Bird Island Nature Reserve

Bird Island Nature Reserve is a protected coastal area in the Western Cape where thousands of seabirds make their home. The island hosts African penguins, cormorants, gannets, and other marine species that live and breed there year-round.

The reserve was established to protect seabird populations that had declined dramatically along the western coast. What was once a simple anchorage for fishing boats was transformed into a protected nature area.

The reserve serves as a working research station where scientists monitor seabird populations and their health. Visitors can observe how conservation efforts protect these animals and keep their colonies thriving.

Visitors reach the island by boat tours departing from Lambert's Bay, which operate only during daylight hours. The best time to visit depends on weather conditions, since waves and wind can affect the crossing.

The island is known for the impressive mating dances of Cape gannets that visitors can watch from special viewing platforms. These displays happen during breeding season and offer a rare glimpse into animal behavior rarely seen elsewhere.