Nylsvlei Nature Reserve is best known as the largest floodplain in South Africa and is a RAMSAR wetland.
Best known for its large numbers of waterbirds, Nylsvlei Nature Reserve is also an excellent bushveld birding destination within easy reach from Johannesburg. The autumn months after good rains cause the floodplain to fill and this attracts thousands of waterbirds including herons, egrets and many of the secretive species such as crakes and gallinules. Waterfowl are common with White-Faced and Fulvous Ducks being the most regularly encountered. The beautiful African Pygmy Goose is another regular together with African Jacana’s. The bushveld that lies adjacent to the wetlands is excellent for Crimson Breasted Shrike, Arrow-Marked Babbler and Woodlands Kingfisher to name but a few. Many species of raptor also occur and night birding can be extremely rewarding with owls and nightjars being encountered.
