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BIRDING SAFARIS
Province: Zululand
Route: Opathe Game Reserve
A spectacular rugged reserve comprising 8 825 ha proclaimed in 1991, is
located in the heartland of Zulu history, at the north-eastern end of the
Valley of the Kings (eMakhosini). Ophathe falls within the immediate
catchment of the White Umfolozi River, with diverse topography as a result
of altitudinal variations. The reserve varies in altitude from 987 m in
the south-west to 270 m in the eastern section along the White Umfolozi
River. The vegetation varies from bushveld dominated by acacia species, to
mistbelt and highveld, including many spectacular krantzes with orchid and
cycad colonies.
Directions
Off the main tar road linking Melmoth and Vryheid (the R68 which becomes
the R34), take the R66 to Ulundi. The main entrance to the reserve is on
the right hand side of the road approximately 1 km before crossing the
White Umfolozi River to Ulundi.
Accommodation
Mars cottage, located on an isolated peninsula of the White iMfolozi River
is only accessible to 4X4 enthusiasts. There are plans to develop visitor
facilities within the reserve which will be accessible from the R66 to
Ulundi. Bird and game viewing opportunities by two wheel drive vehicle
from the main entrance to the reserve is good.
Specials
A wide variety of bushveld bird species can be observed in the
reserve. Raptors such as Verreaux's, Martial, Wahlberg's and Tawny Eagles,
are often seen overhead and White-backed Vultures originating from
Umfolozi Game Reserve are also often seen.
The area around the reception is good for Kurrichane and Ground-scraper
Thrush, Black-crowned and Brown-crowned Tchagra, Orange-breasted and
Grey-headed Bush Shrike, Puffback, Crested Francolin, Emerald-spotted Dove
and White-crested Helmet-Shrike. Cape Rock Thrush, Familiar Chat and
Jackal Buzzard can be seen in the rockier areas.
The thicker riverine bush provides habitat for Scaly-throated Honeyguide,
Crowned Hornbill, White-throated Robin-Chat, Yellow-breasted Apalis and
Paradise Flycatcher.
Other points of interest
Black and White Rhinoceros, Kudu, Giraffe, Warthog, Zebra and a variety of
smaller game occurs in the reserve.
Raptors utilise thermal updrafts to gain great heights off this rugged
terrain. There are several plant species of high conservation value
occurring in the reserve such as Buxus macowanii, Scilla nervosa,
Encephalartos natalensis and Protea caffra. Guided horse trails take place
within the reserve.
The greater road network within the game reserve is challenging 4X4
country which offers spectacular views of the surrounding area.
by Sharon Louw and Duncan McKenzie
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IN THE AREA:
RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATION
RECOMMENDED ACTIVITIES
RECOMMENDED ATTRACTIONS
RECOMMENDED RESTAURANTS
RECOMMENDED BIRDING GUIDES
RECOMMENDED TOUR OPERATORS OFFERING BIRDING SAFARIS
RECOMMENDED BIRDING BOOKS
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