Latest news with #CapeNature
IOL News
2 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Western Cape declares Wilderness Nature Reserve to protect biodiversity
The Wilderness Nature Reserve Image: CapeNature In a significant stride towards bolstering environmental conservation, the Western Cape has officially declared the Wilderness Nature Reserve, encompassing over 643 hectares near Heidelberg. Declared as a Provincial Nature Reserve on 17 July 2025, this new sanctuary plays a crucial role in preserving freshwater biodiversity, safeguarding endangered species, and establishing vital ecological corridors. The Wilderness Nature Reserve features a wealth of biodiversity, including the Critically Endangered Breede River Redfin. It also provides a crucial breeding area for the Black Harrier, recognised as the rarest raptor in southern Africa, and classified as an Endangered species. This new reserve is not just a haven for wildlife; it is paramount for maintaining the delicate balance of local ecosystems. Approximately 615 hectares of the reserve have been designated as a Priority Biodiversity Area, linking directly to the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area—a formally protected Provincial Nature Reserve recognised as part of a World Heritage Site. This strategic connection enhances biodiversity conservation efforts across the region. MEC for Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell, praised the collaborative efforts between CapeNature and various landowners that led to this declaration. 'This new reserve is not only a haven for wildlife; it is paramount for maintaining the delicate balance of local ecosystems,' he said. 'Our commitment to expanding protected areas is essential in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change.' The establishment of the Wilderness Nature Reserve is a proactive measure that guarantees the long-term health and resilience of the province's biodiversity. It protects critical components of the ecosystem, ensuring that vital species have a secure habitat where they can flourish. Moreover, this nature reserve serves as a key ecological link to the adjoining Boosmansbos Nature Reserve, significantly enhancing the overall network of protected areas. The properties hold immense conservation value, not only by offering habitat for threatened species but also through their contribution to essential ecosystem services, acting as a critical catchment for the Duivenhoks Dam that supplies water to communities downstream. Landowners interested in protecting their land formally are encouraged to reach out to CapeNature's Antia Wheeler at awheeler@ or Kaylin Reid at kreid@ for guidance and assistance.
IOL News
2 days ago
- General
- IOL News
Community urged to protect Rosendal Dam from Illegal fishing practices
Egyptian geese swim in the Rosendal Dam in Durbanville, which is currently under threat from unlawful fishing practices Image: City of Cape Town The City of Cape Town's Recreation and Parks Department has issued a heartfelt plea to the community to help safeguard Rosendal Dam in Durbanville, which is currently under threat from unlawful fishing practices. Despite the clear signage and consistent patrols aimed at enforcing no-fishing regulations, illegal angling continues to wreak havoc on the local wildlife and undermines the city's efforts to rehabilitate this vital natural resource. Despite clear signage prohibiting fishing in the Rosendal Dam in Durbanville, unlawful fishing practices continue Image: City of Cape Town Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ A disturbing incident involving a Cormorant found dead and entangled in fishing line serves as a grim testament to the dangerous impact of unregulated fishing on local ecosystems. This incident underscores the immediate need for collective action among community members to respect and uphold existing regulations that protect the delicate balance of Rosendal's aquatic life. Rosendal Dam is home to a variety of indigenous bird species, including Cormorants, Cattle Egrets, and Egyptian Geese, alongside numerous indigenous plant types critical to the larger aquatic ecosystem. The conservation of this biodiversity is essential to achieving the city's broader environmental objectives and enhancing the well-being of the local community. It is crucial to note that fishing without a valid permit is illegal. Under the policies established by the City and CapeNature, all anglers must obtain a CapeNature recreational fishing licence to ensure the protection of both fish populations and other species dependent on the ecosystem. Another alarming episode was reported over the weekend at Sonstraal Dam, where an Egyptian Goose was found trapped with its legs ensnared in fishing line. Although attempts were made to assist the distressed bird, it returned to the water, exposing itself to further danger. This incident has been escalated to the appropriate channels for urgent attention. A dead Cormorant caught in fishing line from illegal fishing in the Rosendal dam in Durbanville Image: City of Cape Town 'The incidents at Rosendal and Sonstraal Dams are heartbreaking for our local wildlife and reflect a blatant disregard for public space and environmental responsibility. These dams are sensitive natural areas, and the City will not hesitate to enforce no-fishing rules to protect our natural heritage. Together, we can protect indigenous birdlife and aquatic ecosystems, ensuring these spaces remain safe and vibrant for both wildlife and residents,' said Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health. 'Our community deserves safe, healthy, and thriving green spaces. Reports of illegal fishing—and the harm it causes to birds and other wildlife at Rosendal and Sonstraal Dams—are deeply concerning. We urge residents to report any illegal activity and support the City's efforts to safeguard these important areas,' added Ward 21 Councillor Hendri Terblanche. Maintaining the protection of public spaces remains a key priority for the city. Recently, Law Enforcement officers patrolled the Vierlanden Dam Dog Park, issuing fines to individuals who were fishing illegally. Community members interested in fishing legally in the greater Durbanville region are encouraged to obtain a permit and fish exclusively at designated City sites, such as Door De Kraal Dam in Bellville. As efforts to restore Rosendal Dam continue, the focus remains on addressing environmental challenges while preserving the area as a safe habitat for local wildlife and a welcoming public space for residents. If you witness illegal fishing or discover injured or deceased animals at any of the local dams within this region, or if you require more information regarding the permitting process, please contact the City's Recreation and Parks Department at or report directly to Law Enforcement at 021 480 7700.
Time Out
3 days ago
- Time Out
Biodiversity crime surge threatens the Cape's natural heritage
CapeNature has raised the alarm on the growing threat of biodiversity crime in the Western Cape, revealing 12 new cases and 23 fines issued between April and June 2025 alone. Offences range from illegal plant harvesting and trading, to the picking of wildflowers without a permit - and they are having a severe impact on the province's ecosystems. Of the 12 registered cases, eight involved flora and four involved fauna. Most fines were related to violations of the Nature Conservation Ordinance, with 15 involving wildlife. Four fines were issued under the Marine Living Resources Act. 'These statistics reflect the seriousness of biodiversity crime in the province and our ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and enforcement,' said Western Cape Environmental Affairs MEC Anton Bredell. Each act of enforcement helps safeguard the Western Cape's globally significant ecosystems, he added. Home to the UNESCO-listed Cape Floristic Region, the province harbours one of the world's richest floral kingdoms. However, nearly 16% of its species and over half of its ecosystems are now listed as threatened. CapeNature's efforts include multi-agency collaboration with units of SAPS such as the Hawks and the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Unit, alongside various law enforcement and conservation partners. These operations form part of a broader strategy to curb biodiversity crime while enabling sustainable, conservation-based livelihoods. As biodiversity crime continues to place pressure on already fragile landscapes, CapeNature urges the public to respect protected areas, report illegal activity, and recognise the long-term value of the region's natural heritage.
IOL News
3 days ago
- IOL News
CapeNature's ongoing battle against biodiversity crime in South Africa
CapeNature collaborates with partners to tackle biodiversity crime head-on. Pictured: Avonia sp and Conophytum sp seized from a trafficker at the airport. Image: Supplied CapeNature continues the fight against biodiversity crime, which is often overlooked, but its impact is devastating. This comes after the government entity registered more than 10 cases in three months. According to CapeNature, biodiversity crime harms South Africa's unique ecosystems. Illegal plant trade in the Western Cape, poaching, and even picking wildflowers in protected areas without a permit all contribute to the degradation of biodiversity and the loss of crucial natural resources. Between April and June 2025, CapeNature officials registered 12 cases (eight flora, four fauna) and issued 23 fines. Four fines related to contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act, and 19 for contraventions of the Nature Conservation Ordinance (15 for wild animals and the others for flora). 'These statistics reflect the seriousness of biodiversity crime in the province and our ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and enforcement along with our partners,' said Western Cape Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell. 'Every action we take to stop the illegal harvesting and trade of species contributes to conserving the Western Cape's globally significant ecosystems. We are especially appreciative of the many partnerships we have with other government agencies, conservation partners, industry groups, and communities who assist us in these efforts.' Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ The Cape Floristic region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world's six floral kingdoms, is in the Western Cape. Despite this, over 50% of the province's ecosystems and nearly 16% of its species are classified as threatened. CapeNature said illegal activity places additional pressure on already vulnerable landscapes, impacting biodiversity, local economies, and food security. In the Western Cape, CapeNature collaborates with partners to combat biodiversity crime, encompassing both flora and fauna. The entity has been involved in various operations recently in support of the South African Police Service and the Hawks. Specifically on the illegal succulent trade, CapeNature collaborates extensively with various conservation partners. Joint operations between CapeNature, the Northern Cape Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development, SANParks, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), and SAPS Stock Theft and Endangered Species units are also conducted, focusing on addressing the illegal trade in reptiles and succulents. Education and awareness drives have been implemented among local communities situated in bio crime hotspot areas. The public can support biodiversity crime prevention by being vigilant and reporting suspicious activities to nature conservation authorities and the SAPS. Meanwhile, four foreign nationals - Mark Daddy, 43, Raphael Mhashu, 25, Simbarashe Charanelura, 33, and Elton Ngwanati, 34 - were sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment for poaching 303 specimens of the critically endangered Clivia mirabilis in the Namakwa region. The Clivia mirabilis, also known as the miracle bush lily or Oorlogskloof bush lily, is a rare species native to parts of the Northern and Western Cape. Highly coveted in the illegal global plant trade, its black-market value is estimated to be between R6 million and R30 million. DFFE Minister Dr Dion George noted that the conviction shows organised crime is exploiting more of SA's rare plants, beyond succulents, due to high international, especially Asian, demand. These crimes threaten biodiversity, disrupt ecosystems, and push already vulnerable species closer to extinction. 'This conviction is a critical milestone in our fight against environmental crime,' George said. 'It sends a clear message: those who profit from exploiting our natural heritage will face serious consequences.' He said the department will continue to strengthen enforcement, build international partnerships, and work closely with police and prosecutors to stop the illegal trade in wildlife and plants.
IOL News
4 days ago
- IOL News
Illegal plant trade and poaching: A growing concern for South Africa's ecosystems
Illegal plant trade and poaching are a growing threat to South Africa's unique ecosystems and natural resources. Image: CapeNature Biodiversity crime, from illegal plant trade to poaching, is a growing threat to South Africa's unique ecosystems and natural resources. CapeNature said the illegal plant trade in the Western Cape is linked to poaching and picking of wildflowers in protected areas without a permit. These acts contribute to the degradation of biodiversity and the loss of crucial natural resources. General manager for advocacy at CapeNature, Petro van Rhyn, said biodiversity crime was growing. Van Rhyn said between April and June 2025, CapeNature officials registered 12 cases, eight involving flora and four involving fauna. CapeNature also issued 23 fines - four for contraventions of the Marine Living Resources Act and 19 for contraventions of the Nature Conservation Ordinance. Of the19 fines, 15 were for offences involving wild animals and the others involved flora. Anton Bredell, Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning MEC, said the numbers showcased the growing rise in the illegal trade. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading 'These statistics reflect the seriousness of biodiversity crime in the province and our ongoing efforts to strengthen compliance and enforcement along with our partners,' he said. 'Every action we take to stop the illegal harvesting and trade of species contributes to conserving the Western Cape's globally significant ecosystems. 'We are especially appreciative of the many partnerships we have with other government agencies, conservation partners, industry groups and communities who assist us in these efforts.' CapeNature said the Western Cape is home to the Cape Floristic Region, one of the world's six floral kingdoms and a recognised UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) World Heritage Site. Yet nearly 16% of the province's species and over 50% of its ecosystems are considered threatened. Illegal activity places additional pressure on already vulnerable landscapes, impacting biodiversity, local economies, and food security. CapeNature's compliance and enforcement approach is rooted in multi-agency collaboration with units of the South African Police Service (SAPS), such as the Hawks and the Stock Theft and Endangered Species Units, and with many other partnerships across law enforcement and prosecuting authorities. Enforcement forms part of a broader strategy to disrupt biodiversity crime while supporting sustainable development and conservation-based livelihoods across the province. Get your news on the go, click here to join the Cape Argus News WhatsApp channel. Cape Argus
