Latest news with #Dippenaar
IOL News
14-05-2025
- Science
- IOL News
Long-tailed forest shrew makes appearance for first time in 46-years
The Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew. Image Credit: Cliff Dorse Image: Cliff Dorse One of the Western Cape's most mysterious mammals, the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani), has made a reappearance, 46 years after it was last recorded. Conservationists from CapeNature, Grootvadersbosch Conservancy and Helihack, together with volunteer biologists, were ecstatic at finding one of these tiny mammals on the edge of a pristine forest patch on CapeNature's Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. First described in 1979 by scientist Nico Dippenaar, the shrew was recognised as a unique subspecies, geographically isolated from its relatives by the Gouritz Valley. Its limited known range, combined with forest habitat loss and climate change, led to it being listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2016. Armed with little more than Dippenaar's original field notes and habitat descriptions, the team embarked on their fourth attempt in four years to find the shrew. Dippenaar, now retired, wished the group luck and fondly referred to the species as 'a bit of a darling'. The survey took place from May 3-6, with the shrew found on May 4. 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 Dominique Coetzee and Makoma Mpekwane (CapeNature Conservation Officers, GVB), Dr Andrew Turner (CapeNature Restoration Ecologist), Dr Marienne de Villiers (CapeNature Faunal Ecologist), Cliff Dorse (biologist). Image: Supplied 'At last, I can take this little shrew off my biological bucket list. It's been a bit like a unicorn for me - a mythical creature that I thought I would never get a chance to see in real life,' said Dr Marienne de Villiers, CapeNature ecologist. 'And it's really comforting to know that at least part of its population, in at least some of its forest habitat, is well-protected.' Previous attempts to catch the elusive shrew using standard rodent live traps had been unsuccessful, and it was hoped that the new method would be more rewarding. But getting all the necessary gear up to the remote wilderness area, with no vehicle access, was a challenge. Fortunately for the team, Helihack came to the rescue. This initiative is focused on safeguarding the protected area from invasive alien pines, using helicopters to reach otherwise inaccessible areas. The team was airlifted to a wilderness campsite and then hiked down to set 76 pitfall traps across various habitats. Each trap was prepared with bedding, shelter, and the occasional earthworm to ensure humane treatment. At first, the traps yielded nothing, but one of the final traps revealed a small mammal with a 6 cm tail, unmistakably the long-lost Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew. Weighing just 13.7 grams, it was measured, photographed, and released unharmed into its forest habitat. 'This remarkable discovery was made possible by a group of enthusiastic, motivated, and skilled partners working together to achieve a range of biodiversity goals - from conducting surveys to managing invasive alien plants - all in an effort to keep the superb Boosmansbos in a healthy state for all to enjoy. 'A genetic sample of the shrew will now be analysed to clarify its relationship to lower-altitude relatives, while further research is needed to better understand its life history, behavioural ecology, and the status of its only known population,' Cape Nature said. Intensive surveys of other forest patches may yet reveal more about its distribution. Cape Times
IOL News
14-05-2025
- Science
- IOL News
Long-tailed forest shrew spotted after 46 years
For the first time in 46 years, one of the Western Cape's most mysterious mammals, the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani), has made a reappearance, exciting conservationists and volunteer biologists. Conservationists from CapeNature, Grootvadersbosch Conservancy and Helihack, together with volunteer biologists, are ecstatic at finding the tiny mammal on the edge of a pristine forest patch on CapeNature's Boosmansbos Wilderness Area in the Langeberg Mountains. First described in 1979 by scientist Nico Dippenaar, the shrew was recognised as a unique subspecies, geographically isolated from its relatives by the Gouritz Valley. Its limited known range, combined with forest habitat loss and climate change, led to it being listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List in 2016. Armed with little more than Dippenaar's original field notes and habitat descriptions, the team embarked on their fourth attempt in four years to find the shrew. Dippenaar, now retired, wished the group luck and fondly referred to the species as 'a bit of a darling'. The survey took place from May 3-6 , with the shrew found on May 4. 'At last, I can take this little shrew off my biological bucket list. It's been a bit like a unicorn for me – a mythical creature that I thought I would never get a chance to see in real life,' said Dr Marienne de Villiers, CapeNature ecologist. 'And it's really comforting to know that at least part of its population, in a least some of its forest habitat, is well-protected.' A genetic sample of the shrew will now be analysed to clarify its relationship to lower-altitude relatives, while further research is needed to better understand its life history, behavioural ecology, and the status of its only known population. Intensive surveys of other forest patches may yet reveal more about its distribution. But for now, it's enough to celebrate that the special shrew of Boosmansbos is still alive and well. Cape Argus
Mail & Guardian
13-05-2025
- Science
- Mail & Guardian
Wildlife surprise: Elusive forest shrew found in Western Cape
The Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew. (Photo supplied) One of the Western Cape's most mysterious mammals, the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew, has made a reappearance 46 years after it was last recorded. Conservationists from The shrew, first described in 1979 by It had not been seen since 1980 and is found only in a remote afro-montane forest section of the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area. In 2016, the shrew was listed as critically endangered on the IUCN Red List because of its limited known range, coupled with forest habitat loss and the effects of climate change. From 3 to 6 May the team, equipped with little more than Dippenaar's original field notes and habitat descriptions, embarked on its The now-retired Dippenaar wished the group luck, referring to the species as 'a bit of a darling'. The shrew was found on 4 May. Marienne de Villiers, an ecologist at CapeNature, said: 'At last, I can take this little shrew off my biological bucket list. It's been a bit like a unicorn for me — a mythical creature that I thought I would never get a chance to see in real life. 'And it's really comforting to know that at least part of its population, in at least some of its forest habitat, is well-protected.' Conservationists and volunteer biologists managed to capture the elusive little shrew. (Photo supplied) Previous attempts to catch the elusive shrew using standard rodent live traps were unsuccessful. It was hoped that a new method would be more rewarding. But lugging all the gear up to the remote wilderness area, with no vehicle access, was a problem. Then The Helihack project removes invasive alien species from remote areas, including Boosmansbos. Each trap was prepared with bedding, shelter and the odd earthworm. At first, the traps yielded nothing but one of the final traps contained a small mammal with a 6cm tail, 'unmistakably the long-lost Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew', CapeNature said. Weighing just 13.7 grams, it was measured, photographed and released into its forest habitat A genetic sample of the shrew will now be analysed to clarify its relationship to lower-altitude relatives, while further research is needed to better understand its life history, behavioural ecology and the status of its only known population.
The Star
06-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Momentum Group warns of dangerous deepfake scams targeting investors
Momentum Group, a leading financial services company, has issued a stark warning about a growing trend of scams using 'deepfake' technology targeting investors. It is highlighted that these sophisticated scams involve the creation of AI-generated content, such as videos, images, or audio, that impersonates brand representatives and other known personalities, leading unsuspecting individuals into fraudulent investment schemes. Recent incidents illustrate the extent of the problem including a convincing deepfake video of retired businessman and former Momentum board member Laurie Dippenaar circulated on various platforms, enticing viewers to invest funds. The audio closely mimicked Dippenaar's voice, making it appear legitimate until scrutinised closely; the outdated visuals and illogical premise of a retired executive promoting investment opportunities online raised doubts about its authenticity. Similar deepfake videos featuring renowned figures like Elon Musk and local billionaire Patrice Motsepe have also been reported, heightening concerns about the effectiveness of these scams. Moreover, a new WhatsApp group purporting to be managed by Momentum Group's Financial Director, Risto Ketola, has recently appeared, further exemplifying the ongoing threat faced by potential investors. Ravi Govender, the Digital and Technology Officer at Momentum Group, has highlighted the dangers associated with these scams, stating, 'AI has taken the world by storm, and applications have mostly been beneficial; however, the rise in deepfake impersonations showcases a darker side of this technology. The threats are everywhere, and we urge consumers to educate themselves and remain vigilant.' He cautions that if an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it likely is, emphasising the necessity for individuals to consult financial advisers before making any substantial financial commitments. As the tactics employed by scammers become more sophisticated, Momentum Group urges individuals to remain cautious and vigilant when approached for investment opportunities. Here are some common-sense tips to help identify potential scams: Evaluate the likelihood of direct communication: Consider how probable it is that a high-ranking official would reach out to you personally and without prior introduction. Assess promised returns: Be cautious of investment opportunities that offer unrealistic or exaggerated returns. Scrutinise timelines: Unrealistic expectations for quick returns - such as within a week or a month - should raise red flags. Beware of urgency: If there's pressure to act swiftly, it may indicate a scam, particularly if proper documentation or policy information is not provided. Verify authenticity: Investigate the legitimacy of the company through its official website, or even consider visiting its offices or contacting them directly. Demand paperwork: A legitimate investment will come with a portfolio, policy number, and necessary documentation before any funds are transferred. Check payment channels: Reputable companies will never request payment into personal bank accounts. As the digital landscape evolves, so too do the tactics used by fraudsters. Constant vigilance, especially in the realm of investments, is not only prudent but necessary to safeguard your hard-earned money. Saturday Star
IOL News
06-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Momentum Group warns of dangerous deepfake scams targeting investors
Momentum Group, a prominent player in South Africa's financial services sector, has alerted the public to an alarming increase in scams leveraging the power of 'deepfake' technology. Momentum Group, a prominent player in South Africa's financial services sector, has alerted the public to an alarming increase in scams leveraging the power of 'deepfake' technology. Momentum Group, a leading financial services company, has issued a stark warning about a growing trend of scams using 'deepfake' technology targeting investors. It is highlighted that these sophisticated scams involve the creation of AI-generated content, such as videos, images, or audio, that impersonates brand representatives and other known personalities, leading unsuspecting individuals into fraudulent investment schemes. Recent incidents illustrate the extent of the problem including a convincing deepfake video of retired businessman and former Momentum board member Laurie Dippenaar circulated on various platforms, enticing viewers to invest funds. The audio closely mimicked Dippenaar's voice, making it appear legitimate until scrutinised closely; the outdated visuals and illogical premise of a retired executive promoting investment opportunities online raised doubts about its authenticity. Similar deepfake videos featuring renowned figures like Elon Musk and local billionaire Patrice Motsepe have also been reported, heightening concerns about the effectiveness of these scams. Moreover, a new WhatsApp group purporting to be managed by Momentum Group's Financial Director, Risto Ketola, has recently appeared, further exemplifying the ongoing threat faced by potential investors. Ravi Govender, the Digital and Technology Officer at Momentum Group, has highlighted the dangers associated with these scams, stating, 'AI has taken the world by storm, and applications have mostly been beneficial; however, the rise in deepfake impersonations showcases a darker side of this technology. The threats are everywhere, and we urge consumers to educate themselves and remain vigilant.' He cautions that if an investment opportunity seems too good to be true, it likely is, emphasising the necessity for individuals to consult financial advisers before making any substantial financial commitments. As the tactics employed by scammers become more sophisticated, Momentum Group urges individuals to remain cautious and vigilant when approached for investment opportunities. Here are some common-sense tips to help identify potential scams: Evaluate the likelihood of direct communication: Consider how probable it is that a high-ranking official would reach out to you personally and without prior introduction. Assess promised returns: Be cautious of investment opportunities that offer unrealistic or exaggerated returns. Scrutinise timelines: Unrealistic expectations for quick returns - such as within a week or a month - should raise red flags. Beware of urgency: If there's pressure to act swiftly, it may indicate a scam, particularly if proper documentation or policy information is not provided. Verify authenticity: Investigate the legitimacy of the company through its official website, or even consider visiting its offices or contacting them directly. Demand paperwork: A legitimate investment will come with a portfolio, policy number, and necessary documentation before any funds are transferred. Check payment channels: Reputable companies will never request payment into personal bank accounts. As the digital landscape evolves, so too do the tactics used by fraudsters. Constant vigilance, especially in the realm of investments, is not only prudent but necessary to safeguard your hard-earned money. Saturday Star
