A Coastal Birding Adventure with Roseate Terns at Goukamma Mouth and Buffelsbaai.
Saturday, May 2, 2025
This morning, I set out for a walk from Goukamma Mouth towards Buffelsbaai / Buffalo Bay, the salty breeze and rhythmic crash of waves setting the perfect scene. The beach was alive with actio. Kelp Gulls swooped overhead, African Oystercatchers strutted along the shore, and Common Terns darted up and down the coastline. Far to the west, I spotted a big flock of terns huddled on the sand, and I wondered if Roseate Terns might be among them. But my heart was set on my favourite spot to the east, where dramatic rocks meet monster waves, so I kept on walking.
The tide was low, revealing a sandy playground where a White-fronted Plover stole the show. This tiny bird is pure joy to watch its quick, comical sprints along the foam’s edge, pausing to bob its head as the waves retreat into the soft sand, are beyond charming. “Beautiful” doesn’t do it justice!
Further along, I watched African Oystercatchers expertly dodging the waves that battered the rocky shore, likely hunting for the last edible mussels clinging to the rocks. High above, a pair of Egyptian Geese perched like sentinels on the cliffs, gazing out over the deep blue Indian Ocean.
After my walk, I headed to Buffelsbaai for a coffee, driving along the scenic road where I again noticed huge flocks of terns. From the Buffelsbaai restaurant, I got a clear view of the action, Roseate Terns, with their stunning pink flush on their breasts and bellies, mingled with Swift Terns, Common Terns, and Sandwich Terns. Down by the rocks, I crept closer and watched a school of mullet breaking the surface in a tidal pool, while hundreds of terns perched nearby, frequently taking flight in graceful loops before settling again. The Roseates stood out, their delicate pink glow on their breasts and bellies a rare treat. I’d heard they’d been in the area for a week or two but seeing them so close was a delightful surprise.
Join Me for a Birding Trip!
Ready to explore South Africa’s incredible birdlife? Book a guided birding adventure with me at www.birdwatcher.co.za or www.africabirding.co.za. We offer half-day, full-day, and extended tours to chase moments like these. Let’s hit the trails and beaches together!
Ben Fouche
