Gazing so intently into their watery mirror, what do the beautiful Flamingo see? Another wrinkle? That first grey feather? Bags under the eyes? A beak that is slightly bigger than makes them happy? Or just the perfection of the unique Bird that they have been created to be? Visiting the special bird sanctuary in Plettenberg Bay, along the Cape coastline, is quite a remarkable experience. It is a free flight aviary that is home to 3500 birds! While most of Birds of Eden is like a rainforest the area for the waterfowl is quite different. Drifting lazily on the stretches of water or foraging along the waters edge are not just the various duck but magnificent Flamingo, Spoonbills, Cranes, and the more timid Scarlet Ibis.
The flow of marshland to woodland to waterways shows consideration of each of the birds needs. Most of the sanctuary is explored via a suspended wooden walkway that meanders for over a kilometre through the dome. The birds seem quite unperturbed by flashing cameras and the gurgles of delighted humans. I could've spent days watching the beautiful birds.
Birds of Eden is housed under a unique mesh dome 55 metres above the floor. It covers an area 2.3 hectares of indigenous forest! Everywhere you can hear the gentle water. Each bird has a story of how they came to be a resident in Birds of Eden - whether having begun life caged or badly injured. Rehabilitation differs from bird to bird. Much of the rehabilitation is instinctual (although often they need to be taught). Such as species recognition. Where to find food, water, shelter. Also which part of the aviary is most suitable to their needs.
It is hard to imagine these beautiful creatures anywhere except this more natural habitat. How wonderful that in 15 odd years since opening, Birds of Eden have had this peaceful sanctuary to be what they were created to be. Thank to @nelinoeva for the exciting initiative! Reflections of Birds. I so enjoyed writing this entry that I may do a second one - I'm still reflecting on that! Of course because I love all things goatie I couldn't resist stopping when we saw a small petting zoo bordering on Birds of Eden. And what do you know! Even goats like to see their reflections in the water!
