The Graaff-Reinet Bird Club was formed in 2001.
Over 249 species have been recorded in this area, with about 52 endemic and near endemic species, which is more than in any other natural region.
The club has between 10 and 15 regular members and meets on the first Saturday of every month, usually visiting private farms with suitable habitats or, occasionally, the Camdeboo National Park. Trips are not necessarily confined to the Graaff-Reinet district but have also included Vrede in the Camdeboo Conservancy with it’s different to Karoo habitat and the birds that go with it; Groenvlei in the Murraysburg district , Rietvlei on the New Bethesda road, Welgemoed in the shadow of Nardau Mountain, Welgelegen just up the Sundays River from Jansenville and Glen Avon on the slopes of the Boschberg, Somerset East. This is a sleepover trip and such a highlight that it is likely to be repeated.
Over the last twelve months we added 27 species to our Club list (see below) proving just how habitat makes a difference to the composition of the birds in an area.
The usual rendezvous for our trips is in front of the Department of Agriculture / Environmental Affairs Building in Bourke Street, Graaff-Reinet unless otherwise informed.
The time of departure of our outings varies with the seasons but in summer is generally between 0500 and 0600 while in winter we try to leave by 0700.
We recommend that you bring along a snack for breakfast, something for the braai at the end of the outing as well as a chair. Birders need hardly be reminded to bring along their binoculars, field guide, hat, sunscreen, and water!
There is no charge for club outings and visiting birders are most welcome. Guided outings can be arranged on request.
Bird List
Please click here for an up-to-date, printable bird list of birds confirmed to be have been spotted in the Camdeboo National Park.
Graaff-Reinet Bird Club Contacts
Graaff-Reinet Bird Club Newsletter
The club also regularly produces an interesting newsletter full of information about sightings, club outings, forthcoming birding events and member experiences. To read a newsletter click on it.
