Tuesday, October 22, 2024

Cape Rockjumper, Rooi Els, Cape Town

An early morning start for the rockjumpers to beat the birding crowds as the birds simply disappear up the hill into the distance. We were the first up the stony track !  We nearly ran as another few birders had pulled into the car park behind us. After a brisk 10 minute walk the hillside became very rocky and we knew we were in the right place and then bingo !  There was one ontop of a boulder, and then another, and then another. We recon we saw 5 in total (all males) but as we approached they had clocked us and were slowly rock jumping their way up the hillside. We had excellent binocular views, brilliant infact and Simon cllicked off a load of pics before the next group of birders were with us and the birds were now very distant. It was now telescope views only. A mini bus had pulled up and they were now making their way so heaven only knows what views they got. Lesson of the day......be early and be first there !

A Cape Rock Thrush was a good bonus bird and the scenery was spectacular !  A Victorin's Scrub Warbler was calling from the top of the hill but afraid it never showed itself. On to Harold Porters Botanical Gardens to see what goodies that gives us. The weather had changed and it was now scorchio!













An uncut pic to show you the boulders, along with a rockjumper !

Spot the rockjumper !

and a beautiful Cape Rock Thrush was a bonus

Rockjumper Track at Rooi Els


No comments: