Dullstroom’s woodlands and gardens.

Southern Masked Weaver: With its striking yellow and black plumage, the Southern Masked Weaver is a frequent visitor, particularly in grassy areas and near water.

Cape Wagtail: This bird, often seen near streams and wetlands, is characterized by its long tail and constant tail-wagging behavior.

Speckled Pigeon: Often found in rocky areas and open landscapes, the Speckled Pigeon is identified by its distinctive speckled markings.

Red-eyed Dove: Recognizable by its red eye ring, this dove is widespread in Dullstroom and can be seen in various habitats.

Rare Bird Species to see in Dullstroom:

Blue Swallow: Dullstroom is known for being one of the few places where the Blue Swallow can be spotted. These birds are often found in grasslands during the summer months.

Wattled Crane: A rare and majestic sight, the Wattled Crane is sometimes seen in wetland areas around Dullstroom.

Secretarybird: With its distinctive appearance, the Secretary Bird is an occasional visitor to open grasslands in the region.

African Finfoot: Found near slow-flowing rivers and wetlands, the African Finfoot is a secretive bird and a rare gem for birdwatchers.

Yellow-breasted Pipit: This rare pipit species can be found in the grasslands around Dullstroom during the breeding season. Identifiable by its yellow breast and distinctive call.

More birding in Dullstroom at the Bird of Prey Centre

Just down the road from Walkersons Hotel & Spa, the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre is open daily from 9h00 to 16h00, and is closed on Tuesdays (except if the Tuesday is a public holiday). You can also attend the popular Flight Displays daily at 10h30 and 14h30 (weather permitting – to avoid disappointment please phone to check).

Their twice-daily flight displays, during which visitors receive dazzling, up-close encounters with South Africa’s most magnificent birds, will bring a smile to even the most serious animal enthusiast. A stroll through the enclosures, marked with notes on the history of each animal, well-manicured gardens, kiddies playground, farmyard and well-appointed coffee shop is a perfect way to spend a sunny morning or afternoon in Dullstroom.

Tel: 082 899 4108

Stay with us

Escape to the Dullstroom countryside and immerse yourself in a world where birding adventures and wellness pursuits converge. Walkersons Hotel & Spa invites you to experience the therapeutic benefits of nature while staying active on our stunning estate via our walking and running trails.

Join us to discover the birding wonders of the region, and let every step be a celebration amid the breathtaking landscapes of Dullstroom. Bookings can be made by emailing book@walkersons.co.za 

 

Image credits:
Blue swallow – Zak Pohlen
Southern Masked Weaver – Nigel Dennis
Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre