Bird watching is the quiet, recreational observation of birds, usually in their natural habitat. It can be done with the naked eye, through binoculars and telescopes, or by listening for bird sounds.

Here at Random Harvest, we offer some of the finest bird watching in Johannesburg.

What makes birding with us particularly unique is that you don’t have to travel far from the comfort of your farm-style cottage to behold the beautiful sight of the indigenous birds of South Africa.

Whether you are an avid bird watcher or simply someone who appreciates nature in all its splendour, Random Harvest Guesthouse Accommodation in Muldersdrift is the perfect place for you.

Bird watching at Random Harvest

We have over 156 species of indigenous birds that are either resident birds or visitors to our farm. This is due to the various forms of habitats available on our grounds.

Not only have we planted a vast amount of indigenous plants and trees, but we have done so in such a way to attract and safely accommodate the many different species of birds.

We have the following types of habitats:

• Farmland
• Grassland
• Rocky outcrop
• Forest patches
• Urban garden
• Ephemeral pan
• Tall woodland
• Thicket

It’s easy to see how our property attracts hundreds of different birds who are seeking safety, a place to rest or something to nibble on.

If you sit quietly and patiently, you may even be lucky to spot one of the rarer species such as the African Grass Owl, the Yellow-throated Petronia or the Alpine Swift.

5 Bird watching tips

To get the most out of your bird watching experience, follow these simple tips:

• Start as early as possible – between dawn and 10am is best for bird watching
• Patience is a virtue – the best sightings happen when you sit quietly in one place and wait
• Preparation is key – wear comfortable walking shoes, bring along a hat, sunscreen and water
• Don’t forget your binoculars – tall trees and open spaces make observation with the naked eye more difficult.

20 bird species worth visiting Random Harvest for:

1. Arrow-marked Babbler
2. European Honey Buzzard
3. African Darter
4. Namaqua Dove
5. African Black Duck
6. Gabar Goshawk
7. African Grass Owl
8. Little Grebe (Dabchick)
9. Black-crowned Night Heron
10. Greater (and Lesser) Honeyguide
11. Yellow Throated Petronia
12. African Qualfinch
13. Wood Sandpipers
14. Malachite Sunbird
15. South African Cliff Swallow
16. Brown-crowned (Three-streaked) Tchagra
17. Groundscraper Thrush
18. Chestnut-vented Tit-Babbler
19. Lesser Swamp (Cape Reed) Warbler
20. Long-tailed Widowbird

Random Harvest – Bird watching and accommodation in Muldersdrift

Contact us to find out more about the bird watching opportunities during your stay with us.