South Africa is a haven for twitchers and birdwatchers alike. In case you didn't know, a Twitcher is a birdwatcher whose main aim is to collect sightings of rare birds.
Because of Cape Town's wildly diverse landscapes, everything from mountainous to coastal, a rich number of bird species call the Cape their home. Whether you're a passionate birder or just appreciate these beautiful creatures, here are the top 15 birds you are likely to spot in the Cape:
African Penguin
Also known as the jackass penguin due to its braying call, these seemingly sophisticated birds with their tuxedo coat are unfortunately an endangered species. You can spot these protected creatures diving and waddling in between the boulders on the famous Boulders Beach.
Ostrich
These long-legged birds with big beautiful eyes may seem harmless but these flightless birds can run over 44 miles per hour – making them the fastest bird on land – and can kick so powerfully that it can kill a predator.
Orange-breasted Sunbird
This is a striking bird with a vibrant orange chest and metallic green underpants that performs impressive aerial moves to attract a mate. You can spot these bright beauties in between the fynbos using their specifically curved bill to extract the sweetest nectar.
Southern Double-Collared Sunbird
This bird is quite a sight with its electrifying plumage and elegant body – metallic green upper parts and a double collar of orange and yellow with a slender curved bill to feed on nectar. They are crucial for the pollination and you can spot them hovering over flowering plants and shrubs sipping their sweet nectar.
Cape Grassbird
An elusive species of bird that is well camouflaged in its surroundings but has quite a unique call of whistles and trills that give its presence away. You can find them in grassy and fynbos areas of the Cape where they feed on insects, seeds and other grassy vegetation.
Cape Sugarbird
This elegant beautiful bird with its long elongated tail feathers and curved bill is endemic to South Africa. You will often spot these brightly-coloured birds on the slopes of Table Mountain between the fynbos plants and proteas.
Cape Cormorant
Also known as the Cape shag, these birds are endemic to the south-western coasts of Africa. They are medium-seized glossy green-black birds that are frequently spotted in large offshore foraging flocks.
Jackal Buzzard
True to its name, this is a fairly large African bird of prey has a call that sounds similar to that of the black-backed jackal. It feeds primarily on small mammals such as mice, moles, dassies, lizards and snakes. They are also known as the rooiborsjakkalsvoël (rooibos jackal bird) that have a fascinating plumage of black legs and back, white flight feathers and a rich red-brown on its chin, throat and chest.
Cape Rockjumper
This well camouflaged bird blends perfectly into its rocky, mountainous habitat. It has bright orange plumage and contrasting white wing patches with a unique call of whistles and trills. It requires some patience to spot them as they hop from rock to rock in search of insects and small reptiles.
Hadeda Ibis
The name hadeda is onomatopoeic for their exorbitantly loud cry. This popular suburban bird has dull brown and grey feathers, so perhaps not on any birders list, but these birds and their familiar 'flying vuvuzela' cry are strongly associated with Cape Town.
Cape Canary
Also known as the Yellow Canary, this cheerful bird is found in the gardens and parks of the Cape and even the urban areas due to its highly adaptable nature. It has a bright yellow plumage and black wings that sings a delightful melody through the trees.
Cape Bulbul
You can find the Cape Bulbul with its cheerful presence and olive-green plumage in Cape Town's gardens, parks and green spaces, like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The are easy to spot with their beautiful song that reverberates through the trees while they feast on insects and berries.
Cape White Eye
These energetic and acrobatic birds make an impression with their bright yellow underpants and the white ring around their eyes. They travel in small flocks and frequent the forested, garden areas of the Cape.
Greater Flamingo
These majestic birds create a mesmerising sight with their slender long necks and pink plumage. They are not native to the Cape but you can find them in Cape Town's coastal wetlands, lagoons and salt pans. Their presence adds a touch of elegance and exoticism to the Cape.
Cape Robin-Chat
Similar to the Robin due to their enchanting song, they have an impressive appearance of slate grey underparts and a distinctive red breast that stands out in the forested areas of Cape Town.
Avid birdwatchers, travelers and nature lovers will be amazed at how many beautiful birds they can tick off their list to sight. You'll be enamoured by these delightful creatures that add such diversity and vibrance to the natural Cape Town.
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