News
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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.
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Wildlife trafficker convicted and sentenced to six years imprisonment and ordered to pay R100 000
The Western Cape’s continued commitment to combatting wildlife crime is seeing results after a forty-two-year-old from Durbanville was sentenced on Friday, 27 September, at the Bellville Regional Court to six years imprisonment and ordered to pay R100 000 after being convicted on all 16 charges relating to the illegal trafficking and possession of 56 protected birds, snakes and spiders.
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Kai enjoys a beautiful place in nature with his friend, Siya
Hey kids. Today Siya the Orange-breasted Sunbird shows Kai just how special the Western Cape is. Find out about our beautiful fynbos by checking out this short version of the story or click here to download the full story.
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Campsites Worth Visiting This Season #ComeCampWithUs
It’s officially camp season, so get excited! The weather is warming up, the skies are brighter, and we’re ready to welcome you to camp with us at a CapeNature reserve this season!
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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.
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CapeNature to rebuild Algeria campsite after extensive flood damage
CapeNature has taken the difficult decision to close its much loved and popular Algeria campsite in the Cederberg Complex for an extended period following devastating flood events in 2023 and 2024. The rest of the Cederberg Complex remains open, including accommodation and hiking trails.
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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.
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Join CapeNature at the Hermanus Whale Festival for Marine Conservation, Fun, and Whale Watching!
The Whale Festival in Hermanus is an annual celebration to showcase the town’s unique coastal beauty, marine life, and environmental conservation efforts. The festival aims to raise awareness about whale conservation, promote sustainable tourism, and provide an engaging and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. The event will span over a weekend from 27 September to 29 September and is always a major crowd puller for the Overstrand region.
Explore CapeNature’s blooming West Coast nature reserves this flower season
The West Coast is a magical place during flower season, transforming into a vibrant tapestry of blooming colours and intoxicating scents. This September, immerse yourself in this natural wonder by exploring Rocherpan Nature Reserve - just 25 km north of Velddrif. This gem offers eco-friendly accommodation, breathtaking scenery, and a pristine private beach. The reserve's local pan is a haven for birdwatchers, featuring majestic pink flamingos against a stunning backdrop, perfect for your photo album.
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CapeNature and Captain Fanplastic lead environmental education through use of five-tier waste program
CapeNature and Captain Fanplastic are teaming up to redefine environmental education through an immersive and impactful five-tier waste education program for primary school pupils. This collaboration is a testament to ongoing creative strategies and strong partnerships, which drive impactful environmental change.
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CapeNature launches Green Noise podcast and video series for World Tourism Day
CapeNature is proud to announce the launch of its new podcast and video series, Green Noise, for World Tourism Day, September 27, 2024. The series aims to create a bold and impactful platform to explore the intersection of nature, conservation, and tourism, celebrating the rich biodiversity of the Western Cape while fostering critical conversations about sustainability, ecotourism, and community empowerment.
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Historic translocation marks major success for Cape mountain zebra genetic mixing programme
A major conservation milestone was reached with the successful translocation of Cape mountain zebras (CMZ) to Zebraskop. This project aimed to mix three CMZ lineages—Gamkaberg, Kammanassie, and Cradock. After delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and several logistical challenges, the operation was finally completed on September 6, 2024.