Wildlife at Steenberg
The vibrant flash of blue captured in the image is most likely a Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis), a frequent and welcome resident of Steenberg Golf Club in Cape Town. This species, widespread across Europe, Asia, and North Africa, thrives in the region's waterways, finding ideal habitats near clear, slow-moving water bodies. Their distinctive features, including the bright blue upper parts, chestnut underbelly, and long, pointed black bill, are visible in the dynamic shot. Primarily piscivores, these birds are known for their spectacular hunting dives, as evidenced by the scattering of water droplets in the image. While generally considered of Least Concern, they rely on healthy aquatic ecosystems, making their presence at Steenberg a testament to the club's well-maintained natural environment.
Captured in a moment of elegant flight, the bird in this image is a Purple Heron (Ardea purpurea), a striking sight at Steenberg Golf Club in Cape Town. This heron, distinguished by its slender build, long neck, and subtle purple-grey plumage, is a resident of reedbeds, marshes, and waterways across much of Africa, Europe, and Asia. In South Africa, it's a common sight near wetlands and estuaries, making Steenberg's water features an ideal habitat. The image showcases the heron's distinctive features, including its dark flight feathers, chestnut neck, and long, yellow legs trailing behind it as it takes to the air. Purple Herons are known for their patient hunting style, often standing motionless in shallow water before striking with their long, sharp bill to catch fish, amphibians, and insects. Their presence here adds to the rich biodiversity of the golf club, offering visitors a glimpse into the natural beauty of the Cape region.
Drifting serenely across the water, the bird captured in this image is a Red-knobbed Coot (Fulica cristata), a common sight on the estate. This waterbird, easily identified by its black plumage, white bill, and distinctive red knobs on its forehead, is a resident of wetlands, lakes, and ponds across much of southern and eastern Africa. In South Africa, it's a familiar presence in both natural and man-made water bodies, making Steenberg's water features an ideal habitat. The image beautifully showcases the coot's sleek silhouette and its reflection in the calm water, highlighting the subtle details of its plumage and the characteristic red knobs that give it its name. Red-knobbed Coots are omnivorous, feeding on aquatic plants, insects, and small fish, and are often seen paddling along the water's surface or diving for food. Visitors and Residents to Steenberg can enjoy a tranquil glimpse of the Cape region's natural beauty, thanks to the diverse birdlife, which includes these avians.
A serene reflection of nature's beauty unfolds within our ponds, where this elegant Egyptian Goose (Alopochen aegyptiaca) gracefully glides across the tranquil waters. With its distinctive dark eye ring, subtle mottled plumage, and characteristic pinkish bill, this resident waterbird adds a touch of wild charm to the meticulously landscaped environment. Native to Africa, the Egyptian Goose is a familiar sight in South Africa and Steenberg. It thrives amidst our lush greenery and serene water features. This image captures a peaceful moment, showcasing the goose's reflection mirroring its graceful form, a testament to the harmonious blend of nature and recreation that we offer to its visitors and wildlife alike while experiencing the natural tranquillity and discovering the diverse avian inhabitants that make Steenberg a truly special place in the heart of Cape Town.
This compelling image captures a Reed Cormorant (Microcarbo africanus), a common sight amidst the waterways of our ponds, as it triumphs in a successful fishing expedition. With its dark plumage and distinctive yellow gular pouch, the Reed Cormorant is perfectly adapted to its aquatic hunting grounds. Here, it is seen skilfully manipulating its catch, a testament to its prowess as a predator. These birds, often seen perched on trees or posts with outstretched wings to dry their feathers, are an integral part of our rich biodiversity, adding a dynamic element to the estate's scenic landscapes. Observing these skilled fishers in action provides a fascinating glimpse into the natural rhythms of life within the peaceful surroundings showcasing the harmonious balance between recreation and wildlife.
This heartwarming image captures a tender moment of family life at Steenberg Estate, featuring a pair of Little Grebes (Tachybaptus ruficollis) tending to their nest. The Little Grebe, a small water bird known for its chestnut neck and cheeks during breeding season, is a frequent resident of Steenberg's ponds and waterways. In this scene, one parent diligently offers food to a hungry chick nestled amongst the reeds, while the other keeps a watchful eye. The intricate nest, crafted from aquatic vegetation, serves as a haven for the vulnerable young. This snapshot offers a glimpse into the delicate balance of nature and the nurturing behaviours of these charming birds, highlighting the diverse wildlife that thrives within this tranquil environment.
The elegant bird captured in mid-flight is a White-throated Swallow. These agile fliers are a common sight at Steenberg, particularly around the water features and open areas. They are drawn to the estate's diverse habitats, including the vineyards, gardens, and ponds, where they can readily find insects – their primary food source. Characterized by their glossy blue-black upperparts, white throat and underparts, and distinctive long, forked tail, White-throated Swallows are known for their graceful aerial displays as they hunt insects on the wing. Their presence adds a touch of natural beauty and vibrant activity to the estate's landscape, making them a delightful sight for residents and visitors alike.
