CapeNature describe Bird Island as one of only six sites in the world where Cape gannets breed, and the only one of those that is easily accessible to the public. You walk to it. A breakwater runs out from the harbour to the island, and at the end of it a lookout hide puts you close enough to watch the birds go through their mating dances. Cape cormorants and kelp gulls nest here too. It is roughly four hours north of Cape Town, which makes it a destination rather than a detour, and the drive runs up the N7 towards Clanwilliam and then west on the R364.
Highlights
- One of only six places in the world where Cape gannets breed
- The only Cape gannet breeding site easily reached by the public
- A lookout hide built over the colony
- Cape cormorants and kelp gulls nesting alongside the gannets
- Reached on foot along the harbour breakwater