Tracking Cape Parrots in Hogsback’s Enchanting Forests

Today, I want to take you on an incredible journey through the captivating forests of Hogsback. These magnificent woodlands are not only a sight to behold but also home to the rare and majestic Cape Parrots. Join me as we delve into the importance of tracking these beautiful birds and uncover the wonders that lie hidden among the trees.

When I first heard about the Cape Parrots and their fascinating behaviors, I couldn’t help but be intrigued. These birds are truly unique, not only for their striking plumage and vibrant personalities but also for their distinct habitat. Hogsback’s forests provide a sanctuary for these magnificent creatures, allowing them to thrive in an environment rich in diversity and natural beauty.

But why is it so crucial to track these parrots, you may wonder? Well, my friend, by monitoring their movements and behaviors, we can gain valuable insights into their population dynamics, migratory patterns, and overall well-being. This information is vital for conservation efforts and ensuring the long-term survival of this endangered species.

Tracking these parrots requires a delicate approach. Experts use a combination of techniques, including radio telemetry and GPS tracking, to monitor their movements. By attaching small tracking devices to some of the birds, scientists can collect detailed data on their daily habits, ranging from foraging and roosting locations to breeding behaviors.

As I ventured deeper into Hogsback’s magical forests, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The towering trees, dappled sunlight, and myriad of sounds enveloped me, transporting me to a world untouched by time. It was here, in this tranquil setting, that I got a glimpse into the lives of these parrots.

One thing I discovered during my journey is that Cape Parrots have a strong affinity for yellowwood trees. These majestic giants, with their shimmering golden leaves, provide the perfect nesting and foraging grounds for these birds. By studying their preferences for specific tree species, we can better understand and protect their habitat.

The Cape Parrots’ presence in Hogsback is not only a testament to the area’s natural beauty but also a reminder of our responsibility to conserve and protect our environment. Their existence is intertwined with the health of the forests, and by ensuring the preservation of these woodlands, we also secure a future for these remarkable birds.

So, my dear friend, if you find yourself in Hogsback’s enchanting forests, keep an eye out for the Cape Parrots. Their vibrant colors and melodic calls will guide you deeper into the heart of nature’s embrace. And remember, by appreciating and respecting these creatures and their habitat, you contribute to a world where both humans and wildlife can thrive harmoniously.

Here I am, soaring high above the ground, flying through the Amathole Mountains. Well, not actually. Instead, I find myself rushing down a steep trail in Auckland State Forest, Hogsback. I’m on a mission to find a unique and endangered duo: the Cape parrot and the yellowwood trees. These birds are in danger, and they rely on these trees to survive. So, I’m off to explore a beautiful and enchanting piece of forest in search of this spirited pair.

What a wonderful aroma fills the air! It’s a delightful blend of moist soil, fallen leaves, fragrant lemonwoods, and the very essence of the trees themselves. It’s almost a shame to be in such a hurry. Nevertheless, I press on and soon arrive at a forest clearing adorned with majestic, towering yellowwood trees. They reach for the sky like towering skyscrapers. This is where the calls seem to be coming from – they must be up there, somewhere.

As I make my way through the thick underbrush, I can’t help but strain my neck, searching for a glimpse of what I’m after. After what feels like an eternity, I hear a soft sound – the gentle rustling of fruit falling onto leaves. And there they are, perched in a wild plum tree. They’re not in the familiar yellowwood trees, which are not currently bearing fruit, but in this unexpected location, they seem to be thriving. With their unique tongues and energetic demeanor, they appear almost otherworldly as they eagerly devour the plum kernels and joyfully announce their presence to the world. These are my first encounters with the Cape parrots, or Poicephalus robustus. It’s hard to believe that there are only 1,700 of them left in the world.

Did you know that Cape Parrots are not only sociable but also incredibly loud? They can be heard calling constantly while they’re flying, and they even have different “dialects” depending on the region they’re from. How fascinating is that!

The history of these parrots is closely intertwined with the stories of the yellowwood trees, which are the towering giants of the Afromontane southern mistbelt forests. These forests used to stretch across vast areas, from the Amathole Mountains in the Eastern Cape all the way to parts of the former Transkei, KwaZulu-Natal, and Magoebaskloof in Limpopo. Unfortunately, these forests have shrunk dramatically over the years due to human activity and possibly even climate change.

It’s quite sad to think about it, but the forest’s scope has actually decreased from about 1.5 million hectares to just a third of that in the past century. All those years of logging and cutting down trees have taken a toll not only on the forest but also on the Cape Parrots who depend on it for their survival.

I’m fascinated by the immense yellowwood trees that the Cape parrots adore. There are two types, the Outeniqua and the real yellowwood, which happens to be South Africa’s national tree. These trees are absolutely vital to the Cape parrot’s existence. Don’t believe me? Just ask Cassie Carstens, the Cape Parrot Project’s research manager and my trusty forest guide. According to Cassie, these trees are the parrots’ favorite because they provide them with everything they need – food, places to nest, and spots to socialize.

What’s interesting is that the parrots have a particular affinity for dead trees known as snags. They gather on these withered giants, perching high above the ground. From here, they have a panoramic view of their surroundings, and of course, they love showing off their vibrant plumage to everyone who passes by. So much for being shy and solitary, right? Cape parrots are quite the social butterflies, and they’re not afraid to let the world know it.

Step inside Boscobel, the buzzing hub of the Cape Parrot Project, nestled in the tranquil town of Hogsback. Here, you won’t find the usual suspects of waterfalls, whimsical sculptures, and nods to Middle-earth. Instead, you’ll encounter a unique endemic parrot species. Among the flurry of activity, there’s a poignant scene. A specimen lies in a freezer, wrapped in plastic, a melancholy reminder of a fragile existence. Its vibrant green feathers speak of vitality, but beneath the surface, trouble brews. Once those feathers turn yellow, it signals a sinister presence – psitticine beak and feather disease. This silent assailant slowly robs the Cape parrots of their luscious plumage, leaving them bald and vulnerable, their beaks shattered until death becomes inevitable. “In essence, it preys on parrots,” Cassie confesses, her voice tinged with sorrow.

I tried putting up lots of nesting boxes for the Cape parrots, but they’re mainly being taken over by bees and other birds, which is a bummer. I think one reason is that the parrots aren’t eating well, and that’s messing with their immune system. They can’t find enough of the fruits they like all year round, so they’ve started munching on nuts and acorns, which isn’t good for them at all – it’s like eating junk food. The solution is to plant more of the fruits they love, which are from yellowwood and other native trees. They really enjoy wild plum, Cape chestnut, ironwood, and white stinkwood fruit. But planting more trees won’t solve the problem overnight. It takes ages for a yellowwood tree to start producing fruit. That’s what the Cape Parrot Project is all about – helping the parrots and making sure they have enough trees to keep them going.

Down in the grassy valley of Hogsback, I’m with Nomsebenzi Mayekiso, who is proudly showing me her little ones. She has a few dozen slender baby yellowwood trees tucked safely under shade nets, their delicate leaves reaching out for sunlight. It’s hard to believe that these tiny saplings could one day become towering giants like Hogsback’s Big Tree, an ancient yellowwood that stands 38 meters tall and measures 6.5 meters in girth.

Micro-nursery growers like Nomsebenzi play an important role in nurturing these young trees that the CPP (Conservation and People Partnership) has grown from seeds. Once these trees reach 40 centimeters in height, the CPP buys them back for R7.50 and plants them in designated reforestation areas, with the guidance of the Department of Agriculture, Forestry & Fisheries (DAFF). Nomsebenzi herself also has the option to germinate and raise her own trees for R20.

I may not earn much money from it, but every bit counts in our village, where most people rely on grants and their own gardens. I have a special affection for my umkhoba (Outeniqua) and umcheya (real yellowwood) saplings. I take good care of them, using natural fertilizers and making sure they don’t outgrow their pots. The biggest challenge I face is watering them. Each tree requires up to 120 liters of water to grow to a length of 40 centimeters. Sadly, our village, Sompondo, has been facing a drought for the past three months, and we haven’t received any municipal water. Thankfully, the CPP (Community Preservation Project) came up with a solution. They built a community nursery equipped with a large water tank.

Hey there! Let me introduce you to Sompondo, a local from this settlement. His family has been living here since the 1920s! How cool is that? Sompondo tells me that the parrots, or iskhwenene as they call them, love to visit the fig tree we’re chilling under whenever it’s full of yummy fruits.

These yellowwood trees are not just ordinary trees, you know? They have some special traditional uses. For example, the bark can be boiled in water and used to help nurse sick animals back to health. And during certain ceremonies, they even place meat on the branches of these trees to serve it to everyone. It’s their way of showing respect to the tree and their ancestors. They believe in nurturing these trees just like they do their relationships with their loved ones.

It’s fascinating, isn’t it? They wonder why some trees become so big and tall while others don’t. It makes you stop and think about the wonders of nature, doesn’t it?

But you know what? The big trees in the forest are facing some serious problems, especially in certain areas. Even though the real and Outeniqua yellowwoods are technically not in immediate danger, according to the experts, it seems that they are experiencing some troubling losses in the Eastern Cape. It turns out that the local communities have been using smaller yellowwood trees for their personal needs, even though cutting them down is strictly prohibited. This has resulted in fewer mature trees and a smaller population of these majestic yellowwoods.

Interestingly, the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF) allows the harvesting of dying big yellowwoods, specifically the ones that the parrots rely on for building their nests. According to DAFF, this is a relatively small-scale practice, but it does contribute to the problem. It’s a tricky situation, isn’t it? On one hand, the parrots need these trees for survival, but on the other hand, the yellowwoods are also important for the overall health of the forest.

Ah, the majestic Cape parrot. Just take a look at that photo by Cassie Castens – breathtaking, isn’t it? But did you know that these incredible creatures rely on big trees for their survival? Unfortunately, the harvesting of these trees is not without controversy.

When it comes to chopping down big trees, there are some important rules in place. The Department of Agriculture, Forestry, and Fisheries (DAFF) has specific guidelines that must be followed. They state that a big tree can only be harvested if it’s in the last stage of its life – either dead, with more than 70 percent of its crown gone, or with over 90 percent die-back. Harvesting is limited to approximately 3000 hectares of the Zingcuka and Keiskammahoek forests, which is only a small portion of the total forest area. And get this – out of the 132,000 yellowwood stems in that area, only one percent can be harvested each year.

Now, you might think that sounds reasonable. After all, it’s just one percent, right? But here’s the catch – that one percent equals 1320 trees per year. And here’s the real shocker – it takes these trees hundreds of years to grow into the giants they become. So, you have to wonder, is this really sustainable?

If you ask Steve, the answer is a resounding no. He believes that any harvesting puts these forests and the precious species that rely on them, like the Cape Parrot, at risk. In his words, it’s just not sustainable – at least not for the next 50 to 100 years.

It’s tough to keep track of the illegal harvesting. People poach yellowwoods because they’re valuable. According to Steve, there have been reports of large yellowwoods in the Amatholes being poisoned with diesel or ring-barked for decades. In 2011, staff from [DAFF] in King William’s Town found evidence of long-term damage to older trees. The damage was meant to slowly kill the trees and make it easier to harvest them. In that same year, we discovered that over 50 large yellowwoods had been illegally taken from the Wolfridge Forest. The DAFF confirmed at least one case in 2016. In KZN, a guy got prosecuted for paying R10000 to a local chief. He wanted to bring down yellowwoods in the Gongqo-Gongqo State Forest in Umzimkulu. They cut down 89 trees, each one about 400 years old.

Wow, let me tell you a story I heard from Steve. He was talking about something really interesting happening in the Amatholes. Apparently, there have been rumors about these big trucks carrying logs that don’t have any markings on them. And get this, people have even seen these huge piles of logs just sitting there next to the road in the middle of the night! Can you imagine?

But that’s not all. Steve also mentioned something about parrots being poached and sold as pets. Can you believe it? These parrots used to be considered just a type of grey-headed parrot, but it turns out, they are actually genetically unique. Isn’t that fascinating? So, as soon as people found out about that, collectors and breeders were all over it, wanting to get their hands on these special parrots.

Cape parrots love to hang out and make their homes in forests way up high. That’s why you won’t spot them in the Knysna forests, even though there are yellowwoods growing there. It’s a shame, really. These forests face a bunch of other threats too, like fires, droughts, and commercial forestry that drinks up all the available water. So, what’s left of these forests desperately needs protection.

According to the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (DAFF), the Auckland Forest Nature Reserve, spanning 218 hectares, is under strict protection and there’s no harvesting allowed. But the other areas are owned by the state, and they don’t have such strict rules. In fact, the forest nature reserve makes up less than five percent of the entire forest area. The Cape Parrot Project (CPP) is collaborating with DAFF and Eastern Cape Nature to identify places where we can expand forest nature reserves.

Steve, a member of the Cape Parrot Project, thinks we should document all trees that are at least 100 years old. The CPP also suggests having independent observers to keep a close eye on any harvesting that might happen.

I’m here at a Hogsback Garden Club gathering on this beautiful day. Everyone is gathered around a table that holds a cake decorated with a stunning image of a Cape parrot. Some familiar faces from the Saturday morning market are here too – it’s that type of town. Today, the CPP (Cape Parrot Project) is sharing its work, hoping to convince locals to plant indigenous plants. You see, Hogsback is filled with non-native trees that line the streets and thrive in people’s gardens. The Arboretum, for example, is home to gigantic Californian redwoods that reach for the sky. These trees were originally planted by colonial forestry officials as experiments to see which ones would grow best.

This year, I am working with the CPP to accomplish an ambitious goal: planting 5000 native trees. We are also aiming to germinate a staggering 50000 trees at the nurseries in Sompondo and Boscobel, as well as through micro-nurseries. But our work doesn’t stop there.

Once our talks and meetings are done, we head over to a special area known as The Bluff. This spot serves as a unique “feedlot” for the parrots. It’s not an official reforestation project, but rather a cluster of thousands of trees that will eventually provide an additional food source for these colorful creatures. Our hope is that if everyone in the community joins in and plants native trees, the entire town will become a tightly connected feeding ground.

Later, I’m sitting at the viewpoint at Away with the Fairies Backpackers. The forest spreads out before me, with yellowwood trees bursting through the canopy like popcorn. I can’t stop thinking about what Cassie said about the parrots: ‘They’re really complicated and they’ve completely taken over my life!’ He told me how he managed to catch a few of them to take samples, and how they got all tangled up in the nets and had to be cut free. They put up a huge fight, too. ‘They try to eat you. We caught three birds, and it was mayhem for an hour and a half. You need thick leather gloves and plastic gloves on top of that. So yes, they are tough birds.’

Just then, the air was filled with squawks and calls, and streaks of green shot across the sky. It felt like being in a magical forest with fantastical creatures all around. I just hope these parrots are strong enough to endure.

Have you ever heard of the Madonna and Child waterfalls? They are a beautiful sight to behold and can be found on one of the many forest walks in Hogsback. As you explore the forest, you may also come across the remains of old saw pits. It’s fascinating to see the history intertwined with the natural beauty of the area.

Did you know that the Amathole Mountains are home to the Cape parrots? These mountains serve as their major stronghold, with over a third of the Cape parrot population residing here. It’s incredible to think that these vibrant birds can be found in such high numbers in this specific location. The conservation efforts in the Amathole Mountains must be making a difference in their survival. Photos by Melanie van Zyl

Meanwhile, in Cape Town…

Guess what? Outeniqua yellowwoods are expanding their range in Cape Town! Specifically, they are flourishing in the Kirstenbosch/Newlands area. This growth can be attributed to the birds that eat the fruit of these trees, helping to spread their seeds. Adam Harrower of SANBI believes that this rapid expansion could potentially become problematic in the future. These trees are even adapting to sandy soils in unexpected places like Epping, on the Cape Flats. It’s amazing how plants can adapt and thrive in different environments! However, it remains to be seen how many of these trees will reach the impressive age of over 400 years. According to historical records, the last sighting of Cape parrots near Cape Town was in 1726. Let’s hope they continue to thrive and bring beauty to the city!

Start Planning Your Trip

How to Get There

Hogsback, a charming destination, is located approximately 150km from East London. To reach this enchanting place, you can take the N2, R63, and R345 routes from East London or the N2 and R67 routes from Port Elizabeth. Personally, I opted to fly with Safair from Cape Town to East London for just R1200 – a fantastic deal!

Now, let me share some essential information about Hogsback. If you’re an early bird, you’ll have a delightful surprise as parrots are most active at dawn and dusk. Fortunately, the yellowwoods, which these parrots call home, tend to stay in one place. While these beautiful birds can be spotted throughout the year, the best time to encounter large flocks is in January and February.

In addition to Hogsback, there are other remarkable destinations in South Africa that are worth a visit. If you’re interested, you should definitely check out the Ingeli Forest, nestled between Kokstad and Harding, the Hlabeni Forest near Creighton, and the Magoebaskloof in Limpopo. Each of these locations offers its own unique charm.

If you’d like more information about the captivating Cape parrot or are interested in getting involved, I highly recommend visiting wildbirdtrust.com. They have all the information you need to know!

Now, let’s move on to accommodation options in Hogsback.

Hey there! I wanted to share some awesome places to stay while you’re on your nature retreat. Let’s dive in!

First up, we have The Edge Mountain Retreat. This place is incredible, with self-catering cottages that offer the most breathtaking views. Imagine waking up to a panoramic sight of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s truly a feast for the eyes! And if you’re feeling adventurous, some of the cottages are right on the edge of a gorge. Talk about a view!

Next, we have Terra-Khaya. It’s a unique eco-escape where you can really connect with nature. The cabins here are something special, as they’re built using recycled materials. How cool is that? Plus, they have composting loos, which is a fancy way of saying eco-friendly toilets. Oh, and did I mention the great vibes? You’ll get to hang out with horses, cats, and dogs that roam freely around the area. It’s like having your own furry entourage!

At Terra-Khaya, they believe in giving back to the environment. That’s why they’ve planted over 10,000 trees to date. So you can feel good about staying here and being part of something meaningful. And when it comes to meals, they’re all about communal dining. It’s a chance to bond with other guests and share stories over a delicious feast.

Now, let’s talk about what you can do while you’re here. One must-do activity is to go bird watching. And if you’re looking for a local guide, Graham Russell is your guy. He’s a pro when it comes to spotting those colorful parrots. A three-hour forest walk with him costs just R300 per person. Trust me, it’ll be an unforgettable experience!

If you want to make a positive impact on the environment, why not plant a tree? Greenpop holds an annual tree-planting festival in September at Terra-Khaya, but you can plant trees any time of the year. And if you plant five, you even get a free dinner! It’s a great way to contribute to the greenery.

Take a leisurely stroll to the Big Tree in Auckland State Forest, only a 45-minute walk from the town center. Or, if you’re up for a longer hike, you can include a visit to the Madonna and Child Falls with a steep ascent to Wolfridge Road. Along the way, you’ll be surrounded by magnificent yellowwoods.

For a unique experience, visit the eco-shrine located in a beautiful garden with a view of The Hogs peaks. Diana Graham, the creator of the shrine, will even give you a personal tour. It’s a small fee of R30 to enter.

Don’t miss the opportunity to admire the breathtaking arboretum in Hogsback. This garden, established by the British in the 1800s, is home to the stunning Californian redwoods and a charming waterfall called 39 Steps. Best of all, entry is completely free! You may also find traders selling traditional clay hog souvenirs in this area.

If you want to relax and enjoy a beautiful view, head to Away with the Fairies Backpackers and have a hot bath overlooking the forest. It only costs R50, plus an extra R20 for eco-friendly soap. Don’t forget to book in advance. Just call 0459621031.

Now, let’s talk about food!

For delicious pizzas starting at R60, mouth-watering burgers for R85, and tasty vegetarian options, you can’t go wrong with Butterfly’s Bistro. And if you’re around on Saturday morning, don’t miss the farmers’ market happening at the bistro. For more information or to make a reservation, call 0459621326.

If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a bite, check out The Hog & Hornbill, Cassie’s local pub. They have a lovely garden and they serve a variety of pub food, snack baskets, and craft beers. You can reach them at 0736004644.

If you’re in the mood for an elegant dining experience, Nutwoods Park is the place to go. They offer a fine dining menu in a candlelit room. But be sure to make a reservation in advance for dinner. It costs R270 per person. To book your table, call 0459621043.

Enjoy your stay!