Birders

Birding in Satara

Satara, like other camps, has a plethora of resident birds. Particularly prominent are Red-billed Buffalo Weaver, Burchell’s Starling and Mourning Dove. At night Verreaux’s (Giant) Eagle, Barn, Scops Owls and Pearl-spotted Owlet can be seen and heard in camp, along with Square-tailed ( Mo za mbique ) Nightjar . The open plains to the north of the camp are perhaps the best place in the park to record Montagu's and Pallid Harrier.

The N'wanedzi Picnic Site (24 km from Satara) is worth visiting. Violeteared Waxbill, Yellowbellied Greenbul (Bulbul), Mocking Cliff-Chat are regulars here, while Shaft-tailed Whydah has been seen nearby. Golden Pipit has been seen on the S100. There is also a viewing platform that provides an elevated view down on the N'wanedzi River. About 2 km from N'wanedzi on the S37 Road the Sweni Bird Hide is well worth stopping at.

In winter, when water levels are low, and rocks, mud-banks and reeds are exposed, the site is exceptionally active bird-wise, with many passerines coming to drink and joining the ubiquitous Hamerkop, Green-backed Heron and Great (Great White) and Little Egrets. In summer, after heavy rain, the high water levels reduce the bird-life. However it is an excellent venue to see Blue-cheeked Bee-eater that is regularly in attendance here.