West Coast National Park – Outing 17-2-24
 

For once the entrance into the Park ran smoothly. We started birding at Abrahamskraal and most of us were lucky to see an African Snipe and African Rail to the left of the hide. Southern Black Korhaan were calling. A female korhaan ducked behind a bush – and then stood still. She was so cryptic and difficult to see – right next to the road.

The tides were against us at Geelbek, so we went bush birding. In the avenue we watched a pair of Southern Grey-headed Sparrow at a nest. They use discarded nests – and holes in trees. The one hole below the main entrance was lined with many feathers, of Guineafowl and Cardinal Woodpecker. Interesting to watch.

Big excitement behind the manor house – where we found a Willow Warbler. It flew in to above our heads – a lifer for many in the group. Frustrating for the photographers, as this tiny bird moved all the time! Many Cape Spurfowl seen at a manger near the stables – quenching their thirst. The Park is very dry at the moment. Next we all went off to the Seeberg Hide. At Seeberg we watched Kittlitz’s and White-fronted Plovers fighting over territory. From the hide – many nice waders were seen. Eurasian Whimbrel, Grey Plover, Sanderling and lots of Terns. It was really nice to see so many Little Terns in the mix. A group of Red knot landed nearby – we all commented how few of them we had seen in recent years.

The lagoon showed us – all its many beautiful blue colours. Nice pictures were taken. All round a very nice outing. 63 species seen. Please remember if you go to WCNP – the manor house and restaurant are closed. So pack in enough food and drinks when leaving home. Well worth a visit.

Brigid Crewe