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Bluff Nature Reserve
skznbs11.4
Categories: roadside attraction; hide; trails;
Bluff Nature Reserve was proclaimed in 1961, making it Durban's oldest bird sanctuary. It is situated in Tara Road in the Bluff area near to the Engen oil refinery. The original extensive wetland area was split in two by the construction of Tara Road , with the majority of the vlei being to the east of the road.
The water level in the vlei fluctuates with weather conditions and occasionally the vlei dries up, most recently in the second half of 2005. The vlei is also occasionally invaded by alien vegetation, and these factors are a cause of great changes in both the number and variety of waterfowl present. The reed beds potentially provide extensive roosting and breeding areas for several species of herons and egrets, as well as African Spoonbills and several crakes and rails. However, in the last few years breeding activity appears to have been mainly restricted to the likes of Egyptian & Spur-winged Geese, swamphens and coots.
To the west of Tara Road is a small section of the vlei, which is often covered with water lilies. This adjoins a large area of coastal forest stretching from the vlei up the hill to Wentworth Hospital . All the typical coastal forest birds and tree species are to be found here. However, this forest section is not open to the general public.
Specials to look out for are Black-throated Wattle-eye, Rufous-winged Cisticola, Grey Sunbird, African Fish-Eagle, African Purple Swamphen and Black Crake.
Directions
To reach the reserve, head south along the M4 from the city centre. Take the Mobeni/Jacobs off-ramp and turn left into Quality Street . Follow the road to the top of the hill, from where the vlei can be seen, and down the other side to Tara Road . Turn left and immediately right into the reserve, which is controlled by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
GPS Coordinates (decimals)
Lat: 29°56.30' S
Lon: 30°59.46' E
Additional Info
The reserve is accessible by day visitors and a nominal entrance fee is charged.
The reserve is open between 7:00am - 7:00 pm.
There is a trail leading through some coastal bush remnants and reed beds to two elevated hides which look out over the vlei and beds of Typha and Phragmites.
There is safe parking for up to 10 cars and toilet facilities are available. Restaurants can be found nearby.
Contact
- Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife
- Tel: +27 (0)31469 2807
- E-mail: divesj@kznwildlife.com
- Website: www.kznwildlife.com