Birding

There are over 550 species of birds in Mpumalanga. 

Mpumalanga is the Crane capital of South Africa.  Where the Highveld and Lowveld habitats meet and where birds from different habitats come together.

Zongororo perfectly situated on the banks of the Elands River, houses a variety of Eco-sytems that attract a wide and awe-inspiring variety of birdlife. 

              Zongororo A Birders Paradise! 

The best time for birding on Zongororo is just about anytime. May to September is South Africa’s winter season, the foliage is less lush and the temperature cool and dry – making for especially comfortable wildlife and bird viewing.

“Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

(Matthew 6:26, New International Version)

The earliest interest in birdwatching can be traced back to the late 18th century and was fueled by a desire for absorbing beauty rather than imbibing food. Over the ages, this fascination has quite literally taken flight – evolving from a rarefied interest in natural history during Victorian times to one of the fastest growing hobbies across the globe.

The phrase “bird watching”, for the record, appeared for the first time as the title of the book “Bird Watching” by the British ornithologist Edmund Selous in 1901.

While there are about 18 000 bird species in the world, Southern Africa is home to more than 960, making it a veritable birdwatcher’s paradise.

One of the reasons why our beloved country is such a sought-after birdwatcher’s destination is its wide and fascinating array of natural habitats, which is exactly where Mpumalanga, and Zongororo Village of Ministry, fit into the picture – and on many a birdwatcher’s travel itinerary.

Mpumalanga is not only home to 550 species of birds; it is the Crane capital of South Africa. Zoom in a little further and you’ll find Zongororo – perfectly situated on the banks of the Elands River, housing a variety of ecosystems attracting a wide and awe-inspiring range of birdlife.

So, when is the best time for a spot of birdwatching on Zongororo, you may wonder? The good news is … just about any time!  Having said that, May to September is South Africa’s winter season, when the foliage is less lush and the temperature cool and dry in our neck of the natural universe, making it just that extra bit more comfortable for wildlife and bird viewing.

WHY HAS BIRDING BECOME SO POPULAR?

  • It is an inexpensive hobby (investing in fancy digital cameras aside).
  • It is convenient – you can watch birds anywhere from your backyard to a tourist destination.
  • You get to spend time in the great outdoors.
  • It is interesting and challenging.
  • It is relaxing.
  • You get to meet interesting people.
  • It keeps you ‘in the moment’.
  • It will make you happy.