Barberspan Bird Sanctuary.  

The pans, which are fed intermittently by the Harts River, are an important drought refuge for waterfowl which arrive in numbers from the surrounding pans to wait out the dry season. Barberspan and the adjacent Leeupan, connected by a shallow channel, are over 4 000 ha in extent comprising shallow alkaline waters ideally suited to the many species which favour such conditions. The area around Barberspan is undulating grassland and agricultural land, leaving the pans largely undisturbed. Certain areas on the pans are designated for anglers to enjoy excellent fishing opportunities for carp, barbel and yellowfish. Boating opportunities are offered and a number of photographers hides are available. To reach Barberspan take any number of routes to Delareyville. The pans are located 17 km north west of Delareyville on the N14 to Sannieshof, 307 km from Johannesburg or an easy 3 hour drive. Roads are suitable for all vehicles. No power boats are permitted on the pans. Canoes and rowing boats are restricted to the southern sector. A number of enterprising bird clubs have sponsored bird hides which will be strategically positioned for the enjoyment of all. Barberspan hosts several important regional and national angling competitions. The pans, which are fed intermittently by the Harts River, are an important drought refuge for waterfowl which arrive in numbers from the surrounding pans to wait out the dry season. Barberspan and the adjacent Leeupan, connected by a shallow channel, are over 4 000 ha in extent comprising shallow alkaline waters ideally suited to the many species which favour such conditions. The area around Barberspan is undulating grassland and agricultural land, leaving the pans largely undisturbed. Certain areas on the pans are designated for anglers to enjoy excellent fishing opportunities for carp, barbel and yellowfish. Boating opportunities are offered and a number of photographers hides are available. The Barberspan Bird Sanctuary is probably unique in South Africa, and indeed the world, for the sheer numbers and variety of birds to be seen on the pans. 365 species have been recorded, including a number of rare migrants, making Barberspan an essential stopover for all birders. Pelicans and flamingo, grebes, terns, herons, cranes, ibis and bitterns to mention just a few. All but one of the South African duck species have been recorded at the pans. Accommodation is on a self-catering basis in of two houses sleeping 6 and 8 people, respectively. Each house is equipped with a bathroom and separate toilets, the smaller house also has a shower in the bathroom, electricity, a fridge, stove, furniture, beds with mattresses, and an outdoor braai facility. Bring own bedding, pots, crockery and cutlery. Weavers Nest is a large house with 3 and a half bathrooms, sleeping 16-20 people, equipped with a stove, table, chairs, beds an mattresses. There is an outdoor lapa for braais. Wood is available, bring own bedding. Camping sites along the angling shore and a camp site on the northern side of the reserve are also available.