Our Story
From One Backyard to a Community of Birders
It Started With a Sunbird and a Camera
Vlerkie began with one photograph of a Cape Sunbird on a garden branch — and the realisation that most feeders on the market were built for birds, not for the photo. We started designing our own: cleaner perches, better sightlines, backgrounds that blur beautifully.
Shop the RangeHow We Design
01 — Observe & Photograph
Every design starts with hours behind the lens, watching how each species actually feeds, perches and moves.
02 — Design & Prototype
Sketches become prototypes, built and reshaped until the angle, perch and backdrop line up for a clean shot.
03 — Test in the Backyard
Every design earns its place on the reserve — tested with real birds, real light and a real camera before it ships.
“A feeder isn't just for the birds. It's the difference between a blurry snapshot through a window and the shot you'll actually print.”
— The Vlerkie Founders
40+
Species photographed
1 Hectare
Private bird sanctuary
100%
Designed & tested in SA
2026
Founded