In the heart of Betty’s Bay lies the Stony Point African Penguin colony, a critical breeding ground for these beloved seabirds. This colony has become a beacon of hope thanks to the collaborative efforts of several key partners: CapeNature, SANCCOB, Dyer Island Conservation Trust (DICT)/African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary (APSS), World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF-SA), and the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve. Together, these entities have implemented an integrated programme that has positively impacted the local penguin population.

The Cape mountain zebra known as GB42 has had an exciting year! In January, this stallion from Gamkaberg Nature Reserve sired a foal with genetic material from two of the three genetically distinct stocks of the species. In March, there was proof that 2023 was a busy year for GB42 after a second foal was born with genes from all three stocks.

World Travel Market (WTM) Africa concluded with impressive momentum, reflecting a 53% increase in attendees, indicating robust growth in African tourism.

CapeNature’s Bird Island Nature Reserve in Lambert’s Bay, known for its stunning seafront vistas and diverse birdlife, recently hosted unexpected visitors that sent bird enthusiasts into a frenzy. In a rare sighting, four Australasian Gannets and two Brown Boobies made a surprise visit to the island.

It is widely known that South Africa, and in particular the Western Cape, suffers from water scarcity. This reality underscores the critical need to prioritise the conservation of freshwater ecosystems and their catchments to ensure a sustainable supply of water for both biodiversity and human consumption. The provision of water is categorised as one of the ecosystem services offered by natural freshwater ecosystems.

In honour of tourist guides, CapeNature and the Western Cape Department of Economic Development and Tourism (DEDAT) would like to recognise the important role tour guides play within the tourism industry in the province and beyond.

Love is in the air at CapeNature reserves this February! If you are planning to wine and dine your beloved or are in need of some self-care in the breathtaking views and wide open spaces of nature then visit one of our reserves.

World Wetlands Day, celebrated every year on 2 February, marks the signing of the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an intergovernmental treaty with the mission to conserve wetlands. This day is celebrated to raise public awareness about the importance and value of wetlands. The theme for 2024 is “Wetlands and Human Wellbeing”.

The birth of a unique foal at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a beacon of hope for Cape mountain zebra conservation. Over the last 300 years, hunting and habitat destruction has decimated Cape mountain zebra numbers and isolated the three remaining small populations.

If you love being in the wild or are a water baby, this region is for you. The West Coast is truly a remarkable destination that offers a unique and diverse natural environment. If you want to find out more about our offerings and nature reserves to visit when in the West Coast, you have come to the right place.

CapeNature is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Ashley Naidoo as its new Chief Executive Officer. Dr Naidoo commenced his duties on 1 January 2024 and succeeds Dr Razeena Omar, who retired at the end of last year after serving in the role for the past decade.

CapeNature is thrilled to announce the launch of the group component of its Cubs Club. This new addition allows groups of children to sign up for the Cubs Club, expanding the reach, and offering exciting opportunities for organisations, schools and other groups to engage children in environmental education and conservation action. Sign up is free and available to groups with members aged 4 to 13.