Wakkerstroom Hot

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One of the top birding destinations in South Africa, Wakkerstroom lies in the grasslands region of South Africa and boasts a high species diversity. This is a bird photography paradise.

Wetlands scattered through the area attract large numbers of aquatic birds including the Grey Crowned Crane, while the grasslands provide habitat for several species of larks, pipits, Bald Ibis and Blue Korhaan. Birding can be carried out throughout the area along the network of farm roads.

Photography

Best Time to Photograph

Summer and spring months are the best times to photograph as this is when maximum bird numbers including migrating species occur. Many birds are also breeding at this time. Early morning at first light is best for bird watching as this is when most species are very active.

Type of Photography

Birding

Best Time of Year

Summer
Spring

Photographic Tips

The bridge over the Wakkerstroom wetland is a good locality to search for water bird species while slowly driving the farm roads at dawn is the most productive for the lark, pipits and Korhaans.

Recommended Gear

Telephoto lenses are a must and it is best to drive with a window mount or bean bag in place for quick response while driving.

Highlights

Site Highlights

The bridge over the Wakkerstroom wetland
The roads leading to Amersfort, Piet Rietief and Utrecht

Top Species

Footnotes

Season and Weather

Wakkerstroom falls within the summer rainfall area with hot to very hot summers and mild winters. The highveld areas can become very cold in winter

Habitats

Other Activities

Bird Watching

Location

Closest Town

Wakkerstroom

Getting There

From Johannesburg, follow the R17 until the T-Junction that leads to Standerton. At Standerton follow the signs to Newcastle and Volksrust. Just as you enter Volksrust, turn left to Wakkerstroom.

Address

Wakkerstroom

Map

Swap Start/End Start Address

End

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Author: Peter ChadwickWebsite: http://www.peterchadwick.co.zaEmail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

About

As a dedicated conservationist, Peter Chadwick has 30 years strategic and operational conservation experience in terrestrial and marine protected area management. He has worked within all of the major biomes in southern Africa as well as having provided expert conservation advice at a global level. His conservation and wildlife photography is a natural extension to his conservation work where he has numerous opportunities to capture photographs that showcase the beauty and complexity of the outdoors. Peter’s photography is internationally recognized, with this work appearing globally in a wide range of print and electronic media.

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