Marievale Bird Sanctuary, Bird sanctuary in Gauteng Province, South Africa

Marievale Bird Sanctuary is a protected wetland area featuring floodplains and two lakes that support diverse wildlife throughout the year. The landscape provides habitat for hundreds of bird and mammal species within its boundaries.

The sanctuary was established in 1978 and has grown over time to protect larger areas for bird populations. Management by local environmental authorities has helped secure the area's role in preserving wetland systems.

The name Marievale does not come from the Blesbokspruit; the sanctuary lies on the southern half of that Ramsar-listed wetland, which is also an Important Bird Area. A visitors' pamphlet produced by the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa and available at the gate states that nearly 300 bird species visit the wetland. Four hides at the water pans are named Flamingo, Hadeda, Duiker and Shelduck.

The area offers observation hides at different locations that allow visitors to watch birds from close range. The best time to visit is early morning when bird activity is highest.

During summer months, rare and large bird species such as Goliath herons and black egrets gather here for feeding. This season offers birdwatchers the best opportunity to spot these uncommon species.