Waterbirds of De Hoop Vlei
Fifteen thousand four hundred and forty eight birds: this was the impressive tally for the January CWAC (Coordinated Waterbird Count) of De Hoop Vlei. Managed by CapeNature, De Hoop Nature Reserve is internationally recognized as a World Heritage Site and an Important Bird Area. Within the reserve, De Hoop Vlei has the added distinction of being the oldest Ramsar site (wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention) in South Africa.
The vlei is landlocked and brackish, fed by the Sout and Potteberg rivers and several underground springs. It provides critical waterbird feeding and breeding habitat. On average, it supports more than 8000 birds of 97 species, although numbers and species composition fluctuate greatly according to water levels, salinity, and time of year.
Last month, ornithologist Kevin Shaw generously contributed his time and expertise to complete an eight-hour bird count of the 750-ha vlei. He was assisted by the De Hoop and De Mond CapeNature Reserve teams. From this count, the most abundant species was found to be the red-knobbed coot, comprising 35% of all birds counted.
Partly due to their numbers, red-knobbed coots play an important role in nutrient cycling in wetlands, consuming vast quantities of macrophytes and converting these to guano. Egyptian geese and spur-winged geese were also present in large numbers. The number of great crested grebes was also noteworthy, with the count of 393 being nearly four times the Ramsar threshold for the species. Species of conservation priority (according to their listing in the 2015 South African Red Data Book of Birds) that were observed were greater flamingo, lesser flamingo, and maccoa duck (all Near Threatened), and great white pelican and Caspian tern (both Vulnerable). De Hoop Vlei is the only locality in South Africa where the greater flamingo has bred successfully (in 1960 and 1963).
In addition to the CWAC count, three other threatened species were recorded by the team: black harrier and Cape vulture (both Endangered) and secretary bird and Denham’s bustard (both Vulnerable).
Red-knobbed coot collecting submerged vegetation by Kevin Shaw
Kevin Shaw (behind the tripod) demonstrating the CWAC survey methodology to members of the De Hoop and De Mond nature reserve teams.
Related News
Public urged to avoid Cape fur seals amid rabies risk
The public is urged to exercise caution and follow safety guidelines during the upcoming summer holiday season when encountering Cape fur seals. Recently, reports of aggression related to positive rabies cases have been noted in Cape fur seal populations.
NHLS resumes snake antivenom production in South Africa
Antivenom stocks have been critically low for over a year, as the South African Vaccine Producers have been unable to manufacture any doses. Positive strides are being made in addressing South Africa’s snake antivenom shortage.
CapeNature goes cashless at select nature reserves
In line with its commitment to service excellence, sustainability, and safety, CapeNature is excited to announce the transition to a fully cashless payment system at five of its flagship nature reserves from 2 February 2026.
Public urged to stay alert this fire season: Prevent wildfires, save lives
CapeNature is calling on the public to stay alert and proactive as the wildfire season gears up, reminding all that the cost of runaway fires is far greater than many realise.
Rare Erica species rediscovered after nearly four decades
After an unsuccessful search in 2012, the rare Erica cunoniensis was feared extinct, but in September 2025, a team of conservationists made a rediscovery of this Endangered plant species, found for the first time in nearly four decades.
New Conservancy to Protect Biodiversity in the Karoo
A long-cherished dream has come true with the establishment of the 18 000 ha Karoo Gateway Conservancy in the Klaarstroom district. This initiative provides a strong framework for biodiversity conservation in the region.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?