Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary
A blue crane. Picture courtesy of Wikipedia/Alistair Rae
If you’re planning a relaxed family day trip to Pretoria, the Austin Roberts Bird Sanctuary in the scenic suburb of Muckleneuk makes for a perfect picnic destination. The wetland sanctuary extends across 11.8ha of land and forms part of the Walkerspruit Open Space System, a fertile mixed bushveld area, fed by two streams, which attracts a variety of bird species. The sanctuary is known for its beautiful views and peaceful atmosphere and has become known as a popular Sunday afternoon family retreat.
It was first opened to the public in 1956 by the then-mayor of Pretoria WJ Seymore. It was fenced off in 1970 and proclaimed an official nature reserve in 1985. It was named after J Austin Roberts, who is, to this day, considered one of South Africa’s greatest self-taught ornithologist-mammalogists. Roberts, who was presented with an honorary doctorate by the University of Pretoria, made a valuable contribution to South African ornithology and is responsible for many of today’s standard reference books on mammals and birds.
The sanctuary is truly a birdwatcher’s paradise and the spectacular range of birdlife can be leisurely observed from several bird hides dotted along the shores of a reservoir. Special guided walks around the sanctuary can also be arranged and there is a visitor’s exhibition hall to explore as well. Over 100 indigenous birds and animals can be found in the sanctuary, making it a fine educational outing if you’re craving fresh air. The visiting hours are between 07h00 and 18h00 in the summer season (September to April) and between 07h00 and 17h00 in the winter season (May to August).
Although the sanctuary is popular as a picnic spot, it also borders the Blue Crane Restaurant, which is situated right next to the picturesque sanctuary dam. It is an ideal place to enjoy a meal with friends and spot blue cranes, grey crowned cranes (both of which are considered rare in South Africa) and the Egyptian geese that feed in the area. The restaurant is open all through the week and boasts a wide selection of menus, including braai and cocktail options. It is also a wonderful venue for parties and special occasions.