Directions for roadside birding in the Karoo:
Wolwefontein to Willowmore
Turn off the R75 to Graaff-Reinet at Wolwefontein and travel towards Steytlerville and Willowmore along the R329. There is a vegetation change here and the countryside becomes Karroid. Ludwig’s Bustard and Blue Crane are often seen along this stretch of road. Closer to Steytlerville stop at Waaipoort. Layard’s Titbabbler, Pale-winged Starling and Ground Woodpecker may be seen, together with other small bush birds. A stop just outside of Steytlerville alongside the Groot River should produce Namaqua Warbler and Mountain Wheatear. Palm Swift are present in the town. On the road between Steytlerville and Willowmore look out for Karoo Korhaan, Southern Black Korhaan, Kori and Ludwig’s Bustard, Secretary Bird as well as Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk.
Smaller Karoo birds such as Pririt Batis, Chestnut-vented Warbler and Karoo Prinia are regular sightings. South Africa’s smallest bird, the Cape Penduline-Tit with its white nest twice as big as a tennis ball is an interesting sighting. Look for Verreaux’s Eagle over the mountains. Just beyond Willowmore is Baker’s Dam, where numerous water birds as well as smaller birds previously mentioned can be seen.