Avenue of Oaks
The longest oak avenue in Southern Africa, Potchefstroom Oak Avenue of 6.48km comprises Botha, Kock, Kruger, Retief, Van Riebeeck and Tom Streets and Calderbank Avenue. It stretches from the Agricultural Centre to the Lakeside Resort.
The trees were planted following a decision of the Town Council of Potchefstroom in 1910. A stone beacon with a bronze plaque was erected on the corner of Lombard and Kruger Street when the avenue was declared a national monument in 1975. The beacon was constructed with stones from the old North Bridge.
OPM Prozesky Bird Sanctuary
LOCATION
The OPM Prozesky Bird Sanctuary lies to the south of Potchefstroom along the banks of the Mooi River.
HISTORY
The reserve was established in the 1980's. The disused sewage ponds of the local municipality attracted prolific birdlife and nature lovers and the municipality wanted to establish a sanctuary where all forms of wildlife would be protected. The reserve is a joint project of BirdLife Wesvaal and the Potchefstroom City Council whose land it is. The reserve is named after the well-known ornithologist, Dr OPM Prozesky of the Transvaal Museum who championed the cause of the reserve.
CONSERVATION
Prozesky Bird Sanctuary was established to conserve and protect the bio-diversity of the habit. As part of our green heritage, we have a duty towards the environment to preserve and protect it for future generations. At the same time the area should be accessible to all for enjoyment and education. The reserve belongs to the community of Potchefstroom therefore it should be utilized with minimal disturbance.
RECREATION
Birding is the main activity and the reserve has been developed and maintained to be accessible to birders on foot. The paths are maintained by the Potchefstroom City Council and lead to the different birding spots and hides. Bridges enable the visitor to gain access to all parts of the reserve and the hides are strategically placed to give the best views of birdlife.
SPECIES
As the area is a wetland, many types of water birds (and waders in summer) can be observed at close quarters. About 200 species have been observed over the years. Interesting birds almost always seen include African Purple Swamphen, Black Crake, Black-winged Stilt and various species of duck. Herons abound, even a goliath Heron pair are residents. In the reed beds different warblers can be heard, weavers are prolific in summer and in the grassveld waxbills, cisticolas, pipits and chats can be seen.
FACILITIES
The reserve is fenced but easily accessible from the main entrance. Visitors can enter the reserve during daylight hours, no permit is needed and no entrance fee is levied. The kiosk, toilets and Hide no 2 are locked after office hours, but keys can be obtained by arrangement. Access by car for persons who walk with difficulty can be arranged.
NO PICNICS, NO FIRES AND NO SMOKING IN THE RESERVE
EDUCATION
BirdLife Wesvaal has open days on the first Saturday of the month. Experienced birders guide the novice or newcomer through the reserve. Environmental awareness is also taught by arrangement with local schools and at special occasions like National Bird Week and Birding Big Day. Guided walks are available by arrangement.
SCIENTIFIC IMPORTANCE
Ringing of birds for scientific research is undertaken on a regular basis by BirdLife Wesvaal and the Zoology students from the North West University.
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