Party at the bird gardens

The Montecasino Bird Gardens turns 11 on Freedom Day, and to mark the occasion, there will be a whole lot of fun and treats for all visitors.
JOBURG’S feathered friends have enjoyed a relaxing 11 years in the calm sanctuary of the Montecasino Bird Gardens, which first opened its gates on 27 April 2001. To celebrate the milestone, the gardens are throwing a birthday party on the day to rival any other 11-year-old’s.

Montecasino Bird GardensThe gardens have been a refuge to numerous types of animals over the years, not just birds, including reptiles and mammals. “Having taken it upon itself to educate adults and children alike on the importance and relevance of our environment and the wildlife that lives alongside us, while at the same time providing a fun-filled environment for all ages, the Montecasino Bird Gardens has not disappointed, and 11 years on is stronger than ever,” says Gaole Bogatsu of Strategic Public Relations, which is in charge of the event.

Festivities will kick off at 10am and carry on until 4pm. Face painters, stilt walkers and mime artists will keep children entertained and there will be sweet treats and birthday cupcakes to keep the hunger at bay.

“JT the Jelly Tots man will make a surprise appearance and Tango the Toucan, the bright and colourful Montecasino Bird Gardens mascot, will also be there to meet and have his picture taken with his friends,” Bogatsu says.

There will also be three showings of the Flight of Fantasy bird show throughout the day. “[It is] an educational show guaranteed to thrill spectators and take them on a close and intimate journey into the world of birds.”

These will take place at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, and all audience members will stand the chance of winning prizes, ranging from meal vouchers and bird gardens tickets to Hyundai balloon tickets and chocolates.

Guests will also be able to enjoy the other attractions that the gardens have to offer, such as the collection of cycads, of which there are 322 from 37 different species, and more than 1 000 reptiles, small animals and birds from over 60 species.

It is the only bird park of its kind in Africa, and is open seven days a week. Opening hours are 8.30am to 5pm. The Flight of Fantasy bird shows take place every weekday at 11am and 3pm, and on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays at 11am, 1 and 3pm.

It costs R45 for adults and children over the age of 10, R25 for pensioners and children under 10; special group rates can be organised too.

The bird gardens are located in Montecasino, which can be found on the corner of William Nicol Drive and Montecasino Boulevard in Fourways. For more information, you can phone 011 511 1864 or email mbirds@mweb.co.za.