23-05-2025
Harmful alien plant species removed by SANParks Honorary Rangers
The biodiversity of the Kruger National Park (KNP) faces a serious threat from invasive alien plant species that are not indigenous to the region and have been introduced either intentionally or accidentally.
These plants, also referred to as exotic, non-native, or foreign species, include well-known invaders such as lantana (Lantana camara), paraffin weed (Chromolaena odorata), queen of the night cactus (Cereus jamacaru), prickly pear (Opuntia spp.), famine weed (Parthenium hysterophorus), pompom weed (Campuloclinium macrocephalum), Mauritius thorn (Caesalpinia decapetala) and slender potato creeper (Solanum seaforthianum.)
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To combat this, the SANParks Honorary Rangers (SHR) in the Lowveld region co-ordinate regular hack duties that are volunteer-driven operations focused on removing these plants from affected areas in the park. The hack operations are physically demanding and form a continuous part of conservation efforts.
Amelda Obermeyer, the SHR hack co-ordinator in the Lowveld region, says:
'We employ several methods for invasive plant removal, including mechanical control, which involves physically cutting or uprooting the plants, often followed by the application of approved herbicides to prevent regrowth. With biological control, natural enemies such as the cochineal insect (Dactylopius opuntiae), which targets specific plant species like the prickly pear and queen of the night, are used.'
In May 2025, the team had a successful hack at Nkambeni Safari Camp and Mdluli Safari Lodge. A total of 14 dedicated volunteers from six different SHR regions took part. During this effort, over 2 000 lantana plants and 600 paraffin weed plants were eradicated.
Events like the upcoming open-air performance by the renowned Ndlovu Youth Choir, under the stars in the Kruger National Park, are essential for fundraising.
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The event on June 13 promises to be an unforgettable evening. There are limited exclusive overnight glamping packages available at Nkambeni Safari Camp. The cost is R2 550 per person sharing and R2 950 per single person, which includes bed and breakfast, concert tickets with a harvest table and a glass of wine, a return shuttle with a game drive experience and conservation fees.
Bookings can be made with Linda Pieters at lowveldfundraising@
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