A pair of butterflies captured mid-flight among the coastal foliage at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Tim McClurg]
From colourful birds to curious mammals, Scottburgh’s wildlife is one of the many reasons for it being dubbed ‘the best coastal town to retire in South Africa’.
Here at Renishaw Hills Lifestyle Estate, 80% of our land is preserved as a conservation area, creating a natural home for a wide variety of species.
In this article, we take a closer look at some of the extraordinary sightings you may encounter while exploring the estate.
Sunbirds
A vibrant sunbird captured in the gardens of Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Tim McClurg]
Sunbirds are a familiar sight around Renishaw Hills, especially where nectar-rich flowers provide an easy food source.
Because they’re so small and quick, you’ll need a keen eye to spot these colourful birds darting between flowering plants.
Duikers
A gentle duiker making a quiet appearance at Renishaw Hills
[📸 Captured by Lynn Espitalier]
Did you know that the blue duiker is the smallest antelope species in South Africa? Standing at just around 32-41 cm at the shoulder, they don’t pose any sort of threat to humans.
These dainty antelopes can be surprisingly elusive, so spotting one around the estate is definitely a special moment.
Storks
A stork stopping by a birdbath at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Lynn Rosati]
Storks are among the larger birds you may spot in the area, making them relatively easy to notice when they’re nearby. With their long legs and distinctive bills, they make for eye-catching photographs.
Crowned Eagles
A crowned eagle attending to its chick in a high-canopy nest at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Tim McClurg]
Seeing a Crowned Eagle is a bucket list event for many birding enthusiasts. This powerful raptor is an impressive sight, particularly when soaring above the treetops.
As a top predator, its presence also highlights the importance of maintaining healthy natural habitats that can support a diverse range of species.
Butterflies
A vibrant southern gaudy commodore butterfly resting among the lush flora at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Tim McClurg]
Butterflies bring another splash of colour to the Renishaw Hills landscape, particularly around flowering indigenous plants. Depending on the season and conditions, you may spot:
- Common Diadem
- African Migrant
- Garden Acraea
- Blue Pansy
- Green-banded Swallowtail
Be sure to have a butterfly identification book nearby so that you can become familiar with the resident species.
Mongooses
Playful mongooses enjoying a sunny afternoon in a resident’s garden at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Lynn Espitalier]
Small, quick, and often difficult to photograph, mongooses are another fascinating creature to look out for.
They are well adapted to a variety of habitats and can sometimes be spotted moving through natural areas around the estate. If you see one, you’ve earned another tick on the checklist.
Kingfishers
Brown-hooded Kingfisher showing off its vibrant colours is a residents garden at Renishaw Hills.
[📸 Captured by Lynn Espitalier]
With their bright colours and distinctive shape, kingfishers are always exciting to spot. While there are a few different species on the South Coast, the Brown-Hooded Kingfisher is the one you’ll see most regularly at Renishaw Hills.
Scottburgh: The Best Coastal Town to Retire in South Africa
In addition to its vibrant wildlife, Scottburgh has plenty to offer retirees. The region’s warm coastal climate, beautiful beaches and relaxed atmosphere make it easy to enjoy the outdoors.
The town also offers convenient access to healthcare facilities, shopping, restaurants and other everyday amenities.
A full rainbow arching over the homes and rolling hills at Renishaw Hills.
Want to retire in one of the best coastal towns in South Africa? Here at Renishaw Hills, we aren’t a Retirement Home or Retirement Village. Instead, we are a Lifestyle Estate on the South Coast that welcomes active over-50s who value nature and community. Contact us today to arrange a private tour of the estate. We’ll show you our world-class facilities, available properties, and indigenous gardens.
