Benvie Farm

IBA – SA071

Categories: guide; trails; booking required;

Benvie Garden was established approximately 125 years ago and is well known throughout South Africa in both gardening and to a lesser extent birding circles.

The garden consists mainly of large conifers, azaleas and rhododendrons and is in extent ± 30 hectares and borders on indigenous forest.

There is a sign-posted walk around the garden of approximately 2km and along the walk one is likely to see Orange Ground-Thrush, Knysna Turaco, Chorister Robin-Chat, Olive Woodpecker, Grey Cuckooshrike, White-starred Robin and Cape Parrot which also nest on the property. During early summer various migrants arrive, mainly in the Cuckoo family and Red-chested, Black, African Emerald and Klaas's as well as Diderick are found in reasonable numbers. Regular sightings of Forest Buzzard and Narina Trogon are also experienced.

As an alternative there is a picturesque out and back easy walk of 2km along a forest stream within the indigenous forest where good sightings of Mountain Wagtail, Chorister Robin-Chat, Narina Trogon, Knysna Turaco, Orange Ground-Thrush and Grey Cuckooshrike can be had as well as most other mist belt birds.

During the breeding season (October to December) a number of active Orange Ground-Thrush nests will be observed on this walk.

The site is not within walking distance of the Benvie Garden and it would be recommended that one of the resident guides be used. The site is a short drive from the Garden and it would be better to do this walk in dry weather.

Specials that can be sited here include Cape Parrot, Orange Ground-Thrush, White-starred Robin, Chorister Robin-Chat, Knysna Turaco, Scaly-throated Honeyguide, Olive Woodpecker, Grey Cuckooshrike, Narina Trogon, Forest Buzzard, Bush Blackcap, Buff-spotted Flufftail and Lemon Dove.

Directions

From Howick, take the Karkloof/Rietvlei Road . Travel for 33kms.
Turn right onto the York/New Hanover Road . Down the hill ±3kms.
Then onto D583 on your left and Benvie entrance is ahead of you and follow the Birding Signs.

Additional Info

Benvie is accessible by appointment and a nominal entrance fee is charged. There are marked trails and secure parking is available in the Garden as well as toilet facilities and two guides. Restaurants can also be found nearby.

Habitats: Mist-belt forest, streams, small dams and a 125 year old garden. Benvie is also a Cape Parrot & Orange Ground Thrush nesting site.

Contact

The Geekie Family
Tel: +27(0)33 502 9090
E-mail: tomrob@mweb.co.za