Lucky number 13

Many who are superstitious may believe that 13 is number of doom and gloom, bringing on bad luck. Here at Ubizane we believe quite the opposite, as room 13 in tree lodge overlooks a colossal Hamerkop Nest that is wedged between 2 branches of a Fever tree.  

 The Hamerkop is amply named after its hammer shaped head. Not much to look at, with its dull brown plumage and long flat bill, the Hamerkop nest is often a bigger attraction than the bird itself. 

 Being  compulsive nest builders, Hamerkops can build 3 to 4 nests a year regardless if they are breeding or not. These nests are constructed from sticks, reeds, grass and other dead plant material, which can weigh in at a staggering 24 to 49 kilograms and often built on or near river banks. This nest building process can take up to 4 months and easily support a human’s weight.

Once the colossal nest is complete, both the male and female will incubate the clutch which generally consists of 3 to 7 eggs, for 28 to 30 days and by day 44 to 50 the young will leave the roost permanently. 

Snakes, small mammals such as Genet, and various birds live in the abandoned nests. Weaver birds,Mynas and Pigeon may attach their nests to the outside of the nest.   

 

There are many legends and beliefs surrounding the Hammerkop and its nest.  It is known in some cultures as the lightning bird and the Kalahari Bushmen  believe or believed that being hit by lightning resulted from trying to rob a Hamerkop's nest. They also believe that the hostile god Khauna would not like anyone to kill a Hamerkop. According to an old Malagasy belief, anyone who destroys its nest will get leprosy. Such beliefs have given the bird some protection, making them a common resident throughout Africa.