Rondebult is a 95ha bird sanctuary with an excellent reputation as one of the best birding spots in Gauteng, situated close to Germiston and Alberton.
Originally a sewage site, a number of large ponds were created as settlement dams, and although it is no longer used for sewage, the water is still nutrient rich.
Throughout the sanctuary there are patches of grassland that integrate with the reedbeds and extensive marshlands, which provide a home to over 190 species. The warm summer months bring flocks of migrant waders and the cold winter, with its frosty weather, attracts the breeding duck species.
The eight hides at the edge of the three large pans provide comfortable viewing spots and are also great for the bird photographer.
Specials include the Yellow Wagtail, African Snipe, Black-crowned Night-Heron, Orange breasted Waxbill, Marsh Owl, Little Bittern, Maccoa Duck, Greater Flamingo, African Wattled Lapwing, Great Reed-Warbler, Purple Gallinule and Avocet.
The wetland is well maintained with secure parking, toilet and basic picnic facilities and full-time security controlling access into the facility. The hides are all accessible from the parking. This is definitely a spot for the bird lover!
The sanctuary is open daily throughout the year from 07h00 to 17h00 and is found by heading south from Johannesburg on the N3 highway. Turn left at the R103/R554 (Heidelberg / Alberton road) off-ramp and the sanctuary is on the right hand side of the road after approximately 9 km. The entrance is directly opposite the junction with the R554 and Forsdick Road. Rondebult is well signposted from the N3.
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