THE PROPOSED PAULPUTS - AGGENEYS 220 kV TRANSMISSION LINE, POFADDER, NORTHERN CAPE
BASIC ASSESSMENT REPORT: AVIFAUNA
Prepared for:
SSI
PO Box 867 Gallo Manor Gauteng South Africa
Compiled by:
Pachnoda Consulting cc
PO Box 72847 Lynwood Ridge Pretoria 0040
December 2010
Pachnoda Consulting cc Paulputs – Aggeneys 220kV Transmission Line
1. INTRODUCTION The increase in human demand for space and life-supporting resources resulted in a rapid loss of natural open space in South Africa. When natural systems are rezoned for development, indigenous fauna and flora are replaced by exotic species and converted to sterile landscapes with no dynamic propensity or ecological value (Wood et al., 1994). Additionally, development rarely focussed on decisive planning to conserve natural environments, while little thought was given to the consequences on the ecological processes of development in highly sensitive areas.
Transformation and fragmentation are not the only results of unplanned and intended developments, the loss of ecosystem functioning and ultimately the local extinction of species can also result. Therefore, careful planning will not only preserve rare and endemic fauna and flora, but also the ecological integrity of ecosystems of the landscape level which is imperative for the continuation of natural resources, such as fossil fuels, water and soils with agricultural potential.
In 1992, the Convention of Biological Diversity, a landmark convention, was signed by more than 90 % of all members of the United Nations. The enactment of the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004), together with the abovementioned treaty, focuses on the preservation of all biological diversity in its totality, including genetic variability, natural populations, communities, ecosystems up to the scale of landscapes. Hence, the local and global focus changed to the sustainable utilisation of biological diversity.
1.1 Background Pachnoda Consulting CC was appointed by SSI to provide a basic assessment report on the potential avifaunal impacts associated with the proposed Paulputs - Aggeneys 220 kV transmission line in the Northern Cape Province.
The proposed alignment is approximately 96 km in length, and runs from the Paulputs substation in the north-east (near Onseepkans) westwards to the Aggeneys substation (near the town of Aggeneys) (Figure 1).
Based on the length of the proposed route, Eskom has identified three alternative routes. However, these alternatives are not necessarily the “best-fit” routes. Therefore, the current study was extended to a larger area (herewith referred to as the study area) delineated along a 5 km radius of the proposed routes. This study area was chosen to prevent unnecessary bias imposed by the alternatives as identified by Eskom. However, the following three alternatives were identified by Eskom (Figure 1):
Alternative 1 that runs 330 m north and parallel to Alternative 3; Alternative 2 is a short alignment of approximately 49 km that splits off from the Alternative 3, and runs parallel to the N 14 highway. Alternative 3 that runs 330 m south and parallel to Alternative 1. Almost the entire route runs parallel to an existing transmission line; and
Avifaunal Report 1 December 2010 Pachnoda Consulting cc Paulputs – Aggeneys 220kV Transmission Line
1.2 Terms of Reference The terms of reference for this assessment are to:
provide a description of the affected environment and avifaunal habitat types; provide an indication on the occurrence of threatened, “near-threatened” and conservation important bird species likely to be affected by the proposed alignment(s); provide an indication of sensitive bird areas or bird habitat types (to be incorporated into a preliminary sensitivity map) along the proposed alignment(s); and identify knowledge gaps required to assist with an analysis of alternatives; identify issues and potential impacts that would need to be addressed.
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Figure 1: A locality map illustrating the geographic position of the study area and the three alternative alignments.
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2. METHODOLOGY 2.1 Literature Survey & Information Base A site visit was conducted during the period of 04 – 06 November 2010, whereby the study area (and alternative alignments) was investigated to become familiar with the avifaunal diversity of the area (Figure 2); Hockey et al. (2005) was consulted for general information on the life-history attributes of bird species; The Southern African Bird Atlas Project (Harrison et al, 1997) was consulted to obtain information regarding the distribution patterns of certain bird species based on reporting rates (expressed as a percentage). The information was provided for each quarter degree square within the study area; Additional distributional data was also sourced from the SABAP2 database (www.sabap2.adu.org.za). Since bird distributions are dynamic (based on landscape changes affected by fragmentation and climate change), SABAP2 was born (and launched in 2007) from SABAP1 with the main difference being that all sampling is done at a finer scale known as pentad grids (5 min lat x 5 min long, equating to 9 pentads within a QDGC). This implies that the data is more site-specific, recent and more comparable with observations made during the site visit; The conservation status of bird species and their respective biogeographic affinities were based on Barnes (2000) and Barnes (1998); Additional information on bird deterrent devices was provided by Mr. C. van Rooyen and Mr. Jon Smallie of the Endangered Wildlife Trust; The status and distribution of bird species were augmented by means of local knowledge (e.g. communication with landowners) and my own personal observations; and The regional vegetation classification was based on Mucina & Rutherford (2006).
2.2 Limitations In order to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics of avifaunal communities on the study area, as well as the status of endemic, rare or threatened species in any area, avifaunal assessments should always consider investigations at different time scales (across seasons/years) and through replication. However, due to time constraints such long-term studies are not feasible and are mostly based on instantaneous sampling bouts.
This report is by no means comprehensive, although sufficient to serve as a baseline assessment. It should be realised that bird distribution patterns fluctuate widely in response to environmental conditions. For example, localised rainfall patterns can have a tremendous effect on the nomadic behaviour and abundance of certain bird species in the area (as experienced by many of the lark species). It is therefore possible that some areas could experience an influx of certain species that were absent for many years when environmental conditions change in response to rainfall patterns. However, if conditions become less favourable, some species will leave the area and disappear. In addition, some sections of the study area (e.g. isolated inselbergs) were on private land and were inaccessible.
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It should be emphasised that information, as presented in this document, only has reference to the study area as indicated on the accompanying maps. Therefore, this information cannot be applied to any other area without detailed investigation.
Furthermore, additional information may come to light during a later stage of the process or development. This company, the consultants and/or specialist investigators do not accept any responsibility for conclusions, suggestions, limitations and recommendations made in good faith, based on the information presented to them, obtained from the surveys or requests made to them at the time of this report.
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Figure 2: A map illustrating the general coverage of the study area and the sampling plots visited during 04 – 06 November 2010.
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3. RESULTS & DISCUSSION 3.1 Regional Vegetation Description from an Avifaunal perspective Bird diversity is positively correlated to vegetation structure. Therefore, floristic richness is not regarded to be the most important contributor of observed patterns in bird abundance and spatial distributions. Although the Northern Cape, in particular the Succulent Karoo Biome, is rich in succulent plant taxa, it is generally poor in bird species richness although considered to be an important habitat for many terrestrial and often cryptic bird species such as larks, korhaans and chats. However, the Northern Cape, especially the Nama-Karoo, is an important speciation centre for lark species and stenotropic warblers. It therefore hosts a small assemblage of endemic (or near-endemic) species such as the Red Lark (Calendulauda burra), Sclater‟s Lark (Spizocorys sclateri) and the Cinnamon-breasted Warbler (Euryptila subcinnamomea). The lark species are typical “Bushmanland Basin” endemics. Many species are also threatened by habitat destruction (Barnes, 2000) or alteration (e.g. grazing).
The study area comprehends a total of six ecological types (Figure 3) that form part of the Nama-Karoo, Succulent-Karroo and Desert Biome (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006):
3.1.1 Bushmanland Arid Grassland This ecological type is prominent and confined to the northern and central part of the study area. It comprises of extensive plains on a slightly sloping plateau that are sparsely dominated by “white” grasses such as Stiparostis spp. and Salsola shrub.
This ecological type conforms to the habitat requirements of many plains species including Ludwig‟s Bustard (Neotis ludwigii) and Karoo Korhaan (Eupodotis vigorsii). Large parts of this type correspond to extensive sheep farms, with some areas heavily encroached with dense shrub (e.g. Rhigozum trichotomum) due to overgrazing.
3.1.2 Bushmanland Sandy Grassland This ecological type is confined to red sandy dunes corresponding to the course of the paleo- riverine system of the Orange and Koa Rivers. It conforms to a dense grassland, dominated by Stipagrostis and Schmidtia species and many shrub species. After the winter rains the area is transformed into a rich display of ephemeral spring flowers, mainly Grielum and Gazania species.
Large sections of this ecological type correspond to the core distribution range of the endemic Red Lark (Calendulauda burra).
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3.1.3 Eastern Gariep Plains Desert This vegetation type is restricted to the sheet wash plains east of the Richtersveld. Although it shares a floristic composition with that of the former ecological types, it also contains a number of spinescent species and prominent woody species along some of the drainage lines.
The gravel plains are the preferred habitat for the nomadic and endemic Sclater‟s Lark (Spizocorys sclateri).
3.1.4 Eastern Gariep Rocky Desert This ecological type conforms to a broad band of mountains that broadens towards the Orange River. It includes the many sparsely vegetated hills and “koppies” that are separated by the broad sheet-wash plains of the Eastern Gariep Plains Desert.
Structurally it contains many crevices and rocky crannies, some which are wooded by tree species such as Ficus ilicina, Searsia populifolia and Aloe dichotoma. The latter sustain a rich assemblage of passerine taxa pertaining to the families Muscicapidae, Sylviidae and Cisticolidae, for example the elusive Cinnamon-breasted Warbler (Euryptila subcinnamomea) and Layard‟s Titbabbler (Parisoma layardi). These rocky features are also prominent vantage/hunting points for small raptor species of the genera Falco (e.g. Lanner Falcon F. biarmicus and Greater Kestrel F. rupicoloides) and Melierax (e.g. Southern Pale Chanting Goshawk M. canorus).
3.1.5 Bushmanland Inselberg Shrubland and Aggeneys Gravel Vygieveld These ecological types form a group of prominent solitary mountains and smaller hills that tower over the surrounding flat plains near Aggeneys and Pofadder. A common feature shared by both types is the rich composition of succulent plant taxa of the families Mesembryanthemaceae, Asphodelaceae, Crassulaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Zygophyllaceae. The Vygieveld is spatially concentrated near the lower slopes of the Inselberg Shrubland and consists of distinct white quartz layers that support many species of dwarf leaf-succulents.
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Figure 3: The regional vegetation types traversed by the proposed alternatives. Map categories according to Mucina and Rutherford (2006).
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3.2 Habitat Types identified from the Study Area 3.2.1 Grey shale “wash” plains The area to the north of the Paulputs substation consists of an isolated “wash” of grey shale, which conforms to an altitude below the 800 m contour (Figure 4). It is earmarked by a flat plain with very fine gravely soils, and a sparse basal cover of “white” grasses. The dominant grasses include many annuals such as Aristida congesta, A. adscensionis, Enneapogon desvauxii as well as “good” grazing species such as Stipagrostis obtusa. The woody layer is poorly defined and represented by scattered trees, mainly Boscia albitrunca.
The avifaunal diversity on this area is poor, with the exception that it is the preferred breeding habitat for the near-threatened and highly nomadic Sclater‟s Lark (Spizocorys sclateri). S. sclateri was confirmed from the study area during the site visit.
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Figure 4: An example of grey shale “wash” plains corresponding to the northern part of the study area.
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3.2.2 Arid “Bushmanland” grassy plains This habitat type is prominent on the study area and floristically similar to the regional Bushmanland Arid Grassland (Figure 5). It basically conforms to extensive grassy plains dominated by Stipagrostis ciliata, S. obtusa, Schmidtia kalahariensis and Enneapogon desvauxii. It is worth mentioning that the landscape pertaining to the plains, especially the peneplains located in close proximity to inselbergs, are earmarked by numerous ill-defined drainage lines. The latter provide habitat for an open, albeit scattered, woody and shrub layer dominated by Salsola spp., Acacia karroo (especially drainage lines bordered by shallow granite seams), A. mellifera, Rhigozum trichotomum, Parkinsonia africana, Lycium cinereum and Searsia burchellii.
The avifaunal community pertaining to this habitat type could be divided into three major groups: Large terrestrial (cursorial) species such as the vulnerable Ludwig‟s Bustard (Neotis ludwigii), Karoo Korhaan (Eupodotis vigorsii) and Burchell‟s Courser (Cursorius rufus); A diverse group of sedentary or facultative nomadic passerines such as the Spike- heeled Lark (Chersomanes albofasciata), Chat Flycatcher (Bradornis infuscatus) and chat species of the genus Cercomela (e.g. Karoo Chat C. schlegelii, Sickle-winged Chat C. sinuata and Tractrac Chat C. tractrac); and A group consisting of highly nomadic, mainly granivorous species such as the Namaqua Sandgrouse (Pterocles namaqua), Grey-backed Sparrow-lark (Eremopterix verticalis), Stark‟s Lark (Spizocorys starki) and Lark-like Bunting (Emberiza impetuani).
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Figure 5: Typical arid “Bushmanland” grassland – the dominant habitat type on the study area.
3.2.3 Red duneveld This habitat type is restricted and localised on the northern and southern extremity of the study area (Figure 6). However, similar isolated dunevelds are also found along some of the major ephemeral drainage lines such as T‟Goob-se-loop. The dunes form part of the extensive and ancient Koa River, one of the most important areas utilised by the vulnerable Red Lark (Calendulauda burra). Structurally, the grassland on the dunes is taller and dominated by Stipagrostis brevirostris while the dune bases are covered in S. ciliata and Sisyndite spartea. The inter-dune slacks have a potential to retain rain water, and are often inundated during precipitation events. The slack areas are vegetated by Eragrostis nindensis, Prosopis glandulosa and Acacia mellifera.
The dune vegetation, although suffering from severe livestock grazing, provides critical important breeding habitat for the vulnerable Red Lark (Calendulauda burra) – a species that is known to occur on the study area (pers. obs.). It is also the favoured habitat of the cryptic Fawn-coloured Lark (Calendulauda africanoides).
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Figure 6: Red duneveld on the northern part of the study area and as seen from T‟Goob-se- loop.
3.2.4 Inselbergs and rocky desert These areas correspond to the Eastern Gariep Rocky Desert and the many isolated, albeit prominent inselbergs (Figure 7). The most prominent section of this habitat is located along the southern extension of the Pella mountains and the western extremity of the Mattheus-se- Gat mountains, approximately 3 km north-east of Pofadder town. This habitat type is spatially very heterogeneous and composed of intricate boulders and crannies, while the bottom valleys are composed of well-wooded drainage lines dominated by Schotia afra, Ceraria namaquensis, Ozoroa dispar and Nymania capensis.
This particular type of habitat is an important speciation centre for many Nama – and Succulent-Karroo endemic warblers. Typical species include the Cinnamon-breasted Warbler (Euryptila subcinnamomea), Layard‟s Titbabbler (Parisoma layardi) and Rufous-eared Warbler (Malcorus pectoralis). Other widespread species typical of this habitat include the Karoo Long-billed Lark (Certhilauda subcoronata), Pale-winged Starling (Onychonanthus nabouroub), Dusky Sunbird (Cynnyris fuscus) and Pririt Batis (Batis pririt).
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Figure 7: Extensive rocky ridge and desert habitat.
3.2.5 Quarts gravel vygieveld These are represented by distinctive “white” quartz plains and inselbergs that are scattered across the study area (Figure 8). Although relatively scarce on the study area, the avifaunal diversity on this particular habitat was found to be equally mediocre. It is however, rich in dwarf succulents (e.g. genera Crassula, Avonia and Anacampseros).
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Figure 8: “White” quartz-dominated vygieveld as seen from the central part of the study area.
3.2.6 Major ephemeral drainage lines on plains These habitat types are presented by a number of north-draining drainage lines such as Kaboep-se-loop, T‟Goob-se-loop and some other unnamed tributaries (Figure 9). They are earmarked by having a sandy-bottom structure and are dominated by either dense stands of Stipagrostis brevifolia or Sisyndite spartea.
These linear systems are important since they share one important ecological function - maintaining genetic stability between bird populations along their entire length. They are significant dispersal corridors or flyways for terrestrial bird species, for it increases the probability of colonisation of areas outside of the study area, thereby reducing the isolation of residing populations. Such movement of avifaunal species will enhance gene flow and reduce inbreeding depression and loss of genetic variability.
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Figure 9: A view of four different linear ephemeral drainage systems present on the study area.
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Figure 10: A map illustrating the spatial position of six major habitat types on the study area.
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3.3 Bird Populations likely to be affected 3.3.1 Genera Impacts associated with transmission lines Birds are impacted in three ways by means of transmission lines. It is however a common rule that large and heavy-bodied terrestrial bird species are more at risk of being affected in a negative way when interacting with transmission lines. These include the following:
Electrocution Electrocution happens when a bird bridges the gap between the live components or a combination of a live and earth component of a power line, thereby creating a short circuit. This happens when a bird, mainly a species with a fairly large wingspan attempts to perch on a tower or attempts to fly-off a tower. Many of these species include vultures (of the genera Gyps, Torgos and Trigonoceps) as well as other large birds of prey such as the Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) (Ledger & Annegarn, 1981; Kruger, 1999; Van Rooyen, 2000). These species will attempt to roost and even breed on the tower structures if available nesting platforms are a scarce commodity and proved to be beneficial for some species in “treeless” environments. Other types of electrocutions happen by means of so-called “bird-streamers”. This happens when a bird, especially when taking off, excretes and thereby causing a short- circuit through the fluidity excreta (Van Rooyen & Taylor, 1999).
The tower design to be used is usually not a threat for birds (the large transmission lines from 220 kV to 765 kV are seldom a risk of electrocution for large birds.), since the live components are fairly widely spaced from each other, thereby diminishing the risk of a shot- circuit (Figure 11). However, the by-product of this design is that it creates a suitable roosting perch or nesting substrate for birds with the potential for “streaming”. However, the risk of “streaming” could be minimised by fitting bird guards to the horizontal bars immediately above the conductors (Figure 11 and 12).
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Figure 11: The tower design anticipated to be used for the proposed transmission line. The circled area indicates the use of bird guards („spikes‟) to prevent birds from perching over the conductors.
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Figure 12: Bird guards („spikes‟) fitted to a self-supporting tower.
Collision Collisions with earth wires have probably accounted for most bird-transmission line interactions in South Africa. Anderson (2001) has found that voltage size and collision risk is positively correlated, with 400 kV line posing the highest risk for collision. In general, the earth wires are much thinner in diameter when compared to the live components, and therefore less visible to approaching birds. Many of the species likely to be affected include heavy, large-bodied terrestrial species such as cranes, storks, flamingos, bustards, korhaans and a variety of waterbirds that are not very agile or manoeuvrable once airborne. These species, especially those with the habit of flying with outstretched necks (e.g. cranes, most species of storks and flamingos) find it difficult to make a sudden change in direction while flying – resulting in the bird flying into the earth wires.
Poor weather conditions such as mist and fog may make the lines even more difficult for birds to see. Therefore, power lines could affect the visibility of bird species during poor weather conditions.
Areas where bird collisions are likely to be high could be ameliorated by marking the lines with bird devices such as “bird diverters” or “flappers” to increase the visibility of the lines. For the current project it, it was noticed that an existing line (in close proximity to Alternative 3) was marked with dynamic “bird flapper” devices, mainly to ameliorate the collision of Ludwig‟s Bustards with the earth wires. However, it was found that the current devices, although claimed to be effective, were non-functional and in some areas ineffective. In retrospect, during the site visit, these devices were often very difficult to detect on the wires (see Figure 13). This inefficiency was emphasised by some of the landowners who claimed that they have recorded bustard carcasses below some of the transmission lines on numerous
Avifaunal Report 19 December 2010 Pachnoda Consulting cc Paulputs – Aggeneys 220kV Transmission Line occasions (pers. comm.). This highlights the need for the use of an alternative means of marking or the use of more visible dynamic devices that should invariably be re-installed every few years. Therefore, static devices, such as the Inotec BFD88 (a reflective stainless steel sphere) is recommended to be used in combination with either large “flappers” or the “Double Loop Bird Flight Diverter” (BFD) (pers. comm. C. van Rooyen) (Figure 14). The Inotec BFD88 is recommended due to the increased visibility of this device even during low light conditions (e.g. dawn and dusk, overcast conditions) when many bird species commute between foraging and roosting sites. However, dynamic devices should be of a size that is significant larger than those currently in use.
In addition, by positioning the proposed transmission line along an existing power line, will also greatly increase the visibility of the overhead cables.
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Figure 13: An example of the visibility of dynamic “bird flippers” applied to a transmission line on the study area. (a) The approximate position of the device at a distance of 50 m (it is basically invisible), (b) an enlargement of „image (a)‟, illustrating the difficulty to detect the device, (c) a further enlargement of „image (a)‟ showing the “detectability” of a non-functional device and (d) an image taken at 50 m of an existing line marked with 5 devices that are impossible to perceive.
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Figure 14: (a-b) An example of the Inotec BFD88 diverter used alongside conventional dynamic devices (note the size of the dynamic devices – they are markedly larger than those used on the project area; photographs courtesy of Chris van Rooyen). (c-d) An example of the “Double Loop Bird Flight Diverter” (copyright Preformed Line Products, www. preformedsa.co.za) to be fitted alongside with the Inotec BFD88 diverter or large dynamic devices.
Physical disturbances and habitat destruction caused during construction and maintenance It is anticipated that access roads need to be constructed as well as the clearing of vegetation as part of the power line servitude. However, the clearing of vegetation is regarded to be minimal since the basal cover of the receiving environment is markedly low. However, disturbances caused during the construction (erection) of the towers on “important breeding habitat” (e.g. the grey shale “wash” plains and red duneveld) could have a negative impact on the breeding success of some of the endemic lark species (e.g. Red and Sclater‟s Lark).
3.3.2 Bird species likely to be impacted In general, the study area support approximately 88.9 bird species (QDGC=8). The highest number of species was recorded from the western part of the study area (QDGC 2918BB and 2918BD with respectively 141 and 159 species confirmed) while the northern part appears to be poor in avifaunal diversity (QDGC 2819DC with 49 species recorded). However, caution should be exercised during the interpretation of the statistics since the northern part of the study area is relatively remote and thinly populated when compared to the Aggeneys area (with better infrastructure). Hence, less people (or citizen ornithologists) have visited the
Avifaunal Report 21 December 2010 Pachnoda Consulting cc Paulputs – Aggeneys 220kV Transmission Line northern areas, thereby confounding the actual coverage of the region during the pervious atlas period.
Red Listed Species The highest concentration (abundance) of Red listed bird species (according to Barnes, 2000) corresponds to 2910BD (Brabees), 1919AB (Pofadder) and 2929BA (Mattheusgat) (Table 1; Figure 15). These areas are mainly located on relatively flat topographies (c. Arid “Bushmanland” grassy plains) that are attractive for large terrestrial species such as the Ludwig‟s Bustard and Karoo Korhaan. In addition, a number of raptor species also occur in the area and were prevalent from the western and central parts of the study area.
Those areas with high reporting rates were well-utilised by species such as the Ludwig‟s Bustard, Karoo Korhaan, Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) and Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus).
Otididae (Bustards & Korhaans): A special case of concern The spatial homogeneity of the plains makes it difficult to isolate specific areas that require appropriate mitigation measures (e.g. marking of bird diverters) to avoid bird collisions. Both the Ludwig‟s Bustard and the Karoo Korhaan could occur on virtually the entire study area for it is largely composed of arid “Bushmanland” grassy plains (c. 70.41 %). In addition, both species are also at high risk of colliding with the earth wires.
The Ludwig‟s Bustard is extremely susceptible to collisions with earth wires, which is regarded as one of the main threats to this species (Barnes, 2000; Allen, 2005). Smallie & Van Rooyen (2003) has already shown that an average of one bird is killed every 12 to 14 km by power lines in the Karoo area. In addition, Smallie & Van Rooyen (2006) reported up to 181 bustards killed by overhead power lines during a period spanning 1996 to 2005. These figures are concerning, especially since the South African population (estimated at around 27 000 to 60 000 birds alone) is rapidly declining due to power line collisions - a trend that is anticipated to bear on until more effective mitigation measures are invented.
Figure 16 and 17 aims to illustrate that the northern, eastern and southern plains are potential “hotspots” for bird collisions due to the high reporting rates observed for Ludwig‟s Bustards and Karoo Korhaans in the area.
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The Red Lark: A special case of concern The southern part of the study area coincide with part of the Koa dunes – an area showing high reporting rates of Red Lark (see Table 1). However, the proposed alignment does not contravene onto the Koa dunes on the southern part of the study area, although isolated areas of suitable habitat species do occur in the north and along some of the larger drainage lines. Therefore, special precautionary measures should be taken during the construction phase in these areas.
The Red Lark has a very restricted distribution in the Northern Cape where it is only found on well-vegetated (5-25 % basal cover) red sand dunes or flats that are dominated by Stipagrostis ciliata or S. brevifolia (Dean et al., 1991). Although mainly confined to the ancient Koa River valley, the pre-dominance of sandy soils and dense stands of S. brevifolia along some of the major drainage lines also proved to sustain small, isolated populations of this species on the study area. This species was previously recorded from these systems (pers. obs.), but subsequent grazing and trampling of cattle have rendered some areas as unsuitable for Red Larks to occur.
It is important that all remaining suitable habitat be prioritised for conservation since it does not occur on any state-owned conservation area.
Other species A number of other bird species are also likely to be affected by the proposed transmission line and include the genus Falco (falcons and kestrels), Verreaux‟s Eagle (Aquila verreauxii), Black-chested Snake-eagle (Circaetus pectoralis), Jackal Buzzard (Buteo rufofuscus), Booted Eagle (Aquila pinnatus – rare), Northern Black Korhaan (Afrotis afraoides – a rare species in the Nama-Karoo), gregarius species such as the Namaqua Sandgrouse (Pterocles namaqua), South African Shelduck (Tadorna cana – a highly nomadic species) and the Black- headed Heron (Ardea melanocephala).
Apart from the afore-mentioned species, it is possible that the tower structures could provide an „opportunistic‟ foundation for the construction of Sociable Weaver (Philetarius socius) nests. These massive structures could become a fire hazard.
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Table 1: The reporting rates (%) for each Red listed species (Barnes, 2000) likely to occur on 8 quarter degree squares. V- Vulnerable and NT – Near- threatened. The Karoo Korhaan was added to the table even though it is not threatened; it was deemed an important species to include since it is vulnerable to overhead collisions.
QDGC Status 2819DC 2819CD 2918BB 2918BD 2919AA 1919AB 2919AC 2919BA Species Swartoup Pella Drif Aggeneys Brabees Pella Pofadder Namies Mattheusgat Black Stork NT 3 1 Greater Flamingo NT 1 1 Secretarybird NT 5 30 10 White-backed Vulture V 1 Martial Eagle V 10 49 4 10 Black Harrier NT 3 7 10 Lanner Falcon NT 27 48 13 7 40 Kori Bustard V 5 19 20 Ludwig's Bustard V 13 8 8 13 44 40 Karoo Korhaan - 13 3 14 56 14 20 Chestnut- banded Plover NT 1 Red Lark V 1 36 10 Sclater's Lark NT 1 Average Totals 9.00 8.00 6.60 18.33 13.00 27.75 14.00 20.00
Species highlighted in red are susceptible to habitat transformation and disturbance. Species highlighted in black bold are especially vulnerable to power line collision. Total values in red refer to QDGS with a high presence of Red Listed species.
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Figure 15: A spatial presentation of the mean reporting rates (%) for Red listed bird taxa recorded from the quarter degree squares on the study area.
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Figure 16: A spatial presentation of the mean reporting rates (%) for Ludwig‟s Bustard (Neotis ludwigii) recorded from the quarter degree squares on the study area. Note that the eastern and northern plains show high reporting rates for bustards.
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Figure 17: A spatial presentation of the mean reporting rates (%) for Karoo Korhaan (Eupodotis vigorsii) recorded from the quarter degree squares on the study area. Note that the north-eastern and southern plains show high reporting rates for this species.
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3.3.3 The regional significance of the study area The study area is in close proximity to two Important Bird Areas (IBAs). The first of these, the Mattheus-Gat Conservation Area (IBA034), borders the north-eastern part of the study area. This area consists of four farms of which part of Konkoonsies and Pofadder East occur on the study area. Part of the ancient Koa dunes is located on both these farms. The Mattheus-Gat IBA is one of a few areas that hold both the globally threatened Red Lark and the near- threatened Sclater‟s Lark. Unfortunately, most of the Red Lark habitat has been transformed by livestock grazing, especially cattle that is responsible for the widespread uprooting of Stipagrostis species, an important element required by the Red Lark (Barnes, 1998). Also, sheep is responsible for the selective removal of key forb species and grasses.
The second IBA is located 12 km north-west of Aggeneys with an immense surface area of c. 54 408 ha that is collectively known as the Haramoep and Black Mountain Mine Nature Reserve (IBA035). This area is also one of a few sites that are set aside to protect the habitat of the Red Lark. The 76 km2 Black Mountain Mine Nature Reserve, an area sustaining 7.5 % of the global Red Lark population, is located south of the Aggeneys substation (Barnes, 1998; Figure 18).
However, both IBAs hold 16 of the 23 Namib-Karoo biome restricted species, with 15 species known to occur on the study area (Table 2).
Table 2: An inventory of Namib-Karoo biome restricted species known to occur on the study area.
Common Scientific Status on Main Recorded Personal Name Name study area impact during 04-06 observation November prior to 2010 2010 Ludwig‟s Neotis ludwigii Common Collision X X Bustard with earth wires Karoo Eupodotis Common Collision X X Korhaan vigorsii with earth wires Karoo Certhilauda Common Habitat X X Longbilled subcoronata from disturbance Lark outcrops and rocky desert Karoo Lark Calendulauda Uncommon Habitat X albescens on plains, disturbance especially on firm soils Red Lark Calendulauda Uncommon Habitat X
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Common Scientific Status on Main Recorded Personal Name Name study area impact during 04-06 observation November prior to 2010 2010 burra to rare, red disturbance dunes Sclater‟s Spizocorys Highly Habitat X X Lark sclateri nomadic - disturbance gravel plains Stark‟s Lark Spizocorys Highly Habitat X X starki nomadic - disturbance plains Black-eared Eremopterix Highly Habitat X Sparrowlark australis nomadic - disturbance plains Tractrac Cercomela Common Habitat X X Chat tractrac disturbance
Sickle- Cercomela Common Habitat X X winged Chat sinuata disturbance Karoo Chat Cercomela Fairly Habitat X schlegelii common disturbance Layard‟s Parisoma Common Habitat X X Titbabbler layardi disturbance Cinnamon- Euryptila Fairly Habitat X breasted subcinnamomea common disturbance Warbler on outcrops Pale-winged Onychognathus Very Habitat X X Starling nabouroup common disturbance Black- Alario alario Rare and Habitat X headed nomadic disturbance Canary
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Figure 18: The entrance to part of the Black Mountain Mine Nature Reserve, an area set aside to protect approximately 7.5 % of the global Red Lark (Calendulauda burra) population. Note the red dunes in the background – these are part of the Koa river valley and prime Red Lark habitat.
3.4 Potential Impacts and sensitivity analysis Potential impacts regarding transmission lines comprise of electrocution, collision and disturbances caused during the construction and maintenance of transmission lines. These were discussed in some detail earlier on in this report.
3.4.1 Electrocution The tower design to be used poses little electrocution risk due to the large clearances between the live components on either side of the main tower axis. However, electrocution by means of bird streaming is likely but can be greatly minimised by applying bird guards above the conductors. The main risk associated with this design is collision with the earth wires.
Bird streamers/pollution: White-backed Vulture, Martial Eagle, Sociable Weaver (nest structures placed over conductors), Pied Crow, Black-headed Heron, Spotted Eagle- owl, Barn Owl, Jackal Buzzard, Southern Pale-chanting Goshawk and to a lesser extent Lanner Falcon.
3.4.2 Collision The following bird species could potentially collide with the earth wires of the proposed transmission line:
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South African Shelduck, Black Stork (rare on the study area), Kori Bustard, Ludwig’s Bustard (critical), Karoo Korhaan (critical), Secretarybird, Black-headed Heron, Lanner Falcon, Greater Kestrel, Verreaux‟s Eagle, Martial Eagle and African White- backed Vulture (rare on the study area).
It should be realised that Alternative 3 runs parallel to an existing power line, thereby diminishing bird collisions, and enhancing the visibility of the lines to flying birds.
3.4.3 Loss of habitat Habitat destruction is not considered to be a major impact since many of the bird species will temporarily vacate the area during the construction phase. However, it is possible that vegetation clearing on the red dunes could impact on the breeding success of the Red Lark.
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3.4.4 Disturbances caused by construction activities and maintenance of the transmission line It is inevitable that disturbances during construction and maintenance will occur, although it is not anticipated to pose a significant impact on bird species. However, crossing of topographical features (outcrops and mountain ranges), red dunevelds and major drainage lines could impact on the potential breeding and roosting habitat for Lanner Falcon, Verreaux‟s Eagle, Jackal Buzzard, Red Lark and Sclater‟s Lark.
3.4.5 Sensitivity Analysis It was not possible to improve on the alignments in an ecological sensible manner, since their trajectories, irrespective their spatial orientation, will invariably traverse important and sensitive avifaunal habitat. This is an artefact of the orientation (imposed by substation position along a latitudinal axis) of the study area and the linear configuration of the habitat types. Nevertheless, a preliminary sensitivity map was compiled based on five sensitivity rankings (Figure 19). The analysis entails a scoring system (ranging from 1-5 along a sensitivity gradient with a score of 5 being the most sensitive) based on each habitat types‟ complement bird composition (with special emphasis on the occurrence of Red Data and endemic taxa).
Figure 19 clearly shows that the study area is composed of habitat types with an overall high to very high sensitivity. It means that the study area comprises of many avifaunal bird species susceptible to power line collision, habitat disturbance or with stenotropic distribution patterns.
The sensitivity analysis also clearly illustrates that the overall sensitivity is equally distributed between the alternative routes (the values are statistically insignificant). Because the alternative routes are positioned in close proximity to each other, they are exposed to similar environmental factors (they are thus spatially auto-correlated) (Table 3).
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Figure 19: A preliminary sensitivity map of the study area based on the occurrence of important avifaunal habitat features.
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Table 3: Derived sensitivity rankings for three alternative power line routes (along with a 200 m buffer).
Derived Sensitivity Alternative 1 Alternative 2 Alternative 3 Category Hectares Hectares Hectares 1 99.13 85.12 85.12 2 52.51 0.00 11.75 3 7.93 7.89 8.55 4 3286.43 3416.43 3317.49 5 287.46 236.61 318.43 TOTALS 3733.46 3746.05 3741.34
Derived (%) Sensitivity 1 2.66 2.27 2.28 2 1.41 0.00 0.31 3 0.21 0.21 0.23 4 88.03 91.20 88.67 5 7.70 6.32 8.51 TOTALS 100% 100% 100%
Because is not feasible to define a new alternative route, it is proposed that different management zones be allocated to the preferred route (see below). For each management zone, a suite of recommendations and mitigatory actions will apply, which is described in more detail under Section 4 dealing with “Recommendations and Proposed Mitigation”.
3.5 Preliminary analysis of alternatives It is clear from a bird impact perspective that for any line to be regarded as a suitable candidate it must (a) traverse the least number of vegetation/habitat types, in particular vegetation in pristine condition, (b) traverse the least number of wetland/drainage line/rivers (c) corresponds to an area with low reporting rates for bird species considered to be threatened or “near-threatened” and (d) follow existing servitudes (or transmission lines).
The difference between the route alternatives in terms of their habitat heterogeneity was shown to be insignificant. Hence, Alternative 3 is preferred since this line runs parallel to an existing line. Birds in general become accustomed to landmarks and prominent features within their environment. They have the ability to “learn” and recognise landmarks over a period of time. It is possible that the local bird community on the study area has become accustomed to the existing power lines in the area. Therefore, Alternative 3 would be “more” visible to passing birds and will have the least possible impact.
Alternative 2 is also a “good candidate”, since it is placed along a national highway. However, it is possible that the frequency of bird collisions could exacerbate when they attempt to cross the road. Many bird species, especially large and heavy species will attempt to gain sudden height when crossing a road, in doing so a power line next to the road could then become a hazard for these species. Also, the floodplain of T‟Goob-se-loop next to the N14 is much
Avifaunal Report 34 December 2010 Pachnoda Consulting cc Paulputs – Aggeneys 220kV Transmission Line wider than further south, meaning that some pylons are anticipated to coincide with the floodplain area (see Figure 20). In addition, this area consists of localised consolidated red dunes, and. It is possible that construction activities corresponding to this area could alter the dune vegetation and potential Red Lark habitat. This route also traverses the Black Mountain Mine Nature Reserve.
Alternative 1 is the least preferred. Although located alongside Alternative 3, it contravenes a number of topographical features (see Figure 21). Pylons positioned on the crest of ridges and hills will attract large raptor species (e.g. Martial Eagle) which will invariably use the pylons for perches. In addition, considerable damage to the environment is anticipated from these rocky habitat types during the construction phase.
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Figure 20: Area of concern: Wide floodplain next to the N 14 highway.
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Figure 21: Areas of concern: Topographical features crossed by Alternative 1 (see arrows).
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4. RECOMMENDATIONS & PROPOSED MITIGATION The following recommendations should be adhered to: 4.1 General recommendations A “walk-through” of the chosen route should be conducted prior to the construction phase. Such a ”walk-through” will aim to identify areas where marking of lines by means of “deterrent devices” is considered to be beneficial; The “walk-through” should coincide with the Red Lark and Scalter‟s Lark peak breeding season, when individuals are vocal – preferably September – October; A natural buffer zone should be allowed between the line servitude and any drainage line; Pylons should not be placed on the Red Dunevelds or inside drainage lines; All road networks must be planned with care to minimize dissection or fragmentation of important avifaunal habitat types; The extent of the construction site should be demarcated on site layout plans (preferably on disturbed areas or those identified with low conservation importance), and no construction personnel or vehicles may leave the demarcated area except those authorised to do so. Those areas surrounding the construction site that are not part of the demarcated development area should be considered as “no-go” areas for employees, machinery or even visitors; Construction should commence during December to April when the target bird species (bustards, korhaans, larks) are not engaged in breeding activities; Bird guards should be fitted to all the tower structures; and Move pylons as displayed in Figure 22 outside of the drainage line perimeter.
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Figure 22: Pylon structures to be moved away from sensitive features.
4.2 Specific recommendations Please refer to Appendix 1 for a visual representation to aid the marking of the transmission line with bird deterrent devises. Appendix 2 provides a summary of the potential impacts.
4.2.1 Zone 1 Area with high reporting rates for Ludwig‟s Bustards and Karoo Korhaan; Mark each span while alternating between large dynamic “bird flappers” and the “double loop bird flight diverter”; Fit devices in a staggered fashion to phase while alternating between black and white “flappers” and diverters; and Visit zone on an annual basis to service dynamic devices. Also count bustard/korhaan mortalities. The data should feed into the EWT (Endangered Wildlife Trust) register of wildlife incidents on transmission lines.
4.2.2 Zone 2 Area with lower reporting rates for Ludwig‟s Bustards and Karoo Korhaan; Mark each span with the “double loop bird flight diverter”; and Fit devices in a staggered fashion to phase while alternating between black and white diverters.
4.2.3 Zone 3 Critical flyways along major drainage lines;
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Mark all spans that cross the drainage lines including those adjacent to the drainage lines while alternating between large dynamic “bird flappers” and the Inotec BFD88 diverter spheres. The actual lines crossing the drainage line as well as one span on either side of the drainage line should be marked; Fit devices in a staggered fashion to phase while alternating between black and white “flappers” and spheres; and Visit zone on an annual basis to service dynamic devices. Also count bird mortalities. Data should feed into the EWT (Endangered Wildlife Trust) register of wildlife incidents on transmission lines.
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5. REFERENCES ALLEN, D.G. (2005). Ludwig‟s Bustard. In: HOCKEY, P.A.R., DEAN, W.R.J. & RYAN, P.G. (eds) Roberts – Birds of Southern Africa, VIIth ed. The Trustees of the John Voelcker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town.
ANDERSON, M.D. (2001). The effectiveness of two different marking devices to reduce large terrestrial bird collisions with overhead electricity cables in the eastern Karoo, South Africa. Directorate Conservation and Environment of the Northern Cape, Kimberley, South Africa.
BARNES, K.N. (1998). The Important Bird Areas of southern Africa. BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg.
BARNES, K.N. (2000). The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg.
Convention on Biological Diversity. Signed 1993 and ratified 2 November 1995.
DEAN, W.R.J., MILTON, S.J., WATKEYS, M.K. & HOCKEY, P.A.R. (1991). Distribution, habitat preference and conservation status of the red lark Certhilauda burra in Cape Province, South Africa. Biological Conservation 58:257-274.
HARRISON, J.A., ALLAN, D.G., UNDERHILL, L.G., HERREMANS, M., TREE, A.J., PARKER, V. & BROWN, C.J. (eds.). (1997). The Atlas of Southern African Birds. Vol. 1 & 2. BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg.
HOCKEY, P.A.R., DEAN, W.R.J. & RYAN, P.G. (eds.) (2005). Roberts – Birds of Southern Africa, VIIth ed. The Trustees of the John Voelker Bird Book Fund, Cape Town.
KRUGER, R. (1999). Towards solving raptor electrocutions on Eskom Distribution Structures in South Africa. M. Phil. Mini-thesis. University of the Orange Free State. Bloemfontein. South Africa.
LEDGER, J. & ANNEGARN, H.J. (1981). Electrocution Hazards to the Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres) in South Africa. Biological Conservation 20: 15-24.
MUCINA, L. & RUTHERFORD, M.C. (eds.). (2006). The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004).
SMALLIE J, & VAN ROOYEN, C. (2003). Risk assessment of bird interactions with the Hydra-Droerivier 1,2 & 3 transmission lines. Unpublished report to Eskom.
SMALLIE, J. & VAN ROOYEN C. (2006). Kudu – Juno 400 kV transmission line, a bird impact study prepared for Strategic Environmental Focus.
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VAN ROOYEN, C.S. (2000). An overview of Vulture Electrocutions in South Africa. Vulture News 43: 5-22.
VAN ROOYEN, C.S. & TAYLOR, P.V. (1999). Bird streamers as probable cause of electrocutions in South Africa. EPRI Workshop on Avian Interactions with Utility Structures, Charleston, South Carolina.
VOSLOO, H. (2003). Birds and power lines. ESI Africa 3: 38.
WOOD, J., LOW, A.B., DONALDSON, J.S., & REBELO, A.G. (1994). Threats to plant species through urbanisation and habitat fragmentation in the Cape Metropolitan Area, South Africa. In: HUNTLEY, B.J. (Ed.) Botanical Diversity in Southern Africa. National Botanical Institute, Pretoria. www.sabap2.adu.org.za
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6. APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Zonal regions showing areas to be marked with the appropriate bird deterrent device.
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Appendix 2: A summary of potential impacts on bird species with geographic distribution ranges that overlap with the proposed transmission line alignments.
Significance Nature of Area of Spatial Temporal Severity/Beneficial Species Susceptibility Without With impact impact Scale Scale Rating mitigation mitigation Ciconia nigra Collision High Mainly along Localised Long- Slight Medium Low Black Stork with earth topographical term wire features which provide nesting habitat. Phoenicopterus Collision Very High No area, a - - - - - ruber with earth very rare Greater wire foraging Flamingo High visitor to the Habitat area. destruction Medium Disturbance Sagittarius Collision High Plains and Localised Long- Moderately severe Medium Low serpentarius with earth major term Secretarybird wire ephemeral drainage lines
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Species Nature of Susceptibility Area of Spatial Temporal Severity/Beneficial Significance Gyps africanus Collisionimpact Low All impact LocalisedScale LongScale- Slight Rating Low Low White-backed with earth areas/habitat term Vulture wire types with food (carcass) Polemaetus Collision Low All Regional Long- Moderately severe Medium Low bellicosus with earth areas/habitat term Martial Eagle wire types High Localised Moderately severe High Medium Habitat Short- destruction term (if breeding) High Localised Moderately severe High Medium Disturbance (if breeding) Short- term Circus maurus Disturbance Low Mainly plains Localised Short- Slight Medium Low Black Harrier – a rare term winter visitor to the area Falco Habitat Medium Mainly Localised Short- Slight Low Low biarmicus destruction topographical term Lanner Falcon features Disturbance Low when Localised Slight Low Low breeding. All Short- habitat types term
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Species Nature of Susceptibility Area of Spatial Temporal Severity/Beneficial Significance impact whenimpact hunting Scale Scale Rating Ardeotis kori Collision High Mainly Regional Long- Severe High Medium Kori Bustard with earth confirmed to term wire the plain – High rare resident Regional Slight Medium Low Habitat Short- destruction term High Localised Slight Low Low Disturbance Short- term Neotis ludwigii Collision High Mainly Regional Long- Very Severe Very High High Ludwig‟s with earth confirmed to term Bustard wire the plain – High common Regional Slight Medium Low Habitat resident Short- destruction term High Localised Moderately severe Medium Low Disturbance (when breeding) Short- term Eupodotis Collision High Mainly Regional Long- Severe High Medium vigorsii with earth confirmed to term Karoo Korhaan wire the plain – High common Regional Slight Medium Low Habitat resident Short-
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Species Nature of Susceptibility Area of Spatial Temporal Severity/Beneficial Significance destructionimpact impact Scale termScale Rating High Localised Severe (when Medium Low Disturbance breeding) Short- term Charadrius No Site- Long High Medium Low pallidus anticipated specific Chestnut- impacts banded Plover Calendulauda Habitat High Red dunes, Regional Short- Severe High Medium burra destruction also localised term Red Lark dunevelds Disturbance Medium along major Regional Severe (when High Medium ephemeral Short- breeding) drainage term lines Spizocorys Habitat High Gravel plains Regional Short- Moderately severe Medium Low sclater destruction when term Sclater‟s Lark breeding Disturbance Medium Regional Severe (when High Medium Short- breeding) term
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