Where once there were giant mangroves (438 hectares) right around the bay’s shores, Durban’s bay and the large harbour are home to a remnant 15-hectare stand of mangroves that is now a protected natural heritage site. The mud-skipper fish, various crabs, including the red mangrove crab and the one talon bigger than the other fiddler crab, as well as the mangrove kingfisher, call the Bayhead Mangrove Swamps home. The mangrove kingfisher is probably attracted by the amazingly large number of crabs that call the mangrove swamp their home.
Although it is located right in the midst of the city, Durban Bay has recorded 120 species of aquatic birds, which is a surprising amount for the location. You almost certainly will see at least 30 different species if you set aside at least an hour.
Pelicans, gulls, and terns are attracted to the nearby tidal flats, which also draw a staggering number of birds. A waterbird hide overlooking the flats makes viewing easier, especially between low tide and high tide when birds become gathered in front of the hide as they lose ground. Similar to the Beachwood mangroves in Durban, there is a magnificent boardwalk that meanders through the mangroves.
These mangroves are constantly in danger from environmental degradation because of their location in the harbour, including the most recent cooking oil spill from the Africa Sun Oil fire in Mobeni. The fire damaged one of the pipes, causing unprocessed oil to flow into the mangroves and neighbouring canals.
Drive along Victoria Embankment, now known as Margaret Mncadi Avenue, in the direction of the Maydon Wharf signage until you turn left onto Maydon Road. From here, take Bayhead Road, then turn left onto Langeberg Road, which you will then follow across the railroad bridge to the heritage site after following the signage there.
Drive along Victoria Embankment, now known as Margaret Mncadi Avenue, in the direction of the Maydon Wharf signage until you turn left onto Maydon Road. From here, take Bayhead Road, then turn left onto Langeberg Road, which you will then follow across the railroad bridge to the heritage site after following the signage there.