With over 520 bird species recorded in iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the area is a perfect bird watching destination.

The area supports a rich diversity of habitats, which in turn attracts a diversity of bird communities. Birds using these habitats range from permanent residents to tropical and altitudinal migrants, regional nomads and long-distance migrants.

Lake St Lucia is one of the most important breeding areas for waterbirds in South Africa and one of the main features of Lake St Lucia… the main reason why Lake St Lucia has been awarded the status of a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance.

The numbers and diversity of waterbirds vary considerably in response to environmental changes. The lakes, pans and wetlands around Lake St Lucia hold large numbers of birds such as Pink-backed Pelican, Great White Pelican, Yellow-billed Stork, African Spoonbill, Whiskered Tern, African Fish Eagle, Grey-headed Gull, Cape Shoveler, Yellow-billed Duck, White-faced Whistling Duck, African Jacana, Pied Avocet and Lesser Flamingo. Palearctic migrant waders occur in summer, with Common Ringed Plover, Curlew Sandpiper and Little Stint making up the majority of the visitors.

Wetland-dependent species that occur include Black Heron, African Openbill, African Pygmy Goose, Long-toed Lapwing, African Grass Owl and Marsh Owl to name a few. Swampy backwaters with overhanging vegetation are home to the White-backed Night Heron, African Finfoot and Pel’s Fishing Owl.