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Mount Moreland Viewing Site
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Categories: roadside attraction; hide; guide;
Lake Victoria Wetland, at the foot of the village of Mount Moreland, is the biggest roost site for Barn (European) Swallows visiting South Africa during summer. From their arrival in mid-October to their departure in mid-April, it is sometimes possible to witness up to 3 million of these tiny migratory birds an evening from the special viewing site in Mount Moreland . The swallows gather together about half an hour before sunset, and provide a soul-stirring sight as they fly in their vast numbers over the Lake Victoria Wetlands. There is even a chance of witnessing a Bat Hawk or Sooty Falcon swooping in for a quick bite during the evening spectacle! As dusk falls, the swallows suddenly drop into the reed-beds and are gone. The Lake Victoria "motel" provides food and shelter for many birds. The swallows, which roost on the Phragmites reed stalks, stacking one above the other, share their accommodation and shelter with many lesser-known species, such as the Great Reed-Warbler and the Sand Martin. Overall, in the Mount Moreland Conservancy area, including the smaller Frog Swamp Wetland, more than 150 bird species have been recorded.
Specials to look out for are the 3 million Barn Swallows.
Directions
From the M4 or the N2 North, take the Umdloti/Verulam exit. Turn left towards Verulam. After about 1km turn right, opposite the Hillhead Farm Estate sign, onto the dirt road. Follow the Mount Moreland signs and the smaller 'Barn Swallow Site' signs for 3/4km into Mount Moreland village. The viewing site is opposite the marked parking area.
GPS Coordinates (decimals)
Lat: 29°38.51' S
Lon: 31°05.50' E
Additional Info
The viewing site is accessible daily to visitors, at sunset. There is no charge, but a donation box is on site (funds go to maintaining the site). Booklets on the swallows and general area are available on site at R20 each. The village green provides safe parking and a playground for children. For an enjoyable evening, it is recommended that deck-chairs, sun-downers and snacks, as well as binoculars and anti-mosquito spray, are taken along.
It is also possible to book the Mount Moreland Gazebo on the village green for functions and parties, at a nominal fee. The Gazebo offers braai and toilet facilities, tables and chairs, and a children's playground. This has proved to be a popular option for groups before and after the swallow viewing. Contact Ted or Hilary for bookings.
Habitat: Indigenous Phragmites Wetlands.
Contact
- Lake Victoria Conservancy, Mount Moreland
- Hilary Vickers: +27 (0)31 5681671
- Ted Vickers: +27 (0)83 776 1671
- Angie Wilken: +27 (0)31 568 1557