A Beginner’s Guide to Knysna’s Spring Birdlife

Situated on the canals, where lagoon meets land, Thesen Island offers exceptional viewing for waders, water birds, and raptors. The calm waters attract many species throughout the day, with dawn and dusk being especially rewarding.

Some of the Knysna birds commonly seen around the island include:

• Avocet: Graceful and elegant, with a sweeping upturned bill.
• Pied Coot: Social and noisy, often seen in small flocks near reeds.
• Red-knobbed Cormorant: A lagoon regular, drying its wings on mooring posts.
• Little Grebe (Dabchick): Small, fast, and often disappearing under the surface in the blink of an eye.
• Yellow-billed Duck: Easy to spot by its bright yellow bill and calm paddle.
• Little Egret: All white feathers and black legs, often standing motionless before a lightning-fast strike.
• African Fish Eagle: Majestic and unmistakable, its call carrying across the water.
• Cape Wagtail: The island’s cheerful companion, seen hopping near café terraces and decks.

From the balcony of your suite or while wandering along the marina walkways, these species create a lively impression of colour and noise. The Knysna Lagoon truly comes alive in spring, a feeling that bleeds into all facets of island life.

A short drive from The Turbine Hotel & Spa, the ancient Knysna Forest offers a completely different birding experience. Here, the air is cooler, the canopy dense, and the birds more secretive – perfect for those who enjoy a day out hiking, a little patience and a lot of reward.

Look out for these iconic forest dwellers:

• Knysna Turaco: The region’s namesake bird, a flash of emerald and crimson in flight, often heard before it’s seen.
• Malachite Kingfisher: Tiny and jewel-bright, perched low above forest streams.
• Southern Double-Collared Sunbird: A shimmering blur of red and green, feeding on nectar from spring flowers.

Spring also brings the arrival of returning migrants. Warblers rebuild their nests among the reeds, herons patrol the lagoon edges, and egrets stalk poor, unsuspecting frogs in the shallows…

If you want a list of “must-sees”, these species are considered special sightings by seasoned twitchers and beginners alike!

• Knysna Turaco: Our region’s icon is a true lifer thanks to its rarity and secrecy. Listen for its laughing call echoing through the forest canopy.
• African Fish Eagle: A sight and sound that defines southern Africa. Best spotted near the lagoon.
• Malachite Kingfisher: Small but striking; the ultimate reward for a patient eye.
• Southern Double-Collared Sunbird: A flash of metallic hues in the garden.
• Little Egret: Always photogenic, often seen along the canals of Thesen Island.

1. Early mornings and late afternoons are when birds are most active and the light is soft for photography.
2. Bring your binoculars – even a compact pair reveals hidden worlds in the reeds.
3. Download a local bird app like BirdPro or Sasol eBirds of Southern Africa to help with calls and identification.
4. Respect the environment by keeping to pathways and maintaining a respectful distance when observing nesting birds.
5. Ask our team at the hotel for recommendations. Local guides and charters often lead morning forest walks or lagoon cruises focused on Knysna’s unique birdlife – on land and sea!

At The Turbine Hotel & Spa, birdwatching comes with the luxury of comfort. Where once industrial turbines powered Knysna’s old sawmill, today the hum of nature takes centre stage. Wake to birdsong drifting through open windows, enjoy breakfast beside the canals, and spend your afternoons bouncing between sightings and spa sessions.

Browse our hotel’s website and select a luxurious accommodation offering for your spring getaway in Knysna.

You can either book online using our booking platform, or contact us directly at book@turbinehotel.co.za.

We can’t wait to show you all that Knysna has to offer!