VOLUME 16. 2013 / 14

SAFE HAVEN Claire Hodgkinson recounts the story of saving orphaned baboons and keeping ’s Centre for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife alive.

BIRD’S EYE VIEW David Allan reveals the frightening decline in waterbirds in Durban Bay over the last 14 years. A museum about the earth, its history and life on earth, both past and present. (Photo: Charles Krebs – www.krebsmicro.com) Krebs Charles (Photo:

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VOLUME 16. 2013 / 14

3 Comments Page Letter from 4 Director’s Report the Editor

8 10 SANBI Collaboration welcome 13 Library Department Thola first emerged as the Museum’s popular magazine in 2011. At that time, 14 Mammalogy Department I’d just finished serving a stint as ‘acting-director’ of the Museum. Well this year I drew a similar, but much less onerous, sentence as your ‘acting-editor’. As you 20 SAASTEC Conference 2013 will read elsewhere in this edition, our regular editor, Kirstin Williams, was on 22 Special Report: CROW a sabbatical completing her PhD and Allison Ruiters, our Director, asked me to steer Thola through to publication. I’ve edited the Museum’s scientific journal 26 Palaeontology Department Durban Natural Science Museum Novitates since I joined the Museum as long ago as 1996, so I’ve some experience with the pleasure and pain of the task. As 30 Exhibitions Department a popular product, Thola has been more fun to work with than the Novitates but 35 Wind Repowering Project its multi-faceted nature has rendered it equally challenging. In the pages that follow, there are the usual departmental report-backs, packed 38 Herpetology Department with evidence of exciting progress on many fronts, and we welcome no less than five new staff appointments, all involving young and dynamic individuals. Perhaps 44 Entomology Department most thrilling is the landmark announcement of the Museum’s new mobile facility: 48 Education Department GO-WILD! As in the past, some of our like-minded collaborators weigh in with stories of shared interest. Crispin Hemson exposes us to one of our City’s gems of 54 Conservancies a nature reserve. Martin Clement describes the City’s new partnership with the South African National Institute. Ginny Stone extolls our hosting of a 58 Ornithology Department major science-centre symposium. Claire Hodgkinson reveals the heroic work of 64 Events her centre for the rehabilitation of wildlife. Craig Richards shares his insights into the interaction between wind-energy and the environment. Finally, Paulo Candotti 65 Museum Diary spells out some ground-breaking advances in sustainable, community-based conservation initiatives that are happening right in our own backyard.

Hope you enjoy these varied offerings. I know I did!

David Allan Thola Magazine is published by: [email protected] The Durban Natural Science Museum P. O. Box 4085, Durban, South 4001 165 Anton Lembede Street, Durban, 4001

Tel: +27 31 311 2256. Fax: +27 31 311 2242 VOLUME 16. 2013 / 14 Director: Allison Ruiters Editor: David Allan SAFE HAVEN Design and Layout: Science™ Claire Hodgkinson recounts the story of saving orphaned baboons and keeping Durban’s Centre for the The editors wish to extend a special thanks to Emil von Maltitz Rehabilitation of Wildlife alive. for donating his photographic expertise All material is copyright protected and may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the prior written permission of Durban Natural Science Museum Trust the publisher. The views and opinions expressed in the magazine Thola is a non-profit educational magazine and any financial do not necessarily reflect those of the publisher or editor, who contributions to the Durban Natural Science Trust are welcomed. reserve the right to amend articles. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of information, the publisher and editor Mr. David R. Bennett (Chairman) ’S cannot be held responsible for any errors or views expressed. Mr. David G. Allan (Secretary/Treasurer), Mrs. Nicky F. Armstrong, EYE VIEW Readers are invited to express their views to the editor. Mrs. Marilyn N. Bodasing, Mr. B. Themba T. Mathe David Allan reveals the frightening © Copyright 2014. All rights reserved. decline in waterbirds in Durban Bay over the last 14 years. SELECT YOUR WEAPON. YOUR COMMUNITY NEEDS YOU.

Form a conservancy with like-minded people in your area to control invasive alien plant life and maintain your local environment.

A conservancy is a voluntary, co-operative initiative to help owners and residents provide environmental management and promote stewardship of our natural resources at a community level. All conservancies are registered with our provincial conservation authority, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife. The first urban conservancy was established in 1991 with the Everton Conservancy in Gillitts. Twenty one years later, we now have a proud record of voluntary environmental work with over 40 other urban conservancies in and around eThekwini. We hold regular bi-annual workshops to empower our residents with valuable knowledge and information and use many of our local experts for advice. Contact Jean Lindsay on 082 550 4427 or email her at [email protected]

Private Bag X 3, Congella 4013 KWAZULU-NATAL CONSERVANCIES ASSOCIATION 3

Visitor’s comments inbox

Tell us what’s on your mind, we’d love to hear from you. Send your news, views and suggestions to David Allan at [email protected]

Ekuphakameni Primary School Limpopo Junior Chess Team Jessica Broom B. D. Yerakiah 05-09-2013 18-12-2013 03-07-2013 18-12-2013 ‘Noma Khoza’s presentation ‘The guides did a great job with ‘Really enjoyed it! Schools should ‘The museum contains great to my learners was brilliant! the large groups of children. come here. Very educational, I artifacts of prehistoric Thanx lots.’ Love it!’ loved the whole experience. Will information. The tour guide was be back soon!’ quite informative. This building Belinda Upfold Salomi Kirsten and it’s contents is an amazing 28-06-2013 29-06-2013 Karyn Muruyan heritage site.’ ‘Very enjoyable and educational. ‘Awesome experience for my 06-09-2013 An asset to Durban.’ 11-year-old son. Good attraction ‘It was very educational and M. Potgieter for Durban. Friendly staff helped everything so beautiful and life- 04-09-2013 Ruth Rhodes to make the experience good as like. Will come back very soon, ‘I was really impressed. Displays 12-01-2013 well. Thanks.’ would love to learn more.’ were top-class.’ ‘We were very impressed – fantastic displays, nice new ones Skyset Tours Ebrahim Ahmod Gabriella Broom and the old ones much improved. 18-07-2013 23-01-2014 03-07-2013 Loved the rhino poaching focus. ‘The Museum is well-organised, ‘Most memorable and ‘Really lovely museum. Will Just a note that some of the bird self-explanatory and educational. educational place in Durban. definitely come back soon!’ noises were not working.’ Staff are friendly and Learnt a lot.’ accommodating.’

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 4 Director’s Report

Director’s Report: Allison Ruiters “Museums today need to operate from a position of shared authority, a concept that pushes beyond the idea

of collaboration and partnership.” - Allison Ruiters

useums are presented as Krantzkloof Nature Reserve fitted well into the In May 2013, vast progress was made places that produce, hold and 2013 IMD theme - Memory + Creativity = in the new Natural Science Museum disseminate knowledge. At Social Change - which aimed to contribute to development project, with a seminar the same time our institutions community development, in promoting social facilitated by Imagine Durban and MILE Mare all grappling with the challenge of how cohesion and in creating community interest (Municipal Institute of Learning), in which we can become agents of change; how we and involvement with our museums and the Architectural Services, Skills Development can become more relevant. Despite the many natural environment. This initiative, borne out and our museum participated. Invited efforts that are being made, there still of an existing relationship with our Mammalogy external stakeholders included Prof. Michelle remain many questions around most Department and Conservancy, then Hamer, Director of Zoological Systematics, museums’ civic role in addressing the critical prompted the KwaXimba Natural Heritage Day South African National Biodiversity Institute social needs of our communities. event with KwaXimba Conservancy, which (SANBI), Mr David Kramer, CEO of Sci- Furthermore, there is a general perception formed part of the Parks, Recreation & Culture Bono Discovery Centre, Johannesburg, and that science is isolated and accessible to only (PRC) Month programme. This particular Dr Beverley Damonse, Group Executive, a few members of society. This view is activity was an excellent example of cross Science Advancement at the National reinforced by the mind-sets and practices of pollination between departments, as well as Research Foundation (NRF). Discussions most scientists and science-linked institutions with two different communities, ultimately were held in the context of perhaps one that focus on insular research needs. “bringing the museum to the people”. of the most exciting projects for our City; Museums today need to operate from a Whilst great strides have been made to the development of the Arts and Cultural position of shared authority, a concept that expose the insulated world of science to precinct within the CBD on the Centrum pushes beyond the idea of collaboration our public, a strong statement needs to be site, of which a new Durban Central Library and partnership, but rather promotes the made that science is part and parcel of the will serve as a central resource centre stance that all stakeholders involved must be cultural life of a city. Although there are a for residents, and will also help drive the understood to be authorities who are able to few existing models, there needs to be more economic revitalisation of the CBD area, offer something of value to the relationship. focus on the development of centralised and be a new attraction for visiting tourists. We need to let go of positions of actual and “science knowledge campuses”, a unified This has initiated a major move in the urban perceived privilege and embrace the wisdom network of relevant internal and external redevelopment efforts to revitalize the area and experiences of co-creators, adding this to City stakeholders working towards achieving and also lends itself to envisaged plans of the our own areas of expertise, thus providing a similar objectives. These campuses need to creation of a knowledge hub. new lens through which to consider our work incorporate the elements of science research, There are plans to include within this and our goals. a science museum / centre, science education knowledge campus a new Natural Science This authentic, reciprocal engagement and career development, encompassed Museum that will also include a science needs to be centred on Jacques Rancière’s within the City’s urban planning and centre. The Durban Natural Science philosophy, where those who know something regeneration framework and economic Museum (DNSM), with a history of 126 engage with those who know something development plan. years, will continue to position itself as a else. In doing this, we then transform the knowledge and skills of all collaborators, as long as we engage in genuine equal Whilst great strides have been made to expose relationships and conversations, better serving both institutional and social needs. the insulated world of science to our public, a Our collaborations with Kloof Conservancy strong statement needs to be made that science and KwaXimba Conservancy during this year are evidence of such partnership. The is part and parcel of the cultural life of a city. International Museum Day (IMD) activities at

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leading institution, both at a national and these programmes have been centred on international level, in pioneering knowledge the DNSM embracing the knowledge and and creating awareness of the richness and capabilities of our co-creators, thus adding benefits of our biodiversity. value to our own areas of expertise. This is especially important given that, The highlight of our activities to dispel following the DNSM being identified as one the perception of science being narrow and of five regional collections hubs in South exclusive was our involvement with Prof. Africa in the National Audit of Natural History Mpilo Pearl Sithole, Associate Professor at the Collections conducted by the NRF, we have Community Development Programme at the just been awarded funding, together with KZN Museum, of R1 million per annum over a 3-year period towards upgrading, The DNSM, with a maintaining and managing our collections, thus increasing our absorptive capacity for history of 126 years, collections from other institutions that may will continue to fall into disrepair. A vast amount of work has already gone position itself as a into the City’s vision of creating a new Natural Science Museum on the Centrum site leading institution, alongside the Central Library. In keeping with both at a national and the City’s vision, this Precinct envisages “to create a leading-edge footprint and digital international level, in gateway in Africa that provides knowledge, opportunity and experience of culture, pioneering knowledge heritage and science”. It is this vision that and creating informs the mission of the Libraries & Heritage Department “to provide access to information awareness of the and knowledge; to develop, interpret and preserve culture & heritage; to enhance richness and benefits the quality of life, promote creativity and of our biodiversity. encourage life-long learning through libraries, museums, art galleries, science centres, performing arts and living heritage centres.” University of KwaZulu-Natal, who delivered Contributing to this mission, and our keynote addresses at both our Annual reinforcing the philosophy of “those who Magqubu Ntombela – Ian Player Lecture and know something engaging with those who the 15th Annual Conference of the South know something else”, was our various African Association of Science & Technology initiatives within the Education and Exhibition Centres (SAASTEC). Pushing boundaries, by Departments. Our National Science Week bringing a social scientist within a natural activities were made possible through funding science environment, dispelled the apparent received from the Department of Science & notion that science is accessible to only a few, Technology and was done in collaboration elitist individuals and organizations. Professor with youth ambassadors from different wards Sithole challenged the distinction between within eThekwini Municipality. Our “Green “science” and “indigenous knowledge”, Heroes for a Changing Climate” exhibition and expanded on “science not being owned was developed to recognize members of exclusively by certain sections of society and our communities who are doing simple but the globe, but is a feature of every society; inspiring acts within their everyday lives scientific production is a shared practice”. to reduce the impact of climate change. The curation and research on our A “living” extension of this exhibition, a collections by both our voluntary and permaculture garden at the Research Centre, permanent Research Scientists has resulted in was developed with the assistance of Durban the continued expansion of our collections, Botanic Gardens. The Joint Biodiversity as well as re-iterated the need for this Seminar Series has been developed in fundamental biodiversity research. Leigh partnership with our sister organizations, Richards’ contribution to the Education the South African Association for Marine Department’s Volunteer Programme to Biological Research (SAAMBR) and the Royal include training some of our volunteers in Society of South Africa, and has seen our field surveys, not only enabled her to continue audience grow, due to the rotation of these to support the Environmental Planning and monthly seminars to different venues. All Climate Protection Department’s mandate of

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ABOVE: Busi Gumede, Sindi Nzama and Theshnie Naidoo of the Education Department. ABOVE RIGHT: The Museum family at the City Stars Awards evening. RIGHT: The concept for the realignment of Soldiers Way that has yet to be approved by the City Council. surveying the City’s nature reserves, but also contributed to the ongoing development of our enthusiastic volunteers, providing them with an opportunity to improve their skills and knowledge in an area quite foreign to most of them. Assisting Leigh with this programme and other technical tasks within the Mammalogy Department, is Zama Mwelase, the latest addition to our team. Leigh, along with balancing the Mammal Department’s many research collaborations, field work, skills development, ongoing Chiropteran research and her co-ordination of the GRAP 103 exercise and the NRF Collections Funding Proposal, also completed her PhD in Biological Sciences. Truly a proud moment for her, her museum, amongst these a fully functional Betsie Greyling, with the Herpetology and family and her other family, at the DNSM! Forensics Entomology Laboratory., Palaeontology collections respectively has Kirstin Williams was awarded a Sabbatical David Allan’s monthly field surveys of enabled these “departments” to grow, Grant from the NRF, enabling her to take time waterbirds in Durban Bay for the past 14 years supporting the medium-term plans of the away from her administrative and curatorial has resulted in him, with the assistance of DNSM. Angelo’s meticulous reorganisation responsibilities to work on the completion of many partners over these years, being able to of the Herpetology collection has resulted her PhD. The arrival of Natasha Govender, an produce a convincing account of the changing addition to our team within the Entomology diversity and numbers of waterbirds within Dept, assured the day-to-day running of this site. It has been David’s dedication to his The curation and the department during Kirstin’s absence. profession and area of expertise that has driven The vision and support of the PRC Executive this programme, and resulted in a worthwhile research on our Team, namely Mr Guy Redman (Deputy Head monograph being added to the Novitates collections by our responsible for Libraries & Heritage) and Mr journal publication. David’s continued Thembinkosi Ngcobo (Head of the PRC Unit), involvement in various wind-energy projects voluntary and enabled Kirstin and the DNSM to benefit has ensured that expert avifaunal input has from this funding programme, ensuring been provided to wind-energy developments permanent research that we remain at the pinnacle of our ensuring that important precedents are set. scientists has resulted profession. I am proud to reveal that Kirstin The Ornithology Department welcomed a new has also completed her PhD, even though technician, Onica Mukhuwana, who served as in the continued this will only officially be awarded to her in a DST intern in 2012, and was already part of 2015 due to Rhodes University’s graduation the DNSM team. expansion of our process. I look forward to the new projects The voluntary assistance of Dr Angelo collections. and collaborations that this will bring to the Lambiris, and Prof. Mike Cooper and Mrs

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ABOVE: The new GO-WILD mobile museum. ABOVE RIGHT: The Museum’s volunteer staff 2014. in it now being fully data-based, and huge has been the culmination of a project started people that form part of our DNSM family. progress has been made in producing in 2011, GO-WILD, eThekwini Municipality’s I am truly blessed, humbled and privileged taxonomically definitive inventories of the first mobile museum. This ambitious to have such a remarkable mix of staff and collection, which should be complete in the enterprise was made possible through joint volunteers that are always giving of their near future. Angelo’s resurrection of this funding from the KwaZulu-Natal Department best, going beyond what appears in their collection has also resulted in a significant of Arts & Culture and the Municipality. This job descriptions, and all with their unique donation of specimens from Mr Richard initiative has been enhanced by the above strengths, expertise and quirkiness, making Boycott, as well as a visit to our collection, biodiversity education programme, developed us an exceptional team. This was duly and loan of specimens, by Dr Mike Bates specifically for this mobile unit and ensuring recognised when we were nominated in from the National Museum in Bloemfontein. easier accessibility to the DNSM education the 2013 City Stars Awards. Our Exhibitions Mike and Betsie’s curatorial research programmes for learners, educators and the Department, headed by Dudu Hlatshwayo work on the Palaeontology collection has community. It has also led to the GO-WILD (who is supported by Immie Mostert and revealed in our collection a significant branding application being relevant to our Andrew Carter), through their Rotating holding of type material, with this number entire Education offering. This service to our Exhibitions initiative, secured this accolade for set to increase as they are in the process of communities will contribute to closing the our institution. describing several new marine invertebrate gap between science and the public, again species. The NRF’s Collections Funding will highlighted in the Human Sciences Research enable the DNSM to provide an honorary Council’s 2013 publication, which found that All our achievements stipend for continued work on this there still remains a disparity between public collection, as well as forge a relationship attitudes towards science and science literacy. within the past year with the DST’s Palaeosciences Strategy team Congratulations are again in order in this are again testament to to engage interns. department, as Theshnie was also awarded Our Education Department has been her PhD. Well done – we are proud of you! the amazing team of enriched with the addition of two new staff In terms of the National Heritage Resources members, Theshnie Naidoo and Sindi Nzama, Act, No. 25 of 1999, heritage resources have people that form part to add to the good work already being done lasting spiritual value in their own right and of our DNSM family. by Busi Gumede, who is to be commended for provide reference to historical moments in the maintaining this department single-handed construction of South African society. Since for over a year, with the competent assistance they are valuable, finite, non-renewable and This co-creation within the DNSM, in of our volunteers, Zamo Shazi and Deron irreplaceable, they must be carefully managed relation to our custodianship of collections Dlamini. The achievement of a complete to ensure their survival in the places where and the knowledge that we derive and Education team enabled the DNSM to host a they are located. Every generation has a moral share from these assets, feeds into the hugely successful SAASTEC Conference, with responsibility to act as trustee of the national long-term sustainable development plan the assistance of partner departments and heritage for succeeding generations and of our communities and City. In doing this, organisations within the Municipality, as well the government has a political mandate to we are further entrenching our institution as further develop the Biodiversity Curriculum manage heritage resources in the interest of as a relevant agent of change, protecting Programme, which now includes Educator its citizens. It is in light of this sentiment that the environment, driving social equity and Skills Development, Gallery Education the GRAP 103 project was started in 2013 in promoting economic prosperity, so that we Programme, KwaZuzulwazi Programme the DNSM, Local History Museum and the inspire our citizens to develop a relationship development and Facilitator Training. Durban Art Gallery. with science, ultimately creating access to Definitely the highlight of this department’s All our achievements within the past year lifelong learning so that they are personally work, and indeed for the Museum generally, are again testament to the amazing team of empowered and confident.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 8 Pigeon Valley

NATURALLY RESERVED FOR YOU

Crispin Hemson of the Friends of Pigeon Valley, sings the praises of Durban’s urban reserves for bringing a delightful and rich biodiversity to our doorsteps.

urban residents often fail to realise found here in large numbers, as is the Natal understorey plant, buckweed (Isoglossa the richness and complexity that loquat (Oxyanthus pyriformis). One tree, a woodii), dies back, revealing the shy blue our urban reserves offer. They are Cryptocarya, has yet to be clearly identified, duiker. While the blue vervet monkeys and rich both in the number of species and may be a hybrid or possibly a species banded mongooses are evident in large D– trees, shrubs, , butterflies, mammals, typically found far from here. A recent survey troops, so are other mammals. A hot day in reptiles and insects – and in their diversity. has identified no less than 109 locally spring brings out the hordes of alates (flying Pigeon Valley, the small reserve on the Berea indigenous tree species. For purposes of ants or izinhlwabusi); which attract flocks of (co-ordinates 29.86444°S 30.98861°E), barely comparison, the equivalent number for the birds, as the slender mongoose hides quietly 11 ha in extent, is a case in point. There are British Isles is 33. in the grass, ready to partake in the feast. larger reserves, such as to the The visitor who walks along the leaf-strewn Adjoining the reserve is a reservoir north and Stainbank to the west, but Pigeon trails may encounter unexpected delights. managed by eThekwini Water, adding an Valley is a jewel of a reserve. The number of bird species recorded in the The reserve slopes down towards the east, reserve is 145. Most notable perhaps is the as is typical on the Berea, but it is unusual in Spotted Ground-Thrush, an endangered Reserves play an also having north-facing and south-facing species typically present from April to August, slopes. The south-facing slopes have tall trees often detected by the rustle of leaves as it educational role as a such as fluted milkwood (Chryophyllum pushes them aside in search of food. Green place where people viridolium) and relatively little undergrowth, Twinspots were recorded as breeding in the while the north-facing side has thorny thickets reserve in 2013-2014, while the stern call of can learn about the and trees like the coast monkey-orange the is regularly heard. (Srychnos gerrardii). Perhaps for the same The attentive observer may see the Buff- complexities of life reason it has different habitats, and is notable spotted Flufftail, whose strange hooting can around them. for having two very rare tree species. The be heard on damp evenings, or the deep majestic Natal elm (Celtis mildbraedii, or yellow of the Dark-backed Weaver (in uZinhlu) is Afrikaans, Bos Musikant), with its strangely area of coastal and thus another attractive squeaky-gate song. In the habitat. The interface between the two background there is the constant hooting of areas is often rich in birdlife. a Tambourine Dove, shy beauty of the forest. Pigeon Valley brings together the Dotted around the reserve are the red management of the reserve, which falls duikers, while every few years the prevailing under the Natural Resources division of the

LEFT: A KwaZulu dwarf chameleon (Photo: Adrian Armstrong) thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 9

eThekwini Metro, and Friends of Pigeon LEFT: A tall Natal elm (Celtis mildbraedii) shows its striking buttressing. (Photo: Richard Boon) Valley, a network of local residents linked to TOP RIGHT: The author talks to youth delegates to the COP17 summit on climate change about Pigeon Valley. MIDDLE: A cautious blue duiker. RIGHT: An African Goshawk on the watch for prey. (Photo: Hugh Chittenden) WESSA, who support the management through reporting of problems and assistance with alien clearing. They are well placed to tourism, attracting visitors with a strong an urban reserve where there is effective address the invasive plant problems in the interest in accessible urban reserves. collaboration between local government and areas around the reserve. The presence of Increasingly the reserves play an civil society. volunteers plays a role in enhancing security educational role as a place where people can For the average visitor, though, reserves and provides a rapid response to such learn about the complexities of life around simply provide an opportunity to enjoy the matters as a tree falling onto a fence that them. The Friends have worked with peace and diversity that restore the soul and may otherwise be missed. different groups of visitors to Pigeon Valley, bring a sense of connection to nature. A recent joint initiative is a tree labelling promoting a space that reveals far project sponsored by one of the Friends, more than can easily be Doug Kirton. This project started at Pigeon grasped in a classroom. Valley but is moving to other reserves and For young people parks of the city. The aim is to encourage working on environmental the conservation and understanding of the issues, these reserves are a trees of the city. While young people are valuable context to explore. increasingly distanced from nature there The reserves also provide access is also a strong desire amongst them to for scientific research. Some of the explore and to connect with nature reserves, such as Pigeon Valley, around them. harbour individual plants that may differ in Recent work by the Friends has included their genetic makeup from those of the building up databases of trees, butterflies, same species elsewhere. For this birds and mammals. The aim of this work is, reason, we do not favour planting trees in part, to improve the monitoring of our from outside the area in the reserves. biodiversity so that we can respond to threats This approach, combining a high more effectively. It also serves to reveal to the standard of management with ample information to sustain the most demanding public the richness of this natural diversity. BELOW: A Green Twinspot The reserves play an important role in of visitors, demonstrates what is possible in (Photo: Hugh Chittenden)

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 10 SANBI Collaboration ONE BIG STEP FOR BIODIVERSITY

The eThekwini Municipality and the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen biodiversity collaboration between the two organisations. Martin Clement, Curator of the , further elaborates on this beneficial union.

Thekwini’s Integrated Development SANBI, as mandated by the i. Making the Case for Biodiversity Plan (IDP) is a transformational tool National Environmental Management eThekwini and SANBI have acknowledged efor achieving the eThekwini Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), has in place the need for increased investment in Municipality’s commitment to developing a a number of internationally esteemed biodiversity conservation, particularly within “caring and liveable city”. This includes the programmes in research, gardens, the development context. Political decision- long-term sustainability of Durban’s natural conservation, education and training, makers are seen as key to this initiative and resource base, which requires appropriate and many are being strengthened by its the message regarding managing biodiversity research; the regulation and management of partnerships with other organisations. and ecosystem services will address the development; the development of relevant Given the mandates, collaboration is a social, political and economic development policy; and the implementation of a critical base upon which to plan and paradigm of the Government of South Africa. monitoring programme of key biodiversity implement land policy objectives, indicators. To achieve this, the eThekwini mainstreaming, information exchange, ii. Biodiversity Management Plans for Municipality has initiated several programmes resource sharing, research, education Ecosystems (BMPE) in key areas such as education, awareness, and capacity development to achieve This collaborative area will address norms incentives, green economy, town-planning the conservation and sustainable use and standards for Biodiversity Management mechanisms and public-private partnerships. of biodiversity. Plans for Ecosystems (BMPE) that have been Critical to the achievement of these aims is The eThekwini-SANBI Memorandum of requested by the Department of eThekwini’s collaboration at a local, Understanding (MoU) addresses the Environmental Affairs (DEA) in terms of the provincial, national and international level. following areas of collaboration: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA).

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The loneliest tree in the world Wood’s cycad () is endemic to in KwaZulu-Natal. It is one of the rarest plants in the world, being extinct in the wild with all specimens being clones of the single remaining type. The specific and common name both honour John Medley Wood, curator of the Durban Botanic Garden and director of the Natal Government Herbarium of South Africa, who discovered the plant in 1895. Cycads evolved 240 million years ago and are the ancestors of flowering plants. Like all other cycads, Wood’s cycad is dioecious (meaning that there are male and female plants). Wood’s male specimen is the only representative of the species ever found. Luckily, the plant regularly forms side-shoots at the base of the stem which are cultivated. By sending these stems to other botanical gardens worldwide, the survival of this unique prehistoric plant species is ensured.

LEFT: Christo Swart, Deputy Head of Parks, arrangements and developing new Recreation & Culture, representing the office of mechanisms for possible national uptake as the City Manager of eThekwini Municipality, with Carmel Mbizvo, Head of Biodiversity part of the protected area expansion Research, Policy and Knowledge Management, toolbox. This includes potential SANBI, following the signing of the development of new incentives. Memorandum of Understating on Biodiversity Collaboration between eThekwini and SANBI (photo: Jody Fuchs). vii. Threatened Species One of the objectives of species this important area, and which is conservation or range expansion projects is obstructing political support for a fair and to improve the body of knowledge on focal iii. Green Economics equitable global climate policy regime that species in South Africa and the Southern Further work is required on the economic will protect biodiversity. South Africa is a African Development Community (SADC). benefits of healthy natural systems that key world region that could contribute eThekwini Municipality and SANBI will share remain poorly understood and these necessary insights. any available and relevant knowledge communicated to the private and public pursuant to species conservation and trade- ix. Botanical Gardens sectors. Green-economy initiatives will policy issues. Botanic gardens in South Africa focus on include industries derived from biodiversity, core areas of biodiversity, education, for example: and game farming, heritage, research, horticultural excellence catchment rehabilitation and alien clearing. eThekwini and SANBI and green innovation. Both parties are iv. Municipal Property Rates have acknowledged responsible for managing, maintaining and Strengthening legislative and fiscal developing botanical gardens, and potential frameworks for ensuring the protection of the need for increased areas for collaboration between SANBI’s biodiversity in local governments includes investment in National Botanical Gardens and the Durban the need to develop or amend national Botanic Gardens include: garden-, estate-, guidelines for the inclusion of biodiversity biodiversity data- and collections-management; considerations in municipal property rates interpretation; capacity building and skills policies and valuations. conservation, development; curriculum-based environmental education work; joint v. Climate Change Communication particularly within the publications; commercialisation; fund- Addressing climate-change issues remains a development context. raising; support for Mozambican botanical strong area of collaboration for both SANBI gardens; links with museums; and and eThekwini Municipality. This includes biodiversity research. key policy reports such as the ad hoc viii. Climate Change Adaptation Technical Expert Group report for the The mutually beneficial relationship x. Research Convention on Biological Diversity. There is between societal adaptation via the use of As both Parties manage natural scope to build on this, especially as the natural resources – also known as conservation areas, with their associated second national communication exercise “ecosystem-based adaptation” – provides biodiversity, there is scope for collaborative moves to implementation through the DEA opportunities to research, document, research projects to survey the fauna and Policy Framework for Biodiversity and formalise and communicate these co- flora in these areas to monitor the health of Climate Change Response. An opportunity benefits more widely, especially through the these . Knowledge of the Red-Listed exists for collaboration in preparation for development of well-monitored pilot species that occur in the municipal area is the third national communication report. projects; as is the need to detect and important for informing biodiversity attribute ongoing changes in natural planning. SANBI is dependent on the vi. Protected Area Expansion ecosystems to climate-change drivers. This network of 11 institutions carrying out eThekwini Municipality will be trialling is especially important in light of the high research on for input into innovative protected-area management degree of uncertainty that still remains in projects such as SABIF, SAEoL and SAIBOL.

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Knowledge of the Red Listed species that occur in the municipal area is important for informing biodiversity planning.

xi. Collections Management • Development of appropriate co- xiii. Biodiversity Planning As both Parties manage natural conservation management agreements/arrangements eThekwini Municipality has produced a areas with their associated biodiversity and which incorporate collaborative mapping fine-scale Systematic Conservation Plan hold important plant and animal collections: and monitoring of IAS and, in particular, (SCP) in order to identify and prioritise areas • The Parties can explore mechanisms for of IAS within the eThekwini Municipal for the conservation of biodiversity and the collaboration in curation of collections to Area (EMA); ecosystem services they provide. The promote potential synergies and best • Setting priorities of important IAS or IAS Municipality has worked closely with practice; and populations to be targeted for eradication; Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife in terms of a MoU and the Municipality’s plan will • The Parties can facilitate access to such • Sharing of relevant IAS data and general replace the provincial plan for its collections for staff and students from information including best practices for IAS jurisdictional area. Furthermore, the both Institutions. control and IAS locality data; Municipality plans to develop biodiversity • Developing pilot IAS control projects; and xii. Invasive Alien Species – SANBI’s Early sector and bioregional plans. Detection and Rapid Response (EDRR) • Working together to develop and distribute There is a justifiable fear amongst Programme IAS education and awareness tools or practitioners that plans, in themselves, serve Collaboration between SANBI and the hosting informative workshops, only the planning process, and are never eThekwini Municipality with regards to presentations, etc. effectively put into operation. The control of Invasive Alien Species (IAS) is In addition to the above, it is recognised that Municipality’s longstanding work in the field expected to take place in a number of ways, both Parties play a significant role in of environmental planning lends itself to including the following: developing, promoting and supporting green effective implementation through integration • Collective strategy development, or at least job opportunities, and that successful IAS at all levels and types of municipal planning integration of relevant strategies and action control programmes are likely to form the and decision-making, and by proactive plans, as well as collective input into current foundation of many green job projects within initiatives such as land acquisition and a drive and appropriate legislation and regulations; the EMA. for ‘green jobs’. Library Department 13 MATERIAL MATTERS Librarian, Lumka Ludwaba, reports on categories, catalogues, collections, compilations and committees.

uring the course of 2013, all the Library Committee meetings have been Museum library holdings published revived and take place every quarter. The before 1900 were formally Library Committee forms an advisory board categorised as ‘rare’ material. A and comprises representative staff from the Dtotal of 481 of these items were barcoded, library, the curators, and the education and listed and submitted. This was in line with the exhibition departments. The purpose of the Generally Recognised Accounting Practices committee is threefold: 1) review and make (GRAP 103) issued by the South African recommendations on planning for library Treasury relevant to the accounting of natural resources; 2) review the performance of the heritage collections. One of the oldest books library in supporting museum activities; and in the GRAP 103 list is ‘The Aurelian: or 3) consult and advise on the library budget. natural history of English insects; namely, Miriam Natalwalla was appointed moths and butterflies’ written by Moses Departmental Senior Librarian. This led to ABOVE: Lumka Ludwaba and Mariam Natalwalla examine new journals in the Museum library. Harris and published in 1766. changes in reporting lines, with the BELOW: One of the oldest book in the Museum departmental librarians reporting to the library, The Aurelian. A process currently Senior Librarian who reports in turn to the District Manager. underway is to ensure A keen youngster, Mondli Ngcongo, was and a popular magazine, Thola, which are hosted by the Museum library for work- sent to exchange partners annually. In return that all the materials integrated learning. He spent a busy eight the library receives free copies of a variety of in the Library weeks at the library learning a range of valuable publications from its exchange tasks. He assisted with the onerous GRAP partners. In the absence of a Library collection are 103 process, as well as with sorting the Assistant, a post that remains vacant, the reprints on birds. Museum volunteers assisted with the mailing correctly categorised. The Museum exchanges publications with of material to exchange partners. many international and local partners. It also A process currently underway is to ensure Unfortunately there was a delay during publishes a formal scientific journal, the that all the materials in the Library collection 2013 with the renewal of subscriptions due to Durban Natural Science Museum Novitates, are correctly categorised. In addition to the challenges encountered with internal typical print material, such as books and processes. Happily, the journals were renewed journals, these items include just before the end of the financial year and photographic slides, photographs, video the first issue for 2013 was received in July. cassettes, DVDs, posters, pamphlets The Journal of Museum Education and and reprints. Once this cataloguing task Curator: the Museum Journal are two new is complete, staff will be able to check additions to the journal subscription list. the Museum’s entire library collection, There were also challenges with acquiring as well as the full eThekwini libraries’ books and DVDs during 2013 due to collection, from their desktops. On modifications to internal processes, and completion of this process a full stock- only 24 books and four DVDs were take will be conducted. This will be acquired. These processes have now been followed by the compilation of a rectified and we look forward to more manual detailing how to search the acquisitions during 2014. library’s database.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 14 Mammalogy Department

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The Mammal Collection boasts yet another series of type specimens in the form of Myosorex meesteri (Meester’s forest shrew).

LEIGH RICHARDS WILD NEW DISCOVERIES

Leigh Richards, Curator of Mammals, reports on the comings and goings of people and other creatures in her department.

t was another bumper year for the the Limpopo Valley, Soutpansberg use patterns on the abundance of serval Mammal Department. In 2013 we foothills and North-west Zimbabwe. (For within the KZN Midlands. This medium- accessioned no fewer than 350 more on the of the Soutpansberg sized cat is currently listed as Near specimens. We received a sizeable read Taylor et al. (2013) Diversity of Threatened within South Africa, owing to Idonation from Prof. Peter Taylor, former bats in the Soutpansberg and Blouberg the dependence of the species on ever- Curator of Mammals, comprising Mountains of northern South Africa: dwindling wetland habitats. The donated approximately 250 small mammals complementarity of acoustic and non- were casualties discovered collected from the Limpopo Province, acoustic survey methods. South African during the course of survey work in the particularly the biologically diverse Journal of Wildlife Research 43: 12–26.) Midlands. Dr Ramesh’s on-going research Soutpansberg area. Most of the will undoubtedly provide valuable collected material emanated from UNDER THREAT data to support the conservation and various post-graduate student projects Other notable acquisitions included the management of the species. supervised by Prof. Taylor. donation of three serval specimens by Amongst the donated material were Dr Tharmalingam Ramesh, a postdoctoral NEW SHREW 100 specimens that included several fellow based at the University of The mammal collection boasts yet individuals of the newly described KwaZulu-Natal, another series of type specimens in the Smither’s horseshoe bat (Rhinolophus Campus. Dr Ramesh has utilised several form of the newly described Meester’s smithersi). This newly described species methods, including camera-trap data, to forest shrew (Myosorex meesteri). of horse-shoe bat is known only from assess the influence of changing land- Using genetic and morphological data,

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African Serval (Leptailurus serval)

TOTAL LENGTH: Male: 960–1205 mm; Female: 970–1230 mm

Weight: Male: 8.5–13.5 kg Female: 8.5–11.5 kg

DIET: Nocturnal hunter, feeding mostly on rodents, especially vlei rats and multimammate mice. ABOVE: Meester’s forest shrew – Myosorex meesteri. (Photo: Julian Kerbis, www.planet-mammiferes.org) Shrews, reptiles and birds RIGHT: Hipposideros ruber. FAR RIGHT: Hipposideros caffer. (Photos: Ara Monadjem) are also taken. Birds can be captured in mid-air flight.

BREEDING: Gestation takes approximately 2.5 months, with young (1–4 kittens) typically the team of scientists led by Prof. Taylor, TALKING HEADS born in the summer found that shrew populations from Mount In July my MSc students and I attended the months. Females tend to Gorongoza in and the Eastern give birth in clumps of 2013 symposium of the Zoological Society vegetation in Highlands of Zimbabwe were clearly of southern Africa (ZSSA), co-hosted by the or in underbrush. distinguished from other Myosorex species University of Venda and the University of Habitat and Servals have a wide found within southern African. Myosorex Limpopo. The conference was held at the distribution: distribution range meesteri, named after J.A.J. Meester, beautiful Tshipise Resort located north of throughout Africa, yet are absent from the drier evolved as a separate species approximately the majestic Soutpansberg. The theme of regions of the continent. 2 million years ago. Relative to other the conference was “Biodiversity Value Estimated home ranges southern African species this shrew has a and Changes”. for males within KZN are 15–30 km2. smaller cranium and has a minute fourth I presented a paper on “The utility of upper singular-cusped tooth that is encircled geometric morphometric data in delimiting LIFESPAN: Estimated to live up to 23 years in the wild. by the adjacent teeth. taxa within the Afrotropical Hipposideros caffer-ruber complex (Chiroptera: Hipposideridae)”. The systematic Mammal specimens relationships amongst bats belonging to donated within the H. caffer-ruber complex have often been questioned due to the existence of recent months have morphologically similar cryptic species and included a large difficulties in delimiting species. Genetic studies have begun to clarify the male bushbuck, blue evolutionary patterns within this species complex and have revealed cryptic lineages duikers, scrub hare within the species H. caffer and H. ruber. and a bushbaby. My preliminary research, based on cranial morphological data, supported the recognition of cryptic lineages within the ANIMAL RE-HAB H. caffer-ruber complex and revealed The department forged a new partnership lineage-specific morphological traits that with the Centre for the Rehabilitation of can be used in taxonomic diagnoses. Wildlife (CROW). Regarded as the first My students, Sylvana Reddy and Tarin rehabilitation centre established in South Ramsaroop, both presented papers on the Africa, CROW has been in existence for over morphological diversity of Afrotropical bats 30 years. The organisation is dedicated to within the Molossidae (free-tailed bats) the rescue, rehabilitation and release of all family. Tarin was awarded third place for indigenous wildlife found in KwaZulu-Natal. the student oral presentations – certainly a Animals that unfortunately succumb to proud moment for her supervisor! their injuries are donated to the Museum, During the course of the conference I Citation: Skinner JD, Chimimba CT (2005) ensuring that they retain a long-lasting value also attended the ZSSA AGM and was The mammals of the southern African to science. Mammal specimens donated elected to serve as a ZSSA Council subregion. 3rd Edition. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge (and references therein). within recent months have included a large member during 2014-2015. I have been (Photo: Jiri Bohdal, www.naturfoto.cz) male bushbuck, blue duikers, scrub hare and tasked with managing the archives of a bushbaby. the organisation.

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within the Municipality, many remain largely under-sampled. The Mammal Department has in recent years partnered with eThekwini’s Environmental Planning and Climate Protection Department (EPCPD) and Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife (EKZNW) to undertake small mammal surveys of the Municipal reserves. In 2013 three reserves were surveyed: , Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve and Treasure Beach Nature Reserve. I was assisted by five Museum volunteers (see below) and Rohan Boer, an MSc student registered with the University of Groningen in the Netherlands. Rohan GOING BATTY in Acta Chiropterologica. Mount Nimba collected ticks from various small mammals Most of the year was dedicated towards represents one of the most biologically to screen them for Borrelia bacterium which finalising my doctoral thesis which was diverse habitats for hipposiderid bats in is known to cause Lyme’s disease in humans. submitted for examination in November. I West Africa. Research efforts have focused Our surveys resulted in the collection of 30 did, however, manage to devote some on a better understanding of the voucher specimens belonging to six different time to other research projects. distribution and evolutionary relationships small mammal species. We added two new My collaborative research work on of the taxa occurring within the region. occurrence records: the least dwarf shrew the bats of West Africa culminated My research on the biogeographic (Suncus infinitesimus) for Treasure Beach in another publication: Monadjem A., distribution of KZN small mammals through Nature Reserve, and pygmy mouse (Mus Richards L., Taylor P.J., et al. (2013) Diversity field-based surveys continued in 2013. The minutoides) for Kenneth Stainbank Nature of Hipposideridae in the Mount Nimba focus of 2013 was directed towards the Reserve. A small mammal survey of Giba massif, West Africa, and the taxonomic eThekwini Municipal area. Of the Gorge Environmental Precinct in Hillcrest is status of Hipposideros lamottei, published approximately 30 recognised nature reserves scheduled for January 2014.

VOLUNTEER FIELD ASSISTANTS

SMANGELE SHABALALA Leroy Nala Nompumelelo Dlova Hlengiwe Hadebe Kwazi Ntombela I have worked as a I was afforded the chance I have been working as a I completed my National I joined the field survey volunteer in the Mammal to assist the Curator of volunteer in the Mammal Diploma in Chemical group that worked in Department since Mammals with research Department since March Engineering at various reserves in February 2011. I am on the distribution of 2013. I assist the mammal Mongosuthu University of eThekwini. The part that I currently studying small mammals within technical assistant with the Technology. I have been a enjoyed the most was towards my BSc in Life eThekwini. It was a great day-to-day activities in the volunteer since March finding out that I had Sciences. I was privileged experience and I gained department. I was given 2013. I accompanied the captured something in the to be part of the field new insights into small the opportunity to be part Curator of Mammals on live-trap that I had set. survey team. During the mammal biodiversity and of the team that surveyed three field surveys and Small mammal surveys field surveys, I learnt the important role that three natural areas within learnt a great deal during certainly teach you everything from how to these animals play in eThekwini. I gained this time. The most perseverance. If at first capture the animals to ecosystems. valuable training in the interesting part of the you don’t succeed, try and processing and collecting capture of small mammals, surveys was learning try again! important research their identification and the how to process the study samples used in a wide processing of voucher specimens. variety of studies. specimens. 18 Mammalogy Department

GOODBYE ... It was with heavy hearts that we bid farewell to mammal technical assistant, Sindisiwe Nzama. Sindisiwe left the department at the end of June 2013 to take up her position as one of the two new Museum Education Officers. During her relatively short tenure with the department Sindisiwe oversaw the accessioning of an astounding 310 small mammal specimens. She assisted with various outreach activities and several small mammal surveys within KZN. We hope her time spent in the Mammal Department will serve her well in her new career.

AND HELLO! Zamawelase Mwelase was appointed as the new technical assistant in the Mammal Department and commenced her duties on 1 January 2014. Zama worked as an intern at the South African Sugar Research Institute THE WORLD (SASRI) during 2012–2013. She obtained her BSc from UKZN. We welcome her as the newest member to our team. ACCORDING TO GRAP The Department also welcomed the arrival of a new volunteer, Nompumelelo Dlova. Leigh Richards, Curator of Mammals, Mpumi, as she is affectionately known, is from Mthatha and holds a National Diploma explains how heritage assets of the Durban in Information Technology (Business Applications) from Walter Sisulu University. Natural Science Museum were inventoried She commenced work in March 2013 and has according to GRAP 103. been trained by Smangele Shabalala, another volunteer in the department since 2011. Both were instrumental in getting the ichthyology collection fully inventoried and data-based (read more in the article on n July 2008, the South African Treasury Museums (LHM), geared up to conduct full- GRAP103). They have also completed an issued the Generally Recognised scale inventories of their collections in audit of the Pringle Collection that contains Accounting Practices (GRAP 103) for the compliance with GRAP 103 guidelines. The 2000 mammal specimens on permanent loan accounting of natural heritage months of May to August 2013 saw a flurry from the KwaZulu- Icollections. GRAP 103 applies to all of activity with Museum departmental staff Natal Museum. institutions operating under the Public industriously cataloguing, data-basing and Finance Management Act (PFMA) or the verifying their heritage assets. All efforts Municipal Finance Management Act (MFMA) were supported and supervised by the and requires the recognition, valuation, and Finance Department supporting the Parks, disclosure of all heritage assets of an Recreation and Culture (PRC) Unit. organisation. Heritage assets are regarded as Welcome to items “that have cultural, environmental, Zamawelase historical, natural, scientific, technological or The months of May Mwelase. artistic significance and are held indefinitely to August saw a for the benefit of present and future generations” (Accounting Guideline: GRAP flurry of activity 103, Heritage Assets. South African National Treasury). In this respect, heritage assets may with departmental include artworks, rare books, artefacts, and staff industriously biological specimens held by libraries, galleries, and museums. cataloguing, data- GRAP 103 came into effect on 1 April 2012. The Durban Natural Science basing and verifying Museum (DNSM) and its sister institutions the their heritage assets. Durban Art Gallery (DAG) and Local History 19

The natural heritage collections of the DNSM comprise 11 sub-collections distributed across three main sites, namely City Hall, Research Centre, and the KwaZuzulwazi Centre (KwaMashu). The 11 sub-collections were divided according to three categories: scientific research collections (three); collections on permanent or temporary display (two); and ‘orphan’ research collections (six). The ‘orphan’ research collections include the following; spiders, echinoderms, amphibians and reptiles, fish, fossils, and mollusc shells. Honorary curators and research associates Dr Angelo Lambiris, Prof. Michael Cooper and Mrs Betsie Greyling kindly assisted with inventories of the amphibian and reptile, and fossil collections. All but two of the DNSM heritage collections have been fully inventoried, databased and specimen records verified. The next step is the valuation of all heritage Give us five days of your life and assets. This process will be conducted over a three-year period. we will give you an experience that might change the rest of it.

For further information on GRAP 103 please visit: Tel: +27 (0)31 462 8642 http://www.asb.co.za/index.php?option=com_ content&view=article&id=6 or Email: [email protected] http://oag.treasury.gov.za/Publications/Forms/AllItems.aspx www.wildernesstrails.org.za

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PEOPLE- CENTRED SCIENCE Ginny Stone, Secretary of SAASTEC, talks about the science-centre community dropping in on Durban for three days of learning, skills-honing and fun.

n 4 November 2013 the science- science centres in KwaZulu-Natal: the KZN centre community from around Science Centre based at Gateway, STEC South Africa converged on (University of KZN), the SA Association for Durban to attend the 15th Marine Biological Research, as well as the OSAASTEC Conference hosted by the Durban UniZul Science Centre in Richard’s Bay. Natural Science Museum. SAASTEC, short for Delegates from further afield in KZN also Southern African Association of Science and attended, including representatives from the Technology Centres, is a network comprised Isibusiso Esihle Science Discovery Centre in of all the science centres in southern Africa. , ArcelorMittal Science Centre in However, membership is not only limited to Madadeni and Olwazini Science Centre which science centres but also includes museums is based at the Golden Horse Casino in and any other like-minded institutions. This Pietermaritzburg. Traditionally, many science conference is an annual event and in 2013, centres experience financial constraints and Allison Ruiters, SAASTEC Board Member and rotating the conference annually enables Director of the Durban Natural Science local centres to send more staff to attend the Museum (DNSM), offered to host the conference as they don’t have to pay travel conference in Durban. and accommodation costs. Registration and the ice-breaker were held on the afternoon and evening of 4 November 134 people registered at the KwaMuhle Museum. Here delegates and attended the 15th had the opportunity to explore the museum and catch up on some local history before SAASTEC conference. the evening function began. Indeed, the ice This included three was well and truly broken in traditional warm Durban style with the excellent entertainment delegates from Kenya, one that the DNSM had literally drummed up with from and one the musicians from the Drum Café. Delegates also had the chance to let their hair down from the United Kingdom. and unleash their own musical abilities under the guidance of the talented musicians. Last year the event was held at the National The conference was held at Durban’s Zoological Gardens in Pretoria. The famous Royal Hotel. Most of the delegates conference moves around the country each stayed at the Garden Court South Beach year to give different science institutions the Hotel and were transported daily by bus to opportunity to profile their centres. In and from the conference venue and addition to the DNSM, there are a number of functions. For locals and others with their

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LEFT: Delegates at the 15th SAASTEC Conference 2013 held at the Royal Hotel in Durban. MIDDLE: Opening Address by Minister Derek Hanekom (Department of Science and Technology). BOTTOM LEFT: Tour of the DNSM Research Centre by Minister Derek Hanekom (with Leigh Richards – Curator, Michael Peter – SAASTEC Chair and Allison Ruiters - Director). BELOW: Conference delegates enjoying the entertainment and dinner at the Moses Mabhida Stadium and having a blast at the 15th SAASTEC Conference Gala Dinner.

own transport, free parking and shuttles Take bold steps!” reiterated the Minister were also hosted during the course of the were kindly sponsored by City Fleet of before announcing that the Department of conference, the highlight being a post- eThekwini Municipality. In addition, the Science and Technology will be spending conference workshop on “How to conduct eThekwini Municipality’s Energy Office more than R50m in supporting science visitor research and evaluation in your donated 20 bicycles for the delegates to centres over the next three years. institution” by Marie Hobson of the use freely during the conference. This gave After his address to conference delegates, Natural History Museum and Science people the chance to dash off during Minister Hanekom was given an extended Museum in London. lunch and tea breaks and go and explore tour of the Durban Natural Science Museum To spice things up, delicious lunches were the City and surrounds. These bikes were Research Centre. served in the beautiful DNSM City Hall greatly appreciated and enjoyed by all who A total of 134 people registered and galleries. Big beasties from the past loomed used them. attended the 15th SAASTEC conference. over the tables creating a unique ambience. Michael Peter (SAASTEC Chair) opened This included three delegates from Kenya, Of course, no conference is complete the conference bright and early on Tuesday one from Germany and one from the without a really special closing function. On 5 November before handing over to His United Kingdom. The theme of this the evening of 6 November delegates were Worship, Mayor of eThekwini Municipality, conference was aligned to the 7th Science bussed to the Presidential Suite at the Counsellor James Nxumalo, who heartily Centre World Summit 2014 that was Moses Mabhida Stadium for a slap-up welcomed delegates to the City of Durban. recently held in Mechelen, Belgium. The dinner and some great music. They were “Science centres have become an topics were as follows: also treated to a sky car tour, courtesy of indispensable asset in the creation of • Research and communication of research the DNSM. Nobody noticed that the bridging the gap between science and • Formal and informal learning weather did not exactly play ball and a society and we are getting closer to a marvellous time was had by all. • New technologies for learning and knowledge-based economy” said Minister of SAASTEC would like to thank the engagement Science and Technology, Derek Hanekom, in Durban Natural Science Museum for his opening speech. He noted that while • Monitoring and evaluation. generously sponsoring all lunches and teas science centres play an extremely important A total of 61 presentations based on these for the conference and the eThekwini role in assisting teachers, most South African topics were delivered over the three days. Municipality for their wonderful hospitality. learners cannot read, write or compute at Feedback from conference delegates Last, but by no means least, SAASTEC grade-associated levels and that science suggests a high standard of talks and the would also like to thank the Department of centres need to rise to this challenge. “We general consensus was they learnt a lot. Science and Technology for their continued need to work harder to address this situation. Hands-on, capacity building workshops and valued support.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 22 Special Report: CROW

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Durban’s Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife prides itself on giving KZN’s injured and orphaned wildlife a second chance.

SOMETHING TO CROW ABOUT Founded over 34 years ago by Isolde Mellet, the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (CROW) serves as a beacon of hope for thousands of injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife across KwaZulu-Natal. Claire Hodgkinson, Director of CROW, discusses some of the challenges faced by the organisation.

ucked away in the quiet, leafy rehabilitation programmes and facilities are Durban suburb of Yellowwood strictly regulated and must conform with Park, this 3.8 ha facility provides both local and international minimum CROW’s rehabilitation life-saving care and treatment for standards. Tup to 450 sick, injured and orphaned animals The vast majority of the 3000 animals that programmes and at any given time. As KwaZulu-Natal’s only CROW rescues, rehabilitates and releases registered wildlife rehabilitation centre every year have been injured, orphaned or facilities are strictly permitted to work with all indigenous displaced as a result of human interference, regulated and must species, the organisation’s team of staff and conflict or abuse. Some of the most volunteers work tirelessly to treat and return common cases treated by the organisation conform with both to the wild as many of their special patients include wildlife injured on our roads, as possible. As a member of both SAWRA attacked by domestic animals, hunted for local and international (South African Wildlife Rehabilitators muthi or illegally sold on the black market minimum standards. Association) and the IWRC (International as part of the rapidly growing illegal pet Wildlife Rehabilitation Council), CROW’s trade, whereby all manner of indigenous

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ABOVE: Free at last! Two of CROW’s recently released baboon’s exploring their new release site. LEFT: Nelson, another of the chacma baboons in the released troop. BOTTOM: EKZN Willdife DCO, Mike Tyldesley releases CROW’s baboons from their transport boxes.

wildlife – from vervet monkeys and chacma and merged with 13 other injured, orphaned baboons to banded mongoose and genets and displaced baboons. In November 2013 – are increasingly seen as the latest “must- Bob was released to roam free with his have” pet. adopted troop on a private game farm near We see countless cases every week Richmond. As part of the stringent permit whereby people have attempted to keep conditions applied to the release of primates a wild animal illegally as a pet, only for it in KZN, the small troop is being closely to be handed over to us once the “owner” watched by an onsite monitor responsible has grown weary of it or it’s become too for overseeing and recording the troop’s difficult to care for. progress during the first phase of their post- Bob, the chacma baboon is one such release programme. victim of this growing phenomenon. Rescued by CROW in early 2012, Bob, then 18 month’s old, was living with a herd of “Educating local sheep after being kept as a family pet by communities and a local farmer and his family in the Natal Midlands. On order of the farmer, Bob’s instilling a sense of mother was hunted down and shot by local farm workers to ensure the farmer’s pride and ownership is three-year-old daughter could have the crucial to the success of cute and fluffy newborn baby baboon she craved at the time. A year or so later, Bob this and future primate the baboon was inevitably not so cute and cuddly anymore. Fearing for the safety of releases in KZN” his family, the farmer banished Bob from the farmhouse and chased him into the In keeping with CROW’s mission to outlaying fields where he lived with a small educate the public and involve communities herd of sheep. It was here, riding on the in the conservation and protection of back of one of the sheep, that Bob was indigenous wildlife, the organisation is found by CROW. working closely with local leaders to ensure Following months of intensive the fledgling troop’s long-term survival and rehabilitation at the CROW centre, which sustainability in the Richmond area. is licensed to care for up to 25 baboons at “Educating local communities and instilling any one time, Bob was gradually introduced a sense of pride and ownership is crucial

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Super Troopers

The CROW team is very pleased to report that following the release of our troop of 14 rehabilitated baboons in November last year, they are now thriving in their new home. Over the past five months, the troop’s progress on the 10 000 hectare private game farm up in Richmond where they’ve been released has been carefully monitored by CROW’s onsite baboon monitor. From the onset, the baboons were happily foraging for themselves, so much so that they walked right passed the supplementary food offerings that were put out for them by our monitor! The troop will continue to be closely monitored over the coming autumn and winter months, when they will have to work a little harder for their food as the natural vegetation in the area starts to dry up and become less plentiful.

to the success of this and future primate In addition to covering their monthly releases in KZN,” explains CROW Primate animal feed, veterinary and other Manager, Mabel Watts. “It is imperative operating costs, CROW is also dependant Chacma baboon that we work with local wildlife authorities on donations to build and maintain its Fast Facts: to address the myriad of cultural myths and extensive network of pre- and post-release fears that currently exist about our wildlife, enclosures to house patients during Name: Chacma baboon or Cape baboon particularly in the more rural areas where rehabilitation. For instance, the organisation (Papio ursinus) the conservation of these animals is not only is currently raising funds to expand and Size: A mature male measures 1.5 m from crucial from a biodiversity point of view, but upgrade its main pre-release baboon head to tail and weighs up to 33 kg, whereas also as a way to help alleviate socio-economic enclosure following the release of the the more slender female measures 1.1 m and has a mass of about 15 kg. problems such as poverty and unemployment latest troop at the end of 2013. The project through eco-tourism.” includes expanding the current enclosure, Diet: Omnivorous, under natural conditions Working closely with Ezemvelo KZN running a new electric fence around the they feed on wild fruits, seeds and insects, even scorpions, and on occasion even the Wildlife, the SPCA, and other animal perimeter of the enclosure, and repairing flesh of small mammals and birds. welfare and conservation stakeholders, the sheltered hides and jungle gyms within CROW is currently the only wildlife the enclosure itself. Breeding: Baboons are sexually active throughout the year. Gestation period is rehabilitation centre that is registered to To ensure CROW can accommodate around 140 days, after which a single young rescue, rehabilitate and release injured, the growing number of baby baboons is born. orphaned and displaced chacma baboons, currently in the nursery enclosure, it needs Preferred Habitat: Baboons inhabit a such as Bob, within KwaZulu-Natal. The vast to raise R130 000 to proceed with urgent wide range of habitats, from woodlands to majority of these highly intelligent and social renovations. Anyone who would like to open grasslands. animals arrive at the CROW centre severely donate towards CROW’s Chacma Baboon Reference: http://www.krugerpark.co.za/africa_chacma_baboon.html traumatised, and face a long and complex Rehabilitation Programme and facility road to recovery. upgrade project, is asked to please Keeping the doors of the centre open is visit www.crowkzn.co.za or make a an on-going concern for the organisation. donation directly: As a registered non-profit and public benefit Bank: First National Bank organisation, CROW does not currently Acc Name: CROW receive any government subsidies and has always relied on donations from the public Acc No: 50770230859 to fund its programmes. Branch Code: 221426

HOW CAN YOU GET INVOLVED? • Visit CROW: CROW holds one guided tour for members of the public on the last Sunday of every month at 11 am. • Volunteer at CROW: CROW has a very active local and international volunteer programme. All volunteers aged 16 and over are welcome. • Support CROW: Become a member, sponsor an animal or join CROW’s One Thousand, One Hundred Club, for more details go to www.crowkzn.co.za on how to support CROW’s work. • Follow CROW: follow CROW’s work on Facebook: CROWKZN or Twitter: Crowkzn@crowkzn1

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 26 Palaeontology Department NEW LIGHTON OLD FOSSILS BETSIE GREYLING Palaeontology Department Research Associate, Betsie Greyling, delves into matters concerning lost specimens, dynamite-wielding fossil hunters and Cretaceous trigonias.

mong the large number of marine species, a specimen that best reflects the invertebrates in the Palaeontology characters of the species is selected as the Collection of the Museum we holotype. Where possible, a number of currently have 35 holotypes and specimens from the same population are A225 paratypes, by far the largest in the selected as paratypes so as to provide Ammonites holdings of the museum. In addition, supplementary information about the Honorary Curator Prof. Mike Cooper and I are species. Additional to the type material, Ammonites are an extinct group of marine invertebrate animals in the subclass in the process of describing several new there are also around a thousand specimens Ammonoidea of the class Cephalopoda. species, which will add more type material to in the collection that are figured and These molluscs lived throughout the world’s the already invaluable collection. referred to in formal publications. oceans and are more closely related to living coleoids (i.e. octopuses, squid and cuttlefish) Type specimens are the basis for the Unfortunately, because the collection was than they are to shelled nautiloids such as recognition of all species. They are an without formal curation for at least 80 years the living Nautilus species. The earliest important part of any museum collection and was put in storage for a number of ammonites appeared during the Devonian (420 ), survived the Permian (250 Ma) and and contribute enormously to the years, a number of type specimens have Triassic (206 Ma) extinctions and the last international standing of the museum. They species died out during the Cretaceous– provide the basis for all subsequent Tertiary extinction event (65 Ma). Ammonites are excellent index fossils, comparison. In describing a new and it is often possible to link the rock layer in which a particular species or is found to specific geological time periods. Their fossil shells usually take the form of planispirals, although there were some helically coiled and non-spiraled forms (known as heteromorphs). The name ‘ammonite’, from which the scientific term is derived, was inspired by the spiral shape of their fossilised shells, which somewhat resemble tightly coiled rams’ horns. Pliny the Elder (d. 79 AD near Pompeii) called fossils of these animals ammonis cornua (“horns of Ammon”) because the Egyptian god Ammon (Amun) was typically depicted wearing ram’s horns. It was to the glory of this most revered deity of the Egyptians that the vast Karnak temple was built on the east bank of the Nile, near the city of Luxor, a well visited attraction for thousands of tourists. Often the name of an ammonite genus ends in -ceras, which is Greek (κέρας) for ‘horn’.

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TOP: Fossiliferous packstones north of the Mzamba estuary. ABOVE: Fossil corals from the 1.7 Ma False Bay Coral Limestone along the shores of Lake St Lucia. RIGHT: Upper Cretaceous strata of the Mzamba Formation. (All photos: Betsie Greyling)

gone missing. The search is now on to find level, locality data, collection date and Casino. This fossil site, dated to the Late these “lost” items. Should they never be inventory date had to be entered. Cretaceous (85-82 million years ago), was found it will become necessary to select Good teamwork among Curator Leigh first brought to the attention of science in another individuals from the remaining Richards, myself and volunteer Siyasanga 1824 by H.F. Fynn. In 1855 fossils were specimens to serve as neotypes. Mrawusi, saw the project through to Finding specimens was the order of the completion on time. Leigh set up the day in June-July 2013 as part of a drive to database, organised volunteer assistance and The Mzamba Formation draw up a detailed inventory of the took the photographs, while I supervised and palaeontological collections. Out of the coordinated the project, Siya did much of the whose type locality is approximately 180 000 reported specimens online recording. During 2013 we also spent the “fossil forest” just in the collections, 7500 numbered specimens many hours producing a comprehensive could be accessed and inventoried. This catalogue of the type and referred material of south of the Wild Coast exercise entailed checking specimen marine invertebrates, which we hope to numbers against the 25 year-old written finalise for publication in the coming year. Casino is dated to the catalogue and entering all available data into Also in preparation is a paper on the Late Cretaceous a database. For each specimen the unique geology and palaeontology of the Mzamba number, generic and specific names, Formation the type locality of which is the (85-82 million years ago) lithostratigraphic unit, chronostratigraphic “fossil forest” just south of the Wild Coast

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 28 Palaeontology Department collected from the site by Captain R.J. was useless. So I just let it gallop full tilt, Eventually oxen dragged three tons of rock Garden of the 45th Regiment, and taken to standing in the stirrups like a jockey in the on forked tree branches three miles to the England. He gave the material to Mr W.H. endspurt of a race. A farm gate loomed up Umtamvuna. I rowed them across in a boat, Baily who formally described them in 1855. and the horse halted its mad gallop with a bag by bag, carted them by ox wagon to This paper represents the first record of sudden jerk, all four legs stemmed forwards. Izingolweni and from there dispatched them fossils from South Africa. Through the sudden stress the right stirrup by train to Cape Town, thereby greatly Subsequently the Mzamba deposit was straps snapped and I fell heavily to the enriching knowledge of Maestrichtian and extensively collected by E.C. Chubb, then ground, bang on my right hip…It was only Danian fossil stratigraphy and the various Director of the Durban Museum, and W.J. when I put my right hand behind my back possible modes of transporting dynamite.” Plows in 1919. Mr Plows reported: and felt my pants to be all oily, that I “…I accompanied Mr Chubb, Curator of suddenly remembered the dynamite. the Durban Museum, on a visit to Pondoland, Gingerly I felt my hip-pocket. The four sticks There are still no for the purpose of exploring the Cretaceous had been smashed flat! deposits there and making a collection of Back at the Umzamba, I gingerly kneaded access roads other their fossils. The district is somewhat wild. the sadly deformed sticks of dynamite back than an overgrown Roads deserving the name are absent in the into something at least resembling a vicinity. Natives, a few coloured people, and cylindrical shape – shoved two, equipped bush track, formerly an occasional European storekeeper are the with detonators and very short fuses, with a only human denizens. Mr Chubb and I went stick in the holes near the top of the cliff, used by ORI to check by motor car as far as the mouth of the tamped them down with sand and, hanging their shark nets. Umtamvuna, and after crossing the river by in mid-air, set the fuses alight, yelling boat, journeyed on foot three miles or so ‘phezulu’ to my two Pondos holding the rope along the sea shore to the mouth of the at the top of the cliff. They pulled smartly and Today the area is not as wild, with a Umzamba River.” I had just arrived at the top where we threw suspension bridge over the river to carry ourselves flat on the grass, when two loud travellers from Durban to the Eastern Cape Another spirited geologist, Prof. T.W. booms sent highly fossiliferous rock into the on the paved highway in style and comfort. Gevers, also took a keen interest in the air, large chunks clattering down the cliff and For fieldwork at the mouth of the Mzamba Mzamba fossils. During the summer landing with a thud on the sand below. River, however, we still have to hike from the vacation of 1923-1924 Gevers spent three months at the mouth of the Mzamba River. To reach the fossils in the higher sections of the steep cliff, he laid his own ingenious plans. In his report he wrote: “Held by two trusty Pondo henchmen I lowered myself by rope and laboriously cut a small platform into the fossiliferous marls and shelly limestone. For a brilliant idea had illuminated my mind: Why not blast a lot of fossiliferous rock down the cliff? Suspended in mid-air I myself turned a long chisel while a Pondo hanging above my head hammered it to make two holes for dynamite.”

He promptly borrowed a horse from a Swedish trader named Anderson and secured some sticks of dynamite, detonators and a length of fuse from a nearby farmer. The farmer warned him that the dynamite was very old and temperamental. Heeding this advice he wrapped the dynamite sticks in newspaper and stuffed the parcel into his right hip-pocket, far out of reach of the detonators, which he stowed in his left pocket, and the fuse, which he tied around his tummy like a belt. But the horse was high- spirited too, and no sooner had he leapt into the saddle when: “that brute of a horse bolted and careered down the road. The horse had the bit firmly between the teeth and tugging at the reins

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Wild Coast Casino with all our gear in our since the first record of 1827, with several backpacks, not to mention the weight of the hitherto unknown beds exposed by high fossils on the return journey. There are still springtide swells, adding unique and no access roads other than an overgrown invaluable knowledge of the deposit. A later bush track, formerly used by ORI to check slump at the type section presently obscures their shark nets. part of the cliff face. Not much has changed at the river mouth The material (numbering about 100 since the endeavours of these pioneers 80 specimens) that Chubb and Plows collected years ago. Plows commented that: in 1919 formed the bulk of the invertebrate “It is curious that the few observers who palaeontological holdings of the Durban have visited the spot differ so much in their Museum for the next 65 years. The descriptions, and I have to differ from all of Mzamba Formation is the type locality for them. The probable explanation is that at a substantial number of new species, different times rocks are hidden by sand, or including ammonites, gastropods (snails), uncovered by the waves, as tides and bivalves (clams), echinoids (sea urchins), currents vary.” foraminifers and fossil wood. Unfortunately for our Museum many of these type This is still the case today, so that with specimens landed up in overseas museums, every visit we have to make the most of the such as those collected by Garden and fleeting opportunities that nature allows. Gevers. Since the late 1980s Prof. Cooper While working on the deposit in 1991, we and I have been adding countless specimens were fortunate enough to observe the of marine invertebrates to the collections, lowest stratigraphic levels ever recorded ranging from the Cretaceous to the Tertiary and Quaternary, a period spanning more than 130 million years and collected from TOP LEFT: Ammonites from Maputaland. numerous sites along the southeastern coast, MIDDLE: Trigonia type specimens, a group of extinct clams. BOTTOM LEFT: Prof. Cooper stretching from Port Elizabeth in the south to contemplating the characters of a specimen from Ndumo in the north, on the border with the collection. BELOW: Compiling an inventory of Mozambique. While this material is housed the palaeontological collections. in the Museum, it is mostly unnumbered and begs proper curation. Prof. Cooper is finalising a paper on Pleistocene molluscs from the Quaternary False Bay Coral Limestone which is exposed along the shores of Lake St Lucia. This 1.7-million-year-old deposit, in the Isimangaliso wetlands, is fascinating in that it records substantial environmental and ecological change, when sea levels were some 7m higher than at present and the lake was filled by a clear shallow sea in which corals flourished. Conditions were much like the present-day Red Sea. In addition he is finalising his work on the Cretaceous trigonias (extinct clams) of Maputaland and has just completed an illustrated book entitled The Cretaceous fossils of Southern and Central Africa, with illustrations from his own pen. This will be invaluable to field geologists, teachers and naturalists.

References: Gevers, T.W. 1977. Fossils and dynamite. Quart. News Bull. Geol. Soc. S Afr., 19:10 -11. Plows, W.J. 1921. The Cretaceous rocks of Pondoland. Ann. Durban Mus., 3:39-66.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 30 Exhibitions Department THE REAL SHOW OFFS The Exhibitions team gives us an update of the department’s work in 2013.

he year 2013 proved to be place some of his sculptures in selected 718 specimens (of which 351 were eggs in a another extremely busy one for dioramas and photograph them for his solo single display case), 337 shells and assorted the Exhibition Department. exhibition ‘Paradise Lost’, hosted at the specimens and artifacts in the front-of-house Besides the usual maintenance of KZNSA Gallery. display cabinets, 203 specimens in the Tdioramas and exhibitions, and the Mammal Gallery, 139 specimens and artifacts production of various promotional and GRAP 103 in the Palaeontology & Geology Gallery, and educational materials, the Department In the first half of 2013 we were occupied 30 specimens in the Reptile Gallery. In all, ensured that the Museum retained a fresh with GRAP 103 procedures, involving the 2401 specimens were accessioned. approach in its interactions with the public. formal auditing of heritage assets - as were all the Museum departments. One of our first FOR THE RECORD tasks was to locate all the ’homeless‘ Resident photographer Andrew Carter was A new display case exhibition specimens and move them into our kept busy documenting various events hosted workshop so that they could be accessioned. was constructed to This required fitting shelving, achieved with house our black and the aid of our able-bodied volunteers, storing the specimens thereon, allocating unique white rhino skulls and numbers to each specimen, and collating this information into a database. A total of 249 horns, using steel, specimens were added. armour-plated glass Thereafter every specimen in all the Museum galleries was accessioned. The most and a state-of-the-art time-consuming gallery was the Insect Gallery, Exhibitions Department: with 722 specimens. This took over a week to alarm system. complete, as each display case had to be opened and each specimen removed, pinned The on-going ‘Stop Rhino Poaching’ with a unique number and then replaced. exhibition in the Temporary Exhibitions Gallery Other galleries included the Bird Gallery with was upgraded with the construction of a new light box to highlight the title of the exhibition. This exhibition was also updated with the latest poaching figures and new labels were printed and fitted for this purpose. A new display case was constructed in the Mammal Gallery to house our black and white rhino skulls and horns, using steel, armour-plated glass and a state-of-the-art alarm system. New labels were made for the exhibit and a specially designed light box was also installed to illuminate the exhibit from above. One of the more ‘unusual’ requests came from artist Tom Van Herrewege who asked to

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Man vs beast

‘Paradise Lost’ is a series of photographic prints from UK-based artist Tom Van Herrewege. It depicts synthetic material sculptures placed within selected dioramas, providing a foil to the natural beauty of the long-dead diorama inmates. These juxtapositions acquire an alien, almost apocalyptic feel. These works do not humanise, rather they speak to inhumanity. They appear as assemblages of litter in a constructed natural environment (the dioramas) that may have been created out in the wild. And they are placed so the animals are encountering them in various ways, from protecting, attacking and investigating the object.

by the Museum and the Libraries and Heritage Winter Fair, which also used our ‘Stop Rhino Each exhibition usually lasted for six Department generally. Sixteen events were Poaching’ rotating exhibition to promote their months, before being replaced with a new covered during the September Heritage world record attempt in anti-rhino poaching one. Due to space restrictions, the old month, with over 12 000 photographs taken. fund raising, International Museums Day held exhibitions were either placed in storage or The SAASTEC Conference hosted by the at the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, National were discarded, which seemed a pity given Museum in November resulted in over 7 000 Science Week, and KwaNunu Exhibition. Some all the work that went into researching and photographs. Other functions and events 23 000 photographs, covering approximately developing them. photographed included nine Biodiversity Series 33 events were taken, in addition to general In 2012 the idea of developing these into Seminars,hosted jointly by the Museum, South photography of specimens, galleries, exhibits, travelling or ’rotating‘ exhibitions was African Association for Marine Biological museum patrons, GRAP 103 procedures, etc. mooted. Information from previous temporary Research (SAAMBR) and the Royal Society of exhibitions was restructured to fit onto pull- South Africa, the Hillcrest Christian Academy TAKING THE MUSEUM TO THE PEOPLE up banners, as these were determined to be Over the years the Museum has produced the best means of transporting the exhibitions numerous temporary exhibitions which were and displaying them in areas not generally displayed in our old coffee shop area, designed for this purpose. We have developed commonly referred to as the ‘Waterhole’. rotating exhibitions covering the following

ABOVE: ‘Stop Rhino Poaching’ rotating exhibition – HCA Entrepreneur Week (August 2013) anti-rhino poaching fundraiser. LEFT: New rhino horn case displaying black and white rhino skulls and horns. FAR LEFT: Dudu Hlatshwayo, Immie Mostert and Andrew Carter of the Exhibitions Department.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 32 Exhibitions Department topics: ‘Curators and Collections’, ‘I am an contact us. Anyone in the greater eThekwini in large plastic drums. Kitchen scraps are African’, ‘Invasive Alien Plants’ and ‘Stop area who was growing food, even on a very composted to enrich the garden soil. We Rhino Poaching’. We currently have 35 small scale, destroying alien invasive plants, had found our first green hero and to our exhibition sets that are moved around the harvesting rainwater, keeping earthworms, delight Mrs Shezi was happy to step into municipality and are placed in municipal composting kitchen or garden waste, that role. libraries, Sizakala Centres, schools and recycling their waste products, and so forth, Climate change, with its altered exhibition halls – and even once at King was asked to record their activities and temperature and rainfall patterns, is an issue International Airport. share their stories. that affects us all as it is set to impact on This initiative has proved an excellent way The advertisement elicited a swift food production. Future food scarcity cannot for the Museum to reach out to the public in response and Dudu and Immie set about the eThekwini region, particularly in visiting a range of potential ‘green heroes’, previously disadvantaged areas. People who starting with a food gardener. Considering We had found our usually can’t afford to come to the Museum that 21st century food production greatly can now have the Museum come to them! contributes to the carbon footprint through first green hero and to This has enabled us to disseminate the CO2 emissions, growing or buying locally our delight Mrs Shezi information in a cost-effective manner and produced food that is in-season is a great has saved the public the costs of travelling to way of going green. was happy to step and from the Museum; not to mention saving At Umzinyathi near Inanda Dam we met the municipality the cost of establishing Mrs Edith Shezi, a gracious and hospitable into that role. further museums in the metro. person who showed us around her For this endeavour, the Museum was substantial food garden, which undulates be ruled out. Roughly 70% of Africans live nominated in the “Best Innovation and down a gentle slope. It supports a variety by farming and 40% of all exports are Cost-saving” category of the 2013 City of mature fruit trees and neat rows of farming products. In some African countries, Stars Awards. vegetables. The well-established garden crops dependent on rainfall could be sustains the Shezi household reduced by up to 50% by 2020. Green Heroes for a and surplus crops are sold Next on our list was Jabulani Memela, a Changing Climate in the community. To former Museum volunteer and the “Seriously, why should I care about this thing collect fresh water for the permaculture coordinator at the Durban called climate change?” garden, the gutter Botanic Gardens. The organic methods of With these words Museum volunteer, downpipes have been permaculture gardening are ideally suited Londiwe Mthemba, represented as a modified to catch for ameliorating the negative impacts of cardboard cut-out, challenges Museum the rainwater climate change. Organic matter which visitors on the staircase below the foyer. decomposes in a landfill creates And the answer is provided by another methane, a potent greenhouse gas cardboard cut-out, representing Museum with 21 times the impact of CO2. Volunteer Coordinator Zamo Shazi, who Local composting avoids this says: “… because unfortunately, it will touch problem and creates natural every part of our lives …”. fertilizer and soil conditioner. How do we inspire a green shift in With over 50% of oil lifestyle without scaring our visitors into produced worldwide used hopelessness and passivity given the for transport, and with road daunting challenges posed by our transport responsible for a planet’s changing climate? large and growing From the outset Dudu Hlatshwayo, proportion of human-made Exhibitions Curator, and Immie Mostert, CO2 emissions, we went Museum Officer, knew that success would looking for green transport depend on a delicate balance between heroes. Several members depicting the harsh reality on one hand and of the eThekwini Energy providing inspiration to change personal Office led the way with their behavior on the other. Initially we focused preferred mode of transport on selected staff members who had already for commuting: bicycles and adopted a greener lifestyle, but Director e-bikes. Clinton Jackson and Allison Ruiters suggested casting the net Alison Stanley were selected to further to include the greater eThekwini introduce the energy community. consumption and energy saving An advertisement placed in the internal aspect of the display. e-newspaper, iThekuNet Bulletin, formerly Biodiversity, the fragile and INFO INFO, called on members of our crucial web of interconnected society involved with small but vital activities life, plays a vital buffering role in that lessen the impact of climate change to the natural world. The protection of

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highlight the role and importance of Top of the list biodiversity, with particular emphasis on biodiversity as a buffer zone during times of Tree Tops School is one of several WESSA/WWF climatic turbulence. Eco Schools in Durban and was therefore high The outlook is harsh. Climate change will on our green heroes list. Debi Wells, former design and technology teacher and harm food markets and food security on a environmental coordinator at the school, kindly household level in many parts of the world. granted us a visit and a photo session. At Tree Africa, in particular, will be hard hit, as most Tops a love and respect for the natural world is nurtured and the seeds of social and of the continent relies on farming that is environmental responsibility are sown from a rainfall-dependent. Temperature and rainfall young age. The school shows an appreciation of patterns will change and this will influence the fragile nature of our planet and carefully considers how the actions of its community planting seasons, which in turn will affect affects the Earth and the future of all who share the amount of food that can be produced. our planet. This outlook was abundantly clear as To add to this, natural disasters like floods we inspected their Eco-Schools portfolios and viewed the school’s permaculture garden, worm and droughts will be more severe and pest farm and rain-harvesting tank. outbreaks affecting both crops and farm animals will occur more often. Right from the onset, Dudu, Immie and ecosystems and biodiversity are therefore The new food garden, which is sending Zamo forged a partnership with one of our crucial as climate change threatens havoc out its first roots and shoots, is an organic green heroes, Jabulani Memela. True to form, across the globe. Museum Officer Andrew extension of the Museum’s current display he gently but firmly tucked the Museum’s Carter does his bit by protecting the on climate change. It was specifically ‘food-gardening pioneers’ under his wing biodiversity of indigenous forest on his conceptualised to inspire and inform, in and guided us through the permaculture Hillcrest property by destroying alien particular with regard to the impact of approach of growing food in a sustainable invasive plants. As climate change takes climate change on food availability and manner. Words like ‘mulching’, ‘compost’ and hold, the rapid growth of alien invasive water scarcity. Furthermore, it aims to ‘worm farms’ started to crop up in our plants will impact more severely on biodiversity and ecosystems. Our small planet, dominated by members of a single species and awash in their waste products, especially the petroleum byproduct plastic, desperately needs to implement the three R’s: reduce, reuse and recycle. Renusha Baldev, supervisor at the Museum’s Research Centre, is in charge of recycling the Centre’s waste and was one of the green heroes featured in the display. With ecosystems under pressure, we decided to include the issue of discarded waste and Museum Volunteer Coordinator, Zamo Shazi, a fierce anti-litter campaigner, was the natural choice to address this substantial problem. “eThekwini Municipality is aware of the seriousness of climate change, but cannot tackle it alone. It needs support and daily action from you and me to make a difference” – Zamo Shazi, DNSM Volunteer Coordinator.

SOWING THE SEEDS OF PERMACULTURE AT THE MUSEUM RESEARCH CENTRE The term permaculture refers to “consciously designed landscapes which mimic the patterns and relationships found in nature, while yielding an abundance of food, fibre and energy for provision of local needs” – David Holmgren, co-founder of ABOVE: Museum volunteers nurturing the Research Centre’s food garden. the permaculture movement. FAR LEFT: Our green hero, Mrs Edith Shezi.

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LEFT: Museum staff and volunteers offloading straw and preparing a dedicated area for permaculture at the Research Centre. ABOVE: The permaculture process reaping healthy young plants.

conversations, and as the days lengthened into summer we set off for the hills to collect bakkie-loads of straw and horse manure “eThekwini Municipality is aware of the from the Durban Shongweni Club, cheerfully seriousness of climate change, but it cannot donated by Hetty Blake, the affable manageress of the stables. tackle it alone. It needs the support and Back at the Research Centre, cardboard and dried leaves were collected and stored daily action from you and me and Dudu raided Materials Management for to make a difference.” gardening gear and tools. Renusha donated a wheelbarrow and additional gardening Zamo Shazi, DNSM Volunteer Coordinator implements, while Dudu and I foraged for madumbe bulbs and pumpkin, butternut and mielie seeds amongst the food crops on offer from the informal traders of Warrick The indigenous plant spekboom Triangle. Jabulani donated brinjal seedlings (Portulacaria afra) has exceptional and rosemary plants on behalf of the carbon-storing capabilities. It is said that Durban Botanic Gardens. a hectare of spekboom is capable of After visiting the proposed site, Jabulani capturing up to four tons of carbon a year. planned the layout of the first beds and It is therefore justifiably known as a carbon pathways, and selected the location for a sink when occurring en masse. Lining the compost heap. We were ready to start. driveway at the Research Centre with a plant Under a sweltering Durban sky, the team of that conveniently guzzles car emissions staff and volunteers prepared the first seemed appropriate, and horticulturist Justin beds, planted seedlings and sowed the first Oxland, Manager of Production & Display, seeds. As a fitting tribute to the merits of made that possible by generously donating a the permaculture approach, the young veritable forest of spekboom plants. plants are reaching for the sky from their From this year, members of staff and protective straw mulch cover, in spite of a volunteers, as well as the Research Centre roasting sun and some neglect during the gardener, will receive training in permaculture Christmas holidays. at the Durban Botanic Gardens. The Curator of the Durban Botanic We have embarked on an organic journey Gardens, Martin Clement, suggested the use in sustainability! of marigold flowers as insect deterrents and horticulturist Ricky Chetty from the Parks Exhibitions Department: depot at Malvern responded with a generous Dudu Hlatshwayo, Immie Mostert donation, and added a few lavender plants to and Andrew Carter boot. To line the garden pathways, Senzo Sibiya, a Parks senior horticulturist, offered woodchips from Albert Park. Wind Repowering Project 35 AGAINST THE WIND Craig Richards of the City’s Energy Office considers the impact of wind energy on birds and bats.

thekwini’s first wind-energy The wind-energy industry has expanded the proposed location, the Bluff Military project, entitled the ‘Ethekwini significantly over the last decade. This Base, being near a colony of Egyptian slit- Wind Repowering Project’ was growth looks set to continue as the cost of faced bats. This is not a threatened species initiated in 2010 during the lead wind-energy decreases and the need for but the colony at the Bluff is the largest in eup to the COP17 climate-change meeting more energy while reducing greenhouse gas South Africa. The base is also an important hosted by the City. It stems from emissions increases. It is forecast that wind- foraging area for the large-eared free-tailed collaboration between the Bremen Overseas energy costs will drop substantially in the bat, which is a more vulnerable species. Research and Development Association and future and that wind will become a more Primarily due to pressure from wildlife the Municipality. Bremen is one of cost-effective solution than traditional coal- groups, the Municipality decided not to use eThekwini’s ‘twin cities’. The project involves fired power generation. In the face of Bluff as a site for these turbines. the transportation of two 150 kW wind climate change and the associated need to turbines from Bremen to eThekwini and their reduce greenhouse gas emissions, eThekwini BIRDS AND WIND ENERGY installation somewhere in the metropolitan needs to assess the local viability of wind Concern around birds colliding with the area. The project has proved to be complex energy, gain expertise in wind-project blades of wind turbines has existed since the and finding a suitable site in eThekwini has development, and understand the 1970’s but until the late 1990’s the topic been challenging. This article highlights environmental and technological impacts received little scientific attention. The some issues around the impacts of wind and how to mitigate these. significance of such bird fatalities was first energy on birds and bats, a subject which The wind-repowering project received pinpointed through experiences from the many in the Municipality knew little about extensive media focus in the lead up to Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area, one of prior to the project. COP 17. Much of this attention was due to the first regions in the United States to be

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Number of fatalties/MW?yr 0 SMUD, CA SMUD, Klondike, OR Klondike, Big Horn, WA Vansycle, OR Klondike II, OR Judith Gap, MT Wild Horse, WA Noble Bliss, NY Buffalo Gap, TX Nine Canyon, WA Mountaineer, WV Mountaineer, Diablo Winds, CA Noble Clinton, NY Combine Hills, OR Crescent Ridge, IL Hopkins Ridge, WA Ridge, Hopkins Mars Hill, ME (‘07) Mars Hill, ME (‘08) Leaning Juniper, OR Noble Ellenburg, NY Ellenburg, Noble NPPD Ainsworth, NE Top ofTop Iowa, IA (‘03) Top ofTop Iowa, IA (‘04) High Winds, CA (‘05) High Winds, CA (‘04) Kewaunee County, WI Buffalo Mnt, TN (‘06) Maple Ridge, NY (‘07) Maple Ridge, NY (‘06) Mount Storm, WV (‘08) Stateline, OR/WA (‘02) Stateline, OR/WA (‘03) Blue Sky Green Field, WI Buffalo Mnt, TN (‘00-’03) OK Wind Energy Center, OK Summerview, Alb (‘05/’06) Buffalo Ridge, MN (Ph I; ‘96) Buffalo Ridge, MN (Ph I; ‘99) Buffalo Ridge, MN (Ph I; ‘98) Buffalo Ridge, MN (Ph II; ‘99) Buffalo Ridge, MN, (Ph II; ‘97) Buffalo Ridge, MN (Ph III; ‘99) Buffalo Ridge, MN, (Ph II; ‘98) Foote Creek Rim, WY (Ph I; ‘99) Foote Creek Rim, WY (Ph I; ‘00) Foote Creek Rim, WY (Ph I; ‘01-’02)

Figure 1: Estimated bird mortality rates for various wind farms in the United States (National Wind Coordinating Collaborative 2010). Wind Energy Facility

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 36 Wind Repowering Project developed for wind-energy on a commercial scale. Altamont Pass drew attention because of the number of endangered bird species involved and the high concentration of wind turbines (Altamont Pass Avian Monitoring Team 2008). Subsequently, numerous studies have been carried out to assess bird fatalities caused by wind turbines (e.g. see Figure 1) and while much is still unknown, our understanding of the interactions between wind turbines and birds is improving. Most studies have indicated that fatality rates are generally low and that location is a crucial factor in avoiding bird fatalities. In assessing wind-energy impacts on birds it is important to put such fatalities into context. Figure 2 gives an indication of bird fatalities due to other human activities. Such comparisons are often used by wind- energy backers to oppose the arguments of conservationists. This can be misleading, however, as it does not reflect the different types of birds impacted by each activity, e.g. factors such as oiling, fishing by-catch, electrocution and wind turbines can kill substantial numbers of large, rare and formally threatened bird species, whereas 1. “Firstly, far more detailed, rigorous, and 3. “Third, and perhaps more important, for it casualties through window collisions and sophisticated analysis is called for that applies to many types of assessment feral cats are typically restricted to smaller, takes into account the complexities of the beyond the electricity sector, is the lesson abundant passerines. wind, fossil-fuelled, and nuclear energy that the most visible impacts from a given In a similar fashion, bird fatalities from fuel cycles.” technology are not always the most other traditional energy sources are rarely 2. “Second, while the avian deaths egregious. Wind turbines seem to present compared and fatalities due to wind energy attributed to fossil-fuel, wind, and a significant threat to birds because all of are often presented without comparing nuclear power plants do vary, they also their negative externalities are them with coal or nuclear facilities. imply that there is no form of electricity concentrated in one place, while those Benjamin Sovacool (2009) attempted to supply completely benign to birds. The from conventional and nuclear fuel cycles do this (see Figure 3) and concluded that best strategy for preserving avian wildlife, are spread across space and time. Avian fossil fuels represent a threat 17 times therefore, would be to encourage the mortality and wind energy has greater to birds than wind energy. This more efficient use of energy before any consequently received far more attention author makes three very telling conclusions type of new power plant or wind farm and research than the avian deaths in his paper: is constructed.” associated with coal, oil, natural gas, and

hunting 16 6 fishing by-catch 14 oil waste pits 5 oils spills 12 4 pesticides 10 electrocution 8 3 cars wind turbines 6 2 high tension wires 4 communications towers 1 Avian Deaths / Gigawatt-hour feral cats Total Avian Mortality / Millions per Year 2 windows 0 0 0 100 200 300 400 500 600 700 800 900 1000 Wind Energy Nuclear Power Fossil Fuels

Figure 2: Estimated annual bird fatalities in millions of birds in North Figure 3: Estimated annual avian mortalities due to wind, America stemming from various anthropogenic sources (Barnard 2013). nuclear and fossil fuels in the United States (Sovacool 2009).

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nuclear power systems, even though this the lack of information available on bird and study suggests that wind energy may be bat impacts on species specific to this province References: the least harmful to birds.” may become a major barrier to the effective Altamont Pass Avian Monitoring Team. 2008. Altamont Pass Wind Resource Area Bird Fatality Study. July. (ICF roll-out of wind energy. J&S 61119.06.) Portland, OR. Prepared for Altamont Although it can be argued that wind may be County Community Development Agency. less harmful to birds overall because the While small, the Ethekwini Wind Repowering Project aims to gather sound scientific data Barnard. M. 2013 “How significant is bird and bat impacts of wind energy are highly localised, if mortality due to wind turbines?” Available online: on the impacts of birds and bats in a local http://barnardonwind.com/2013/02/15/how-significant- a wind facility is poorly located, say in the is-bird-and-bat-mortality-due-to-wind-turbines/. context. This will be achieved by recording the vicinity of populations of a threatened or National Wind Coordinating Collaborative. 2010. Wind pre-existing conditions on the site selected turbine interactions with birds, bats and their habitats.” endemic species, e.g. Cape and Bearded Available online: http://nationalwind.org/wp-content/ vultures, it could represent a significant threat through a pre-construction monitoring uploads/assets/publications/Birds_and_Bats_Fact_ Sheet_.pdf. to avian biodiversity (Subramanian 2012). program and measuring the impacts thereafter through a similar post-construction program. In Sovacool, B.K. 2009. Contextualising avian mortality: a preliminary appraisal of bird and bat fatalities from addition to this, the experience gained by the wind, fossil-fuel, and nuclear electricity. Energy Policy Bats and Wind Energy 37: 2241-2248. While the issue of birds has been around for Municipality regarding wind-energy development and related environmental issues Subramanian, M. 2012. The trouble with turbines: an ill some time, the problem relevant to bats is wind. Nature 486: 310-311. [Available online: http:// should improve policy development, legislation www.nature.com/news/the-trouble-with-turbines-an- newer and even more poorly understood. In ill-wind-1.10849. fact, it is not even certain what causes bat and spatial planning, which will benefit project fatalities associated with wind farms and in developers and conservationists alike. many ways the wind industry has highlighted how little we know about these animals, particularly in South Africa. The prevailing current theory as to why bats are particularly vulnerable to wind- KwaZulu-Natal Museum turbine fatalities is related to the low- pressure zone behind a rotating turbine blade which causes the bat’s lungs to expand rapidly – a phenomenon known a barotrauma – causing internal bleeding which can be fatal. The alternative theory, supported by the most recent research, is simply that direct turbine strikes are primarily responsible for most bat deaths. Bat turbine fatalities are strongly related to A never ending journey of discovery! the bat species involved – it seems that some bats are far more vulnerable than others. Of fatalities recorded in North America, 11 of the 45 species inhabiting this continent were involved. In the United States, more than 75% of all collisions involved foliage-roosting eastern red bats, hoary bats and the tree- cavity-dwelling silver-haired bats. The available information seems to indicate that migrant bat species in particular seem to be most vulnerable to wind-turbine fatalities.

IPM ACT ON BAT AND BIRD SPECIES IN KZN Because impacts appear to be very specific to species, findings from one study cannot simply be extrapolated to another, particularly when these projects are in different regions. This means that many of the findings from international studies may not be applicable to South Africa. Taking this further, findings from the western and southern Cape, where most 237 Jabu Ndlovu Street, Pietermaritzburg of the wind-energy development in South Africa is currently occurring, cannot be applied t: 033 345 1404 | f: 033 345 0561 | www.nmsa.org.za willy-nilly to the eastern regions of the Open on weekends and public holidays country. This means that when attention begins to shift to areas like KwaZulu-Natal, thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 There is always somet hing new to see! 38 Herpetology Department

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“Theories pass. The frog remains.” JEAN ROSTAND

ANGELO LAMBIRIS MODERN MUSINGS OF AN ANCIENT GREEK Angelo Lambiris poses some penetrating questions regarding the role of the Herpetology Department and its specimen collections in our ever- evolving society.

n the previous edition of Thola I that researchers tend to focus almost outlined the principal issues that entirely on the specimens and tend to ignore needed urgent attention in order to the collectors who provided the material, resurrect the moribund Department of and the conditions and circumstances under Spotted bush snake IHerpetology. Progress has been slow, which these were collected. (Philothamnus frequently beset with problems, both Often, of course, many a specimen is foreseen and unexpected. Nevertheless, we brought in by someone who has never semivariegatus) have made huge strides and the computerised databases for the amphibian The spotted bush snake is a widespread species, and also shows some spectacular and reptile collections have now been We have made huge colour variations. The front half is usually completed, providing a firm foundation for as shown here, but whereas most South further developments. strides with the African snakes have the posterior half of the body more or less uniform green above, Despite many frustrations, it has been an amphibian and reptile those from Zimbabwe and northwards are illuminating and rewarding task, and has a beautiful bronze colour. They are often killed for boomslangs or mambas, but are given many tantalising glimpses into the collections, providing completely harmless. history of the collections. These glimpses will, I hope, be developed into fuller stories a firm foundation for Source: www.africaimagelibrary.com once the essential steps forward are fully further developments. under way. I often feel (perhaps unjustly?)

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 40 Herpetology Department done so before, and probably never will (whatever that means) in concrete ways. again; but much material may be deposited But pure research is not an unjustifiable by investigators who have collected often extravagance. What seems nebulous and substantial series of specimens in the impractical today may well be essential for course of their studies. A tiny number of human survival two years hence. The history the collectors whose names are recorded in of medicine is fairly bursting with such the catalogues are known to me personally; examples – penicillin being one such case to others are familiar only historically; and the which countless millions owe their lives. majority, sadly, I have no knowledge of at It is instructive to recall the origins of two all. Here is a rich field for the historians of things that have their roots in antiquity, science to explore! museums and libraries. A Mouseion, It is all very well to report that the Museum, was a literary and educational herpetological collections are being (secondarily religious) centre dedicated reorganised, and that soon we shall have an to research and lectures. Of these, by far active and viable department that shall play the most famous was that of Alexandria, an important role in serving the community, founded by Ptolemy in about 280 but first we need to ask and address some BC, and the library created in association very important questions. What are the with the museum was a major development primary purposes of the collections? Who in bibliographical history. The , are we serving? What are their needs? What Greek deities, represented the arts and, later, astronomy, philosophy and all other intellectual pursuits. The one whom we The origins of the It is instructive to would now associate with museums, in the modern sense of the word, would be the museum goddess Polymatheia – “much learning”. recall the origins of The English “museum” comes from the This little diversion into history and classics Latin word, and is pluralised as “museums”. two things that have is intended to remind us that museums It is originally from the Ancient Greek “Mouseion”, which denotes a place or should not be mere mausoleums filled their roots in antiquity, temple dedicated to the Muses (the patron with pitiful remnants of once-living plants divinities in of the arts), museums and and animals and dusty caverns haunted and hence a building set apart for study and the arts. especially the Musaeum (institute) by troglodytic scientists whose arcane libraries. A museum, for philosophy and research at communications are comprehensible Alexandria by Ptolemy I Soter was a literary and to only a chosen few. No, indeed, about 280 BC. a museum would have been, to educational centre a Hellenistic Greek, a vibrant multidisciplinary place open to all, dedicated to research where both learning and teaching and lectures. were open to all who wished to avail themselves of it. It is precisely in this spirit that I wish to is the best way forward? How can we strike see the Department of Herpetology grow a balance between activities intended to and develop – a department possessed of benefit people in a multitude of ways, and specimens and reference literature, staffed still provide scope for “pure research”? by specialists who are equally interested in Pure research is often seen, especially by research and education, interacting administrators whose concern is managing with the whole community. money and people, as something not really Let us, then, return to the necessary, a more or less unjustifiable and questions that I posed a unproductive extravagance that could little earlier, with one other better be directed to serving the community not previously asked.

RIGHT: Polymatheia in Greek mythology was one of the three Muses recognised at the ancient Greek city of . Her name literally means “much knowledge, erudition”, and the Greek historian compares her to to whom he ascribes precedence over accumulation and preservation of knowledge. 41

ABOVE: The first use of new labels for the herpetology collection, on which important data are permanently recorded for each specimen.

WHAT ARE THE PRIMARY distortion. Research does not mean mindlessly What are the primary purposes PURPOSES OF THE following what received wisdom decrees of the collections? DEPARTMENT OF is the latest fashion or the One True Way. Museum collections have traditionally been HERPETOLOGY? Research is about asking a good question regarded as repositories of material to be It is clear from what I wrote and doing your best to find a good answer used for research by a select few specialists. about the origins of museums, to that question. Good questions come from In the last few decades, however, their value that they were essentially within the person, not from some magisterial as historical artefacts has risen to prominence, what we would these days supervisor. Education, among other things, is and they can well be described as a legacy call universities at their best. what enables one to decide what are good As a relatively ancient Greek, questions and good answers, and what are I have always followed the not; it also enables you to build, solidly, on BELOW: Copy of the first page of the original Durban Museum register, which listed all acquisitions together. precepts of my even more what you have learned so that you, in turn, ancient ancestors. My most can educate others. I do not feel that it is important objective as a teacher the function of this Department to decide is to produce students who what kind of research should or should can think clearly, critically and not be permitted. All too often University independently, with innovative departments do little more than to turn out and constructive work based on a clones of their professors. There is no place solid, broadly based foundation. for that kind of mentality in this Department. The Department, then, should We want original thinkers, in both research be directed to both research and and in education, who are encouraged to to education. What these two words think differently, to explore new paths, and to actually mean is a large issue, but we can defend or reject their own ideas according to summarise them briefly without excessive the best evidence available.

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from the past and the present to the children of meaning to most museum visitors. A of generations yet unborn. What that legacy biological specimen without data is often is depends entirely upon what we have, and considered totally useless and is generally how well we document it and care for it. discarded. We need to re-think this attitude. As curators, we must ensure that museum specimens of any kind are preserved in the best possible condition for as long as possible, Doctors quite often for once they are damaged or destroyed they can never be properly restored or replaced; need to have snakes our loss is the future’s irretrievable loss. We identified when have a great burden of responsibility to curate and preserve our material in the best possible dealing with known way. But if to curate means limiting access for study, then while honouring one essential or suspected snake- obligation of care we deny another equally bite cases, and there important one: promoting the wise use of the material for the purpose of acquiring and is much that transmitting knowledge; education, in a word. Museums have, quite rightly, placed a museums can do to premium on information relating to collected help in this respect. artefacts. Sir Leonard Woolley said of archaeology that all excavation is destructive; that once a dig is completed, all that is left It is becoming more and more difficult, is a hole in the ground and an artefact in a and very much more expensive, to collect museum; that any evidence not recorded biological specimens these days. It should during the course of excavation is lost forever; not be heretical to suggest that even and that such an excavator has defrauded specimens without data may have immense science – to which we may add, that he has value, if not to taxonomists, to whom such defrauded the whole community – and had information is essential, at least to teachers better not have dug. and students of comparative anatomy, As with archaeology, so it is with adaptive radiations, and pretty well anything Cape wolf snake biology, but with one difference. A piece of else that you may think of. (Lycophidion sculpture, even if its provenance is unknown Museum collections, like the dead capense) or doubtful, may still have a great deal organisms whose diversity in life they

Identification: The common wolf snake is identified by its black or brown colouration, white BELOW: Dr Angelo Lambiris is an Honorary Curator and an eThekwini Living Legends Awardee. He has speckling, a flattened head published over 180 scientific papers and two books, studied reptiles and amphibians for over 50 years and a nocturnal lifestyle. and owns a priceless research collection comprising close on 5000 specimens of over 480 species. Dr The average length is Lambiris is also an expert in herpetological veterinary medicine and has been nominated for the 40 cm but may reach up Fredric L. Frye Lifetime Achiever’s Award in this field. to 64 cm.

Distribution Widespread throughout and habitat: eastern South Africa. It is also present in southern and central Mozambique, Zimbabwe, parts of Botswana and northern Namibia.

Food: Lizards (including geckos and skinks), other snakes.

Predators: Eaten by other snakes.

LIFESPAN: Between 15 and 20 years.

Medical Non-venomous and not importance: dangerous to man and not likely to bite.

Photo: R. van der Weijde Source: www.pbase.com/corotauria

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LEFT: Scholars crowding around the herpetology display during International Museum Day.

do to help in this respect. Animal rescue and rehabilitation workers often need information when dealing with unusual or obscure animals. All too often they resort to the Internet (sometimes helpful, quite often devastatingly inaccurate), and all too rarely to local museums. The list could be expanded almost indefinitely.

What is the way forward? We can provide plenty of preserved specimens for study purposes. At present we can provide, (I speak of the Department represent, should also evolve and diversify. What are their needs, and of Herpetology only), pretty poor field data There is much more to scientific life than what is the best way forward? associated with those specimens. We need taxonomy and systematics, and museum Researchers will know their own specific to ensure that, in future, all specimens collections can and should illustrate these needs pretty well, but where we have a coming in to the Museum are documented other aspects as fully as possible. The scope department in which diversity of activities and as thoroughly and as comprehensively as of interests is potentially unlimited; we can interests is encouraged, it becomes necessary possible, so that they can be used for a only hint at it here and move on to the to look beyond our own narrow interests and multiplicity of purposes. This is best achieved other questions. actively seek out the needs of others pursuing by outreach programmes offering carefully other lines of thought. planned guidance. Who are we serving? One of the highest priorities is to offer To the ancient Greeks this question was interns at the Museum a well-structured easy to answer: the Museum was there for One of the highest course in the principles of applied all who wished to learn. These days the herpetology that addresses not only the answer is not so easy to formulate, not least priorities is to offer essential aspects of curatorial best practices, because populations are so unimaginably interns at the but which also provides a solid foundation larger, but also because there are so many for independent research. modern constraints that simply did not Museum a well- Another high priority is developing a exist in the civilised world two and a half broad-based research programme into the thousand years ago. structured course in biology and natural history of our reptiles We do, of course, serve those scientists the principles of and amphibians. There are vast gaps in who wish to avail themselves of our our knowledge of even the commonest resources, if the costs can be met one way applied herpetology. species, and nowhere near enough people or another. We serve, to a much lesser sufficiently interested in filling those gaps. extent, senior students at some universities. Amateur naturalists can contribute much Whether we serve the general public upon Who should we be reaching invaluable knowledge, but only if they are whom our existence ultimately depends, is a out to? encouraged to collaborate with museums. moot point. I do not think that we do so at Researchers in other institutions can, and Such contributions require pursuing answers all well. That is not necessarily the Museum’s do, make use of our material. But we need to as many as possible of a relatively short fault, for this one at least does have an to make others aware of what we have list of about 40 questions, for which the active community outreach programme and how it can be used. School teachers essential requirements are only an enquiring vigorously and ably promoted by dedicated are an obvious primary target, for once mind, patience, a supply of note books, people. Much of the fault lies, alas, with they know something about the wonders two thermometers and, perhaps, a pair of the general public, or to be more honest, and beauty of reptiles and amphibians they binoculars. Surely a small investment for a with an education system that has betrayed can pass that awareness on to their pupils, lifetime’s worth of profound enjoyment that public by signally failing to inculcate an who are of course our future. There is far and enrichment! awareness of, and interest in, what should too little interaction between conservation The scope for developing the Department be one of any civilised country’s most organisations and museums, and there is of Herpetology is, in principle, unlimited even priceless assets, their national, provincial plenty of scope for enrichment on both though funds are not! However, much can be and municipal museums as resources in, and sides and to the ultimate benefit of both achieved with even a limited budget. Simply aids to, teaching and to education. (These wildlife and the general public. Doctors quite follow the principle: “Decide, very clearly, two words are not at all synonymous, and often need to have snakes identified when exactly what you want to do, and why, and the reader is urged to contemplate the dealing with known or suspected snake-bite the rest is largely a matter of common sense differences very carefully.) cases, and there is much that museums can and ingenuity.”

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Atlas moth (Attacus ) The Atlas moth is a large saturniid moth found in the tropical and subtropical forests of Southeast , and is common across the Malay Archipelago. Atlas moths are considered the largest moths in the world in terms of total wing surface area, reaching upwards of 400 cm2. Their wingspans are also amongst the largest, reaching over 25 cm. They are said to be named after either the Titan of Greek mythology, or their map-like wing patterns. In Hong Kong the Cantonese name translates as “snake’s head moth”, referring to the apical extension of the forewing. In India, Atlas moths are cultivated for their silk in a non-commercial capacity; unlike that produced by the related silkworm moth (Bombyx mori), Atlas moth silk is secreted as broken strands. This brown, wool-like silk is thought to have greater durability and is known as fagara.

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“Time’s fun when you’re having flies”

KERMIT THE FROG

NATASHA GOVENDER

NUNUS & GOGGAS Entomology technician Natasha Govender reports on sabbaticals, insect collections, mouldy ceilings and the largest moth in the world.

s Kirstin Williams continued her the mammal collections, working on the research work on blowflies, she EcoRat project and volunteering in the was very fortunate to be awarded mammal collection. Kate is chair of Bats KZN a National Research Foundation and has lectured in physiology, mammalogy, A(NRF) sabbatical grant which afforded her psychology and conservation at University of the opportunity to take a six-month KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). She has also lectured sabbatical to complete her PhD. This NRF on invertebrate systems at UKZN and sabbatical programme is aimed at people currently tutors UNISA conservation students currently working on and completing on invertebrates. doctoral degrees. It is designed to give them The project entailed updating the the opportunity to complete their studies taxonomy of the moth (Lepidoptera) and with funding for a six- or 12-month true bug (Hemiptera) collections. There are sabbatical from work commitments. 24 888 local and international moths and When Kirstin went on sabbatical at the 5 241 true bug specimens that required start of October, Eleanor (Kate) Richardson evaluation and possible name changes. was appointed to work on a specialised Kate updated the specimen names on the project in her absence. Kate has been entomology database with the aid of online affiliated to the Museum for the past 21 references such as ZipcodeZoo and the years and has been involved with curating Rhodes University checklist. She then

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 Garden fruit chafer (Pachnoda sinuata) The species is part of the large family Scarabaeidae, which also include the scarabs and dung beetles. This species is large with a smooth carapace. Colouration is variable but basically yellow with dark brown central area broken by yellow spots and a transverse yellow line across the rear of the elytra. Adult beetles feed on flowers and fruit, often destroying them in the process which makes them unpopular with gardeners. While commonly found on exotic plants like roses and camellias, these beetles also feed on a range of indigenous plants including Acacia. (Photo: Bart Wursten)

BELOW: Scholars inspecting the butterfuly collection during the Background Science tour, during Science Week. INSET: Kirstin Williams informing scholars on the bug collection on display. BOTTOM: Kate Richardson busy arranging a drawer of moths. updated the names of the specimens in the collection drawers and rearranged specimens where necessary to sort them into their correct families, tribes, genera and species. Kate completed the update of the true bug collection in December 2013 and finished with the moth collection by the end of March 2014 when Kirstin returned to work.

PUBLIC EDUCATION AND OUTREACH National Science Week, from 29 July to 3 August, showcased what the Museum has to offer and the Entomology Department was an integral part of this event. The first day brought a number of school groups for behind- the-scenes tours of the collections. This was quite challenging as we had to conduct six consecutive tours to keep up with the demand! However, with the help of two volunteers, Pilasanda Mngupane and Noma Khoza, we were able to provide learners with an informative insight into the daily activities of the Entomology Department. At an exhibition at Medwood Gardens I engaged with school children, workers and passers-by drawn by the sight of insects they don’t usually get to see up close. During the KwaNunu exhibition, Kirstin and I were overwhelmed by the sheer number of school children who attended the event. They listened intently and gasped intermittently at the strange creatures on show, such as the largest moth on earth. Mixed reactions of disgust and fascination greeted the introduction of our live Madagascan hissing cockroaches. It was very fulfilling to be able to impart some knowledge to the general public, about insects, their behaviour and the role they play in their natural habitats.

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Welcome to Natasha

After a period of 10 years with no technical assistant the Entomology Department is very happy to welcome Natasha Govender into this position. Natasha started with us at the Museum at the beginning of June. Natasha joins us from Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife where she was a DST/NRF intern and gained experience in field surveys and data collection. Natasha obtained both her B.Sc and B.Sc (Hons) degrees from UKZN and is currently completing her master’s degree through UKZN in conjunction with the South African Research Institute (SASRI). While conducting field work with SASRI for her project on moth diversity in wetlands adjacent to sugarcane crops, she learnt a number of skills that will stand her in good stead in her new position such as pinning, labeling, accessioning and databasing of specimens. Natasha is a bright, cheerful and very capable person and we hope she will enjoy her time with us at the Museum.

Donations and expansion were not only unsightly but also unsafe. Not be! However, all the effort has been worth it Renzo Perisinotto of UKZN has provided a an ideal situation, especially since the because we now have a brand new, mould- fantastic addition to our collection with a collection room is open to the public from free ceiling, with, thankfully, no damage to donation of 569 chafer beetles. Renzo time to time. As the protection of the the collection. collected these beetles from various locations collection cabinets is a high priority, the around KwaZulu-Natal. We always welcome cabinets had to be moved to avoid damage donations such as these; and those of Adrian to the specimens. Madagascan Armstrong of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, who Leroy Nala and Kwazi Ntombela, two regularly deposits specimens with us from Museum’s volunteers, and I undertook the hissing cockroach the reserves around KZN. task. They moved the cabinets to one end of (Gromphadorhina The Department was also delighted to the room (and back again after construction obtain five new wooden cabinets which will was completed) and covered them with portentosa) assist in providing more space for our heavy-duty plastic to prevent the odd piece The Madagascan hissing cockroach, also expanding collection. of ceiling from damaging the cabinets known as the hissing cockroach or simply hisser, is one of the largest species of housing the delicate specimens. A nifty cockroach, reaching 5.1–7.6 cm at maturity. Ceiling reconstruction technique I learned from Kirstin entailed the They can be found in rotting logs and are In October, the ceiling of the insect collection use of blankets placed under the cabinets to one of some 20 known species of large hissing roaches from Madagascar, many of room was taken down and replaced. Mould enable easy movement. which are kept as pets. They feed primarily had began to develop on the old ceiling due After the cabinets had been moved and on vegetable material and unlike most to the poorly insulated aircon vents which the air-conditioning vents, smoke detectors cockroaches, they are wingless, are excellent climbers and can scale smooth and light fixtures had been removed, the glass. As the name suggests, the Madagascar month-long process of discarding the old hissing cockroach is characterised by its During the KwaNunu ceiling and installing a new one could begin. hissing sound, produced when they force air through the respiratory openings It was far from pleasing entering the (spiracles) found on each segment of their exhibition, Kirstin and collection room daily and seeing the dust, abdomen. The hiss takes three forms: the rubble and a hole where the ceiling should disturbance hiss, the female-attracting hiss, I were overwhelmed and the fighting hiss. by the sheer number of school children who attended the event. They listened intently and gasped intermittently at the strange creatures on show, such as the largest moth on earth.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 48 Education Department A YEAR IN THE MUSEUM Education Officer Theshnie Naidoo describes how the Museum celebrates another year of bringing knowledge of nature to communities across eThekwini.

useum education is devoted to Conservancy, a programme was developed both developing and to celebrate the day at Krantzkloof Nature strengthening the role of Reserve with each department showcasing museums as public institutions. their displays and specimens to the public. MThe core function of museum educators is to People were delighted by the opportunity to enhance the visitors’ ability to understand interact with the curators, ask questions and and appreciate museum collections. Today handle the specimens at the touch table. museums are faced with the complex The curators of the Museum hosted various challenge of engaging a diverse audience in talks, and the highlight of the day was a vital and significant learning experiences. This presentation by Nicholas Liebenberg from increased responsibility has resulted in the Natural Resources that furthered public museum educators’ role being shifted, awareness on snakes and snake bites. revised, transformed, and extended in Museum Day provides an excellent unexpected ways. opportunity for introducing the Museum to The Durban Natural Science Museum has the public and making people aware of our made huge strides in emphasising the role in the community. importance of interdepartmental teamwork in the achievement of the museum’s NATIONAL SCIENCE WEEK education mission, and by focusing on the National Science Week is a joint initiative key elements of rigorous planning, between the Museum and the Department implementation and assessment. The of Science and Technology (DST) to generate Education Department acknowledges the excitement around the subject of science. importance of public advocacy to the future Our aim is to inspire learners to develop an stability and strength of museums. 2013 proved to be an exciting year and as we reflect on the highlights and accomplishments, we take this opportunity to applaud the efforts of our team, partners and collaborators, and look forward to another year of positive contributions.

MUSEUM DAY International Museum Day is celebrated annually on 18 May. Working with the Kloof

RIGHT: A volunteer from DNSM showcasing specimens during International Museums’ Day celebrations. CENTRE: Our little visitors at Medwood Gardens during National Science Week.

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FAR LEFT: Busi Gumede, one of the Museum’s Education Officers. TOP LEFT: ‘Detective work’ enjoyed by the public during International Museums’ Day. BELOW LEFT: The Museum’s public display for National Science Week.

interest in science as well as provide an opportunity for learners and the public to engage with scientists. Working with youth ambassadors from different regions within the municipal areas we encouraged schools, communities and the general public to participate in this celebration from 29 July to 3 August 2013. Guided tours of the Museum galleries were conducted to showcase the diversity of our ecosystems, biomes and fauna with the objective of building a more environmentally conscious society and to identify the ‘green heroes’ in our midst. Behind-the-scene tours of our Research Centre introduced the public and participating schools, George Campbell High and Cwebezela Senior Primary, to our research collections. Learners were exposed to the inner workings of the museum and the vast areas of knowledge represented by the diverse collections, while given the opportunity to interact with the curators. At a public exhibition at Medwood Gardens we again took the Museum to the people with the public given the opportunity to ask questions, touch taxidermy specimens and interact with staff and team members on a wide range of topics surrounding biodiversity and key environmental issues. On 1 August an event was initiated to celebrate Women in Science in lieu of National Women’s Day. The objective was to share experiences, career orientate and inspire female learners regarding the importance of science in our society. The highlights of the day were talks by our guest speaker, Dr Jeanne Tarrant of the Endangered Wildlife Trust, and our very own women scientists, Leigh Richards and Kirstin Williams.

KWAXIMBA NATURAL HERITAGE DAY Various events are held at the Parks, Recreation and Culture (PRC) facilities in the month of September to celebrate multiple facets of our heritage. On 26 September Kloof Conservancy and the newly developed KwaXimba Conservancy hosted a joint event in celebration of Natural Heritage Day. KwaXimba Councillor, Mr Mkhize, welcomed the guests and PRC Unit Head, Mr Thembinkosi Ngcobo, highlighted the

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 50 Education Department purpose of the event. The crowd was enthralled by the exhibitions and the interactive presentations by Balungile Gcaba (KZN Wildlife) on nature conservation, Nicholas Liebenberg (Natural Resources) on snakes, and Zodwa Msweli and Jabulani Memela (Durban Botanical Gardens) on plant propagation and permaculture respectively. The crowd was also entertained by traditional dancers from KwaXimba . The day ended with certificates awarded to the local ‘Green Heroes’ who work tirelessly in the KwaXimba Conservancy.

The Magqubu Ntombela-Ian Player Annual Lecture provides a platform for leaders in the field of biodiversity conservation and social sciences to address the public on topics of the environment, culture and social cohesion. focused on the obligation and necessity for community views, perspectives and insight in MAGQUBU NTOMBELA–IAN PLAYER designing and establishing environmental ANNUAL LECTURE conservation strategies whilst still This lecture honours two men, Magqubu appreciating specialist and expert knowledge. Ntombela and Ian Player, who formed a In her thought-provoking presentation, profound relationship that played an integral Prof. Sithole urged the audience to role in the conservation of South African’s challenge ‘traditional’ thinking, recognise TOP: Rotating exhibitions at Inchanga Community Hall. MIDDLE: Magqubu Ntombela and Ian Player, biodiversity. One of their most celebrated the skills and knowledge of both the public (Photo: Trevor Barrett). ABOVE: Guest speaker for conservation efforts was the capture and and the expert, and to enable more the evening Mpilo Pearl Sithole translocation of the white rhino that was effective community practitioners. then on the verge of extinction. One of the most prestigious events on the ‘GREEN HEROES FOR A CHANGING Museum’s calendar, The Magqubu CLIMATE’ EXHIBITION change. “Climate change needs action from Ntombela-Ian Player Annual Lecture provides The evening of the annual lecture saw the you and me, from our local government, a platform for leaders in the field of launch of our ‘Green Heroes for a Changing from our national government and from all biodiversity conservation and related social Climate’ Exhibition. It served as an international governments to really show sciences to address the public on topics of introduction to climate change and as a results,” she explains. “eThekwini the environment, culture and social cohesion. celebration of our local ‘green heroes’: Municipality is aware of the seriousness of Our esteemed guest speaker this year was ordinary people making a difference by climate change, but cannot tackle the Associate Professor Mpilo Pearl Sithole of the adopting lifestyles that enhance the problem alone. It needs support and action University of KwaZulu-Natal, Department of sustainability of our natural resources. from you and me to make a difference” Social Sciences. Her talk, ‘Communal Zamo Shazi, Volunteer Coordinator at the Activism versus Elite Activism: Working Museum and after-hours permaculture Theshnie Naidoo towards embracing Community and Expert volunteer at the Durban Botanical Gardens, is Education Officer Partnerships in Environmental Management’, one such ‘green hero’ at the forefront of

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WELCOME to new staff members

Sindisiwe Nzama Theshnie Naidoo Sindisiwe is not entirely new to the Museum. The Education Department welcomes an entirely She previously worked in the Mammal new staff member, Theshnie Naidoo. Theshnie Department as a Mammalogy Technician. is a University of KwaZulu Natal graduate. In July 2013, she was promoted to She completed her PhD majoring in Education Officer. Her job as an molecular genetics. Her research focused Education Officer entails designing and on the genetic diversity of the Chaerephon implementing dynamic education species complex from Madagascar and programmes for education the western Indian Ocean islands. institutions and the general She has a number of publications in public, maintaining outreach both local and international peer- programme to increase the reviewed journals. She worked as visibility and accessibility of a Laboratory Manager at UKZN the main museum and and later accepted a research satellite museums, and position at a diagnostics coordinating the company based in Durban. In Museum’s volunteer August 2013 she joined the programme. “So far, I’m enjoying education team. We hope my stay with the Museum!“ she will enjoy her stay with us.

Royal Society of South Africa Established by Royal Charter in 1908

Please help us give injured and orphaned wildlife a second chance by joining our exclusive One Thousand, One Hundred Club. CROW is looking for 1000 extraordinary individuals, families, schools and companies that are able to make a monthly donation of R100 and in so doing, help us provide life-saving care and treatment to thousands of wildlife in distress throughout KZN. To join this Club and find out more about our work and how you can get involved, please contact us: Promoting Science CROW (Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife), 15A Coedmore Avenue, Yellowwood Recognised excellence in research & scholarship Park, Durban 4011, P O BOX 53007, , Durban, 4011 T: +27 31 462 1127 F: +27 31 462 9700 E: [email protected] www.crowkzn.co.za Membership is open to all who have an interest in science.

CROW is a registered Non-Profit organisation (NPO Reg No: 046-598) and For more information on the activities of KwaZulu Natal branch contact: Public Benefit organisation (PBO Reg No: 18/11/13/4901) Mike Perrin: 033 260 5118 | Judy Mann: 031 328 8188

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 52 Education Department ON THE GO!

Busisiwe Gumede, a fitted with spacious exhibit shelves holding efficient and inclusive. Its educational museum specimens, educational materials material will be aimed to develop Museum Education and other essential resources. GO-WILD’s observation and exploration skills, critical colourfully branded exterior is set to turn thinking and lasting excitement about life Officer, gets super- heads as it blazes a trail across the city. The and environmental sciences among users. excited as the city’s incredible 1.2 m-wide mouth of a gaping GO-WILD will serve as a school’s effective hippopotamus on the back door is certain to practical tool to strengthen and increase first mobile museum catch the eye, not to mention the other learners’ understanding of class work, thus intriguing and engrossing images improving their results. This will be achieved hits the road in its emblazoned across the vehicle’s exterior. through its offering of school educational mission to take the GO-WILD will not substitute for the main programmes that target specific areas of museum or any of its amenities, but rather the curriculum. people of eThekwini will serve as a complement to our traditional We are aiming for a local product that services. GO-WILD is destined to travel meets national, indeed international, on a memorable widely around eThekwini and to appear at standards. Best of all, GO-WILD means that learning adventure. municipal and provincial expos and events. the Museum is now truly an institution on It will promote the museum and offer the go! informed engagement with the public wherever a road can take it. The messages Busisiwe Gumede he Museum is taking to the streets imparted by GO-WILD will be effective, Education Officer in style in its continuing efforts to bring a diverse and exciting mix of experiences to our various Taudiences. Our latest innovation is a vehicle designed to take the museum to the people: GO-WILD, eThekwini Municipality’s first mobile museum! The mobile museum is yet another means by which we can realise our full potential and benefit the broader community at large, especially schools and the general public. The demand for the GO-WILD vehicle grew out of increasing educational outreach visits in the past to schools and communities throughout the eThekwini area and beyond using existing smaller Museum vehicles crammed with collections and other TOP: Trial fitting of the specimens into shelves. educational resources that were just not ABOVE: “GO-WILD”s first public appearance during the city parade for the opening of optimal for the need. In GO-WILD we now eThekwini Council for 2014 in Dr Pixley kaSeme have a proper nomadic museum on wheels, Street on 29 January 2014.

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Help Mr. Bee find the flower Connect the dots by numbers

22 4

23 3

24 2 21 5 25 1 19 7 20 6

18 8

17 9 13 16 14 12 10 15 11

Draw a line from each insect to it’s name Find and circle insect words

BEETLE N A P L F A N T J B U T T E R F L Y BEE Q L A D Y B U G D Z I B U O M B E E ANT C R I C K E T M V CRICKET O G B E E T L E A

ANT BUTTERFLY BUTTERFLY BEE CRICKET

LADYBUG BEETLE LADYBUG

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THE ART OF BALANCE

Kloof Conservancies Chairman, Paolo Candotti, introduces a conservancy perspective to community conservation.

o find a compromise between preserve of ecologists, botanists and other increasingly dependent on a much broader human development and the technical specialists who manage these parks network of interactions in which people are a preservation of our biodiversity as independent units. Partly to justify their key component. This has led to the rise of the requires a complex and creative existence and partly to generate income, concept of Community Conservation. To Tbalancing act. There are a growing number tourists are encouraged to visit these quote one such initiative: of examples throughout Africa and the world biodiversity reserves which often become the “The Community Conservation Programme’s where these challenges are being tackled exclusive preserve of those who have the role is to ensure that communities are aware with ingenuity and technology, and which means to use these resources. of the important role conservation can play have resulted in sustainable conservation Over the past 30 years the sustainability of in the development of sustainable models tailor-made to suit specific these relatively exclusive protected areas has livelihoods. The direct interest which communities and environments. been under severe threat, particularly in neighbouring communities have in the These successful examples share a Africa and other underdeveloped areas management of protected areas is facilitated number of common factors and include a where human needs are pressing and by this programme. delicate infusion of insight, knowledge expanding. In these scenarios it is often Partnerships and interactions are processes and experience. difficult to explain to impoverished whereby communities of all descriptions Firstly, these projects preserve the area’s communities why the biodiversity must be engage with Ezemvelo in co-defining and biodiversity and integrate it into the culture “protected” when the communities derive realising nature conservation value and of the local inhabitants. Secondly, individuals little or no direct benefit from these areas. opportunities to protect biodiversity and in the local population are trained as There is a growing realisation that the ecological processes in the province.” stewards and learn conservation concepts sustainability of conservation efforts is – Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife as well as skills to improve community standards. Thirdly, the creation of income- generation opportunities becomes a high To find a compromise between human priority. Lastly, all programmes are buttressed by a high environmental development and the preservation of our educational component. Conservation has traditionally involved biodiversity requires a complex and creative setting aside tracts of land as National Parks balancing act. or Protected Areas. These are usually the

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ABOVE: Children at the Kwa-Ximba National Heritage Day exhibition. LEFT: Trail running in the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, (Photo: Antony Grote). RIGHT: Installing picnic benches at Molweni River Community Park.

TRADITIONAL PRIORITIES EXTENDING OUR GREEN FOOTPRINT The conservancies’ movement in South However, if we look beyond the boundaries Africa, of which Kloof Conservancy is a of Kloof to our north-east, in Lower and part, can in some ways be described as a Upper Molweni, and even closer at Wyebank, community conservation initiative. The we find no organised conservation focus, certainly as far as urban movement, rapid and possibly unregulated conservancies are concerned, is very housing construction and a generally much on using volunteers to run degraded environment which places what is educational and conservation programmes left of local biodiversity at high risk. for the benefit of the broader community Additionally, the absence of a strong which are the direct beneficiaries of a partnership between the Reserve and the healthier environment. neighbouring Molweni Community may well The programmes are aimed at protecting place the long term sustainability of the the local biodiversity within the wealthier reserve in question as it will be increasingly suburbs where there is already a basic difficult to protect its boundaries from the understanding of the need for conservation. bordering environmental degradation that is takes their priorities into account and Most urban conservancies rely heavily on encroaching on its integrity. combines these with the universal priority to volunteers while the creation of income- As a conservancy we are very much aware protect what is left of our biodiversity. generating opportunities is not a factor. that the environment does not take municipal Organisational skills levels are generally very boundaries into account and it is important CROSS-FERTILIZING THE INITIATIVES high, and while financial resources are never that we protect biodiversity across eco- Kloof Conservancy has, and continues to enough there is sufficient fund-raising systems and not suburbs. We acknowledge run, numerous environmental projects capability within urban conservancies to that we are part of a greater whole and that within the Kloof boundaries. These include make substantial progress and create we cannot hope to preserve our small the educational Back-to-Nature Series, an relatively healthy environments as evidenced domain while ignoring the world around us. annual indigenous Open Gardens Show, by the generally lush and reasonably We also understand that extending our green the rehabilitation of a number of environmentally friendly suburbs of the footprint does not mean we impose the environmentally degraded areas such as the Upper Highway. solutions that worked well in Kloof to Msinsi CCA, a project to clear public land in This is typically so in Kloof where we can communities that have a different and often Kloof of all invasive alien plants by the end pride ourselves on clean air, open green seriously disadvantaged background. of 2015, and the highly successful Adopt-a- spaces and the added bonus of a protected The solution, we believe, lies in transferring Highway Project which maintains the M13 area of exceptional biodiversity value in our skills, knowledge and resources to our from Fields Hill to Hillcrest free of invasive Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. neighbouring communities in a manner that alien plants and litter.

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We also co-operate with all our only protect the river but will also benefit neighbouring conservancies whenever there the community by providing a recreational is scope for joint projects. However, where and educational facility, as well as generate there are no organised environmental jobs for the establishment of the park and initiatives, as in Molweni, then we seek more its ongoing maintenance. direct interventions. This project is a joint venture with the We have initiated a number of additional Durban Green Corridor. projects that aim to utilise the concepts of Community Conservation and a Joint-Venture TRAIL RUNNING approach with organisations that can This project is a good example of how the contribute specific technical skills. beautiful natural scenery of an area can be used to raise much-needed funding and also create work opportunities. Most residents have The Kloof Conservancy 3 Falls Trail Run little or no interaction utilises the stunning scenery and trails of the Reserve and has generated over R70 000 for with the reserve, so the upkeep and improvement of the reserve. Futhermore, all the medals and trophies used following a successful for the event are sourced from local bead and trial run in 2013 wire craftsmen. A new trail-running event, The Molweni educational guided Trail, organised by 369Communications and supported by Kloof Conservancy, will also walks are planned take place in 2014. This event will use trails for 2014. in the reserve and in the Lower and Upper Molweni areas, directly involving local residents. Runners from the Molweni THE MOLWENI RIVER HEALTH community will be sponsored to participate SCHOOL PROJECT both events, helping integrate the local This is a good example of a project involving community with the reserve. an entire eco-system, The Molweni River catchment which spans several “suburb” and GUIDED WALKS IN KRANTZKLOOF community boundaries. NATURE RESERVE Seven high schools – from advantaged and Most residents in Lower and Upper disadvantaged areas – utilise the miniSASS Molweni have little or no interaction with system to bi-annually monitor the health of the reserve, so following a successful test the Molweni River, in an interactive and run in 2013, further educational guided educational manner, and the information on walks are planned for 2014. the river’s health gathered through the Kloof Conservancy will fund these walks project is fed back into the local population. which aim to introduce learners from local This project is a joint venture with GCS high schools to the reserve and to help them Water and Environmental Consultants, understand the role which it plays in various departments within eThekwini preserving the biodiversity of our area. Municipality, DUCT, Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, KZN Department of Agriculture and THE MOLWENI RIVER COMMUNITY Environmental Affairs, and Umgeni Water. ECO-TOURISM CAMP This project is at an early feasibility study THE MOLWENI RIVER phase and aims to create a community run COMMUNITY PARK eco-tourism camp on the boundary with This community has been assisted to Krantzkloof Nature Reserve. The target establish a river park 50 m on either side of market will be foreign tourists, hikers, the Molweni River over a distance of bird watchers, rock climbers and trail approximately 3 km. Key to this project is runners who can combine their interest the protection of the river banks from new in nature with a local cultural experience housing construction, and plans include the in the community. appointment of river custodians and the The establishment of this camp will be creation of picnic sites where the local one means of giving the Molweni residents can benefit and enjoy the park. community a real interest in Krantzkloof A programme of environmental education Nature Reserve, something which is is also planned for 2014. The project will not currently not afforded to them.

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LEFT: The Molweni River. MIDDLE LEFT: Scholars conducting the miniSASS analysis at Molweni Valley, (Photo: Kelly Taylor). MIDDLE RIGHT: Visitors overlooking the Kloof Gorge (Photo: Charlie Mitchell). BOTTOM: View of the Kloof Gorge, (Photo: eThekwini Municipality: EPCPD department).

biodiversity, and possibly also create an income-generating opportunity through a trail run in the area.

GET INVOLVED! The Kloof Conservancy’s community conservation initiatives are aimed at stimulating personal involvement by residents in understanding, appreciating and managing the biodiversity of the area for the mutual benefit of all. Therefore the creation of employment opportunities has a high priority and the projects are carefully designed to simultaneously provide benefits for the THE KWA-XIMBA CONSERVANCY community as well as the environment. Kloof Conservancy has helped to establish We do not underestimate the difficulties of the Kwa-Ximba Conservancy near Cato Ridge this balancing act and fully understand that where we have provided administrative socio-economic and political factors may assistance and mentored the management pose significant dangers for these projects. team. Two highly successful events were held Some of these projects may even fail, but the during 2013. alternative of returning to the comfort of The first event was a Green Day at protecting our own small domain is no longer Nomfihlela Primary School which involved environmentally viable. greening the school and environmental education on reptiles. The event itself was hailed as a success and there was undoubtedly Protecting a raising of environmental awareness – the Nature. live reptile show made sure of that! Inspiring However, the greening project failed due Change. to lack of continuity and poor support from the school. This highlights some of the pitfalls Kloof Conservancy is an active, which can be encountered when working in vibrant organisation run by under-developed areas. volunteers who aim to promote The second event was a joint venture with environmental awareness and the Durban Natural Science Museum conserve our area’s outstanding (DNSM). The museum ran a number of natural heritage for present and future educational environmental exhibits for a generations. Special attention is paid crowd of several hundred learners while the to habitat restoration, invasive alien logistics were managed jointly by the Kwa- plant eradication, sustainable living Ximba and Kloof Conservancy as part of a issues, educational outreach and skills-transfer exercise. The resources of the public participation. We believe that DNSM were well utilised to bring an the efforts and contributions of people educational opportunity to a community and businesses are key to the that would otherwise have very little sustainability conservation in Kloof. possibility of experiencing what the DNSM Your membership, whether active or has to offer. passive, is valuable to us as it adds Further joint ventures with DNSM are public legitimacy to our efforts. planned for 2014, which include a small mammal survey and a Museum Day. CONTACT US: A key goal in 2014 for the Kwa-Ximba Email: [email protected] Conservancy is to develop a stewardship Website: www.kloofconservancy.org.za programme for a section of undeveloped land in the area to protect the local

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Greater Flamingo (Phoenicopterus ruber)

Habitat: Flamingos inhabit expansive open-water areas, such as lakes, pans and estuaries.

DIET: These birds are filter feeders with uniquely structured beaks designed to strain small food particles from water.

Reproduction: Flamingos nest in huge colonies in remote, vast saline pans, where they build nests comprising mud turrets to support their eggs above water-level.

Anatomy: They are amongst the tallest of birds, with extraordinarily long legs and necks, and the Greater Flamingo reaches almost 1.5 m in height.

Evolution: There is evidence to indicate that flamingos first evolved at least 30 million years ago, perhaps longer.

Predators: Flamingos tend to stay out in shallow water, which usually protects them from most predators. Nesting adults and their young, however, sometimes fall prey to predators such as hyenas, eagles and vultures attracted to breeding colonies.

Social Flamingos are social birds, typically Structure: feeding, flying and nesting in large flocks. When breeding, thousands of birds will engage in astonishing mass nuptial displays, running backwards and forwards through the shallow water in tightly massed formations.

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The waterbirds of Durban Bay have decreased frighteningly compared with historical times and many of these decreases continue to this day.

DAVID ALLAN COUNTING ON THE DOCK OF THE BAY David Allan, Curator of Birds, has coordinated the waterbird counts in Durban Bay over the past fourteen years and shows us what an alarming decrease there has been in the diversity and numbers of these birds visiting our shores.

o say that the monthly counts of Science Museum Novitates, was devoted McInnes, Barry Swaddle, Martin Taylor, waterbirds in Durban Bay have to a lengthy monograph summarising Dan Thomson, Tessa White, Laurie Wicks become a Museum institution the results of the past 14 years of and Tim Wood. All have taken part in Twould be no understatement. monthly counts and comparing this over 15 counts and some in over 50. The first iteration was done in July 1999 information with earlier censuses of The author has been no slouch himself and since then we have never missed a waterbirds intermittently carried out in and is a veteran of 148 of the excursions, month. The counts are made from a the Bay dating back to the 1960s. This which translates to some three months of South African Navy patrol vessel (a 74-page document, packed with detail, working time on the water! In addition, a ‘Namacurra’) that navigates around the is a fitting tribute to the efforts of the succession of Museum interns has perimeter of the entire Bay. The Navy, for having made the entire participated over the years and these observers (up to six on each outing) are initiative logistically feasible, and to the hard-working youngsters have also drawn mainly from the ranks of the local BirdLife membership. helped with the recording, entry and branch of BirdLife South Africa. It is the Over the 14 years, covering no less analysis of count data. I hope that Greg combination of military discipline and than 168 individual counts, some 130 Davies, Vusi Dlamini, Nikhat Hoosen, the dedication of a large local pool of observers have participated. Many have David Maphisa, Alistair McInnes, Paschalis birding enthusiasts that has ensured the been long-term contributors and the Mofokeng, Onica Mukhuwana and Tuba consistency and longevity of this effort. following deserve special mention in this Nsani retain fond memories of the hands- The 2013 edition of the Museum’s regard: Lyn Bingham, Herman Bos, on outdoor training opportunities that scientific journal, the Durban Natural Barbara Couzens, Sally Horne, Alistair these counts have presented.

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examples include Common, Marsh and Curlew sandpipers, Little Stint, Red Knot, Ruff, Grey Plover and Ruddy Turnstone, all Palaearctic migratory shorebirds. It is not all ‘doom-and-gloom’ though. A fair number of species are holding their ground surprisingly well, and have perhaps even increased in numbers in some cases. Examples include Pink-backed Pelican, White- breasted and Reed cormorants, Common Whimbrel, Common Greenshank, Kelp Gull, and Swift and Common terns. There are even The bulk of the monograph is devoted to seasonality to their occurrence. Each account a few species that seem to have colonised, outlining the population trends of the 57 is enlivened by a thumbnail photograph of and become quite common in the Bay waterbird species in the Bay common the species in question. despite being essentially absent in historical enough to allow such insights. These The bottom line of this entire endeavour waterbirds range in size from the portly Pink- emphasises that overall the waterbirds of backed Pelican and stately Goliath Heron to Durban Bay have decreased frighteningly the diminutive Malachite Kingfisher and compared with historical times and that many FAR LEFT: An adult Kelp Gull utters its raucous call. African Pied Wagtail. The accounts present of these decreases continue to this day. This is the common large gull in the Bay, especially during the winter, and the numbers of this versatile and discuss complex graphs detailing how Several species have essentially disappeared opportunist seem to have remained stable over each species has fared in the Bay over the from the Bay entirely, including such time. ABOVE LEFT: The Woolly-necked Stork is a long and short term. Also identified are the charismatic characters as Black Heron, which recent colonist of the Bay and the greater Durban area generally, being surprisingly able to adapt to areas of the Bay that are most important for died out in the 1960s, and Greater Flamingo urban conditions. BELOW: Swift Tern numbers each species, as well as any patterns of and Yellow-billed Stork, both of which died have apparently remained stable in the Bay. This out in the 1970s. During the course of our 14 species feeds exclusively at sea and only uses the Bay as a roosting site. MIDDLE: Yellow-billed Storks years of counts, we observed how three small A fair number of disappeared from the Bay in the 1970s. BOTTOM: A Plovers, Kittlitz’s, White-fronted and Greater startled Egyptian Goose takes to the air. species are holding Sand Plovers, after long periods of gradual retreat since the 1960s, finally dwindled to their ground essential local extinction in the Bay. By surprisingly well, and illustration, not a single Kittlitz’s Plover was counted during the last three years of our have perhaps even counts, whereas the species was still regular during the first six years of the study period. increased in numbers Many other waterbirds, although still in some cases. present in the Bay, have plummeted markedly in numbers over time. Striking and depressing

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 61 times, i.e. Egyptian Goose, Woolly-necked Stork and Blacksmith Lapwing. The increase in the last species since the 1990s can best be described as meteoric. Looking at the broader picture, it is apparent that overall it is the more numerous (at least ancestrally), smaller-bodied, invertebrate feeders, epitomised by the migratory Palaearctic shorebirds, that have fared the worst, while the less abundant, larger-bodied, piscivorous species, such as pelicans, cormorants and terns, have persisted best. This dietary dichotomy is perhaps no surprise, as it is the intertidal sandbanks and mudflats supporting the invertebrate feeders and their prey that have been most hard hit by past harbour development. By contrast, such development typically increases, through dredging, the amount of open water favoured PETRELHEADS by piscivores and their quarry. In terms of the areas most favoured by The visit of ornithology legend, Hadoram waterbirds, an average of 69% of the Shirihai, to our shores inspires three epic trips waterbirds are concentrated at the Centre Bank and adjacent Bayhead intertidal flats, in search of elusive avifauna. David Allan the combined area of which covers only 11% of the Bay. The conservation of these two shares his experience. relatively small areas, especially the former, is critical to preserve the core of what remains of the Bay’s aquatic avifauna. colleague of mine recently Hadoram gave us some homework to do A particularly disturbing trend in the data contacted me with an intriguing before he arrived in Durban. Pelagic seabirds from the past 14 years is that many of the request. Could I assist Hadoram are among the few birds to have a strong Palaearctic migratory shorebirds are Shirihai in arranging a pelagic sense of smell and the odour from fish offal continuing to decrease in the Bay, in most Aseabird trip off Durban? Hadoram is a legend thrown overboard can attract these birds cases quite markedly, despite an absence of in ornithological circles. He was the founder over several kilometres. Such ‘chum’, any major new harbour developments and first director of the International Birding however, quickly sinks, reducing the efficacy impacting their habitat over this period. This and Research Centre in Eilat, and has of this technique. But Hadoram has suggests that negative impacts elsewhere in authored a string of leading natural history perfected a method whereby buckets of the ranges of these wide-ranging birds are books. These include Sylvia Warblers, The mixed fish offal, anchovy oil and water are driving an ongoing global decline in their Birds of Israel, The Macmillan Birder’s Guide frozen solid. When thrown overboard, this fortunes, which bodes ill for these birds on a to European and Middle Eastern Birds and A icy block floats on the surface, slowly scale far wider than our local port. There is Complete Guide to Antarctic Wildlife. Each releasing its contents over an hour or so. also some indication from the most recent has won prestigious Best Bird Book of the Martin took on the horrible job of preparing years that a major fish kill in the Bay in late Year Awards. Examples of his seabird these evil-smelling concoctions for the 2007 may have precipitated an ongoing prowess include the re-discovery of Beck’s expeditions. We were even able to add decrease in the numbers of several of the Petrel off Papua New Guinea and the first- chopped-up shark’s liver to the mix, thanks piscivorous species that otherwise had ever observations of the Fiji Petrel at sea. to Geremy Cliff of the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks seemed stable up until that event. Hadoram would be travelling through Board. Hadoram had emphasised that this At the time of writing our monthly counts southern Africa in November and wanted to was the first prize in attracting seabirds, due continue unabated with the milestone of 15 photograph Great-winged Petrels, which to its pungent odour and because it floats of years almost upon us. It is a source of pride should be present in the deep waters off its own accord. that we have kept up this effort so Durban at that time. The so-called ‘gadfly petrels’ in the genus consistently, but this is profoundly tempered Niall Perrins, one of southern Africa’s Pterodroma, of which Hadoram’s quarry the by the disheartening realisation that leading birders, Martin Taylor, of BirdLife Great-winged Petrel is one, favour deep-sea waterbird counts at a waterbody can persist South Africa, and I regularly organise conditions and shun inshore areas. for longer than some of the actual waterbird pelagic trips off Durban using the luxury Hadoram identified a deep drop-off zone species being covered. 20-berth ‘Isihuwa’, with the proceeds being some 60 km south-east of Durban and donated to BirdLife. We put out the word targeted this as our destination. This was a David Allan and soon had enough people interested to good bit further than we normal venture Curator of Birds fill not just one but three consecutive and it took some persuasion to get John outings in late November. Jarvis, our skipper, to acquiesce.

thola: VOLUME 16. 2013/14 62 Ornithology Department

ABOVE: A Flesh-footed Shearwater. This species is more common off Durban than anywhere else in South Africa and visits us from Australian breeding grounds. RIGHT: The adult Indian Yellow-nosed Albatross sports a colourful beak. BELOW RIGHT: A Barau’s Petrel. FAR RIGHT: a typical seabird feeding melee behind a trawler.

Over and above Hadoram’s quest for Great-winged Petrel, we also had our own agenda for these trips. In early October we had done a pelagic trip and Niall had convinced us to venture a little further than the fairly close-inshore trawler zone which is our usual target. Trawlers attract large numbers of the more common seabirds, such as albatrosses, shearwaters and skuas which scavenge around these vessels. But the specialised gadfly petrels steer well clear Indian Yellow-nosed, Shy and Black-browed curses emanating from John at the helm of these melees. A few kilometres beyond albatrosses, White-chinned and Pintado were in the finest maritime tradition. Not the trawlers we had a brief glimpse of a petrels, Flesh-footed and Cory’s shearwaters, long after we started back a shout of delicately patterned Barau’s Petrel, another Subantarctic Skua and a few Cape Gannets. “Wandering Albatross!” went up and in the gadfly, and one far rarer than the Great- But we could not afford to lose focus and distance we glimpsed the lazy flight of this winged Petrel in South African waters. It pressed on to our more far-flung destination. legendary ocean monarch – the bird with was my first sighting of this species off Arriving at the deep-water drop-off area broadest wingspan in the world. It was my Durban. The entire world population of we dumped the first of the frozen chum first off Durban and a clear testament as to Barau’s Petrel breeds on Réunion Island in blocks overboard. We did not have to wait just how far we had ventured into the the tropical Indian Ocean and it is thought long. Within minutes, the first Great-wingeds oceanic realm. to be an extremely rare vagrant to the coast arrived, wheeling and towering over the chum The trips on the following two days were of South Africa, with only a handful of before swooping down to pluck up fishy almost as exciting. We did not get as a far confirmed records. We were hopeful that fragments from the surface. Soon the offshore, John made sure of that, but we the three trips might render further insights cameras were clicking away furiously. This ventured deep enough for our chumming to into the status of Barau’s off our shores. species is all-dark in colour and, typical of lure fair numbers of Great-winged Petrels gadflys, has an erratic and fast flight – not an within range of the waiting cameras. easy target to photograph, especially from the What of Barau’s Petrels? Well, on the first It was my first unstable platform of a small boat heaving in day we saw no less than six and this was sighting of Barau’s the restless Indian Ocean. Another bird followed up by more sightings on the attracted in good numbers was the diminutive second and third days. We were ecstatic. Petrel off the coast Wilson’s Storm Petrel, a bird about the same Taking the October trip into account, this size and colour as a Little Swift and an even meant that we had encountered Barau’s on of Durban. greater challenge to capture on camera. four pelagic trips in a row. Clearly this Several hours later, with camera cards full enigmatic ocean wanderer is more than just On the morning of the first trip we set off and our chum for the day exhausted, we set a sporadic vagrant to our waters. into fairly choppy seas heading for the distant course for home. The wind in the meantime drop-off zone. On the way we passed a had gathered force and was blowing head- David Allan trawler with its attendant horde of free- on. Every time we crashed with towering Curator of Birds loaders and quickly spotted species such as spray into a monstrous oncoming wave the

Thola: Volume 16. 2013/14 63

Ria Winters Two years after the visit by Prof. Leon known captive individual. Ria was recently WELCOME Claessens to the Museum to study our commissioned by the Artists for famed Dodo skeleton, this priceless Conservation Foundation to produce the exhibit attracted another celebrity in early magnificently illustrated book ‘A Treasury Onica Mukhuwana January 2014 in the form of the famous of Endemic Fauna of Mauritius and Onica Mukhuwana served as a DST/NRF Dutch artist Ria Winters. Ria was on her Rodrigues’. She has a particular interest in intern at the Museum in 2012, including a way to Cape Town to research ancient painting parrots, many of which are highly six-month stint in the Bird Department. In archives that she hoped might throw endangered and some of which are June 2013 she joined the further light on live Dodos shipped to restricted to isolated oceanic islands. Ria Museum as a fully- various corners of the world in the bygone has travelled the globe in pursuit of her fledged staff member era. She recently published a fascinating passion. She was clearly in awe of our taking up the technical historical account of a living Dodo prized skeleton – let’s hope it entices her assistant position in transported to Japan in 1647 – the last to return one day! the Bird Department vacated by Ezra Mdletshe some back. Onica’s assistance as an intern was vital and we are sure she will be even more invaluable as a formal member of staff. Welcome Onica!

Bird club assists with 14 years of bay counts

BirdLife Port Natal congratulates David Allan on the publication of ‘The waterbirds of DurbanBay, current and historical population trends’. This research is invaluable when considering the impact of any developments in the Port of Durban.

We love helping you David! It is our privilege to be part of this ongoing research project

Allan, DG, 2012 – ‘The waterbirds of Durban Bay, current and historical population trends’. ‘Novitates, vol 35, Special Edition. Durban Natural Science Museum’. Join our club & help conserve birds For more information, contact us: Lesley Frescura: 083 231 3408 Arnia van VuurenL 083 271 2919 [email protected] | http://blpn.org

Thola: Volume 16. 2013/14 64 Events

EVENTS OF 2013 Some of the many educational events organised by the Museum last year.

International Museums’ Day KwaXimba Heritage Day National Science Week

Thola: Volume 16. 2013/14 Museum Diary: 2013/14

12 February Frogs in our backyard Jeanne Tarrant & Carl Schloms Sea World

Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emissions in eThekwini 5 March Dr Susanna Godehart & Craig Richards and Renewable Energy in eThekwini Durban Natural Science Museum

3 April A naturalist’s sabbatical in Brunei, abode of peace Dr Serban Proches UKZN

21 May Indigenous trees of Durban Richard Boon Durban Natural Science Museum

“Primates, Parasites and Palm Oil.” 4 June Dr David Pearton The plight of the Sumatran Orangutan Sea World

6 July Medical Research Dr Paula Sommer UKZN

6 August Rhino Conservation Cedric Coetzee (Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife) Sea World

3 September Conservancies – conservation for the future Jean Lindsay Durban Natural Science Museum

1 October Marine Film Festival Jone Porter Sea World

5 November Bats Dr Corrie Schoeman UKZN Photo: Morgan Pfeiffer Morgan Photo: BATS KZN www.batskzn.co.za email: [email protected]

WHAT WE DO: • Outings to batty places in KZN. • Talks to members, schools and clubs. • Advice to homeowners with bats. • Training courses such as “Introduction to Bats”, “Pest Control Workshops”, “Bat Worker Training”, and “Bat Rehabilitation Training”. • Scientific field work, organise wind farm working groups and attend the eThekwini Biodiversity Forum. • Long term monitoring of KZN bat roosts and populations. Join us and bring a new thrill and The Bat Interest Group of Kwazulu-Natal is proud to have been associated with the Durban Natural Science Museum since 1994 purpose to your life! Go-Wild, eThekwini’s new, burst-of-colour, mobile museum is zooming off to take the learning adventure that is the Durban Natural Science Museum to the people of our great metro. Go-Wild is a museum on wheels packed with exhibits, specimens and educational resources to complement the Museum’s mission and extend its reach to the schools and communities of the region. Offering a fun and engaging experience, Go-Wild promotes life and environmental studies amongst a range of audiences, with educational programmes that target specific areas of the school curriculum. Don’t miss out on a world of wonder – catch Go-Wild in a neighbourhood near you!

To find out where GO-Wild is going to be next or to invite us to your school, please contact us on 031 311 2256.