Ducks on Vergenoegd Wine Estate
December 8th, 2008Yesterday we celebrated Lois’ dad’s 70th birthday party at the Pomegranate restaurant at Vergenoegd wine estate. They have turned the old manor house into the restaurant, but have kept several of the rooms and lounges with the original furniture, including a wonderful old grand piano (which would be REALLY wonderful if the gave it even a little maintenance.
Piano at Vergenoegd wine estate
While having lunch, I saw the most strange thing – a duck parade! The farm has about 300 Indian runner ducks living on the farm. These ducks run through the vinyards, looking for snails and small insects to eat. This novel solution to pest control keeps the vineyards pest-free in an environmentally friendly manner.
Ducks on Vergenoegd Wine Estate
So, in the middle of lunch, about 100 ducks came marching through the outside of the restaurnant, much like a class of school children out on a school outing.
Ducks on Vergenoegd Wine Estate
They marched onto the lawns, ate everything in site (at least all the snails), and left. Thinking about it, it sounds more like varsity students than school kids.
Ducks on Vergenoegd Wine Estate
Although they are both noisy and smelly, it is kind-of cute to watch. And I was really glad that I had decided to order the fish and not the duck that was on the lunch menu!
If you get the opportunity to go to the farm, do so. It is not something that you will see everyday!
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December 12th, 2008 at 1:35 pm
Ooooh, I want some runner ducks!! They can not only eat the snails in my garden, but they will also scare the hell out of the bulb-chewing squirrels ;-)
December 12th, 2008 at 5:40 pm
And you will have a lot of very organic fertilizer. But be warned, they stink!
December 27th, 2008 at 11:05 am
I have 12 x 3 week old Indian Runners looking for a good home. I live in Noordhoek but am prepared to deliver.
January 27th, 2009 at 12:11 pm
I’m thinking of introducing a duck pond within the wood just below the vineyard. Do you have any problems with the ducks eating the grapes? I’ve had total crop decimation from pheasants!
January 27th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
Sorry – I have no idea. Perhaps call the farm and ask them. Their website is http://www.vergenoegd.co.za/.
Craig
February 27th, 2009 at 2:03 pm
I have a stud farm on the outskirts of Port Elizabeth and would love some Indian Runner Ducks.Any idea where I can buy some.Ian Robertson
February 27th, 2009 at 2:26 pm
Sorry Ian, I have no idea. Perhaps give the farm a call and ask.