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Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo
Fauna and Flora Report
Project Number:
LED2003
Prepared for: Waterberg One Coal (Pty) Ltd
November 2015
______Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd (Subsidiary of Digby Wells & Associates (Pty) Ltd). Co. Reg. No. 2010/008577/07. Turnberry Office Park, 48 Grosvenor Road, Bryanston Private Bag X10046, Randburg, 2125, South Africa Tel: +27 11 789 9495, Fax: +27 11 789 9498, [email protected], www.digbywells.com ______Directors: DJ Otto, GB Beringer, LF Koeslag, AJ Reynolds (Chairman) (British)*, J Leaver*, GE Trusler (C.E.O) *Non-Executive ______
This document has been prepared by Digby Wells Environmental.
Report Type: Fauna and Flora Report
Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Project Name: Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo
Project Code: LED2003
Name Responsibility Signature Date
Crystal Rowe Report Compiler 2015-11-04
Ndumiso Dlamini Report Compiler 2015-11-05
Rudi Greffrath Reviewer 2015-11-03
Duncan Pettit Project Manager November 2016
This report is provided solely for the purposes set out in it and may not, in whole or in part, be used for any other purpose without Digby Wells Environmental prior written consent.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd Contact person: Crystal Rowe Turnberry Office Park Tel: 011 789 9495 48 Grosvenor Road Fax: 011 789 9498 Bryanston E-mail: [email protected] 2191
I, Crystal Lauren Rowe as duly authorised representative of Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd., hereby confirm my independence (as well as that of Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd.) and declare that neither I nor Digby Wells and Associates (South Africa) (Pty) Ltd. have any interest, be it business, financial, personal or other, in any proposed activity, application or appeal in respect of Waterberg Coal One (Pty) Ltd, other than fair remuneration for work performed, specifically in connection with the proposed Kubu Coal Mine, Limpopo Province.
______
Full name: Crystal Lauren Rowe Title/ Position: Flora and Wetlands Ecologist Qualification(s): BSc Geology and Botany; BSc Botany Experience (years): 4 years
Registration(s): Pr. Sc. Nat. Botanical Science. Reg. no.: 400090/15.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Waterberg One Coal (hereafter WOC) is applying for a Mining Right for Kubu Coal Mine, located in the Waterberg District of the Limpopo Province. Digby Wells Environmental (hereafter Digby Wells) was commissioned by WOC to complete environmental studies and processes to submit a Mining Right application for the Kubu Coal Mine Project. The Kubu Coal Mine Project area is located within the Savanna Biome, which covers nearly all of the Limpopo Province. The Savanna Biome is the largest biome in Southern Africa and has rich biodiversity, largely due to the diverse topography and temperate climate. Biodiversity is defined, according the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA), as “the variability among living organisms from all sources including, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are part and also includes diversity within species, between species, and of ecosystems”. The fauna and flora survey was conducted for the project area in December 2008 and the most recent site visit was conducted on the 9th and 10th of March 2015. The Braun-Blanquet floristic quantification methodology was applied to identify vegetation communities and structures on random transects for both studies. A general plant species list was compiled, listing all the observed plant species within the study area. The fauna survey made use of a variety of information sources including, previous surveys on adjacent properties and field work including, opportunistic sightings, calls, spoors (tracks), nests and any other evidence of faunal activity in order to identify the fauna within the area. The habitat structure were studied to gain an understanding of the fauna that is supported by the habitat present. Two vegetation communities were identified, namely: Acacia mellifera - Boscia foetida Thronveld and Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian Woodland. Two plant Species of Special Concern, namely: Combretum imberbe (Leadwood) and Boscia albitrunca (Shepherd’s Tree), which are nationally protected according to the National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998) (Forests Act) were confirmed in the study area through field work, although more of these species may occur. Acacia erioloba (Camel Thorn), which is a Nationally Protected (Forests Act) and a Red Data Declining species, has been identified in the region, although no individuals were recorded during the recent field studies. The farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan, on which the proposed Kubu Coal Mine project area is located, is currently operated as a game farm and contains large mammals that are both introduced and naturally occurring. The mammals identified on site were large buck species such as: the Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus), Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus) and Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros). Species of Special Concern recorded on site included Leopard (Panthera pardus), Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis), White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) and Sable Antelope (Hippotragus niger niger), all with the IUCN status of Vulnerable. The Blue Wildebeest is nationally protected according to the NEMBA. Birds were recorded at several preferred areas as well as generally throughout the site. A total number of 122 bird species were observed during the 2008 survey and 123 species were directly observed during the 2015 survey. Eight bird Species of Special Concern were observed on the property.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
The potential impacts of the proposed development include a loss of the Acacia mellifera- Boscia foetida Thornveld and loss of flora and fauna species and a loss of ecosystem services. Two plant Species of Special Concern, namely Acacia erioloba and Boscia albitrunca are expected to be directly impacted upon and lost through the activities related to the Kubu Coal Mine. Mitigation measures include the establishment of a conservation area and a nursery. It is not expected that fauna species will be directly lost as a result of the activities, however, they may be lost as a result of loss of habitat and migrate from the area. Although many of the large ungulate species may have been introduced into the area for the purpose of game farming, Species of Special Concern may be impacted upon and the establishment of a conservation area will mitigate the overall impact. The overall impacts on the study area are expected to be moderate following the proposed mitigation measures.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Introduction ...... 1
1.1 Project Description ...... 1 1.2 Terms of Reference ...... 3 1.3 Legislation ...... 3 2 Details of the Specialist ...... 3
3 Aims and Objectives ...... 4
4 Methodology...... 4
4.1 Literature review and desktop assessment ...... 4 4.1.1 Local setting ...... 5 4.1.2 Climate ...... 7 4.1.3 Regional Vegetation ...... 7 4.1.4 Limpopo Critical Biodiversity Areas...... 10 4.1.5 Important Bird Areas ...... 12 4.2 Fieldwork and seasonal influence ...... 14 4.2.1 Flora ...... 14 4.2.2 Fauna ...... 14 4.2.3 Species of Special Concern ...... 16 5 Assumptions and Limitations ...... 16
6 Baseline Environment ...... 16
6.1 Flora ...... 16 6.1.1 Vegetation Communities ...... 16 6.1.1.1 Acacia mellifera - Boscia foetida Thornveld ...... 17 6.1.1.2 Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian Woodland ...... 17 6.1.2 Species of Special Concern ...... 20 6.1.3 Medicinal Plants ...... 21 6.1.4 Alien Plant Species ...... 22 6.2 Fauna ...... 23 6.2.1 Avifauna ...... 23
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
6.2.2 Mammals ...... 26 6.2.3 Herpetofauna ...... 28 6.2.4 Invertebrates ...... 29 7 Sensitivity Analysis and No-Go Areas ...... 29
8 Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment ...... 32
8.1 Impact Assessment ...... 39 8.1.1 Construction Phase ...... 40 8.1.1.1 Project activity: Construction of surface infrastructure ...... 40 8.1.1.1.1 Site Clearing ...... 40 8.1.1.1.2 Impact Description ...... 40 8.1.1.1.3 Management Objectives ...... 40 8.1.1.1.4 Management Actions and Targets ...... 41 8.1.1.2 Construction Phase Impact Ratings ...... 41 8.1.2 Operational Phase ...... 42 8.1.2.1 Project activity: Use of Haul Roads ...... 42 8.1.2.1.1 Use of Haul Roads ...... 42 8.1.2.1.2 Impact Description ...... 42 8.1.2.1.3 Management Objectives ...... 43 8.1.2.1.4 Management Actions and Targets ...... 43 8.1.2.1.5 Impact Ratings ...... 43 8.1.2.2 Project activity: Concurrent Rehabilitation ...... 44 8.1.2.2.1 Concurrent Rehabilitation ...... 44 8.1.2.2.2 Impact Description ...... 44 8.1.2.2.3 Management Objectives ...... 44 8.1.2.2.4 Management Actions and Targets ...... 44 8.1.2.2.5 Impact Ratings ...... 45 8.1.3 Decommissioning Phase ...... 45 8.1.3.1 Project activity: Rehabilitation ...... 45 8.1.3.1.1 Rehabilitation ...... 46 8.1.3.1.2 Impact Description ...... 46 8.1.3.1.3 Management Objectives ...... 46
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
8.1.3.1.4 Management Actions and Targets ...... 46 8.1.3.2 Decommissioning Phase Impact Ratings ...... 46 8.2 Cumulative Impacts ...... 48 9 Unplanned Events and Low Risks ...... 49
10 Environmental Management Plan ...... 50
10.1 Project Activities with potentially significant impacts ...... 50 10.2 Summary of Mitigation and Management ...... 50 10.3 Monitoring Plan ...... 58 11 Comments and Responses ...... 58
12 Conclusion and Recommendation ...... 59
13 References ...... 61
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 4-1: Local setting of the Kubu Coal Mine Project area ...... 6 Figure 4-2: Regional Vegetation ...... 9 Figure 4-3: Limpopo C-Plan ...... 11 Figure 4-4: Important Bird Areas ...... 13 Figure 6-1: Landscape of the Acacia mellifera Thornveld ...... 17 Figure 6-2: Landscape of the Ziziphus mucronata Riparian Woodland (left – main channel of Limpopo River and right – narrow tributary) ...... 18 Figure 6-3: Distribution of vegetation communities ...... 19
Figure 6-4: Left - Combretum imberbe (Leadwood) and Right – Acacia erioloba (Camel Thorn) (www.plantZAfrica.co.za) ...... 21 Figure 6-5: Examples of alien plant species on site (A: Achyranthes aspera; B: Flaveria bidentis; C: Xanthium strumarium; D: Argemone ochroleuca; E: Solanum panduriforme and F: Solanum sisymbriifolium) ...... 23 Figure 6-6: Examples of avifaunal Species of Special Concern observed on the project area (Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus, Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori and Greater Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis) (www.arkive.org) ...... 25 Figure 6-7: Pale Chanting Goshawk (Melierax canorus), Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta) and Meves Starling (Lamprotornis mevesii) ...... 26
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Figure 6-8: Examples of mammal Species of Special Concern recorded on site (Left - Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger niger) Right - Blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus) ...... 28 Figure 6-9: Striped Skaapsteker (Psammophylax tritaeniatus) and location and habitat of the Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticas) ...... 29 Figure 7-1: Ecological Sensitivity ...... 31 Figure 8-1: Mitigation hierarchy ...... 39
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1-1: Kubu Coal Mine Project Activities ...... 2 Table 4-1: Limpopo Sweet Bushveld ...... 7 Table 4-2: Braun-Blanquet analysis cover abundance ...... 14 Table 4-3: Red Data Categories (taken from SANBI 2012) ...... 16 Table 6-1: Plant Species of Special Concern ...... 20 Table 6-2: Medicinal and Cultural plants ...... 21 Table 6-3: Alien Invasive Plant species ...... 22 Table 6-4: Bird Species of Special Concern Recorded on Koert Louw Zyn Pan Area...... 25 Table 6-5: Mammal Species observed on Koert Louw Zyn Pan Area ...... 26 Table 8-1: Impact assessment parameter ratings ...... 34 Table 8-2: Probability/Consequence Matrix ...... 37 Table 8-3: Significance Rating Description ...... 38 Table 8-4: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine ...... 40 Table 8-5: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Construction Phase ...... 41 Table 8-6: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine ...... 42 Table 8-7: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase ...... 43 Table 8-8: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine ...... 44 Table 8-9: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase ...... 45 Table 8-10: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine ...... 45 Table 8-11: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Decommissioning Phase .... 48 Table 9-1: Unplanned events, low risks and their management measures ...... 49 Table 10-1: Potentially Significant Impacts ...... 50
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Table 10-2: Impacts ...... 52 Table 10-3: Objectives and Outcomes of the EMP ...... 54 Table 10-4: Prescribed environmental management standards, practice, guideline, policy or law ...... 57
LIST OF APPENDICES
Appendix A: Expected Plant Species Appendix B: Plant Species Recorded on Site Appendix C: Expected Avifauna Species Appendix D: Expected Mammal Species Appendix E: Expected Herpetofauna Species Appendix F: Herpetofauna Species Recorded on Site
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
1 Introduction Waterberg One Coal (Pty) Ltd (WOC) intends to develop an open pit coal mine on the farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan 234 LQ, located approximately 55 km northwest of the town of Lephalale in the Limpopo Province. Koert Louw Zyn Pan is 1 365 ha in extent and is located on the southern border of the Limpopo River. To develop the proposed coal mine, which will be referred to as the Kubu Coal Mine, a Mining Right Application (MRA) was submitted to the Department of Mineral Resources (DMR) in terms of the Mineral and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002) (MPRDA). WOC is the current holder of a Prospecting Right issued by the DMR for Koert Louw Zyn Pan, with reference number 678/2007 PR and renewed with reference number 53/2013 PR. WOC intends to convert the Prospecting Right into a Mining Right to mine the coal reserves within the Waterberg Coalfield. The purpose of the EIA process is to ensure that potential environmental and social impacts associated with the construction, operation and closure of a project are identified, assessed and appropriately managed. There are two primary phases of an EIA process, namely the Scoping Phase and the Impact Assessment Phase. Identification of potential impacts occurs during the Scoping Phase, with the assessment and mitigation of those impacts occurring during the Impact Assessment Phase.
1.1 Project Description The proposed Kubu Coal Mine coal reserve occurs within the Volkrust Formation and Vryheid Formation of the Karoo Supergroup. These formations and the respective coal zones vary in thickness between a few cm and 9 m. There are 11 coal zones associated with the Waterberg Coalfield, with the bottom coal zones 1 to 4 occurring within the Vryheid Formation and the upper coal zones 5 to 11 occurring in the Volkrust Formation. The coal zones of the Vryheid Formation consist of predominantly dull coals, with intercalated bright coal. The proportion of semi-soft coking coal is greatest in coal zones 6 to 11, with coal zone 6 having higher phosphorus content than coal zones 7 to 11. Coal zones 9 to 11 are characterised by bright or vitrinite coals and provide the highest yield and coal quality. The proposed open pit of the Project will be approximately 364 ha and has an estimated Life of Mine (LoM) of approximately 30 years with a production rate of 14 million tonnes per annum. The depth of the coal zones ranges from 20 m below ground level (mbgl) for coal zone 11, to approximately 160 mbgl for the base of coal zone 1. The proposed mining method will be open pit, truck and shovel method. A boxcut will be created in the southern portion of the open pit and mining cuts will be developed in a northerly direction, and from west to east. Haul roads will allow haul trucks to access the mined areas by means of a ramp that will be located in the southwest of the open pit. Topsoil and soft overburden will be stripped from the mining cut and the overburden will be stockpiled on the overburden dump to the south of the open pit, with the topsoil stockpiled and utilised as a berm between the north of the open pit and the 100 m wetland buffer zone. Blasting activities will subsequently be applied to the hard overburden and in-between the coal zones, with the
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
overburden also stockpiled on the overburden dump. Overburden will be stockpiled for the first 6 years, following which concurrent rehabilitation and backfilling will commence. The ROM coal will be transported by haul trucks to the crushing station and ROM tip area. The ROM coal will be transported by 240 tonne haul trucks from the open pit to the crushing station and ROM tip area. The ROM coal will be crushed in a double stage crushing station and temporarily stored in a stockpile at the ROM tip area. The ROM coal will be loaded onto an overland conveyor which will transport the coal on a Free on Mine (FOM) basis to the adjacent Boikarabelo Coal Mine, owned and operated by Ledjadja Coal (Pty) Ltd. No beneficiation of coal will be undertaken at the proposed Kubu Coal Mine. The Boikarabelo Coal Mine will beneficiate the ROM coal and produce a primary product for the international export market and a secondary product supplied to the local market for power generation use. The primary and secondary products will be produced at an approximate ratio of 1:1. Activities associated with the Project are described in Table 1-1. Table 1-1: Kubu Coal Mine Project Activities
Name of Activity Aerial extent of the activity Phase
Site Clearing 551.37 ha Construction
Drilling and blasting Site specific Construction
Haul Roads 6.8 km Lifespan of Mine
Access Roads 8.7 km Lifespan of Mine
Overburden Dump 160.69 ha Operational
Conveyor belt and transport of Operational 8.23 km Run of Mine (ROM) coal
ROM tip area 7.54 ha Operational
Crushing Station 7.54 ha Operational
Pollution Control Dams (PCDs) 1.63 ha Operational
Water pipelines for potable and Operational 6.8 km raw water
Construction and Topsoil dump 12.23 ha Decommissioning
Open pit 364 ha Operational
Drain and storm water Operational 4.79 km management
Infrastructure area including Operational workshop, change rooms, 5.2 ha operating office and security.
Fuel Storage Area 0.075 ha Lifespan of Mine
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Name of Activity Aerial extent of the activity Phase
Waste generation, storage and Operational Within the infrastructure area disposal
Rehabilitation of Project area 551.37 ha Decommissioning
1.2 Terms of Reference Digby Wells was requested by WOC to conduct a Fauna and Flora Report in partial fulfilment of the requirements for submission of a MRA, in terms of the MPRDA for the Kubu Coal Mine Project.
1.3 Legislation The following national and provincial legislation and best-practice documents are relevant to this study: ■ National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act No. 10 of 2004); ■ Limpopo Environmental Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003) (LEMA); ■ Limpopo State of the Environment Report Overview, 2003; ■ Waterberg District Environmental Management Framework Report; ■ National Forests Act, 1998 (Act No. 84 of 1998) (Forests Act); ■ National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA: Threatened and Protected Species Regulations; ■ Minerals and Petroleum Resources Development Act, 2002 (Act No. 28 of 2002) (MPRDA); and ■ International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
2 Details of the Specialist Crystal Rowe (Pr. Sci. Nat), the flora specialist, achieved a Bachelor of Science and Honours in Botany at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University (NMMU) and is an environmental consultant specialising in vegetation and wetland assessments. Experience includes ecological impact assessments, baseline vegetation assessments, estuarine ecological state assessments and wetland health assessments. Project experience includes various countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, the Ivory Coast, Mali, Mozambique, Sierra Leone and extensively within South Africa. Phil Patton (Pr. Sci. Nat.), the fauna specialist, achieved a Bachelor of Science (UPE), and a Batchelor of Science (Honours) at the University of Cape Town in Environmental and Geographical Science. Experience includes 15 years of environmental consulting and biodiversity assessments throughout Europe, the Middle East and southern and east Africa.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Ndumiso Dlamini functions within Biophysical Department of Digby Wells, under the Terrestrial Ecology Unit and has BSc Life and Environmental Sciences Degree and a BSc Hons in Botany from the University of Johannesburg. He has worked on several projects throughout the Highveld of Mpumalanga conducting biodiversity assessments. He specialises in fauna and flora surveys, biodiversity surveys, wetland assessments, environmental monitoring and ecological rehabilitation. Ndumiso has been involved in the implementation of rehabilitation initiatives and the relocation and monitoring of Red Data plant species.
3 Aims and Objectives The objective of this study is to provide an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) on the fauna and flora based on available literature, which includes the Fauna & Flora Report for the Farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan 234 LQ Waterberg District, completed by Digby Wells in 2008. In addition to the desktop data, a field visit was also conducted during the wet season of March 2015. The Fauna and Flora component of the EIA aims to establish the following: ■ A Fauna and Flora Baseline that will identify potential Species of Special Concern and sensitive areas; ■ An Assessment of the impacts the proposed Kubu Coal Mine may potentially have on the Fauna and Flora; ■ To assess the direct and cumulative impacts on the local receiving environment; and ■ Propose mitigation measures for the potential impacts.
4 Methodology
4.1 Literature review and desktop assessment For vegetation, broad habitats were defined using aerial imagery for the desktop component. In addition, the following literature and databases were used to generate expected species lists, and to ascertain the likelihood of the presence of SSC on site: ■ PRECIS - This database provides taxonomic information for plant species occurring in southern Africa and follows the format of Germishuizen and Meyer, 2003. It is updated every two months and is supplied by SANBI. It is accessed on the Plants of Southern Africa (POSA) website; ■ SABIF - South African Biodiversity Information Facility established by the Department of Science and Technology (DST); and ■ Threatened Species Programme (TSP) listing in collaboration with the National Botanical Institute (NBI)]. Fauna that were assessed for this study include the basic groupings: birds, mammals, herpetofauna and invertebrates. For the desktop component of the faunal investigation, the
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
following databases were accessed to determine the likelihood of occurrence of faunal species on site: ■ SIBIS: SABIF - South African Biodiversity Information Facility established by the DST; ■ Southern African Reptile Conservation Assessment (SARCA, 2010) for reptiles. ■ Du Preez and Carruthers (2009) for amphibians; ■ Southern African Butterfly Conservation Atlas (LEPImap 2014); and ■ South African Bird Atlasing Project 2 (SABAP 2).
4.1.1 Local setting The proposed Kubu Coal Mine is located approximately 55 km northwest of Lephalale and falls within the Lephalale magisterial region in the Limpopo Province (locality map in Figure 4-1). The project also falls within the Central Bushveld Bioregion within the Waterberg District, according to the Waterberg Environmental Management Framework Report. The Waterberg region has been identified as a Growth Management Zone due to the anticipated rapid and large-scale growth of mining development and industry (Lephalale Spatial Development Framework, 2012). Coal reserves in this area stretch into Botswana and production rates are expected to last for the next 300 years. This places pressure on the natural environment, with cumulative impacts resulting in the loss of intact habitat and natural features. Fortunately, although mining is an inevitable consequence of the compounding demand for fossil fuels, mining developments can be planned in such a way that sensitive natural areas are avoided. This Fauna and Flora study was conducted on the farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan which borders the Limpopo River and Botswana on its north-eastern border.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 4-1: Local setting of the Kubu Coal Mine Project area
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
4.1.2 Climate The area falls within the Savanna Biome and experiences summer rainfall with very dry winters which include colder months of May and September (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006). The Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) is about 350-500 mm. Frost is fairly infrequent. The mean monthly maximum and minimum are 38.2°C and 2.1°C respectively. The Savanna Biome is characterised by a distinct grass layer and upper woody strata. The rainfall pattern is essential for the functioning of the vegetation as it maintains the balance between the grass layer and woody layer; limited rains that fall in the summer ensure the grass dominance.
4.1.3 Regional Vegetation The Kubu Coal Mine Project area falls within the Limpopo Sweet Bushveld as described by Mucina and Rutherford (2006) (Figure 4-2).This vegetation type occurs within Limpopo Province at an altitude of 700 - 1 000 metres. The vegetation extends across the border, into Botswana and consists of plains, which are traversed by several tributaries of the Limpopo River and is made up of short, open woodland. Areas which have been disturbed are dominated by thickets of Blue Thorn (Acacia erubescens), Black Thorn (Acacia mellifera) and Sickle Bush (Dichrostachys cinerea). This vegetation type is classified as Least Threatened and approximately 5% of the vegetation type has been transformed according to Mucina and Rutherford (2006). Owing to the pressures of coal mining in the area however, a considerably larger proportion of the Limpopo Sweet Bushveld has been transformed since this figure was reported. Important vegetation categories include tall trees, tall shrubs, low shrubs and succulent herbs (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006). Tall trees include Ankle thorn (Acacia robusta) and Black Monkey Thorn (Acacia burkei). Smaller trees include Blue thorn (Acacia erubescens), Acacia fleckii, Acacia nilotica, Acacia senegal, Albizia anthelmintica, Boscia albitrunca, Combretum apiculatum, and Terminalia sericea. Common and characteristic species are listed in Table 4-1. Table 4-1: Limpopo Sweet Bushveld
Limpopo Sweet Bushveld Tall Trees: Acacia robusta, A. burkei
Small Trees: Acacia erubescens, A. fleckii, A. nilotica, A. senegal var. rostrata, Albizia anthelmintica, Boscia albitrunca, Combretum apiculatum, Terminalia sericea.
Tall Shrubs: Catophractes alexandri, Dichrostachys cinerea, Phaeoptilum spinosum, Rhigozum obovatum, Cadaba aphylla, Combretum hereroense, Commiphora pyracanthoides, Ehretia rigida subsp. rigida, Euclea undulata, Grewia flava, Gymnosporia senegalensis
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Limpopo Sweet Bushveld
Low Shrubs: Acacia tenuispina, Commiphora africana, Felicia muricata, Gossypium herbaceum subsp. africanum, Leucosphaera bainesii.
Graminoids: Digitaria eriantha subsp. eriantha, Enneapogon cenchroides, Eragrostis lehmanniana, Panicum coloratum, Schmidtia pappophoroides, Aristida congesta, Cymbopogon nardus, Eragrostis pallens, E. rigidior, E. trichophora, Ischaemum afrum, Panicum maximum, Setaria verticillata, Stipagrostis uniplumis, Urochloa mosambicensis
Herbs: Acanthosicyos naudinianus, Commelina benghalensis, Harpagophytum procumbens subsp. transvaalense, Hemizygia elliottii, Hermbstaedtia odorata, Indigofera daleoides
Succulent Herbs: Kleinia fulgens, Plectranthus neochilus.
Key: Species in bold have been recorded during field visits
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 4-2: Regional Vegetation
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
4.1.4 Limpopo Critical Biodiversity Areas The Limpopo Critical Biodiversity Areas (CBA’s) assessment is a bioregional conservation plan. The sites were selected based on their biodiversity characteristics, spatial configuration and requirement for meeting targets for both biodiversity pattern and ecological processes. Sites that have been categorised as CBA 1 are regarded as irreplaceable and the conservation of these areas is imperative to meet the biodiversity targets if the Limpopo CBA’s. The study area overlies an area that has been classified as CBA 2, as represented in Figure 4-3. CBA 2’s are considered "optimal” as there is significant design involved in their identification and should be maintained in their natural state. The farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan is largely a CBA 1 with other portions falling into the CBA 2 category, making the project area important for the conservation of biodiversity and the effective management of the environment and limiting the mining footprint will need to be a priority.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 4-3: Limpopo C-Plan
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
4.1.5 Important Bird Areas The South African Important Bird Area (IBA) Programme is coordinated by BirdLife South Africa. The purpose of the IBA Programme is to identify and protect a network of sites, at a biogeographical scale, critical for the long-term viability of naturally-occurring bird populations. The nearest Important Bird Area (IBA) is the Waterberg System situated more than 50 km south of the proposed project area (Figure 4-4). This IBA consists of the whole Waterberg plateau, between the towns of Modimolle, Thabazimbi, Lephalale and Mokopane. The area includes the Waterberg Mountains, which are about 130 km long and the Marakele National Park. The area is generally characterised by open broad-leaved woodland that is common on the plains below the Waterberg Mountains. Globally threatened species relating to the Waterberg IBA and therefore could be found on the project area include Cape Vulture (Gyps coprotheres), Secretarybird (Sagittarius serpentarius), Martial Eagle (Polemaetus bellicosus) and Southern Ground-Hornbill (Bucorvus leadbeateri). Regionally threatened birds include White-backed Night Heron (Gorsachius leuconotus), Lanner Falcon (Falco biarmicus), African Grass Owl (Tyto capensis), Tawny Eagle (Aquila rapax), African Finfoot (Podica senegalensis) and Half-collared Kingfisher (Alcedo semitorquata). The Kubu Coal Mine area does not fall within any IBA, with the closest IBA more than 50 km from the area. The study area is located on the Limpopo River and therefore the boundary of Botswana. Due to the diverse habitat of the Limpopo River System, the study area will harbour bird species of conservational importance and serve as a migration corridor for migratory species.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 4-4: Important Bird Areas
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
4.2 Fieldwork and seasonal influence
4.2.1 Flora A site visit was conducted on the 9th of March 2015. Methodology for the study included stratified random sampling: after broad habitats were delineated on aerial imagery and sample plots were used to determine vegetation distribution in the field. The Braun-Blanquet methodology was employed in the thornveld and shrubland areas, using an approximate area of 100 m². The Braun-Blanquet floristic-sociological approach recognises units by the floristic composition and abundance. This methodology is easier and quicker to use than the alternative point-survey or wheel-point methodology, results in a reliable estimate of cover abundance and it is the most widely used approach for vegetation studies. The Braun-Blanquet method incorporates seven cover-abundance categories as listed in Table 4-2. A general species list was also compiled from random traversing through the site. Table 4-2: Braun-Blanquet analysis cover abundance
Cover Abundance Category
One or few individuals. r
Occasional and less than 5% of total plot area. +
Abundant and with very low cover, or less 1 abundant but higher cover; in any case less than 5% cover of total plot area.
Very abundant and less than 5%, or 5-25% cover, 2 of a total plot area:
2m – Very abundant
2a – 5-12.5 % cover, irrespective of number of individuals
2b – 12.5-25% cover, irrespective of number of individuals
4.2.2 Fauna Fauna that were assessed for this study include the basic groupings: birds, mammals, herpetofauna and invertebrates. For the desktop component of the faunal investigation, the following databases were accessed to determine the likelihood of occurrence of faunal species on site: ■ SIBIS: SABIF - South African Biodiversity Information Facility established by the DST;
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
■ Southern African Reptile Conservation Assessment (SARCA, 2010) for reptiles. ■ Du Preez and Carruthers (2009) for amphibians; ■ Southern African Butterfly Conservation Atlas (LEPImap 2014); and ■ South African Bird Atlasing Project 2 (SABAP 2). The study area was traversed by vehicle and foot, noting the presence of animals on site or evidence of animal activity, such as pellets, spoor, nests and burrows. Suitable microhabitats, such as riverine areas, standing water and the Limpopo River system, were investigated. Visual sightings and ecological indications were used to identify the larger mammal inhabitants of the study area; this includes scats, tracks and habitat such as burrows and dens. Scats found were collected (if required), photographed with a scale along with any tracks observed and identified. ■ For birds, all opportunistic sightings were recorded and particular attention was focused on those habitats within the project area that have a higher propensity to harbour greater species diversity. Birds were recorded by both call and sight and their identification was confirmed where necessary using the guides: Sinclair et al. (2012) and Robert’s Birds (2012). ■ For mammals, opportunistic sightings were recorded for small and large mammals. The following field guides were used for identification purposes: . Mammals of Southern Africa (Smithers, 2000); . The Mammals of the Southern African Sub-region (Skinner & Chimimba, 2005); . Red Data Book of the Mammals of South Africa (Friedman & Daly 2004) and . The Kingdon field guide to African Mammals (Kingdon, 1997). ■ For herpetofauna (reptiles and amphibians), direct and opportunistic observations were conducted along trails or paths within the project area. Any herpetofauna species seen or heard along such paths or trails within the project area were identified and recorded. Another method used was refuge examinations using visual scanning of terrains to record smaller herpetofaunal species which often conceal themselves under rocks and in fallen logs, rotten tree stumps, under rocks, in leaf litter, rodent burrows, ponds, old termite mounds, etc. Amphibians and reptiles observed by people residing in the study area were recorded where possible. The following field guides were used for identification purposes: . Branch (2001) ; . Carruthers (2009) for frog calls; . Du Preez and Carruthers (2009) and Carruthers (2009) ■ For invertebrates, butterflies were photographed and recorded using Woodhall (2005).
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
4.2.3 Species of Special Concern Species of Special Concern (flora and fauna) are species that are considered to be vital for the conservation of biodiversity. From the overall species list, a list of Species of Special Concern can be drawn up, based on their conservation status. The South African Red Data list uses the same criteria as that defined by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). According to the IUCN all species are classified in nine groups, set through criteria such as rate of decline, population size, area of geographic distribution, and degree of population and distribution fragmentation (IUCN, 2010). The categories are described in Table 4-3 below. Table 4-3: Red Data Categories (taken from SANBI 2012)
CATEGORY DESCRIPTION Extinct (EX) No known individuals remaining. Extinct in the Wild (EW) Known only to survive in captivity. Critically (CR) Extremely high risk of extinction in the wild. Endangered Endangered (EN) High risk of extinction in the wild Vulnerable (VU) High risk of endangerment in the wild. Near Threatened (NT) Likely to become endangered in the near future. Least Concern (LC) Lowest risk. Does not qualify for a more at risk category. Widespread and abundant taxa are included in this category. Data Deficient (DD) Not enough data to make an assessment of its risk of extinction. Not Evaluated (NE) Has not yet been evaluated against the criteria.
5 Assumptions and Limitations Field work for this report was conducted over one day during which time the vegetation communities were delineated. As a consequence, it is possible that some plant and especially animal species, within these communities, were not recorded on site.
6 Baseline Environment
6.1 Flora
6.1.1 Vegetation Communities The flora survey distinguished between two primary vegetation communities that are described in detail below and their distribution throughout the Koert Louw Zyn Pan farm is shown in Figure 6-3. A list of plant species observed throughout the study area for both the
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
initial field survey (Digby Wells 2008) and the most recent survey in March 2015 can be found in Appendix B and includes 99 species.
6.1.1.1 Acacia mellifera - Boscia foetida Thornveld
The dominant upper strata Acacia Name Change species included Acacia erubescens (Blue Thorn) The International Code of Botanical Nomenclature, the official botanical and Acacia tortilis names authority, made a decision in July 2005 to reserve the name Acacia for Australian species only. Both Africa and Australia had been sharing the (Umbrella Thorn) as well genus name for two distinctly different groups of species and a final call had as Boscia albitrunca become a necessity. The Acacia name change has been a matter of dispute (Shepherd’s Tree) and for over a decade but it is important to note that the change is now official. Boscia foetida (Smelly The reasons for voting Acacia as an Australian type were numerous, primarily owing to the fact that over 1000 Acacia’s (many that are endemic) Shepherd’s Tree or Mopipi are to be found in Australia, making up the largest genus in the country. In Tree). B. foetida occurred addition, the Acacia has significant cultural and traditional value as a symbol on termitaria or on rocky in the Australian coat of arms. A taxonomic revision of African Acacia’s is terrain. The grass layer underway and all species will be renamed into either Vachellia or Senegalia. was made up of a mixture The Acacia name is maintained for the purpose of this report. of Aristida and Eragrostis spp. An example of this vegetation unit is represented in Figure 6-1. This vegetation unit could further be sub-divided into sub-communities, based on phytosociological association. In disturbed areas within the unit, native invader species Acacia mellifera (Black Thorn) was abundant and Dichrostachys cinerea (Sickle Bush) was also recorded. This is evidence of overgrazing. Disturbance in these areas is due to grazing of game and trampling and species diversity is generally low, with an absence of unique species. Ground cover was below 50%, which contributes to the susceptibility of the soil to erosion.
Figure 6-1: Landscape of the Acacia mellifera Thornveld
6.1.1.2 Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian Woodland The Riparian Woodland was found on the main channel of the Limpopo River and the tributaries of the river as shown in Figure 6-2. The woodlands upper strata was dominated by Ziziphus mucronata, Combretum imberbe and C. erythrophyllum (Red River-Bushwillow). The
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
grass layer was comprised mainly of Aristida congesta congesta and Schmidtia pappophoroides. The riparian zone serves as an intermediate between the aquatic environment of the river and the inland woodland. In the hot and dry environment the riparian woodland provides a long lasting food source for fauna and the dense vegetation provides shelter and protection from the heat. It is especially good habitat for avifauna as it provides perched vantage points to look and hunt over the Limpopo River. The wetlands assessment for Koert Louw Zyn Pan (Digby Wells 2015) delineates the boundaries of the riparian habitat.
Figure 6-2: Landscape of the Ziziphus mucronata Riparian Woodland (left – main channel of Limpopo River and right – narrow tributary)
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 6-3: Distribution of vegetation communities
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
6.1.2 Species of Special Concern Plant Species of Special Concern include species listed as Red Data according to the national list published by SANBI, as well as species that are provincially or nationally protected. Provincially Protected species have been listed in the Protected Species Schedule 12 of LEMA. Nationally Protected species have been listed in the National Protected Trees list (2012) of the Forests Act. None of the species listed in the regional expected species list were allocated Red Data or Protected status. Table 6-1 lists the plant Species of Special Concern recorded on site and examples are represented in Figure 6-4. Table 6-1: Plant Species of Special Concern
Family Species Common Name Threat Status Likelihood of occurrence
Combretaceae Combretum Leadwood Nationally Recorded in Ziziphus imberbe Protected mucronata Riparian Woodland
Fabaceae Acacia erioloba Camel Thorn Nationally Recorded in Acacia (now Vachellia Protected; Red mellifera Thornveld erioloba) Data: Declining
Capparaceae Boscia albitrunca Shepherd’s Tree Nationally Recorded in Acacia Protected mellifera Thornveld
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 6-4: Left - Combretum imberbe (Leadwood) and Right – Acacia erioloba (Camel
Thorn) (www.plantZAfrica.co.za)
6.1.3 Medicinal Plants South Africa has a rich diversity of medicinal plants that not only have a global significance, but also have a cultural and historical role (van Wyk et al. 2009). There is a rapidly growing concern for conservation of medicinal plants that are dwindling in number due to illegal harvesting (Institute of Natural Resources 2003). This is particularly apparent in rural areas where medicinal plants are overexploited by traditional doctors. The survey conducted in 2008 identified 24 plant species that are officially recognised as having medicinal value. An additional seven species have cultural value. Table 6-2: Medicinal and Cultural plants
Scientific Name Common Name Use Form
Acacia erioloba Camel thorn Medicinal Tree Acacia karoo Sweet thorn Medicinal Tree Acacia nilotica Scented thorn Medicinal Tree Acacia tortilis Umbrella thorn Medicinal Tree Asparagus africanus Bush asparagus Medicinal Herb Asparagus laricinus Cluster leaved asparagus Charm Herb Asparagus setaceus - Charm Herb Barleria saxatilis - Cultural Herb Becium obovatum Cat's Whiskers Medicinal Herb Boscia albitrunca Shepherds tree Medicinal Tree Brunsvigia radulosa - Medicinal Herb Cadaba aphylla Leafless wormbush Medicinal Shrub
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Combretum hereroense Russet Bushwillow Medicinal Tree Combretum imberbe Leadwood Medicinal Tree Commelina africana Yellow Commelina Medicinal Herb Cucumis zeyheri Wild cucumber Medicinal Herb Dichrostachys cinerea Sickle bush Medicinal Tree Faidherbia albida Ana Tree Medicinal Tree Grewia flava Velvet Raisin Medicinal Tree Gymnosporea senegalensis Red Spike Thorn Medicinal Shrub Indigofera hedyantha Black bud indigo Medicinal Herb Ipomoea bolusiana Narrow leaved Pink Ipomoea Cultual Herb Lantana rugosa Birds Brandy Medicinal Herb Ledebouria ovatifolia - Medicinal Bulb/Herb Peltophorum africanum Weeping wattle Medicinal Tree Polygala amatymbica Dwarf Polygala Medicinal Herb Schoenoplectus corymbosus - Cultural-weaving Reed Solanum panduriforme Yellow Bitter-apple Medicinal Shrub Ximenia americana Blue sourplum Cultural Tree Ximenia caffra Sourplum Edible, traditional Tree Ziziphus mucronata Buffalo thorn Medicinal Tree Key: Bold indicates species that were recorded during the 2015 survey
6.1.4 Alien Plant Species Invasion by alien plants decrease the biodiversity of the environment, erodes the natural capital of ecosystems and compromises their stability. Alien plant species, in South Africa, are categorised according the Alien and Invasive Species List, 2014 (GN R599 in GG 37886 of 1 August 2014) of the NEMBA (Act 10 of 2004). The categories of invasive plant species in NEMBA are as follows: ■ Category 1a: Species requiring compulsory control; ■ Category 1b: Invasive species controlled by an invasive species management programme; ■ Category 2: Invasive species controlled by area, and ■ Category 3: Invasive species controlled by activity. The alien invasive plant species that were observed on both site visits were identified and listed in Table 6-3 with their respective NEMBA categories and pictures are represented in Figure 6-5. Table 6-3: Alien Invasive Plant species
Family Species Common name Category
AMARANTHACEAE Achyranthes aspera Burweed 1b
ASTERACEAE Flaveria bidentis Smelter's bush 1b
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Xanthium strumarium Large cocklebur 1b BRASSICACEAE Capsella bursa-pastoris Shepherd’s purse Not categorised Modiola caroliniana Bristly mallow Not categorised MALVACEAE Waltheria indica Not categorised Argemone ochroleuca Mexican poppy 1b PAPAVERACEAE Argemone mexicana Mexican poppy 1b POACEAE Pennisetum clandestinum Kikuyu grass 1b Solanum panduriforme Not categorised SOLANACEAE Solanum sisymbriifolium Wild tomato 1b ZYGOPHYLLACEAE Tribulus terrestris Devil’s thorn
Figure 6-5: Examples of alien plant species on site (A: Achyranthes aspera; B: Flaveria bidentis; C: Xanthium strumarium; D: Argemone ochroleuca; E: Solanum panduriforme and F: Solanum sisymbriifolium)
6.2 Fauna
6.2.1 Avifauna Birds were recorded at several areas that may be preferable to bird species as well as generally throughout the site. During the March 2015 survey the avifaunal investigation was conducted throughout the site with specific reference to the habitat associated with the riparian, wetland and associated bushveld habitat areas. Points were chosen near avifaunal zones of influence such as areas where bird parties and colony nesting were evident, as well as in the Ziziphus mucronata Riparian Woodland. A total of 123 species were directly observed throughout the project area in March 2015. Appendix C lists all birds recorded on site. The project area is unique from an avifaunal perspective as it falls within the transition area between the dry western African region and the sub-tropical eastern African region, giving rise to a number of interesting avifaunal species. Furthermore, the Limpopo River system contains many species from east and central Africa that have reached their southern limit, and therefore
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
the project site and related farms offer a suite of range-restricted birds. This includes, but is not limited to: Meves’s Starling (Lamprotornis mevesii); Grey-headed kingfisher (Halcyon leucocephala); Senegal Coucal (Centropus senegalensis); and the Tropical Boubou (Laniarius aethiopicus). A total of eight bird Species of Special Concern were recorded in the project area (Table 6-4). Examples of birds identifies are depicted in Figure 6-6
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Table 6-4: Bird Species of Special Concern Recorded on Koert Louw Zyn Pan Area
Survey IUCN status Ver Common name Scientific name Observed 2015-3 2008 2015 Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus NT x Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori NT x x Greater Painted Rostratula benghalensis LC Snipe x Red-billed Oxpecker Buphagus erythrorhynchus LC x x Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus LC x Ephippiorhynchus Saddle-billed Stork LC senegalensis x Yellow –billed Stork Mycteria ibis LC x x White-backed Gyps africanus EN Vulture x x
Figure 6-6: Examples of avifaunal Species of Special Concern observed on the project area (Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus, Kori Bustard Ardeotis kori and Greater Painted Snipe Rostratula benghalensis) (www.arkive.org)
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 6-7: Pale Chanting Goshawk (Melierax canorus), Hamerkop (Scopus umbretta) and Meves Starling (Lamprotornis mevesii)
6.2.2 Mammals The farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan is currently operated as a game farm and contains large mammals that are both introduced and naturally occurring, such as: Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus), Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus) and Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros).The study area is suited to host a variety of faunal species including predatory species such as the Leopard (Panthera pardus) and Black-backed Jackal (Canis mesomelas). Smaller mammals are also found within the study area; Appendix D lists the mammals that may be possibly found on the farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan. Table 6-5 lists and Figure 6-8 shows the mammal species that were observed during a previous faunal survey conducted by Digby Wells in 2008 on the Koert Louw Zyn Pan area. Table 6-5: Mammal Species observed on Koert Louw Zyn Pan Area
Observation Family Species English name Status1 method White Rhinocerotidae Ceratotherium simum NT Recorded Rhinoceros Bovidae Syncerus caffer Cape Buffalo LC Recorded
1 IUCN status unless otherwise specified
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Observation Family Species English name Status1 method Aepyceros Bovidae Impala LC Recorded melampus Hippopotamus Hippopotamidae Hippopotamus LC Spoor amphibius Connochaetes Blue NEMBA Bovidae Recorded taurinus taurinus Wildebeest Protected Grey /Common Bovidae Sylvicapra grimmia LC Recorded Duiker Alcelaphus Bovidae Red Hartebeest LC Recorded buselaphus Equidae Equus burchellii Plains Zebra LC Recorded Hippotragus niger Bovidae Sable Antelope VU Recorded niger Tragelaphus Bovidae Kudu LC Recorded strepsiceros Tragelaphus Bovidae Bushbuck LC Recorded scriptus Kobus Bovidae ellipsiprymnus Waterbuck LC Recorded ellipsiprymnus Raphicerus Bovidae Steenbok LC Recorded campestris Bovidae Oryx Gazellla Oryx LC Recorded Black-backed Canidae Canis mesomelas LC Recorded Jackal Cercopithecus Cercopithecidae aethiops Vervet Monkey LC Recorded pygerythrus Cercopithecidae Papio ursinus Chacma Baboon LC Spoor Felidae Panthera pardus Leopard NT Spoor Slender Herpestidae Galerella sanguinea LC Recorded Mongoose Banded Herpestidae Mungos mungo LC Recorded Mongoose Hystricidae Hystrix africeaustralis Porcupine LC Spoor Scrub/Savannah Leporidae Lepus saxatilis LC Spoor Hare Mustelidae Mellivora capensis Honey Badger NT Spoor Aardvark/Ant Orycteropodidae Orycteropus afer LC Spoor bear Pedetidae Pedetes capensis Springhare LC Spoor Sciuridae Paraxerus cepapi Tree Squirrel LC Recorded Cape Ground Sciuridae Xerus inauris LC Recorded Squirrel Phacochoerus Suidae Warthog LC Recorded africanus Key: Bold indicates species that were recorded during the 2015 survey Four Species of Special Concern were previously observed in the study area, namely the Leopard (Panthera pardus), White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum); Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis) and Sable Antelope (Hippotragus niger niger), all of which have been
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
allocated an IUCN conservation status of NT; these mammals are also provincially protected under the Limpopo Environmental Management Act, 2003 (Act No. 7 of 2003). The Blue Wildebeest was observed during both surveys and is nationally protected according to NEMBA. No additional Species of Special Concern were recorded during the most recent field visit in March 2015.
Figure 6-8: Examples of mammal Species of Special Concern recorded on site (Left - Sable antelope (Hippotragus niger niger) Right - Blue wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus)
6.2.3 Herpetofauna Habitat within the study area is well suited to harbour a variety of reptile and amphibian species (collectively termed herpetofauna). The Limpopo River acts as a convergence point for all fauna; predatory and opportunistic herpetofauna species that will be present within the project area. Appendix F lists the herpetofauna species recorded on site. A single herpetofauna Species of Special Concern was recorded, namely the Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticas), which is regarded as Vulnerable (V) according to NEMBA. The Nile Crocodile, according to Ferguson (2010) is found naturally throughout sub-Saharan Africa in or close to major river systems. The natural habitat of the crocodile is in proximity to human populations, this leads to what is termed human-crocodile conflict. The proximity of humans to crocodile’s habitat has placed anthropogenic pressures, such as fishing, sand mining and agriculture, which have led to the deterioration of the crocodile’s habitat and a subsequent decline in crocodile populations. However, according to studies carried out in conservation areas (Loskop Dam Nature Reserve and Kruger National Park) the biggest threats to the crocodile population is the contamination of the water as result of industrial, agricultural and mining activities that result in die-offs of crocodiles. The mining activity associated with the Kubu Coal Mine will need to be managed such that the pressure placed on the Nile Crocodile is not drastically increased. The Striped Skaapsteker (Psammophylax tritaeniatus) (Figure 6-9) was observed adjacent to the Limpopo River and was in the process of killing and feeding on an amphibian species, the Common caco (Cacosternum boettgeri). The Striped Skaapsteker has been assessed as
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Least Concern due to its wide distribution throughout eastern and southern Africa with the absence of any major threats, however, it is protected under the Limpopo Environmental Management Act. Furthermore, this species has been described as common. No conservation measures are required, although individuals should not be harmed. This snake inhabits open grassland and savanna (Branch 1998, Spawls et al. 2002). Marais (1992) also reports that it favours vleis (seasonal water bodies) and is commonly found under building rubble and other debris near towns. The Common caco (Cacosternum boettgeri) occurs throughout most of southern Africa, but only in uplands north of the Tropic of Capricorn. It is extremely common and occurring in almost all suitable habitats throughout its range. It is usually present in high densities along river courses.
Figure 6-9: Striped Skaapsteker (Psammophylax tritaeniatus) and location and habitat of the Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticas)
6.2.4 Invertebrates Although no Baboon Spiders (Harpactira) were observed, the habitat associated with the project area is conducive to harbouring this species and they have been observed in the properties adjacent to the project site. The Golden-Brown Baboon Spider (Pterinochilus) is associated with north-eastern parts of South Africa. South Africa has a rich diversity of baboon spiders, represented by eight genera and 44 sub species of which 35 are endemic to the region. They belong to the family Theraphosidae. An invertebrate study was not completed during the site visit, due to time constraints, however during previous surveys within the area nine butterfly species were recorded and none were Red Data species.
7 Sensitivity Analysis and No-Go Areas The ecological sensitivity of the site ranges from medium-low to high sensitivity. The provincial critical biodiversity areas (Figure 4-3) indicate that the project area falls into Critical Biodiversity Areas 1 (Irreplaceable) and 2 (Optimal). The biodiversity assessment, together with the Limpopo Critical Biodiversity Areas Assessment and the national spatial environmental conservation tools were used to determine the ecological sensitivity of the project area, as shown in Figure 7-1. The areas associated with the main channel and
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
tributaries of the Limpopo River, the Ziziphus mucronata Riparian Woodland, were determined to have a high ecological sensitivity. This was due to the sensitivity of the habitat and the range of both plant and fauna SSC found within this area. The areas associated with the Acacia mellifera Thornveld were determined to have a medium – low ecological sensitivity. The Limpopo River has a high fauna activity and as a water source, it is largely responsible for maintaining life in the hot and dry climate.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Figure 7-1: Ecological Sensitivity
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
8 Flora and Fauna Impact Assessment The impacts are assessed based on the impact’s magnitude as well as the receiver’s sensitivity, culminating in an impact significance which identifies the most important impacts that require management. Based on international guidelines and South African legislation, the following criteria are taken into account when examining potentially significant impacts: ■ Nature of impacts (direct/indirect, positive/ negative); ■ Duration (short/medium/long‐term, permanent(irreversible) / temporary (reversible), frequent/seldom); ■ Extent (geographical area, size of affected population/habitat/species); ■ Intensity (minimal, severe, replaceable/irreplaceable); ■ Probability (high/medium/low probability); and ■ Possibility to mitigate, avoid or offset significant adverse impacts.
Details of the impact assessment methodology used to determine the significance of physical, bio-physical and socio-economic impacts are provided below. The significance rating process follows the established impact/risk assessment formula:
Significance = Consequence x Probability x Nature
Where
Consequence = Intensity + Extent + Duration
And
Probability = Likelihood of an impact occurring
And
Nature = Positive (+1) or negative (-1) impact
Note: In the formula for calculating consequence, the type of impact is multiplied by +1 for positive impacts and - 1 for negative impacts
The matrix calculates the rating out of 147, whereby Intensity, Extent, Duration and Probability are each rated out of seven as indicated in Table 8-1. The weight assigned to the various parameters is then multiplied by +1 for positive and -1 for negative impacts.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Impacts are rated prior to mitigation and again after consideration of the mitigation measure proposed in this EIA/EMP Report. The significance of an impact is then determined and categorised into one of eight categories, as indicated in Table 8-2, which is extracted from Table 8-1. The description of the significance ratings is discussed in Table 8-3. It is important to note that the pre-mitigation rating takes into consideration the activity as proposed, i.e. there may already be certain types of mitigation measures included in the design (for example due to legal requirements). If the potential impact is still considered too high, additional mitigation measures are proposed.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Table 8-1: Impact assessment parameter ratings
Intensity / Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Spatial Scale Duration Probability (Type of Impact = -1) (Type of Impact = +1)
Very significant impact on the Noticeable, on-going environment. Irreparable and social and environmental Permanent: No irreplaceable damage to highly valued International benefits which have Mitigation Certain/ Definite. species, habitat or ecosystem. Persistent The effect will improved the livelihoods The impact will remain There are sound scientific 7 severe damage. occur across and living standards of the long after the life of the reasons to expect that the Irreparable and irreplaceable damage to international local community in Project. The impacts impact will definitely occur. highly valued items of great cultural borders. general and the are irreversible. significance or complete breakdown of environmental features. social order.
Significant impact on highly valued Great improvement to species, habitat or ecosystem. livelihoods and living Significant management and standards of a large Beyond Project Life Almost certain/Highly National rehabilitation measures required to percentage of population, The impact will remain probable 6 Will affect the prevent irreplaceable impacts. as well as significant for some time after the It is most likely that the impact entire country. Irreparable damage to highly valued increase in the quality of life of a Project. will occur. items of cultural significance or the receiving breakdown of social order. environment.
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Intensity / Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Spatial Scale Duration Probability (Type of Impact = -1) (Type of Impact = +1)
On-going and widespread Very serious, long-term environmental positive benefits to local Province/ impairment of ecosystem function that Project Life communities which Region may take several years to rehabilitate. The impact will cease Likely 5 improves livelihoods, as Will affect the Very serious widespread social impacts. after the operational The impact may occur. well as a positive entire province Irreparable damage to highly valued life span of the Project. improvement to the or region. items. receiving environment.
Serious medium term environmental Average to intense social effects. Environmental damage can be Municipal Area Probable benefits to some people. Long term reversed in less than a year. Will affect the Has occurred here or 4 Average to intense 6-15 years to reverse On-going serious social issues. whole municipal elsewhere and could environmental impacts. Significant damage to structures / items area. therefore occur. enhancements. of cultural significance.
Moderate, short-term effects but not Unlikely affecting ecosystem function. Local Average, on-going Has not happened yet but Rehabilitation requires intervention of Extending Medium term positive benefits, not could happen once in the 3 external specialists and can be done in across the site 1-5 years to reverse widespread but felt by lifetime of the Project, less than a month. and to nearby impacts. some. therefore there is a possibility On-going social issues. Damage to items settlements. that the impact will occur. of cultural significance.
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Intensity / Replicability
Rating Negative Impacts Positive Impacts Spatial Scale Duration Probability (Type of Impact = -1) (Type of Impact = +1)
Rare/ improbable Conceivable, but only in Minor effects on biological or physical extreme circumstances and/ environment. Environmental damage can Limited or has not happened during be rehabilitated internally with/ without Short term lifetime of the Project but has Low positive impacts Limited to the help of external consultants. Less than 1 year to happened elsewhere. The 2 experience by very few of site and its Minor medium-term social impacts on completely reverse the possibility of the impact population. immediate local population. Mostly repairable. impact. materialising is very low as a surroundings. Cultural functions and processes not result of design, historic affected. experience or implementation of adequate mitigation measures.
Limited damage to minimal area of low significance that will have no impact on Some low-level social and Very limited Immediate the environment. No irreplaceable loss of environmental benefits Limited to Less than 1 month to Highly unlikely/None 1 a significant aspect to the environment. felt by very few of the specific isolated completely reverse the Expected never to happen. Minimal social impacts, low-level population. parts of the site. impact. repairable damage to commonplace structures.
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Table 8-2: Probability/Consequence Matrix
Significance
7 -147 -140 -133 -126 -119 -112 -105 -98 -91 -84 -77 -70 -63 -56 -49 -42 -35 -28 -21 21 28 35 42 49 56 63 70 77 84 91 98 105 112 119 126 133 140 147
6 -126 -120 -114 -108 -102 -96 -90 -84 -78 -72 -66 -60 -54 -48 -42 -36 -30 -24 -18 18 24 30 36 42 48 54 60 66 72 78 84 90 96 102 108 114 120 126
5 -105 -100 -95 -90 -85 -80 -75 -70 -65 -60 -55 -50 -45 -40 -35 -30 -25 -20 -15 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105
4 -84 -80 -76 -72 -68 -64 -60 -56 -52 -48 -44 -40 -36 -32 -28 -24 -20 -16 -12 12 16 20 24 28 32 36 40 44 48 52 56 60 64 68 72 76 80 84
3 -63 -60 -57 -54 -51 -48 -45 -42 -39 -36 -33 -30 -27 -24 -21 -18 -15 -12 -9 9 12 15 18 21 24 27 30 33 36 39 42 45 48 51 54 57 60 63
Probability 2 -42 -40 -38 -36 -34 -32 -30 -28 -26 -24 -22 -20 -18 -16 -14 -12 -10 -8 -6 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32 34 36 38 40 42
1 -21 -20 -19 -18 -17 -16 -15 -14 -13 -12 -11 -10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 -21 -20 -19 -18 -17 -16 -15 -14 -13 -12 -11 -10 -9 -8 -7 -6 -5 -4 -3 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 Consequence
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Table 8-3: Significance Rating Description
Score Description Rating
A very beneficial impact that may be sufficient by itself to 109 to 147 justify implementation of the project. The impact may result Major (positive) in permanent positive change
A beneficial impact which may help to justify the implementation of the project. These impacts would be 73 to 108 considered by society as constituting a major and usually a Moderate (positive) long-term positive change to the (natural and / or social) environment
An important positive impact. The impact is insufficient by itself to justify the implementation of the project. These 36 to 72 Minor (positive) impacts will usually result in positive medium to long-term effect on the natural and / or social environment
A small positive impact. The impact will result in medium to 3 to 35 Negligible (positive) short term effects on the natural and / or social environment
An acceptable negative impact for which mitigation is desirable but not essential. The impact by itself is insufficient even in combination with other low impacts to -3 to -35 Low (negative) prevent the development being approved. These impacts will result in negative medium to short term effects on the natural and / or social environment
An important negative impact which requires mitigation. The impact is insufficient by itself to prevent the implementation of the project but which in conjunction with -36 to -72 Medium-low (negative) other impacts may prevent its implementation. These impacts will usually result in negative medium to long-term effect on the natural and / or social environment
A serious negative impact which may prevent the implementation of the project. These impacts would be -73 to -108 considered by society as constituting a major and usually a Medium-high (negative) long-term change to the (natural and / or social) environment and result in severe effects
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Score Description Rating
A very serious negative impact which may be sufficient by itself to prevent implementation of the project. The impact may result in permanent change. Very often these impacts -109 to -147 High (negative) are immitigable and usually result in very severe effects. The impacts are likely to be irreversible and/or irreplaceable.
8.1 Impact Assessment The aim of the Impact Assessment is to strive to avoid damage or loss of ecosystems and services that they provide, and where they cannot be avoided, to reduce and mitigate these impacts (DEA, 2013). Offsets to compensate for loss of habitat are regarded as a last resort, after all efforts have been made to avoid, reduce and mitigate. The mitigation hierarchy is represented in Figure 8-1.
Refers to considering options in project location, sitting, scale, layout, technology and phasing to avoid impacts on biodiversity, associated ecosystem services and people. This is the best option, but is not always Avoid or possible. Where environmental and social factors give rise to Prevent unacceptable negative impacts, mining should not take place. In such cases, it is unlikely to be possible or appropriate to rely on the other steps in the mitigation.
Refers to considering alternatives in the project location, sitting, scale, layout, technology and phasing that would minimise impacts on Minimise biodiversity, associated ecosystem services. In cases where there are environmental constraints, every effort should be made to minimise impacts.
Refers to rehabilitation of areas where impacts are unavoidable and measures are provided to return impacted areas to near natural state or Rehabilitate an agreed land use after mine closure. Rehabilitation can, however, fall short of replicating the diversity and complexity of natural systems.
Refers to measures over and above rehabilitation to compensate for the residual negative impacts on biodiversity after every effort has been made Offset to minimise and then rehabilitate the impacts. Biodiversity offsets can provide a mechanism to compensate for significant residual impacts on biodiversity.
Figure 8-1: Mitigation hierarchy The potential impacts and their interactions with the fauna and flora are discussed in detail below. The main anticipated impacts will arise during the site clearing activities. These impacts will be the potential direct loss of Red Data species and habitat loss for fauna and flora species.
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As these impacts will occur at the conception of the project, the impacts are likely to remain for the lifespan of the Kubu Coal Mine and it its therefore that mitigation measures are implemented to mitigate irreversible biodiversity loss. The below sections describes impacts and their interactions throughout the lifespan of the mine.
8.1.1 Construction Phase
8.1.1.1 Project activity: Construction of surface infrastructure Table 8-4: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine
Interaction Impact
Direct loss of floral species/vegetation types and biodiversity.
Site clearing for infrastructure Direct habitat loss and degradation. placement Loss of SSC (protected species).
Alien vegetation recruitment.
8.1.1.1.1 Site Clearing Site clearing will be performed during the construction phase and will be for the establishment of the open pit, stockpile areas and infrastructure areas.
8.1.1.1.2 Impact Description The removal of vegetation during site clearing will lead to the direct loss of floral species and destroy habitats for many faunal species. Two nationally protected plant species, one of which is Red Data: Declining Status, have been identified in the open pit area where site clearing will definitely occur. To conserve the protected species, it is highly recommended that nursery or conservation area be established to ensure the presence of the plant species is preserved. It is also recommended that a seed bank be collected from the untouched areas of the site to serve as a seed mix during the rehabilitation. It is expected that alien invasive plant species will arise in the disturbed environment and it is recommended that an Alien Invasive Plant Management Programme be developed and implemented.
8.1.1.1.3 Management Objectives The main objective for the Fauna and Flora Impact Assessment is to describe the terrestrial ecology present, thereafter to prescribe mitigation measures that will conserve the terrestrial environment and ensure that the biodiversity of the area is also maintained. During site clearing, flora species will be directly lost and fauna species displaced, however, the following objectives need to be met to conserve the environment:
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■ Conservation area(s) to provide habitat for faunal species; ■ Nursery to conserve Red Data and Protected plant species; ■ Minimise occurrence of open areas through concurrent rehab; ■ Only clear areas needed, assign dedicated roads to be used; ■ Discourage off road driving; ■ Minimise occurrence of alien invasive plants; and ■ Promote the conservation of biodiversity around the site through training of mine personnel about nature conservation and its importance.
8.1.1.1.4 Management Actions and Targets These are the actions that will enable the objective to be met: ■ Limit the footprint of the disturbed areas to a minimum and only demarcated areas must be cleared of vegetation; ■ All individuals of the Red Data tree (A. erioloba) and the Protected tree (C.imberbe) should be recorded with a GPS and counted; ■ it is therefore recommended that a suitable area should be identified where SCC may be conserved in their natural position to compensate for the loss of plant individuals. A biodiversity land management will need to be developed for this area; and ■ Mine personnel must be trained in environmental awareness and nature conservation.
8.1.1.2 Construction Phase Impact Ratings The Construction Phase will have the largest impact on Fauna and Flora as this will be the establishment phase and may cause disturbance to fauna and vegetation communities. The largest potential impacts will arise from the site clearing activities. The impacts are discussed in Table 8-5. Table 8-5: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Construction Phase
Site Clearing
Rati Significanc Dimension ng Motivation e
Impact Description: Loss of vegetation and topsoil
Prior to mitigation/ management The loss of vegetation and topsoil will last for the Duration 6 duration of the project -91 Medium The loss of topsoil and vegetation will be limited to the High Extent 2 project area
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Intensity x type of The loss of protected or Red Data and Protected -5 impact species Probability 7 Loss of habitat is unavoidable due to site clearing Mitigation/ Management actions ■ Limit the footprint of the disturbed areas to a minimum and only demarcated areas must be cleared of vegetation;
■ A biodiversity land management plan and nursery must be established on site. Loss of some SSC will invariably occur;
■ Allow for the correct period of time fauna species to relocate to suitable habitat in the region.
Post- mitigation Duration 6 This impact will be of medium term duration The loss of topsoil will be limited to specific areas Extent 1 within the project area -84 Medium Intensity x type of High -5 impact Probability 7 There is a high probability that this impact will occur
8.1.2 Operational Phase
8.1.2.1 Project activity: Use of Haul Roads Table 8-6: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine
Interaction Impact
Dust generation disturbing fauna
Dust settling on leaves hindering plant biological Use of Haul Roads processes Vehicle related fauna incidents
Alien vegetation recruitment.
8.1.2.1.1 Use of Haul Roads The haul roads will be used predominantly during the Operational Phase of the project.
8.1.2.1.2 Impact Description The use of haul roads for the transportation of ROM coal and overburden will generate dust within the project area which may spread to adjacent areas. The dust may potentially block out sun rays from plants, disturbed fauna and settle on leaves hindering plant biological processes. This could see a loss in biodiversity within the project area and possibly adjacent areas. The edges of roads are known to be prone to alien invasive plant infestation as a result
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
of disturbance; alien invasion will also contribute to loss of indigenous species and biodiversity as a result.
8.1.2.1.3 Management Objectives The objectives of the management of haul roads will be to minimise the impact they may have on Fauna and Flora without hindering the operational purpose.
8.1.2.1.4 Management Actions and Targets The following will be employed to ensure that impacts are reduced: ■ Dust suppression must be used on the haul roads; ■ Warning signs should be put up in areas of animal activity; ■ Alien Invasive plant management ■ Fencing off of areas where there is high traffic flows; and ■ Speed limits for vehicles must be minimised as far as possible (speed signs).
8.1.2.1.5 Impact Ratings The impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase are discussed in Table 8-9. Table 8-7: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase
Use and Maintenance of Haul Roads Dimension Rating Motivation Significance Impact Description: Dust generation Prior to mitigation/ management The haul roads will be used for the duration of Duration 5 the project Dust generation from the haul roads will affect Extent 2 the project area, maybe slightly outside of the project area -77 Medium Dust will block radiant energy and pores on High Intensity x type -4 the leaves of plants. It will be an irritant to of impact fauna Dust will be generated during the use of the Probability 7 haul roads Mitigation/ Management actions ■ Dust suppression must be used on the haul roads;
■ Warning signs should be put up in areas of animal activity;
■ Fencing off of areas where there is high traffic flows to minimise incidents with fauna; and
■ Speed limits for vehicles must be minimised as far as possible (speed signs).
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Post- mitigation Duration 5 Duration is of medium to low Extent 2 Extent is only occurring on site -45 Medium Intensity x type -4 Low of impact Probability 5 Dust may occur
8.1.2.2 Project activity: Concurrent Rehabilitation Table 8-8: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine
Interaction Impact
Dust generation disturbing fauna
Dust settling on leaves hindering plant biological Concurrent Rehabilitation processes Vehicle related fauna incidents
Alien vegetation recruitment.
8.1.2.2.1 Concurrent Rehabilitation Concurrent rehabilitation will take place during the Operational Phase of project, albeit only from year 7, and will be seeking to restore the pre-mining topography and environmental condition once mining is done in a section of the open pit.
8.1.2.2.2 Impact Description The rehabilitation of the mining area will include the back-filling of the final void, shaping of the topography and re-establishment of vegetation. The purpose of the rehabilitation is to attempt to return the area to as close as possible to the pre-mining environment or ecologically functional state.
8.1.2.2.3 Management Objectives The objectives of concurrent rehabilitation will be to reduce the area of exposed surfaces and soils, open pits and areas with alien invasion. The rehabilitation will ensure that there are areas for the re-establishment of vegetation and habitat for fauna.
8.1.2.2.4 Management Actions and Targets The following management action and targets are prescribed:
■ Back-filling of mined our strips;
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■ Shaping of landscape (free draining); ■ Erosion management; ■ Re-establishment of vegetation; and ■ Alien invasive plant management.
8.1.2.2.5 Impact Ratings The impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase are discussed in Table 8-9. Table 8-9: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Operational Phase
Concurrent Rehabilitation Dimension Rating Motivation Significance Impact Description: Restoration of close to pre-mining environment Prior to mitigation/ management Mitigation/ Management actions ■ Eradicate alien invasive vegetation;
■ Ensure that the correct plant species mix is used for rehabilitation;
■ Temporary berms must be constructed until the vegetation is established to intercept any eroded material;
■ Vegetation establishment must be monitored.
Impact The overall impact of the mining will be negative; the concurrent rehabilitation will aim to decrease the overall negative impact. The open pit areas will be concurrently back-filled once mining is completed in a section of the pit.
8.1.3 Decommissioning Phase
8.1.3.1 Project activity: Rehabilitation Table 8-10: Interactions and Impacts of Kubu Coal Mine
Interaction Impact
Dust generation disturbing fauna
Dust settling on leaves hindering plant biological Rehabilitation processes
Vehicle related fauna incidents
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
Interaction Impact
Alien vegetation recruitment.
8.1.3.1.1 Rehabilitation Rehabilitation will take place during the Decommissioning Phase of the project and will be seeking to restore the pre-mining topography and environmental conditions once all the mining and related activities are completed.
8.1.3.1.2 Impact Description The rehabilitation of the mining area will include the back-filling of the final void, shaping of the topography and re-establishment of vegetation. The purpose of the rehabilitation is to attempt to return the area to as close as possible to the pre-mining environment or ecologically functional state.
8.1.3.1.3 Management Objectives The objectives of rehabilitation will be to reduce the area of bare areas, open pits and areas with alien invasion. The rehabilitation will attempt to re-instate the pre-mining landscape and restore the area to a functioning
8.1.3.1.4 Management Actions and Targets The following management action and targets are prescribed: ■ Back-filling of voids; ■ Shaping of landscape (free draining); ■ Erosion management; ■ Re-establishment of vegetation and SSC; and ■ Alien invasive plant management.
8.1.3.2 Decommissioning Phase Impact Ratings The potential impacts that may arise during the Decommissioning Phase of the Kubu Coal Mine are discussed in
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Table 8-11.
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Table 8-11: Potential Impacts on Fauna and Flora during the Decommissioning Phase
Back-filling of final void Dimension Rating Motivation Significance
Impact Description: Restoration of pre-mining landscape
Mitigation/ Management actions ■ Use truck and shovel method to back-fill final void;
■ Ensure adequate compaction of rocky material to ensure stable ground;
■ Ensure correct material replacement beginning with hard overburden, then soft overburden; and
■ Do not back-fill with topsoil.
Impact The overall impact of the mining will be negative; the concurrent rehabilitation will aim to decrease the overall negative impact. The open pit areas will be concurrently back-filled once mining is completed in a section of the pit.
Final Rehabilitation Dimension Rating Motivation Significance Impact Description: Restoration of pre-mining landscape and environment Mitigation/ Management actions ■ Eradicate alien invasive vegetation;
■ Ensure that the correct plant species mix is used for rehabilitation;
■ Temporary berms must be constructed until the vegetation is established to intercept any eroded material;
■ The re-establishment of A. erioloba and C. imberbe post-mining is essential to the conservation of nature, therefore the nursery should conserve and grow these plants amongst others.
■ Vegetation establishment must be monitored.
Impact The negative impact brought about by the mining will last beyond the project; however, rehabilitation of the site may reduce the overall negative impact. Rehabilitation will speed the process of habitat restoration, although the pre-mining conditions may not be restored.
8.2 Cumulative Impacts The study are falls within the Limpopo Sweet Bushveld vegetation unit, this unit requires a specific balance between the taller plants (trees and shrubs) and the grass layer. Under
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo Province LED2003
natural conditions this balance is achieved through ecosystems processes which include grazers, predators, rain and temperature amongst others. The current impacts within the study area are the establishment of alien invasive plants and signs of overgrazing. These impacts can be attributed to the current land use of game farming within the study area. The effects of overgrazing and establishment of alien plants could lead to bush encroachment and loss of biodiversity which could then lead to erosion within the area. Surrounding land uses include open pit mining and agricultural farming which have further decreased the biodiversity in the local area. The development of the Kubu Coal Mine may have an impact on the already declining populations of A. erioloba and B albutrunca. It is therefore necessary that conservation areas be established for Red Data and protected plant and animal species. Furthermore, the conservation of the natural vegetation and habitat is vital to the region as more mining operations are currently expected to commence. The development of power stations and mines places pressure on the regional vegetation and forces faunal species to migrate out of the region; and as this is close to the South Africa – Botswana border, many faunal species may migrate out of South Africa.
9 Unplanned Events and Low Risks Unexpected events and low risk impacts are impacts that are not expected to occur, however, they may occur and in the event that these occur, a management strategy should be in place. Table 9-1 provided unexpected events and their management. Table 9-1: Unplanned events, low risks and their management measures
Potential Project Aspect Risk (Unplanned Potentially Mitigation/ Management/ Monitoring Occurrences) Impacted
Hydrocarbon spill Soil and water Follow the soil management guideline from vehicles and resources which machinery or would have a hazardous materials resulting impact on or waste storage ecological and facilities social systems
Spills/leaks from Soil and water Follow Surface Water and Aquatics Management pipelines, hazardous resources would Plans materials or waste have a resulting storage facilities impact on ecological and social systems. Natural vegetation and habitat types
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will be adversely affected
Mine flooding due to Surface and Follow Surface Water and Aquatics Management no dewatering groundwater Plans resources would have a resulting impact on ecological and social systems
10 Environmental Management Plan
10.1 Project Activities with potentially significant impacts In respect to Fauna and Flora the most significant impact will be the direct loss of species and habitat which will be caused by site clearing. Another major impact will be the rehabilitation which will determine the environmental conditions post-mining. Table 10-1 lists the potentially significant impacts. Table 10-1: Potentially Significant Impacts
Potential Significant Activity Aspects Phase Impacts
Loss of vegetation and Site clearing Construction Stockpile topsoil Stockpiling Construction Degradation of soil
Loss of vegetation and Open pit development Site clearing Construction topsoil
Back-filling and land Re-establishment of Decommissioning profiling pre-mining topography Rehabilitation Re-establishment of Re-establishment of Decommissioning vegetation pre-mining biodiversity
10.2 Summary of Mitigation and Management Table 10-2 to Table 10-3 provide a summary of the proposed project activities, environmental aspects and impacts on the receiving environment. Information on the frequency of mitigation, relevant legal requirements, recommended management plans, timing of implementation, and roles / responsibilities of persons implementing the EMP.
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Table 10-2: Impacts
Compliance Size and scale Time period for Activities Phase Mitigation Measures with of disturbance implementation standards
■ Limit the footprint of the disturbed areas to a minimum and only demarcated areas must be cleared of vegetation;
■ Red Data plant (A. erioloba) and areas identified as animal activity locations (habitat), which includes the riparian area, must be declared no- go areas, with species located within the open pit Conservation of the Upon the Construction Site Clearing 551.37 ha and infrastructure areas should be relocated if environment commencement of the Phase possible; as outlined by site clearing NEMBA ■ Where protected plant species(A. erioloba and C. imberbe) cannot be avoided and/or relocated, a biodiversity management plan will be developed and will include a nursery and conservation area;
■ Allow for a time period for fauna species to relocate to suitable habitat within the project area.
■ Dust suppression must be used on the haul Conservation During all phases of roads; of the Use of Haul Operational the project right up to 6.8 km environment Roads Phase rehabilitation of the ■ Warning signs should be put up in areas of animal as outlined by roads. activity; NEMBA
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■ Fencing off of areas where there is high traffic flows to minimise possible incidents with faunal species; and
■ Speed limits for vehicles must be minimised as far as possible (speed signs).
■ Use truck and shovel method to back-fill final void; Conservation Operational ■ Ensure adequate compaction of rocky material to Upon cessation of an of the and mining the strip or Rehabilitation 551.37 ha ensure stable ground; environment Decommissi as outlined by Upon the cessation of oning Phase ■ Ensure correct material replacement beginning NEMBA mining the final void, with hard overburden, then soft overburden; and
■ Do not back-fill with topsoil.
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Table 10-3: Objectives and Outcomes of the EMP
Standard to be Activities Potential impacts Aspects affected Phase2 Mitigation achieved/objective
■ Limit the footprint of the disturbed areas to a minimum and only demarcated areas must be cleared of vegetation;
■ Red Data plant and animal locations ■ Loss of must be declared no-go areas, with topsoil and species located within the open pit To minimise habitat vegetation and infrastructure areas should be and biodiversity loss, Site Clearing ■ Erosion risk Biodiversity C relocated if possible; while protecting and conserving Red Data ■ Where protected plant species ■ Direct loss of species. plant and cannot be avoided and/or relocated, animal habitat an biodiversity management plan will be developed in the form of a nursery or conservation area;
■ Allow for the correct period of time for the more mobile species to relocate to suitable habitat in the region.
2 C = Construction Phase; O = Operational Phase; D = Decommissiong Phase
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Standard to be Activities Potential impacts Aspects affected Phase2 Mitigation achieved/objective
■ Dust suppression must be used on the haul roads;
■ Warning signs should be put up in To minimise dust areas of animal activity generation that ■ Dust Use of haul Biodiversity O indirectly impacts on roads generation ■ Fencing off of areas where there is flora, as well as to high traffic flows; and prevent potential accidents with fauna. ■ Speed limits for vehicles must be minimised as far as possible (speed signs).
■ Eradicate alien invasive vegetation;
■ Ensure that the correct plant species To prevent the mix is used for rehabilitation; establishment of alien invasive vegetation ■ Temporary berms must be Concurrent ■ Restoration of and to restore the Biodiversity D Rehabilitation habitat constructed until the vegetation is mining area as close established to intercept any eroded to the pre-mining material; environment as possible ■ Vegetation establishment must be monitored.
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Standard to be Activities Potential impacts Aspects affected Phase2 Mitigation achieved/objective
■ Use truck and shovel method to ■ To restore back-fill final void; the mining area as close ■ Ensure adequate compaction of to the pre- rocky material to ensure stable mining ground; environment ■ Ensure correct material replacement as possible, Rehabilitation: ■ Restoration of Back-filling of Biodiversity O & D beginning with hard overburden, habitat; ■ To restore Final void then soft overburden; and surface area ■ Do not back-fill with topsoil. available for the establishment of vegetation and habitat restoration
■ Eradicate alien invasive vegetation; ■ To prevent the ■ Ensure that the correct plant species establishment mix is used for rehabilitation; ■ Restoration of of alien Final functional Biodiversity D ■ Temporary berms must be invasive rehabilitation terrestrial constructed until the vegetation is vegetation ecosystem established to intercept any eroded and to material; restore the mining area as close to
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Standard to be Activities Potential impacts Aspects affected Phase2 Mitigation achieved/objective ■ Vegetation establishment must be the pre- monitored. mining environment as possible
■ To restore habitat for vegetation and fauna species,
Table 10-4: Prescribed environmental management standards, practice, guideline, policy or law
Specialist field Applicable standard, practice, guideline, policy or law
Fauna and flora ■ National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, 2004 (Act 10 of 2004);
■ Limpopo Environmental Management Act 7, 2003 (LEMA); and
■ National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act, (Act No. 10 of 2004) (NEMBA): Threatened and Protected Species Regulations
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10.3 Monitoring Plan Monitoring will ensure that the ecological conditions of the study area are updated and known throughout the lifespan of the mine. It is important to monitor and understand the results of monitoring as this will give an indication of the effectiveness of mitigation measures, unexpected impacts and any changes in the biodiversity as result of the mine and/or mitigation measures. The adjacent Boikarabelo Coal Mine has developed and implemented a biodiversity land management plan, along with other commitments outlined in its EMP. In addition, continuous faunal monitoring takes place at the Boikarabelo Coal Mine, such as: vulture monitoring, sightings site plan of large predator species, the establishment of motion-sensitive cameras and game counting where possible. It is recommended that the monitoring procedures and biodiversity land management plan implemented for Boikarabelo Coal Mine is adopted and collaborative monitoring between the two operations undertaken to assist in the monitoring of site-specific fauna and flora, as well as for the larger areas combined. In addition, biennial monitoring is recommended for Kubu Coal Mine, which must aim to identify, record and monitor germination and growth or condition of Red Data and protected plant species, alien invasive plant monitoring, ecological succession and any significant change in decreaser and increaser grass species or indigenous invader species, as well as Red Data faunal species. Transects have been recommended that can be monitored effectively and efficiently within the undisturbed areas of Koert Louw Zyn Pan. The faunal and floral monitoring must aim to provide recommendations and management measures to implement within the biodiversity land management plan. It is recommended that detailed monitoring, or annual monitoring, takes place should the transect survey determine significant changes to species of concern, or should the annual average rainfall differ by +- 150mm. The detailed surveys in this case should occur during or as close to the end of the wet season as possible.
11 Comments and Responses No comments have been received at this point with regards to the scope of this study.
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12 Conclusion and Recommendation This Fauna and Flora Impact Assessment was conducted as part of requirements for a Mining Right application for the Kubu Coal Mine. The study area is situated in the Limpopo Province, within the Waterberg District on the Limpopo River. The Waterberg District is expected to have rapid and industrial and mining developments in the near future. The study area falls within the Limpopo Sweet Bushveld vegetation type. This vegetation type covers the majority of the Limpopo Province and is one of richest units in biodiversity. According to the Limpopo CBA, the study area falls into CBA 1 and CBA 2; which implies that the study area holds high value for biodiversity. Although the study area does not fall within an Important Bird Area, the Limpopo River system can be regarded as ecologically significant for birds and other fauna. Two major vegetation communities were identified on site, namely: the Acacia mellifera – Boscia foetida Thornveld and Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian Woodland. The Acacia mellifera – Boscia foetida Thornveld covered the majority of the site and showed evidence of overgrazing, which could lead to erosion and establishment of alien invasive plant species if not correctly managed. This vegetation could further be sub-divided into smaller vegetation units. The Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian Woodland was found on the most northern portion of the Koert Louw Zyn Pan area, on the banks of the Limpopo River and its tributaries. This vegetation unit supported most bird species recorded on site. Two plant Species of Special Concern were confirmed on site, namely: Combretum imberbe (Leadwood), Nationally Protected and Acacia erioloba (Camel Thorn), Nationally Protected and Red Data Declining. The single-day site visit did not allow for thorough investigation, particularly with regard to the faunal assessment. Results from the former flora and fauna assessment (Digby Wells, 2008) were, however, included in this report. Game farming was the primary land use for the Koert Louw Zyn Pan farm and included game species: Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus taurinus), Kudu (Tragelaphus strepsiceros) and Waterbuck (Kobus ellipsiprymnus ellipsiprymnus). As would be expected, the majority of avifaunal sightings were observed in the Riparian Woodland vegetation unit along the Limpopo River. During the survey conducted in 2008 122 bird species were observed and during the March 2015 survey 123 bird species were observed. With regard to faunal Species of Special Concern During the fauna survey conducted in 2008, four mammal Species of Special Concern were observed in the study area, namely: Leopard (Panthera pardus), White Rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum), Honey Badger (Mellivora capensis) and Sable Antelope (Hippogratus niger niger), all of which were allocated a conservation status of NT and also provincially protected under the Limpopo Environmental Management Act. One reptile species of Special Concern was observed during the site visit, the Nile Crocodile (Crocodylus niloticus) (NEMBA status of VU), in the Limpopo River. A total of eight bird Species of Special Concern were recorded.
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The proposed open pit mine will have a negative impact on the biodiversity of the area. The Koert Louw Zyn Project Area was determined to have an ecological sensitivity range between medium – low to high. Two plant Species of Special Concern are expected to be directly lost with the development of the mine, namely Acacia erioloba and Boscia albitrunca. The ecological sensitivity was determined by considering the Limpopo Critical Biodiversity Areas framework, the vegetation and faunal assessment, as well as the presence of Species of Special Concern. The Ziziphus mucronata - Combretum imberbe Riparian woodland had the highest ecological sensitivity due to the high faunal and plant diversity and the presence of the Limpopo River. It is important to avoid the riparian area as far as possible and maintain ecological corridors for fauna. The Limpopo River is an important ecological feature that serves as a biodiversity hotspot and has high faunal activity. Based on the most recent mine and infrastructure plan at the time that this report was completed, a buffer of 100m had been placed around the riparian area and this was regarded as a ‘no-go’ zone for development and mining. This reduces the overall impact significantly to moderate-high impact rating over the study area. Mitigation measures include the recording of all plant SSC in the footprint area and the establishment of a conservation area and nursery to preserve the biodiversity. A nursery must be established for the conservation of A. erioloba and other protected plant species potentially lost due to site clearance. The loss of flora SSC may be further mitigated by the development of a biodiversity land management plan3 for the project area. It is recommended that an area of the project area be set aside as an offset area that will be managed such as to maintain the biodiversity within the project area and act as buffer habitat for returning faunal species after the rehabilitation of the mining area.
3 Although a biodiversity offset strategy is not currently deemed to be required, the biodiversity management plan will determine the necessity for any potential offset strategies.
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13 References Animal demography Unit Virtual Museum accessed at http://www.adu.org.za/index.php; accessed: 2015/03/08. Begg K., Begg C. and Abramov A. 2008. Mellivora capensis. In: IUCN red list of threatened species. Branch B. 2001. Snakes and Other Reptiles of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, South Africa. Branch B. 2001. Snakes and Other Reptiles of Southern Africa. Struik Publishers, South Africa. Department of Agriculture 1983. Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act (CARA) (Act No 43 of 1983). Department of Agriculture and Forestry and Fisheries. 1998. National Forests Act (Act No 84 of 1998). Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, 2004. National Environmental Management: Biodiversity Act (NEMBA), (Act 10 of 2004): Publication of Lists of Critically Endangered, Endangered, Vulnerable and Protected Species, Government Gazette 23 March 2007. Department of Water Affairs and Forestry, 1998. National Water Act (Act No 36 of 1998). Digby Wells Environmental. Fauna & Flora Report for the Farm Koert Louw Zyn Pan LQ234 Waterberg District. 2009. Du Preez L and Carruthers V. 2009. A Complete guide to the frogs of South Africa. Struik Nature, South Africa. Fergusson, R.A. (2010). Nile Crocodile Crocodylus niloticus. Pp. 84-89 in Crocodiles. Status Survey and Conservation Action Plan. Third Edition, ed. by S.C. Manolis and C. Stevenson. Crocodile Specialist Group: Darwin. International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) 2012. Red Data List Species available online at www.iucn.org. Lephalale Spatial Development Framework. 2012. 3rd draft report. Limpopo Department of Environment and Tourism 2004. Limpopo Environmental Management Act (LEMA) (Act No 7 of 2003). Mucina L. and Rutherford M.C. (eds) 2006. The vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria. Plants of Southern Africa accessed at http://posa.sanbi.org/searchspp.php accessed: 2015/03/02. Roberts. 2012. Roberts’ Multimedia Birds of Southern Africa. Skinner J.D. and Chimimba C.T. 2005. The Mammals of the Southern African Subregion (3rd Ed.). Cambridge University Press, Cape Town.
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Southern African Birdlife accessed at http://www.birdlife.org.za/about; accessed: 2015/03/08. Waterberg District Environmental Management Framework Report. 2006. Woodhall S. 2005. Field guide to butterflies of South Africa. Struik publishers, Cape Town, South Africa. ISBN: 1 86872 724 6. www.archive.org. Accessed on: 07-05-15. www.kyffhauser.com. Accessed on: 07-05-15. www.plantZAfrica.com. Accessed on: 07-05-15.
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Appendix A: Expected Plant Species
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Threat Family Species status
ACANTHACEAE Justicia odora (Forssk.) Vahl LC
APOCYNACEAE Adenium oleifolium Stapf LC
ASTERACEAE Laggera decurrens (Vahl) Hepper & J.R.I.Wood LC
COMBRETACEAE Terminalia sericea Burch. ex DC. LC
CONVOLVULACEA E Ipomoea magnusiana Schinz LC
CONVOLVULACEA E Merremia kentrocaulos (C.B.Clarke) Rendle LC
CYPERACEAE Schoenoplectus senegalensis (Hochst. ex Steud.) Palla LC
FABACEAE Indigofera sordida Benth. ex Harv. LC
FABACEAE Sutherlandia frutescens (L.) R.Br. LC
POACEAE Aristida adscensionis L. LC
POACEAE Aristida scabrivalvis Hack. subsp. scabrivalvis LC
POACEAE Bothriochloa insculpta (Hochst. ex A.Rich.) A.Camus LC
POACEAE Chloris pycnothrix Trin. LC
Dichanthium annulatum (Forssk.) Stapf var. papillosum (A.Rich.) de POACEAE Wet & Harlan LC
POACEAE Digitaria eriantha Steud. LC
POACEAE Eragrostis cylindriflora Hochst. LC
POACEAE Eragrostis superba Peyr. LC
POACEAE Panicum coloratum L. var. coloratum LC
POACEAE Urochloa mosambicensis (Hack.) Dandy LC
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Appendix B: Plant Species Recorded on Site
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2008 2015 Family Species Common survey survey Fabaceae Acacia erioloba Camel thorn x Fabaceae Acacia erubescens Blue Thorn x Fabaceae Acacia fleckii Plate thorn x Fabaceae Acacia galpinii Monkey thorn x Fabaceae Acacia karoo Sweet thorn x x Fabaceae Acacia melanoxylon Australian Blackwood x Fabaceae Acacia mellifera Black thorn x x Fabaceae Acacia nilotica Scented thorn x Fabaceae Acacia senegal Three hook thorn x Fabaceae Acacia tenuispina Turf thorn x Fabaceae Acacia tortilis Umbrella thorn x x Amaranthaceae Achyranthes aspera Devil's Horsewhip x Hyacinthaceae Albuca shawii Lantern Flower x Scrophulariacea e Aptosimum lineare Karoo Violet x x White flowered mexican Asteraceae Argemone ochroleuca poppy x x Poaceae Aristida canescens Pale Three Awn x Aristida congesta Poaceae barbicolis Spreading three awn x x Asparagaceae Asparagus aethiopicus Ground Asparagus x x Asparagaceae Asparagus africanus Bush asparagus x x Asparagus Asparagaceae bechuanicus x x Asparagaceae Asparagus laricinus Cluster leaved asparagus x Asparagaceae Asparagus setaceus x Acanthaceae Barleria macrostegia x x Acanthaceae Barleria saxatilis x Acanthaceae Blepharis acaulis x x Capparaceae Boscia albitrunca Shepherds tree x x Capparaceae Boscia foetida Stink bush x x Poaceae Bothriochloa radicans Stinking grass x Amaryllidaceae Brunsvigia radulosa x Capparaceae Cadaba aphylla Leafless wormbush x x Fabaceae Chamaecrista comosa Trailing dwarf cassia x x Chamaecrista Fabaceae mimosoides Fishbone Dwarf Cassia x Poaceae Chloris virgata Feather top chloris x Capparaceae Cleome angustifolia Yellow Cleome x Combretaceae Combretum apiculatum Red Bush Willow x Combretum Combretaceae erythrophyllum River Bushwillow x x Combretum Combretaceae hereroense Russet Bushwillow x x Combretaceae Combretum imberbe Leadwood x x Commelinaceae Commelina africana Yellow Commelina x x
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Commicarpus Nyctaginaceae pentandrus Cerise Stars x Commiphora Burseraceae pyracanthoides Common corkwood x Convolvulaceae Convolvulus natalensis Yellow convolvulus x Crossandra Acanthaceae greenstockii Bushveld Crossandra x Cucurbitaceae Cucumis zeyheri Wild cucumber x Commelinaceae Cyanotis speciosa Doll's Powderpuff x Cyperaceae Cyperus compressus Annual Sedge x Cyperaceae Cyperus denudatus Winged Sedge x Dicerocaryum Pedaliaceae eriocarpum Devil Thorn x Fabaceae Dichrostachys cinerea Sickle bush x x Acanthaceae Dicliptera eenii x Asteraceae Dicoma speciosa x Poaceae Eragrostis biflora Shade eragrostis x Poaceae Eragrostis cilianensis Stink love grass x Convolvulaceae Evolvulus alsinoides x Fabaceae Faidherbia albida Ana Tree x x Asteraceae Flaveria bidentis Smelter's Bush x x Rubiaceae Gardenia volkensii Bushveld Gardenia x Asteraceae Geigeria burkei Vermeerbossie x x Asteraceae Geigeria elongata x Malvaceae Grewia bicolor White Raisin x Malvaceae Grewia flava Velvet Raisin x x Malvaceae Grewia flavescens Sandpaper Raisin x Gymnosporea Celastraceae heterophylla Spike thorn x Gymnosporea Celastraceae polycantha Kraal Spike thorn x Gymnosporea Celastraceae senegalensis Red Spike Thorn x Boraginaceae Heliotropium steudneri String of Stars x Fabaceae Indigofera comosa Indigo x Fabaceae Indigofera hedyantha Black bud indigo x Fabaceae Indigofera velutina Grey leaved indigo x Narrow leaved Pink Convolvulaceae Ipomoea bolusiana Ipomoea x Cyperaceae Kyllinga alba White Button Sedge x Verbenaceae Lantana rugosa Birds Brandy x Hyacinthaceae Ledebouria apertiflora Common Squil x Hyacinthaceae Ledebouria graminifolia x Hyacinthaceae Ledebouria ovatifolia Common Squill x Lamiaceae Leonotis leonurus Lion's Ear x Malvaceae Modiola caroliniana Red-flowered Mallow x Ochnaceae Ochna inermis Wild Plane x Ochnaceae Ochna pretoriensis Magalies Plane x
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Poaceae Panicum maximum Guinea Grass x Fabaceae Peltophorum africanum Weeping wattle x Pennisetum Poaceae clandestinum Kikuyu Grass x Polygonaceae Persicaria decipiens Slender Knotweed x Poaceae Phragmites australis Common Reed x x Polgalaceae Polygala amatymbica Dwarf Polygala x Fabaceae Prosopis africana English Ironwood x Rhigozum Bignoniaceae brevispinosum Simple leaf Rhigozum x x Sansevieria Dracaenaceae hyacinthoides Mother-in-law's Tongue x Schmidtia Poaceae pappophoroides Sand Quick Grass x Schoenoplectus Cyperaceae corymbosus x x Hyacinthaceae Scilla nervosa White Scilla x Solanaceae Solanum panduriforme Bitter Apple x Solanaceae Solanum panduriforme Yellow Bitter-apple x Zygophyllaceae Tribulus terrestris Devil thorns x Urochloa Poaceae mosambicensis Bushveld Signal Grass x Asteraceae Xanthium strumarium Common Cocklebur x Olalaceae Ximenia americana Blue sourplum x Olalaceae Ximenia caffra Sourplum x Rhamnaceae Ziziphus mucronata Buffalo thorn x x
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Appendix C: Expected Avifauna Species
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Numbe IUCN Common name Scientific name r status 1 Stork, Saddle-billed Ephippiorhynchus EN 2 Falcon, Lanner Falcosenegalensis biarmicus NT 3 Flamingo, Greater Phoenicopterus ruber NT 4 Oxpecker, Red-billed Buphagus erythrorhynchus NT 5 Painted-snipe, Greater Rostratula benghalensis NT 6 Pratincole, Black-winged Glareola nordmanni NT 7 Stork, Marabou Leptoptilos crumeniferus NT 8 Stork, Yellow-billed Mycteria ibis NT 9 Bateleur, Bateleur Terathopius ecaudatus VU 10 Bustard, Kori Ardeotis kori VU 11 Eagle, Martial Polemaetus bellicosus VU 12 Eagle, Tawny Aquila rapax VU 13 Vulture, Lappet-faced Torgos tracheliotus VU 14 Vulture, White-backed Gyps africanus VU 15 Babbler, Southern Pied Turdoides bicolor LC 16 White-eye, Cape Zosterops virens LC 17 Barbet, Acacia Pied Tricholaema leucomelas LC 18 Bulbul, African Red-eyed Pycnonotus nigricans LC 19 Canary, Yellow Crithagra flaviventris LC 20 Finch, Scaly-feathered Sporopipes squamifrons LC 21 Flycatcher, Marico Bradornis mariquensis LC 22 Goshawk, Southern Pale Melierax canorus LC 23 Hornbill,Chanting Southern Yellow-billed Tockus leucomelas LC 24 Korhaan, Red-crested Lophotis ruficrista LC 25 Lark, Sabota Calendulauda sabota LC 26 Prinia, Black-chested Prinia flavicans LC 27 Sandgrouse, Burchell's Pterocles burchelli LC 28 Sandgrouse, Double-banded Pterocles bicinctus LC 29 Scrub-Robin, Kalahari Cercotrichas paena LC 30 Shrike, Crimson-breasted Laniarius atrococcineus LC 31 Shrike, White-crowned Eurocephalus anguitimens LC 32 Sparrow, Cape Passer melanurus LC 33 Sparrow, Great Passer motitensis LC 34 Spurfowl, Natal Pternistis natalensis LC 35 Starling, Burchell's Lamprotornis australis LC 36 Tit, Ashy Parus cinerascens LC 37 Tit-Babbler, Chestnut-vented Parisoma subcaeruleum LC 38 Whydah, Shaft-tailed Vidua regia LC 39 Wren-Warbler, Barred Calamonastes fasciolatus LC 40 Avocet, Pied Recurvirostra avosetta LC 41 Barbet, Crested Trachyphonus vaillantii LC 42 Batis, Chinspot Batis molitor LC 43 Bee-eater, Blue-cheeked Merops persicus LC
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Numbe IUCN Common name Scientific name r status 44 Bee-eater, European Merops apiaster LC 45 Bee-eater, Little Merops pusillus LC 46 Bee-eater, Southern Carmine Merops nubicoides LC 47 Bee-eater, Swallow-tailed Merops hirundineus LC 48 Bishop, Yellow-crowned Euplectes afer LC 49 Brubru, Brubru Nilaus afer LC 50 Buffalo-Weaver, Red-billed Bubalornis niger LC 51 Bulbul, Dark-capped Pycnonotus tricolor LC 52 Bunting, Cinnamon-breasted Emberiza tahapisi LC 53 Bunting, Golden-breasted Emberiza flaviventris LC 54 Bush-Shrike, Orange-breasted Telophorus sulfureopectus LC 55 Buttonquail, Kurrichane Turnix sylvaticus LC 56 Buzzard, Steppe Buteo vulpinus LC 57 Camaroptera, Grey-backed Camaroptera brevicaudata LC 58 Canary, Black-throated Crithagra atrogularis LC 59 Canary, Yellow-fronted Crithagra mozambicus LC 60 Cisticola, Rattling Cisticola chiniana LC 61 Cormorant, Reed Phalacrocorax africanus LC 62 Courser, Bronze-winged Rhinoptilus chalcopterus LC 63 Crombec, Long-billed Sylvietta rufescens LC 64 Cuckoo, Black Cuculus clamosus LC 65 Cuckoo, Diderick Chrysococcyx caprius LC 66 Cuckoo, Jacobin Clamator jacobinus LC 67 Cuckoo, Klaas's Chrysococcyx klaas LC 68 Cuckoo, Red-chested Cuculus solitarius LC 69 Cuckooshrike, Black Campephaga flava LC 70 Dove, Laughing Streptopelia senegalensis LC 71 Dove, Namaqua Oena capensis LC 72 Drongo, Fork-tailed Dicrurus adsimilis LC 73 Duck, Comb Sarkidiornis melanotos LC 74 Duck, Maccoa Oxyura maccoa LC 75 Duck, White-faced Dendrocygna viduata LC 76 Duck, Yellow-billed Anas undulata LC 77 Eagle, Wahlberg's Aquila wahlbergi LC 78 Eagle-Owl, Spotted Bubo africanus LC 79 Egret, Cattle Bubulcus ibis LC 80 Egret, Great Egretta alba LC 81 Egret, Little Egretta garzetta LC 82 Eremomela, Burnt-necked Eremomela usticollis LC 83 Eremomela, Yellow-bellied Eremomela icteropygialis LC 84 Falcon, Amur Falco amurensis LC 85 Finch, Cut-throat Amadina fasciata LC 86 Firefinch, Jameson's Lagonosticta rhodopareia LC
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Numbe IUCN Common name Scientific name r status 87 Francolin, Crested Dendroperdix sephaena LC 88 Go-away-bird, Grey Corythaixoides concolor LC 89 Goose, Egyptian Alopochen aegyptiacus LC 90 Goose, Spur-winged Plectropterus gambensis LC 91 Goshawk, Gabar Melierax gabar LC 92 Grebe, Little Tachybaptus ruficollis LC 93 Greenshank, Common Tringa nebularia LC 94 Guineafowl, Helmeted Numida meleagris LC 95 Gull, Grey-headed Larus cirrocephalus LC 96 Hamerkop, Hamerkop Scopus umbretta LC 97 Helmet-Shrike, White-crested Prionops plumatus LC 98 Heron, Black-headed Ardea melanocephala LC 99 Heron, Grey Ardea cinerea LC 100 Honeyguide, Greater Indicator indicator LC 101 Honeyguide, Lesser Indicator minor LC 102 Hoopoe, African Upupa africana LC 103 Hornbill, African Grey Tockus nasutus LC 104 Hornbill, Red-billed Tockus erythrorhynchus LC 105 Ibis, African Sacred Threskiornis aethiopicus LC 106 Ibis, Glossy Plegadis falcinellus LC 107 Ibis, Hadeda Bostrychia hagedash LC 108 Jacana, African Actophilornis africanus LC 109 Kingfisher, Brown-hooded Halcyon albiventris LC 110 Kingfisher, Woodland Halcyon senegalensis LC 111 Kite, Yellow-billed Milvus aegyptius LC 112 Lapwing, Blacksmith Vanellus armatus LC 113 Lapwing, Crowned Vanellus coronatus LC 114 Lark, Fawn-coloured Calendulauda africanoides LC 115 Lark, Monotonous Mirafra passerina LC 116 Lark, Rufous-naped Mirafra africana LC 117 Martin, Banded Riparia cincta LC 118 Masked-Weaver, Lesser Ploceus intermedius LC 119 Masked-Weaver, Southern Ploceus velatus LC 120 Mousebird, Red-faced Urocolius indicus LC 121 Myna, Common Acridotheres tristis LC 122 Nightjar, Fiery-necked Caprimulgus pectoralis LC 123 Nightjar, Rufous-cheeked Caprimulgus rufigena LC 124 Oriole, Black-headed Oriolus larvatus LC 125 Owl, Barn Tyto alba LC 126 Paradise-Flycatcher, African Terpsiphone viridis LC 127 Paradise-Whydah, Long-tailed Vidua paradisaea LC 128 Pigeon, Speckled Columba guinea LC 129 Plover, Kittlitz's Charadrius pecuarius LC
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Numbe IUCN Common name Scientific name r status 130 Plover, Three-banded Charadrius tricollaris LC 131 Prinia, Tawny-flanked Prinia subflava LC 132 Puffback, Black-backed Dryoscopus cubla LC 133 Pytilia, Green-winged Pytilia melba LC 134 Quail, Harlequin Coturnix delegorguei LC 135 Quelea, Red-billed Quelea quelea LC 136 Robin-Chat, Cape Cossypha caffra LC 137 Roller, Lilac-breasted Coracias caudatus LC 138 Roller, Purple Coracias naevius LC 139 Ruff, Ruff Philomachus pugnax LC 140 Sandpiper, Common Actitis hypoleucos LC 141 Sandpiper, Wood Tringa glareola LC 142 Scimitarbill, Common Rhinopomastus cyanomelas LC 143 Scops-Owl, Southern White-faced Ptilopsus granti LC 144 Scrub-Robin, White-browed Cercotrichas leucophrys LC 145 Shrike, Lesser Grey Lanius minor LC 146 Shrike, Magpie Corvinella melanoleuca LC 147 Shrike, Red-backed Lanius collurio LC 148 Snake-Eagle, Black-chested Circaetus pectoralis LC 149 Snake-Eagle, Brown Circaetus cinereus LC 150 Sparrow, House Passer domesticus LC 151 Sparrow, Southern Grey-headed Passer diffusus LC 152 Sparrow-Weaver, White-browed Plocepasser mahali LC 153 Spoonbill, African Platalea alba LC 154 Spurfowl, Swainson's Pternistis swainsonii LC 155 Starling, Cape Glossy Lamprotornis nitens LC 156 Starling, Violet-backed Cinnyricinclus leucogaster LC 157 Starling, Wattled Creatophora cinerea LC 158 Stilt, Black-winged Himantopus himantopus LC 159 Stint, Little Calidris minuta LC 160 Stonechat, African Saxicola torquatus LC 161 Stork, White Ciconia ciconia LC 162 Sunbird, Marico Cinnyris mariquensis LC 163 Sunbird, White-bellied Cinnyris talatala LC 164 Swallow, Barn Hirundo rustica LC 165 Swallow, Greater Striped Hirundo cucullata LC 166 Swallow, Red-breasted Hirundo semirufa LC 167 Swallow, Wire-tailed Hirundo smithii LC 168 Swift, Little Apus affinis LC 169 Tchagra, Black-crowned Tchagra senegalus LC 170 Tchagra, Brown-crowned Tchagra australis LC 171 Teal, Cape Anas capensis LC 172 Teal, Red-billed Anas erythrorhyncha LC 173 Tern, White-winged Chlidonias leucopterus LC
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Numbe IUCN Common name Scientific name r status 174 Thick-knee, Spotted Burhinus capensis LC 175 Thick-knee, Water Burhinus vermiculatus LC 176 Thrush, Groundscraper Psophocichla litsipsirupa LC 177 Tit, Southern Black Parus niger LC 178 Turtle-Dove, Cape Streptopelia capicola LC 179 Warbler, Garden Sylvia borin LC 180 Warbler, Icterine Hippolais icterina LC 181 Warbler, Olive-tree Hippolais olivetorum LC 182 Warbler, Willow Phylloscopus trochilus LC 183 Waxbill, Black-faced Estrilda erythronotos LC 184 Waxbill, Blue Uraeginthus angolensis LC 185 Waxbill, Violet-eared Granatina granatina LC 186 Whitethroat, Common Sylvia communis LC 187 Whydah, Pin-tailed Vidua macroura LC 188 Wood-Dove, Emerald-spotted Turtur chalcospilos LC 189 Woodpecker, Cardinal Dendropicos fuscescens LC 190 Woodpecker, Golden-tailed Campethera abingoni LC 191 Coucal, Burchell's Centropus burchelli LC 192 Dove, red-eyed Streptopelia semitorquata LC 193 Flycatcher, southern black Melaenornis pammelaina LC 194 Weaver, village Ploceus cucullatus LC 195 Lark, red capped Calandrella cinerea LC 196 Finch, red-headed Amadina erythrocephala LC 197 Vulture, Cape Gyps coprotheres NT 198 Meve's Starling Lamprotornis mevesii LC Key: Bold indicates species that were recorded in 2015 survey
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Appendix D: Expected Mammal Species
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Common Name Scientific Name Red Data Status
Grey /Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia LC Klipspringer Oreotragus oreotragus LC
Impala Aepyceros melampus LC
Steenbok Raphicerus campestris LC Common Warthog Phacochoerus africanus LC Bushpig Potamochoerus larvatus LC Grey Rhebok Pelea capreolus LC Common Eland Taurotragus oryx LC Blesbok Damaliscus pygargus phillips LC Common Reedbuck Redunca arundinum LC Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus LC Red Hartebeest Alcelaphus buselaphus caama LC Plains Zebra Equus quagga LC White Rhinoceros Ceratotherium simum LC Blue Wildebeest Connochaetes taurinus LC Sable Antelope Hippotragus nige VU Nyala Nyala angasii LC Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros LC Waterbuck Kobus ellipsiprymnus LC Hippopotamus Hippopotamus amphibius VU Cape Buffalo Syncerus caffer LC Slender Mongoose Galerella sanguinea LC Striped Polecat Ictonyx striatus LC Small-spotted Genet Genetta genetta LC Large-spotted Genet Genetta tigrina LC Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata LC Dwarf Mongoose Helogale parvula LC White-tailed Mongoose Ichneumia albicauda LC Black-backed Jackal Canis mesomelas LC Honey Badger Mellivora capensis NT African Wild Cat Felis silvestris lybica LC Leopard Panthera pardus VU Serval Leptailurus serval NT Banded Mongoose Mungos mungo LC Caracal Caracal caracal LC Aardwolf Proteles cristata LC African Weasel Poecilogale albinucha LC Brown Hyaena Hyaena brunnea NT Water Mongoose Atilax paludinosus LC Spotted-necked Otter Hydrictis maculicollis NT
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Common Name Scientific Name Red Data Status
Cape Clawless Otter Aonyx capensis VU Bushveld Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus simulator LC Mauritian Tomb Bat Taphozous mauritianus LC Egyptian Slit-faced Bat Nycteris thebaica LC Straw Coloured Fruit Bat Eidolon helvum LC Cape Serotine Bat Neoromicia capensis LC Schreiber's Long-fingered Bat Miniopterus schreibersii NT Darling's Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus darlingi NT Egyptian Free-tailed Bat Tadarida aegyptiaca LC Lesser Yellow House Bat Scotophilus dinganii LC Rusty Bat Pipistrellus rusticus NT Short-eared Trident Bat Cloeotis percivali CR Reddish-gray Musk Shrew Crocidura cyanea LC South African Hedgehog Atelerix frontalis NT Lesser Red Musk Shrew Crocidura hirta LC Tiny Musk Shrew Crocidura fuscomurina LC Lesser Grey-browned Musk Shrew Crocidura silacea LC Least Dwarf Shrew Suncus infinitesimus LC Greater Dwarf Shrew Suncus lixus LC Long-tailed Forest Shrew Myosorex longicaudatus LC Swamp Musk Shrew Crocidura mariquensis LC Lesser Dwarf Shrew Suncus varilla LC Cape/Desert Hare Lepus capensis LC Scrub Hare Lepus saxatilis LC Jameson's Red Rock Rabbit Pronolagus randensis LC Short-snouted Elephant-shrew Elephantulus brachyrhynchus LC Rock Elephant Shrew Elephantulus myurus LC Vervet Monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus LC Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus LC Southern Lesser Galago Galago senegalensis LC Common Mole-rat Cryptomys hottentotus LC Multimammate Mouse Mastomys natalensis LC South African Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis LC Pygmy mouse Mus minutoides LC Pouched mouse Saccostomus campestris LC
Bushveld Gerbil Gerbilliscus leucogaster LC Tree Rat Rattus rattus LC Spiny Mouse Acomys spinosissimus LC Namaqua Rock Mouse Aethomys namaquensis LC Fat Mouse Steatomys pratensis LC
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Common Name Scientific Name Red Data Status
Woodland Dormouse Graphiurus murinus LC South African Springhare Pedetes capensis LC Tree Squirrel Paraxerus cepapi LC Highveld gerbil Gerbilliscus brantsii LC Single-striped Mouse Lemniscomys rosalia LC Red Veld Rat Aethomys chrysophilus LC Chestnut Climbing Mouse Dendromus mystacalis LC Kreb's Fat Mouse Steatomys krebsii LC Rock Dormouse Graphiurus platyops LC Greater Cane Rat Thryonomys swinderianus LC Angoni Vlei Rat Otomys angoniensis LC Grey Climbing mouse Dendromus melanotis LC Rock Hyrax/Dassie Procavia capensis LC Aardvark/Ant bear Orycteropus afer VU
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Appendix E: Expected Herpetofauna Species
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Family Species Common name Red list category Reptiles Acanthocercus Southern Tree Agamidae LC atricollis Agama Distant's Ground Agamidae Agama aculeata LC Agama Bibron's Stiletto Atractaspididae Atractaspis bibronii LC Snake Southern African Boidae Python natalensis LC Python Colubridae Boaedon capensis Brown House Snake LC Psammophis Western Yellow- Colubridae LC subtaeniatus bellied Sand Snake Cordylidae Cordylus jonesii Jones' Girdled Lizard LC Crocodylidae Crocodylus niloticus Nile Crocodile VU Speckled Shield Elapidae Aspidelaps scutatus LC Cobra Elapsoidea Highveld Garter Elapidae Not listed sundevallii Snake Chondrodactylus Gekkonidae Turner's Gecko LC turneri Hemidactylus Common Tropical Gekkonidae LC mabouia House Gecko Lygodactylus Common Dwarf Gekkonidae LC capensis Gecko Gerrhosaurus Yellow-throated Gerrhosauridae LC flavigularis Plated Lizard Meroles Common Rough- Lacertidae LC squamulosus scaled Lizard Holub's Sandveld Lacertidae Nucras holubi LC Lizard Leptotyphlops Leptotyphlopidae Peters' Thread Snake Not listed scutifrons Sundevall's Writhing Scincidae Mochlus sundevallii LC Skink Trachylepis Scincidae Speckled Rock Skink LC punctatissima Trachylepis Scincidae Speckled Sand Skink LC punctulata Scincidae Trachylepis varia Variable Skink LC Stigmochelys Testudinidae Leopard Tortoise LC pardalis Varanidae Varanus albigularis Rock Monitor LC Varanidae Varanus niloticus Water Monitor LC Crocodylidae Crocodylus niloticus Nile Crocodile VU Amphibians Brevicepitidae Breviceps adspersus Bushveld Rain Frog LC
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Family Species Common name Red list category Amietophrynus Bufonidae Olive Toad LC garmani Kassina Hyperoliidae Bubbling Kassina LC senegalensis Ptychadena Ptychadenidae Plain Grass Frog LC anchietae Drakensberg River Pyxicephalidae Amietia quecketti LC Frog Pyxicephalidae Pyxicephalus edulis African Bull Frog LC Pyxicephalidae Tomopterna cryptotis Tremelo Sand Frog LC Tomopterna Pyxicephalidae Knocking Sand Frog LC krugerensis Tomopterna Russetbacked Sand Pyxicephalidae LC marmorata Frog Tomopterna Pyxicephalidae Natal Sand Frog LC natalensis Chiromantis Southern Foam Nest Rhacophoridae LC xerampelina Frog
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Flora and Fauna Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Appendix F: Herpetofauna Species Recorded on Site
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Fauna and Flora Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Statu Family Species name Common English name s
Elapidae (Elapids) Naja mossambica Mozambique Spitting Cobra
Elapidae (Elapids) Naja annulifera Snouted Cobra
Lacertidae (Old World Lizards) Heliobolus lugubris Bushveld Lizard
Lacertidae (Old World Lizards) Nucrus intertexta Spotted Sandveld Lizard
Varanidae (Monitors / Leguaans) Varanus niloticus Water Monitor
Varanidae (Monitors / Leguaans) Varanus albigularis Rock Monitor
Amphisbaenidae Crocodylus niloticus Nile Crocodile VU
Pelomedusidae Pelusios sinuatus Serrated Hinged Terrapin (Side-Necked Terrapins)
Pelomedusidae Pelomedusa subrufa Marsh Terrapin (Side-Necked Terrapins)
Testudinidae (Land Tortoises) Geochelone pardalis Leopard Tortoise
Testudinid (Land Tortoises) Psammobates oculiferus Kalahari Tent Tortoise
Bufonidae (Toads) Bufo poweri Western Olive Toad
Bufonidae (Toads) Schisaderma carens Red Toad
Hyperoliidae Kassina senegalensis Bubbling Kassina
Microhylidae Breviceps adspersus Bushveld Rain Frog
Phrynomantis Microhylidae Banded Rubber Frog bifasciatus
Ranidae Cacosternum boettgeri Common Caco
Fauna and Flora Report Environmental Authorisation for the Proposed Kubu Coal Mine, near Lephalale, Limpopo LED2003
Statu Family Species name Common English name s
Chiromantis Ranidae Foam Nest Frog xerampelina
Ranidae Ptychadena anchietae Plain Grass Frog
Ptychadena Ranidae Broad-Banded Grass Frog mossambica
Ranidae Tomopterna krugerensis Knocking Sand Frog