Birds of Eden
Location: Plettenberg Bay, Western Cape
One of the world's largest free-flight aviaries, set under a massive mesh dome woven over indigenous forest. Visitors explore elevated walkways through natural habitat while hundreds of bird species fly freely around them — a sanctuary focused on rehabilitation, conservation and immersive bird encounters.
More information: www.birdsofeden.co.za
Montecasino Bird Gardens
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng
A family-friendly bird garden within the Montecasino precinct, offering interactive aviary experiences. The walk-through aviary hosts a mix of colourful bird species along garden pathways, alongside other small animal exhibits, making it a popular stop for visitors and children alike.
More information: www.montecasino.co.za/entertainment/bird-gardens
National Zoological Gardens (Zoo with aviary section)
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng
While primarily a full zoological park, the Pretoria Zoo includes a sizable aviary area among its exhibits where visitors can walk through and view a variety of bird species within naturalistic enclosures as part of a broader wildlife experience.
More information: www.pretoriazoo.org
Umgeni River Bird Park
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Set in a landscaped former quarry, this bird park features a variety of aviaries and bird exhibits connected by walking paths that wind past waterfalls and special viewing areas. It's known for interactive bird shows and conservation efforts focused on threatened species.
More information: www.umgeniriverbirdpark.co.za
World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary & Monkey Park
Location: Hout Bay, Western Cape
A large walk-through bird park within landscaped gardens, featuring multiple aviary enclosures with hundreds of bird species along with small mammals. Its design encourages close encounters as you stroll between habitats framed by dramatic mountain scenery.
More information: www.worldofbirds.org.za
Questions after the interview:
At the end of an interview there is usually an opportunity where you can ask any questions you might have. This is a great opportunity to show the interviewer that you are interested in the position as well as the company. It is a good idea to prepare a few questions before the interview – this can be done while you are doing research on the company.
Your questions should show the interviewer that you are a good candidate for the position. Try and avoid questions that are based on your personal needs and preferences, for instance:
- How much leave will I get in a year?
- Will I be considered for promotion in my first year?
- When will I get an increase?
- What time can I leave in the afternoon?
These questions are inappropriate at this stage and will probably raise concerns on the side of the interviewer. Should you be the successful candidate then all these questions will be answered in your letter of appointment so don’t waste this opportunity by asking these basic questions.
If the position is an entry level job or very junior then you are welcome to ask questions in line with the position, for instance:
- Why did the previous person leave the position?
- What would the successful person be tasked to do in a typical day?
- How does this position fit into the department and / or company?
- Could you explain the company structure to me?
- Is there any further education assistance or support?
If the position is more senior then you can prepare question around the following themes:
- current issues that will face the successful candidate;
- inter-personal challenges in the department;
- any process, technology or people challenges that needs to be attended to urgently;
- key result areas that need urgent attention in the first few months;
The above information should get you started. Prepare a few questions so that you can show your worth. Good luck with your interview!
