DOCSLIB.ORG

Klaserie Chronicle No 46, December 2018

Total Page：16

File Type：pdf, Size：1020Kb

Download full-text PDF Read full-text
Klaserie Chronicle No 46, December 2018 KDECEMBLER 201A8 SERIE ISSUE 46 CHRONICLE Educaaon.Conservaaon.Inspiraaon Lion climbs for prey Joy in a shoebox Working with Gr R’s Small beauues KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 The Klaserie Drift Safari Camps Group comprises of 2 camps which are ideally located to enjoy all the wildlife Africa has to offer, in a private and secluded setting; featuring the big five, incredibly diverse landscapes and comfortable accommodation with all modern amenities. In this issue Photo by Sam Cox - Little Bee-eater Regulars 14 Community Two gorgeous little guys Boxes of joy 14 COVER STORY 6 The road to trails guiding Seeds of change from 18 Part 4: The trails guide’s brief 10 Australia 34 Bushveld moments 11 More space for teaching A weekend of math Look-alike birds: Part 4 40 12 and wildlife 44 Stars and their stories 20 Building a strong foundation Going the extra Kapama and Eco Children 46 mile: Janelle Genis 26 partner for Grade R’s Klaserie Dam’s first 32 Coordinated Waterbird Count Changing lives, 1 school uniform 30 at a time Features 38 Fear factor 36 Tons and tons of pride 4 Pangolin in crisis 42 Serval: A small elegant cat Surveying critically endangered 48 How to be safe in the bush 8 African White-backed Vultures 16 Be a part of project Painted Lady The pro and cons of Ground 06 22 Hornbill Research The intimate Camp provides a welcome mixture of African A dry river bed separates the Camp from a frequently 24 Leopard or lion? rondavel suites that can accommodate 10 guests, and a modern, used watering hole, which lies adjacent to the extensive clean farm style main building and entertainment area. A entertainment area and commonly attracts jackals, hyenas, Translocating two lionesses flagstone pathway leads guests to the awe-inspiring lookout warthogs and elephants. Across the green lawn and under 28 The bateleurs: Flying for the deck, built above the Klaserie River, incorporating a second the large trees, the charming, large house provides ample environment in Africa entertainment area with breath-taking views. accommodation for eight guests. Reservations: 082 456 0673 [email protected] • www.klaseriedrift.co.za 04 KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 002 Editor’s note I can’t believe we’re speeding it’s making a difference. If you want towards the end of the year again! more regular updates, remember It feels like just yesterday when you can follow us on Facebook we were saying goodbye for the (facebook.com/ecochildrenSA) holidays and here we are, 12 and check in on our website months later, tying up another (ecochildren.co.za) at any time to year. see what we’re busy with. Time flies when you’re having fun, I Working in our community and guess. It’s been a busy year for the seeing the impact of our hard work Eco Children team. We’ve forged is incredibly fulfilling and I would ahead sowing our seeds of change like to encourage you, our readers, and I believe we have come a to join us as we pay it forward and long way in our aim in improving try to add value to others’ lives. education in our area. I would like laughter. May this time bring splendour to take this opportunity to thank No matter how we contribute, to your life, peace to your mind and joy to everyone who has supported us it’s important to add value in your heart. during the year and helped us an authentic way, with genuine interest and a caring heart. Our achieve the successes we have. Happy holidays! actions can be simple: listen more To celebrate the end of the than we talk, give our full attention, year, this edition of the Klaserie lend a helping hand, inspire Chronicle is filled with wonderful, someone to take action, love more, inspiring articles on all of our or be a shoulder to cry on. Simple community and conservation actions can yield great results. projects during the past quarter. CEO Eco Children You will be seeing more of the With that very mindful message in mind, I would like to wish you these in the future so you’re facebook.com/ecochildrenSA always up to date on what Eco and your loved ones a joyful Children is getting up to and how festive season filled with love and ecochildren.co.za Editorial Editor: Corné Havenga Klaserie Sub-editor: Catharina Robbertze Advertising and articles: Laura Craig Chronicle Layout and design: Cecilia Theron-Du Preez Readers’ Queries The Klaserie Chronicle is published quarterly and distributed to Photographs KPNR members, as well as Eco Children donors, partners and Sabrina Chielens, Derek Solomon, Sarah Solomon,Johan Vermeulen Chronicle advertisers. For any contributions or queries please Heinrich Human, Jacques de Villiers, Leon Marais, Pradeep Kana, email [email protected] Brenden Pienaar, Tony Sparkes, Samuel Cox, or contact Laura on 082 713 7550. Zelda de Keijzer, Dr.Michael Clinchy, Dr.Liana Zanette, We love to hear from you. Kyle-Mark Middleton, Carrie Hickman, Kerri Wolter, Samuel Cox, Warren Howson, Mike Kendrick Stefan Breur, Chris Kotze, Top photography Contributors “A river winding between thornveld thickets, unfolding from the feet of the Corné Havenga, Cat Robbertze, Peter Lawson,Derek Solomon, Bina Kana, Megan Loftie-Eaton, Brenden Pienaar, Thank You Drakensberg Mountains; the Klaserie remains alluringly untamed as one of Glenda Sparkes, Ian Shoebotham, Harriet Nimmo, Eco Children would like to thank all our sponsors, donors and Zelda de Keijzer, Dr.Michael Clinchy, Dr.Liana Zanette, supporters for your continued support. Your contributions, Kruger’s most exclusive alcoves.” Kyle-Mark Middleton, Chloe Cooper, Kerri Wolter however big or small, are invaluable in our mission to sow seeds of change. Tel : 021 712 5284/85 | Email : [email protected] KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 004 KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 005 Rhino Revolution are now caring for pangolins seized from and weigh more than 5kgs. The first pangolins have the illegal poaching trade by SAPS and Hemmersbach already been released, each wearing a GPS & VHF tracker, anti-poaching unit. The first pangolin arrived mid- so their progress and well-being can be monitored September and eight more were brought in during the remotely. They are being released into secure reserves, in Pangolins in crisis next six weeks! areas as near to where they were found as possible, and monitored remotely by researchers. The pangolins are arriving severely compromised – very Article by Harriet Nimmo & photos by Mike Kendrick stressed, badly malnourished and dehydrated. Rhino Rhino Revolution’s veterinary and husbandry costs are Revolution’s two full time RCVS registered veterinary rapidly escalating. They are reaching crisis point, where nurses, Jade Aldridge and Natalie Rogers, are in constant they will have to turn pangolins away if they cannot contact with the African Pangolin Working Group’s raise sufficient funding. If you would like to help please network of experts. With the assistance and supervision visit www.rhinorevolution.org/donate or contact info@ of Provet, a specialist wildlife veterinarian practice led rhinorevolution.org. by Dr Pete Rogers, the pangolins are anesthetised on arrival, X-rayed to check for any internal injuries or broken bones, weighed, rehydrated on a drip and blood tests are undertaken to check glucose and protein levels. The rescued pangolins require round the clock, 24/7 medical care and support. They are fed with a supplementary protein feed, via a feeding tube, to try and improve their nutrition. At night, if well enough, the pangolins are “walked” in the bush for them to find their own food supply of ants and termites, to encourage natural feeding behaviours and dietary intake as soon as possible. This can take many hours every night. Rhino Revolution’s aim is to release the pangolins back into the wild as soon as possible – once they are healthy angolins are one of the most elusive and little-known ground pangolin. Tragically more and more of these are African animals and at the top of the sightings wish now being confiscated by the South African Police Service Plist for many visitors to the Klaserie. Sadly, pangolins (SAPS) and anti-poaching units, having been held illegally now have the dubious acclaim of being the world’s most in captivity by poachers. To cope with the rising number of illegally trafficked animal. They are poached for both pangolins being seized in the Greater Kruger Area, Rhino traditional African medicines, known as muthi, as well as Revolution, a local non-profit organisation based outside rapidly escalating demand by Asian markets for use in Hoedspruit, has formed an alliance with the African traditional medicine. Just like rhino horn, their scales are Pangolin Working Group to provide a rehabilitation made of keratin – no different to human toenails. service and centre for these rescued pangolins. South Africa is home to the little-known Temminck’s KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 006 KLASERIE CHRONICLE NO 46 007 Eco Children reached out far and wide to collect enough Santa Shoeboxes this year and received a big boost when a number of local lodges pledged 100 shoeboxes each during their Mandela Day celebrations in July of this year. Klaserie Drift Camps, Camp George and Sun Destinations each donated 100 boxes, and were supported by a Boxes of joy massive donation of 200 boxes from Southern Cross Photos by Sabrina Chielens Schools. More boxes came in from the 100% Foundation (50 boxes), the Simunye Group (54 boxes), and Huis Maroela (100 boxes). Rynfield Primary School in Benoni was the biggest donor, sending a whopping 300 boxes halfway across the country to Hoedspruit. Havenga concluded: “We cannot thank everyone who donated enough for their support of this project and also every volunteer who helped us collect and label boxes on a sweltering Lowveld summer day.
Load more

Recommended publications
  • Kruger National Park | South African Safari and Lodging Guide
    3/20/18, 804 AM Page 1 of 5 Kruger National Park - South African Safari Kruger Park is South Africa's most exciting African safari destination. Steeped in legend and history, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife. Plan your Kruger Park safari trip from our recommended safari tour (http://www.krugerpark.co.za) options, which range from exclusive private safaris to affordable group Kruger National Park (http://www.krugerpark.co.za) safaris. Take a journey of exploration to find Africa's Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_National_Park_Wildlife- travel/images-of-kruger-the-big-five.html) : Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Travel/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages.html) Leopard and Buffalo, you will discover unique wildlife on a real safari in The Classic Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- Africa. travel/kruger-park-classic-lodge-packages.html) Family Holiday Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/kruger-park-family-holiday-packages.html) Classic Guided Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/classic-safari-packages.html) Premier Luxury (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/kruger-park-premier-lodge-packages.html) Classic Safari Tours Safari Lodge Honeymoon Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (/Kruger_Park_Private_Concession_Lodging-
    [Show full text]
  • 1 Keeping the Horn on the Rhino. a Study of Balule Nature Reserve
    View metadata, citation and similar papers at core.ac.uk brought to you by CORE provided by Erasmus University Digital Repository Keeping the Horn on the Rhino. A Study of Balule Nature Reserve Elisa Reuter1 & Lieselot Bisschop2 Reuter, E. & Bisschop, L. (2016). Keeping the horn on the rhino. In G. Potter & A. Nurse (Eds.), Geography of Environmental Crime. London: Palgrave Macmillan, p. 149-186. Since 2007, rhinoceros poaching in South Africa has been increasing, now averaging three rhinos per day. Protecting the remaining rhinos requires both a better understanding of the crime of rhino poaching and of anti-poaching strategies. Through a theoretical triangulation of routine activity (Cohen & Felson, 1979), rational choice (Cornish & Clarke, 1986), and situational crime prevention theories (Clarke, 1997), we aim to better understand the crime of rhino poaching and analyze whether and how situational prevention measures can alter the cost-benefit equation of potential offenders. We also pay attention to how the sociopolitical and economic context affects rhino poaching and its governance. This chapter presents the results of research relating to the rhino conservation model of the Balule Nature Reserve in South Africa. Our study is based on participatory observation in their anti-poaching program, as well as interviews with stakeholders and partners of the program. We examine the Balule Rhino Conservation Model’s organizational design and the counter-measures currently employed. This allows us to assess strengths and weaknesses of the model and provide recommendations for improvement, both for this case and for other anti-poaching contexts. Key words: rhino, poaching, wildlife crime, situational crime prevention theory, environmental governance 1.
    [Show full text]
  • Winter 2020 Chronicle
    KLASERIE CHRONICLE | ISSUE 51 KLASERIE CHRONICLE In this issue © Emma Gatland © Stefan Steenkamp ADVERTORIAL RESEARCH 6 The Last Word Kitara 32 The trials and tribulations 34 Sweet successes GUIDING 36 Resurrection mountain 40 To water or not to 11 Women of the wild water? CONSERVATION SIGHTINGS 14 Insights into the 42 A leopard cannot © Sabrina Chielens elephant dilemma change its spots 16 Helicopter patrol over Klaserie 46 Intwandamela 50 A newfound respect for the gentle giants COMMUNITY “Slip into a 'slow MAMMAL ID 52 Life in the wild 56 Legacy for the future continues 20 White-tailed mongoose safari' on a sun- 60 #Walking4Hope drenched deck” 64 Grade R volunteer programme PHOTOGRAPHY 68 Looking out 72 Eco Children fights 22 Wildlife photography: A lockdown hunger love for wildlife 76 Books needed! LEGENDS 79 Johan Marais: Saving the Survivors © Gemma Thomas © Elly Gearing BIRDING “Spectacular sunsets 26 The Lizard Buzzard and unforgettable 28 A beginner’s guide to backyard birding silhouettes” Supplied © Johan Marais © Samuel Cox Winter 2020 003 KLASERIE CHRONICLE | ISSUE 51 KLASERIE CHRONICLE | ISSUE 51 KLASERIE Editor’s notey the time It is important that in times of emergency, we treat Meet the team you read the our fellow citizens with kindness, compassion and CHRONICLE Winter edition understanding. It is important for us to limit suffering, Sub-editor: of the Klaserie protect the vulnerable and recover from the aftermath of Readers’ Queries Catharina Robbertze Catharina hales from Cape BChronicle, you will be well the crisis. The Klaserie Chronicle is published quarterly by Eco Children and distributed to KPNR members, as well as Eco Children donors, Town and has an Honours and truly versed on the partners, advertisers and the broader Hoedspruit community.
    [Show full text]
  • Annual Game Count Olifants West Nature Reserve Balule Nature Reserve 2020
    Annual Game Count Olifants West Nature Reserve Balule Nature Reserve 2020 Report Compiled by Paul Allin Annual game counts are conducted in order to obtain the most accurate representation of the species within Balule Nature Reserve. For many years the same methodology has been employed allowing for consistency in the data and the ability to detect trends over time. In 2019 only half of the regions in Balule opted to do the game count. This year all regions were counted again, however this was done using a different team and following a slightly different methodology. This report is based on the data from the aerial game count and will address the differences that appear compared to previous years. The area of Boston was included this year in the count, and therefore the total size of the reserve increased. Without know populations in the area prior to inclusion it is hard to know the net effect of adding a new area. For this purpose it is key to look at densities per ha and biomass per ha. These data can then be compared to primary vegetation production to help understand why species increase or decrease in a given year. Conditions during the count were good, with clear weather and the count was conducted before the first rains. The flight path is shown on the following page in figure 1 (data from the helicopter) and figure 2 (data of counted animals). Figure 2 shows which part of the reserve was flown per day, gaps can be attributed to no animals being counted in a specific location.
    [Show full text]
  • Rukiya-Safari-Camp-Fact-Sheet1.Pdf
    Reservations: Lily Jackson Marketing: Corlia Oosthuizen Telephone: 081 068 5591 Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.african-retreats.co.za RUKIYA SAFARI CAMP INTRODUCTION • Bush walks conducted in Wild Rivers Reserve and in the Big 5 Balule Reserve Rukiya Safari Camp is located in the Wild Rivers Nature • Various adventure and luxury activities available in Reserve in the greater Kruger region of South Africa. It is and around the nearby town of Hoedspruit (+-20km) an intimate, tented camp built beneath old riverine trees • Voluntourism opportunities through Seeds of Light on the banks of the Blyde River. It is an low impact camp and Ingwe Leopard Research with environmentally friendly construction, beautifully • Can be booked on an exclusive-use basis without an reused timber for decking and furniture, and light canvas age limit for children for the tents. There are 6 canvas tented rooms built on timber decking FACILITIES and elevated off the ground overlooking the Blyde River, • 6 Canvas safari tents elevated on wooden decking which flows in front of the camp. Décor is simple, stylish (including 2 family tents) and in tune with the natural ambience of the camp. • Main camp area on extensive timber decking, and Wooden walkways lead the path from the tents to the natural wooden outfoor furniture main camp area, which houses an infinity pool, boma, • Infinity pool with pool deck and sun loungers large balcony and canvas lodge area. overlooking the Blyde River • Boma with campfire and surrounding seating area Safari activities include Big 5 game drives and bush • Indoor lounge and dining area at main camp area walks, while there is a host of activities in and around the • WiFi and electrical outlets throughout camp nearby town of Hoedspruit (roughly 20km from camp).
    [Show full text]
  • The Defaunation Bulletin Quarterly Information and Analysis Report on Animal Poaching and Smuggling N°23. Events from the 1St O
    The defaunation bulletin Quarterly information and analysis report on animal poaching and smuggling n°23. Events from the 1st October 2018 to the 31 of January 2019 Published on August 5, 2019 Original version in French 1 On the Trail #23. Robin des Bois Carried out by Robin des Bois (Robin Hood) with the support of the Brigitte Bardot Foundation, the Franz Weber Foundation and of the Ministry of Ecological and Solidarity Transition, France reconnue d’utilité publique 28, rue Vineuse - 75116 Paris Tél : 01 45 05 14 60 “On the Trail“, the defaunationwww.fondationbrigittebardot.fr magazine, aims to get out of the drip of daily news to draw up every three months an organized and analyzed survey of poaching, smuggling and worldwide market of animal species protected by national laws and international conventions. “ On the Trail “ highlights the new weapons of plunderers, the new modus operandi of smugglers, rumours intended to attract humans consumers of animals and their by-products.“ On the Trail “ gathers and disseminates feedback from institutions, individuals and NGOs that fight against poaching and smuggling. End to end, the “ On the Trail “ are the biological, social, ethnological, police, customs, legal and financial chronicle of poaching and other conflicts between humanity and animality. Previous issues in English http://www.robindesbois.org/en/a-la-trace-bulletin-dinformation-et-danalyses-sur-le-braconnage-et-la-contrebande/ Previous issues in French http://www.robindesbois.org/a-la-trace-bulletin-dinformation-et-danalyses-sur-le-braconnage-et-la-contrebande/ Non Governmental Organization for the Protection of Man and the Environment Since 1985 14 rue de l’Atlas 75019 Paris, France tel : 33 (1) 48.04.09.36 - fax : 33 (1) 48.04.56.41 www.robindesbois.org [email protected] Publication Director : Jacky Bonnemains Editor-in-Chief: Charlotte Nithart Art Directors : Charlotte Nithart et Jacky Bonnemains Coordination : Elodie Crépeau Writing: Jacky Bonnemains, Léna Mons and Jean-Pierre Edin.
    [Show full text]
  • Kruger National Park, Panoramic Route & Balule And
    18 DAY – KRUGER NATIONAL PARK, PANORAMIC ROUTE & BALULE AND THORNYBUSH... LODGED - PRIVATE, GUIDED, CHAUFFEUR DRIVEN SAFARI ________________________________________________________________________ May 1 to 9 – The World Famous Kruger National Park Accommodation Type: Bungalows/Chalets Includes: Dinner & Brunch, transfers, entrances per person (per day) and open game drives daily ____________________________________ Where nearly 2 million hectares of unrivalled diversity of life forms fuses with historical and archaeological sights - this is real Africa. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. Enjoy a few relaxing days touring with us and experience Africa...The Kruger is home to an unbelievable number of species ... trees, fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, mammals including of course the famous BIG 5 of the wild…lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo. A typical day… We enter the Kruger and begin our search for Africa's Big 5 on our way to our overnight stop at our camp. At sunset we will enjoy dinner under the stars before retiring for the night to the magical sounds of the African bushveld. Rising early to greet the African dawn and a welcome cup of coffee and rusks, we depart for a whole day's game viewing, continuing the search. Brunch will be enjoyed either at a picnic spot or one of the rest camps in the Park. Back at camp a short siesta can be enjoyed. In the late afternoon we depart on a sunset game drive.... we return to our camp to then have dinner while discussing the exciting day. May 1, 2 & 3 – Letaba (Kruger) Accommodation Type: Bungalows/Chalets Includes: Dinner & Brunch, transfers, entrances per person (per day) and open game drives daily ____________________________________ Letaba rest camp, the “river of sand” is one of the Kruger Park’s premium lush, green getaways, shaded under the gaze of the area’s prominent sycamore fig tree.
    [Show full text]
  • Dr. Mike Peel (Pr.Sci.Nat.)
    Ecological Monitoring: Raptors View Dr. Mike Peel (Pr.Sci.Nat.) Animal Production Institute [email protected] Eighth Report: 2017v1 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS 2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 3 EXPANDED SUMMARY 4 RAINFALL 5 THE VEGETATION 8 Grass 8 Trees 13 THE ANIMAL COMPONENT 15 Energy flows and sustainability on RV 18 FAECAL ANALYSIS 21 REFERENCES AND OTHER READING 26 Appendix A 27 Appendix B 28 2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS We thank the landowners and management of Raptors View (RV) for their interest in this programme. We thank Byron Wright in particular for his support, enthusiasm and assistance. Tinus Koen for his assistance during data collection. We at API look forward to a continued productive association with all at the Raptors View. The API project team working at RV includes: Mike Peel John Peel Lucas Manaka 3 EXPANDED SUMMARY This report serves as the “annual ecological audit” for the landowners of Raptors View (RV). The objective of the monitoring programme is to determine the current situation and trends in the resources of the Lowveld (some 450 000ha). This includes the measurement and description of plant species composition and structure, and the quantification of the relations between various aspects of the vegetation, management practices (e.g. stocking rates, fire and bush clearing), soils, rainfall, other climatic variables and the woody/herbaceous ratio. Further, the process of Adaptive Planning as laid down by the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism for setting norms and standards for protected areas has been integrated into a comprehensive management plan for RV. Besides the legal requirements in terms of the National Environment Management: Protected Areas Act No.
    [Show full text]
  • Kruger National Park - South African Safari
    Kruger National Park - South African Safari Kruger Park is South Africa's most exciting African safari destination. Steeped in legend and history, the iconic Kruger National Park in South Africa is waiting for you to explore its vast landscapes and spectacular African wildlife. Plan your Kruger Park safari trip from our recommended safari tour (http://www.krugerpark.co.za) options, which range from exclusive private safaris to affordable group Kruger National Park (http://www.krugerpark.co.za) safaris. Take a journey of exploration to find Africa's Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_National_Park_Wildlife- travel/images-of-kruger-the-big-five.html) : Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Travel/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages.html) Leopard and Buffalo, you will discover unique wildlife on a real safari in The Classic Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- Africa. travel/kruger-park-classic-lodge-packages.html) Family Holiday Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/kruger-park-family-holiday-packages.html) Classic Guided Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/classic-safari-packages.html) Premier Luxury (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- travel/kruger-park-premier-lodge-packages.html) Classic Safari Tours Safari Lodge Honeymoon Safari (http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (/Kruger_Park_Safari_Packages- (/Kruger_Park_Private_Concession_Lodging- travel/kruger-park-honeymoon-packages.html)
    [Show full text]
  • Annual Game Count Report 2017-2018 Balule Nature Reserve
    Annual Game Count report 2017-2018 Balule Nature Reserve Paul Allin June 2018 Annual game counts are conducted in order to obtain the most accurate representation of the species within Balule Nature Reserve. The count was conducted by aerial census across the entire Associated Private Nature Reserves (APNR), in a systematic and chronological fashion: (Balule 06-09 Sept; 11-13 Sept KPNR; 14 Sept UPNR; 15-17 Sept TPNR and 18-19 Sept Thornybush), according to the helicopter method tested in Peel et al. (1995). Within any ecosystem to ensure long-term sustainability, vegetation, herbivores and carnivores need to remain in balance. The data (number, location, and sex of each animal) that these game counts provide is analyzed and compared to the veld condition and rainfall to identify imbalances within the ecosystem functioning. This region of Southern Africa has been experiencing a drought since 2015. Total annual rainfall data has been collected across Balule Nature Reserve since 1985 to present. Records for one sub-region, Olifants West Nature Reserve (OWNR), was used as an example of the sharp decline in rainfall since 2012 (Figure 1). A similar trend has been experienced throughout Balule and the Greater Kruger landscape. Rainfall has been significantly below average for the last four years. 2500 2000 1500 Grazing Capacity (LAU in Olifants West) 1000 Rainfall (mm) 500 0 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 Figure 1. Annual rainfall Olifants West Nature Reserve, Balule. From a management standpoint data from game counts are used to determine how many animals to remove from a population in order to maintain ideal sex ratios and carrying capacities within each region.
    [Show full text]
  • Assessing Waterhole Design and Determining the Impact of Artificial Waterholes in Balule Nature Reserve, South Africa
    ASSESSING WATERHOLE DESIGN AND DETERMINING THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL WATERHOLES IN BALULE NATURE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA by EILIDH SMITH submitted in accordance with the requirements for the degree of MASTER OF SCIENCE In the subject NATURE CONSERVATION at the UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA SUPERVISORS: DR AS BARRETT PROF LR BROWN JANUARY 2016 Declaration I declare that ASSESSING WATERHOLE DESIGN AND DETERMINING THE IMPACT OF ARTIFICIAL WATERHOLES IN BALULE NATURE RESERVE, SOUTH AFRICA is my own work and that all the sources that I have used or quoted have been indicated and acknowledged by means of complete references. 26/01/2016 ________________ _____________________ Eilidh Smith Date Summary Herbivores have a significant influence on their environment. Factors that influence herbivore distribution in a landscape are important for conservation. Artificial water provision is one such factor, with water sources being focal points of herbivore activity. Variation between herbivore utilisation of different waterhole types and habitat integrity surrounding the different waterholes is assessed in this study. Correlations are drawn between herbivore utilisation and habitat integrity to quantify the impact that artificial waterholes have on the landscape. A scoring system is devised to investigate the various factors affecting vegetation around artificial waterholes. Results show that there are significant variations between herbivore utilisation for different artificial waterhole types, as well as significant variation in habitat integrity surrounding the different waterhole types. Distance between waterholes and drainage lines, and utilisation by specific herbivore species have a significant impact on habitat integrity - specifically affecting veld condition and disturbance observed on woody plant species. A habitat score that was created by combining data from both the herbaceous and woody layers is not affected by waterhole type, distance from waterholes, or the different herbivore species utilising the different waterhole types.
    [Show full text]
  • [email protected] Website
    Reservations: Corlia Oosthuizen Marketing: Brett Thomson Telephone: +27 (15) 7930259 Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.african-retreats.co.za BALULENI SAFARI LODGE INTRODUCTION • Located on the banks of the Olifants River, and chalets positioned under riverine trees “Welcome at Baluleni... where the river always flows”. facing an ‘animal walkway’ and a waterhole Baluleni is a tranquil retreat for safari lovers in Balule frequented by wildlife Nature Reserve, inside greater Kruger National • Unfenced lodge with free-roaming wildlife Park. The beauty of Baluleni Safari Lodge lies in its throughout the lodge grounds prestigious location on the banks of the Olifants • Affordable getaway in South Africa’s safari hub River, while its wide range of activities and expertly • Road transfers from Hoedspruit, Eastgate arranged safari packages make it the ideal wildlife Airport, and Phalaborwa Airport getaway. • Located 65km from Hoedspruit and 30km from Phalaborwa Accommodation is classic and comfortable in the form of both thatched chalets and safari tents, all FAciLitiES with similar amenities and varying views of the surroundings. Elke and Evert are your warm hosts • 5 thatched chalets have tiled floors, air with years of experience in owning and running conditioning, ceiling fans, mosquito nets at seamless safari operations in the Kruger. windows, private verandahs, lounge area, en suite bathrooms (showers only) South Africa’s Lowveld region is one of the • chalets have 2m long queen size beds and country’s most sought after destinations, with sleeper couches, and bedrooms are secured a range of scenic attractions and unforgettable by unique mosquito screens comfortably safari experiences to offer.
    [Show full text]