Potkook is home to four of the six birds that are endemic to the Fynbos biome. With our extensive alien removal project (read about it here) we’ve decreased our fire risk dramatically, and along with minimal human disturbance at the farm, improved the feeding and nesting habitat of many amazing bird species.
The last fire at Potkook occurred in 2005, reflecting its very low fire risk. This has resulted in vast numbers of mature protea stands which are ideal feeding and nesting habitats for the Orange-breasted sunbird and the Cape sugarbird, both nectarivorous species endemic to the Fynbos biome.
(Cape Sugarbird Photo credit: Gabriel Sandu)
Apart from the Buchu garden which is self-maintained and harvested by hand once a year, and the vegetable garden where we welcome the birds as long as they share the crops with us, our farm is a very peaceful haven for birds with no agricultural activities. We do not use any pesticides or chemicals and have installed water troughs for the birds and animals. Our Eco Pool blends in with the surroundings and also serves as a watering hole for the birds and animals.
Higher temperatures related to our forever-changing planet also affect the Fynbos birds. Our climate on the farm, which is at an altitude of 800 – 1000m, is often much cooler which contributes to daily spottings of the rare Protea seedeater/canary around the Lodge and on the farm.
(Protea seedeater Photo credit: Erlo Brown)
Potkook is also home to the Cape siskin, another one of the truly special birds of the Fynbos biome. They particularly enjoy feeding on Restios which grow abundantly on the farm. Another exceptional bird that calls Potkook home is the Ground woodpecker with its pinkish-red belly. You will often spot them perching on cliffs, and we have observed several active nesting sites on the farm. They are one of only three truly ground-dwelling woodpeckers in the world.
The mountainous area of Potkook is also home to the magnificent Verreaux’s eagle with its impressive wingspan and formidable hunting skills. With our healthy hyrax (Dassie) population, Potkook is an ideal habitat for the Verreaux’s eagle as Dassies are their staple prey. We caught this amazing photo on one of our trail cameras. You will often see the Potkook pair circling the skies above the Lodge.
(Verreaux’s Eagle Photo credit: Trail cam)
We are truly blessed that Potkook’s fynbos ecosystem provides such a haven for these winged creatures. It’s no wonder that birdwatchers and photographers from afar flock here to witness these scarce and captivating bird species. Feel free to download the Potkook bird list using the link below. Additionally, printed copies are conveniently accessible at the Lodge. We invite our guests to contribute any additional sightings during their stay to help us keep the list current.
Download the Potkook Bird List 2023
