Dick Dent Bird Sanctuary, Bird sanctuary in Somerset West, South Africa

The Dick Dent Bird Sanctuary covers wetland areas along the Lourens River with several observation points scattered throughout. The site provides nesting grounds and feeding areas for many water bird species across different sections of the protected space.

The location began as a water treatment facility before being converted into a protected sanctuary in 1982. The transformation happened after engineer Dick Dent from AECI recommended the site's protection due to its ecological value.

The sanctuary is managed by the nearby Helderberg Nature Reserve with help from the Somerset West Bird Club, whose members take part in looking after the site. It lies within the Lourens River Protected Natural Environment, and the water birds that gather there are what most visitors come to watch.

A bird observation hide near the center section allows comfortable viewing without disturbing the birds. Parking is available next to the AGS church on Broadway Boulevard near the entrance.

Records from 1966 onward document more than 160 bird species here, including rare varieties like the Ethiopian snipe. The site remains a surprising refuge for species that have disappeared elsewhere in the region.