SANParks.org Forums

I really need to get more wader experience -

Can you recommend somewhere in or very close to Joburg, perhaps?

Hi huntsman,

the best time to watch waders in and around Gauteng really is when they stop over on their way further south in September, October and again when they stop over on their way back north in April, May.

Good spots around Gauteng usually are:

Mkhombo dam, Mpumalanga
Kgomo-Kgomo - Northwest
Leeupan - Evander, Mpumalanga
Rooikoppies dam, near Brits
And then most of the pans along the east rand, including Marievale etc.

I strongly suggest that you get this book if you don't already have it:

http://www.gautengbirding.co.za/

Happy birding!

I agree with all the places that WTM has said, and in my opinion the best place in the wider Gauteng region for waders is undoubtedly Mkhombo Dam. With Marievale you have to go at the right time of year (usually October and November), because at the moment the water levels there are very high and there aren't many waders around.

Thanks, guys -

I do indeed have the 'Gauteng Bible', but wanted your own suggestions. Thanks for the tips on timing also - I hadn't given that any thought...