Stanford Bird Club helps CapeNature count over 12,000 waterbirds at De Hoop Vlei
With the help of six members from the Stanford Bird Club, 12,233 waterbirds belonging to 41 species were counted on De Hoop Vlei this month. Of these, 70% were Red-knobbed Coot and 11% were Egyptian Geese. Two threatened species, the Great White Pelican and Caspian Tern were recorded – both are classified as Vulnerable on the South African Red List. Greater Flamingos, classified as Near Threatened, were also observed. The February 2024 count adds another point to the long-term data series for the De Hoop Vlei, which stretches back to 1992. Monitoring of the waterbirds at the vlei forms part of South Africa’s commitment to two international conventions, the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, and the African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbird Agreement (AEWA). At 18 km long and with an average width of 0.5 km, completing the count in a single day is a challenge, but his achievement is testimony to the volunteer team’s commitment and birding expertise.
Ninety-eight Great White Pelicans were counted by the team. Photographer: Evan Shaw
The De Hoop Vlei CWAC team, comprising Stanford Bird Club members and CapeNature staff.
Related News
Kai kisses a frog and makes a new friend
Kai and his friends escape a wildfire
KAI AND HIS FRIEND help clean up the beach One
One day, as Kai, the leopard cub, was lying on his back, warming his full tummy in the sun, he was thinking about the class he had attended with his mom, brother, and sister the previous day. It was about survival, the importance of helping your friends and caring for your environment. It all sounded a bit boring, farfetched and un-adventurous! His mom had caught him dosing off in class.
New population of Critically Endangered Northern moss frog discovered in Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area
A new and healthy sub-population of the Critically Endangered, Northern moss frog was recently discovered in the far south of the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area during a targeted biodiversity survey. With a maximum size of only 14mm, the Northern moss frog, Arthroleptella subvoce, was previously known from only three locations in South Africa, all within the mountains of the Groot Winterhoek Reserve and Wilderness Area.
CapeNature introduces South Africa’s first slow overnight hiking trail at De Mond Nature Reserve
CapeNature is excited to announce the launch of South Africa's first slow hiking trail at the beautiful De Mond Nature Reserve, just a stone’s throw from the historic seaside town of Arniston. The Damara Trail is a new immersive experience in nature and invites visitors to slow down and enjoy the environment at a leisurely pace. Launched in celebration of World Tourism Day, held annually on 27 September, the trail embraces this year’s theme of peace.
A collective effort for a cleaner coast
Recent research highlights the significant impact of waste on the Western Cape coastline, with pollution affecting popular beaches and marine ecosystems. Reports indicate that several beaches along the 307 km coastline, including Muizenberg and Fish Hoek, have consistently failed to meet minimum water quality guidelines. This pollution harms local wildlife and threatens the health and safety of residents and tourists. Efforts to manage waste effectively are crucial to preserving the region's environmental integrity.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?