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Issue 9
The Winter Wonderland Edition
July - August 2018
Join the EcoBrick
challenge
Wild Dog conservation in action
Crowned Eagle returns home
Orange River Mouth closes for first time in two decades
A need for community involvement in curbing poaching with dogs
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 1
A WORD FROM THE CEO 2 SCIENCE SNIPPETS
• Poisoning problem persists 26
NOTICEBOARD • Sharing really is caring 26
• We’re improving your membership benefits 3
• Events 3 WILDLIFE FACT FILE 27
• African Lion
GUEST CONTRIBUTION • Honey Badger
• Protecting the Pepper-bark Tree 4 • Pel’s Fishing Owl
Showcasing our supporters: Bravo Barloworld 5 Showcasing our supporters: The Heartbeat of Africa 28
FEATURES MEET THE PACK 29
• In pursuit of sustainable land management – Notes 6 • Cath Vise
from the field: Planning fieldwork around • Rugare Nyumhunga
rainy days during a drought
• A winter’s “tail” 8 PUPS’ PLACE 32
• County governments’ climate change adaptation 9
preparedness in Kenya IN CLOSING: Mwitu’s missive 33
• Surviving winter: Species that hibernate 10
Ways to give: Leaving a legacy 11
TAILS FROM THE FIELD
• Wild Dog conservation in action 11
• Crowned Eagle returns home 15
• Taking stock 16
• Orange River Mouth closes for first time in two 17
decades
• A need for community involvement in curbing 20
poaching with dogs
Showcasing our supporters: Goldwagen raises funds to 21
help save our carnivores
GREEN HEROES
• Playing for keeps 22
Ways to give: Donating is now as easy as snapping your 25
fingers… or your phone!
WALKING THE TALK
• Join the EcoBrick challenge 25
Physical Address: Building K2, Ardeer Road, Pinelands Office Park,
Modderfontein 1609, Gauteng, South Africa, Postal Address: Private Bag X 11, Modderfontein 1645, Gauteng, South Africa
Tel: +27 (0) 11 372 3600 Fax: +27 (0) 11 608 4682 NPO
1 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition
A word from the CEO
In South Africa, we are all too familiar with the discourse around political imperative these days to highlight and demands redress for
equality. Or inequality. When living in one of the most unequal the inequality between people; yet likewise, it is politically taboo
nations on Earth, the concept of equality is a standard feature in most to contemplate that the unequal use and abuse of almost all other
political grandstanding, philosophical introspection, socio-economic species by our own species, is just as serious. Serious, not for the sake
debate and the discourse of civil rights movements. And yet the MOST of those species who get driven to extinction every day in the name
staggering facts around the REAL inequality that is shaping our world, of ‘development’ or ‘utilisation’, but serious because of what it may
ruining millions of lives every day, and which may potentially destroy mean for all humans on a day not too far into the future. Homo sapiens
us all, appear to go unnoticed – and unaddressed - by politicians, may in fact, become the one species that is able to breed itself into
academics and rights campaigners globally. extinction.
The Weizmann Institute of Science recently published research that The EWT works to save those 4% of the wild mammals that are left,
shows that the world’s 7.6 billion human beings, whilst being by far and the 30% of our wild birds that remain. We do this for the wild ones
the most prolific species on the planet, only comprise around 0.01% and we do this for you. We do this because we know that only balance
of the biomass of the planet on which all live, meaning that we can keep us all flourishing and because we know that we need them,
represent only 0.01% of all life on our planet! Furthermore, this 0.01% more than they need us.
has caused the loss of 83% of all wild mammals and half of the plants Support the EWT today. Visit www.ewt.org.za for more.
that once occurred naturally on Earth, while we have massively and
disproportionately increased the numbers of livestock – simply to feed Yolan Friedmann
the voracious appetites of the most abundant species on the planet! EWT CEO
YolanF@ewt.org.za
The research goes on to indicate that humans are displacing wild
animals and plants with those that are cheaper and easier for us to
eat, at alarming rates. Today, farmed poultry comprises 70% of all
birds on the planet, with only 30% of birds being wild. A staggering
60% of all mammals on Earth are livestock, (cattle and pigs), and wild
animals form only 4% of mammalian life on Earth. Despite human
beings making up only 0.01% of the planet’s biomass, in terms of sheer
numbers, we make up around 36% of all mammals found on Earth.
We are by far the most successful species on the planet and we keep
finding ways to become more successful – if species proliferation is the
key measure of success. Yet tragically, this is coming at the expense of
most other forms of life on Earth. If inequality between humans is a
major source of societal instability then how can the disproportionate
ongoing growth of the human population and our staggering distortion
and destruction of the planet’s natural resources not be recognised
as the greatest threat to our own survival? Ironically, it is almost a
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 2
NOTICEBOARD
10 August: 12 August:
World Lion Day World Elephant Day
7 September:
Arbour Day
1 September:
International
Vulture Awareness
Day
We’re improving your membership
benefits
Are you an EWT member? As a valued part of the EWT family, we want
to make sure that you’re getting the maximum reward for your
wonderful loyalty and generosity! Previously, your full membership
fee was taxable, as benefits are subject to VAT, and did not qualify for
22 September: a Section 18A certificate under SARS regulations. We’d like to change
World Rhino Day the structure of your benefits, so that you can receive this tax relief in
future.
This means that the amount you pay can now be split into the cost of
the printed magazine subscription (R180 per year, for five issues,
including VAT and postage in South Africa), as well as a donation,
which will be eligible for tax relief. Alternatively, you can opt to not
receive the magazine and donate the full amount.
26 September: We have sent out further details of this change, and a form to enable
World Environmental you to make your selection, to all our members. Should you not have
received this communication, please email ewt@ewt.org.za to let us
Health Day know.
EWT Events
7 August: Country Club Johannesburg Talk – The great wildlife trade
and hunting debate (Colin Bell)
4 September: Country Club Johannesburg Talk – Killing me softly: 27 September:
Captive lions in SA (Dr Kelly Marnewick)
World Tourism Day
19 October: EWTea and Talk, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens –
Protecting the Protected: what we are doing to make roads safer
for wildlife in parks (Wendy Collinson)
3 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition
GUEST CONTRIBUTION The IUCN Red List (2007) lists Pepper-bark Trees as Endangered both
globally and nationally. It is believed that some 27 million people in
South Africa rely on traditional medicine. It is therefore considered to
Protecting the Pepper-bark Tree be facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild due to the increase
in human population creating the need for a natural increase in
traditional healers. The economic value also leads to unsustainable
Tim Neary, CSI and Enviro-conservation Consultant utilisation and poaching of the components that make up the
tim@neary.co.za traditional medicine trade. Losing this species would have severe
consequences in the traditional medicine trade where the bark, stems,
Warburgia salutaris, the Pepper-bark Tree, was once widespread in roots and leaves are used to treat colds and respiratory complaints. It
South and southern Africa. In 1926, it was documented that due to, is also used as a tonic for all health conditions including fever, malaria,
high utilisation this tree could become extinct. Wild populations of influenza, and coughs, and as a natural antibiotic for chest infections.
Pepper-bark Trees have been found in Mozambique, South Africa, It is also used for the treatment of venereal diseases, abdominal pain
Swaziland and Zimbabwe (www.iucnredlist.org). However, the current and constipation, cancer, rheumatism and stomach ulcers. It is applied
status of the plant in these countries is relatively unknown, and it topically to cuts, on the temples for headaches and has been used as
is suspected that it has gone extinct in the wild in most cases due an aphrodisiac (Diederichs 2006). More recently, it has been used in
to unsustainable harvesting. In Zimbabwe, an investigation showed the treatment of HIV (Lumbe pers.comm).
that there were less than three mature specimens left in the wild,
with a few individuals existing in the protected environment of the
Harare Botanical Gardens. However, these protected specimens also
showed signs of bark damage (www.zimbabweflora.co.zw). A recent
publication by Diederichs (2006) indicates that in South Africa, the
species is now found only in protected areas and as ornamental trees
in domestic gardens. All its home range countries depict a similar
status and story as to its scarcity.
In the past, only traditional healers would harvest the bark of the tree.
Thin strips would be taken, which allowed for the plant to regenerate
with relative ease. However, in recent times, commercial gatherers
who cross the fence into the Kruger National Park are practicing
destructive harvesting of the Pepper-bark Tree and sending the bark
to the muthi markets in Johannesburg and Durban, with little regard
for the consequences. Even the thinnest branches are stripped and the
whole tree is debarked, resulting in destruction of the tree. Through
working with the traditional healers, acceptability for nursery grown
seedlings has been achieved. It is worth noting that many of the
medicinal claims of this tree have been scientifically confirmed, and
that the medicinal properties are sought after by western homeopathy
for a number of ailments.
In 1996, the tree gained prominence as “Tree of the Year” and
regretfully the focus was soon lost on building the tree numbers for
use by traditional healers. In 2014, Sappi became involved in a project
with the Kruger National Park where seedlings were to be grown and
given to traditional healers on the borders of the park. This project has
enjoyed immense success with over 30,000 seedlings grown to date.
Through the project, it has become acceptable to use leaves and twigs
harvested from trees as young as four years old and thus not having to
wait some 15 years to harvest the bark.
The tree is a challenge to grow from both seed and cuttings, and in
the wild under stress holds back on seed production. Through the
formation of a working group of both scientists and naturalists, these
challenges have been resolved to a greater degree. Gene banks and
seed orchards have been created within the working group partnership.
Interest in the project has resulted in assistance being given to
Zimbabwe and Swaziland in their attempts to raise the numbers
of their trees to a state of sustainability, as well as the extension of
the project to areas in South Africa where Pepper-bark Trees once
occurred in the natural vegetation.
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 4
The working group believes that it would be arrogant to claim that
we are saving the tree and returning it to the wild. These are nursery
grown trees that are supplied at no cost to appropriate communities
to protect the few remaining known wild populations (it is the only
known tree under armed guard in a protected area in South Africa)
and it is hoped that the wild populations will regenerate themselves
naturally once not under direct threat and stress.
One of the successes of the project is passion and commitment
and that every cent goes to the pure project costs and not human
costs. The project is funded by Sappi and the working group consists
of Karin Hanwegg from the Agricultural Research Council Nelspruit,
Willem Froneman from SANBI Nelspruit, Dr David Everard from
Sappi, Michele Hofmeyr, and Tim Neary.
The project has allowed for an easy working template for
Endangered trees that are a challenge to grow and as such, the team
will commence on the next project in 2019 with the African Cherry
(Prunis Africana).
Showcasing Our Supporters
Bravo Barloworld
Barloworld is a distributor of leading global brands with head offices
in Johannesburg and Maidenhead (United Kingdom), providing
integrated rental, fleet management, product support and logistics
solutions. The company was established in 1902 in South Africa,
making it one of the country’s oldest companies. Inspiring leadership,
a reputation for ethical conduct, innovation and a commitment to
giving back has ensured Barloworld’s longevity.
Barloworld is also one of the longest standing Patron supporters of
the EWT, having supported the organisation since 2005. This is an
encouraging commitment given the current corporate donation
climate and shows their understanding of the imperative of a healthy
environment in underpinning a thriving economy.
In September 2015, 193 countries around the globe adopted a set of
goals to end poverty, protect the planet, and ensure prosperity for all
as part of a new sustainable development agenda. The Barloworld
group is a corporate partner that has considered its alignment with
the SDGs and the opportunities and responsibilities they represent
for the business. The group’s Purpose: Inspiring a world of difference,
enabling growth and progress in society, its strategic framework
including indicators and aspirational goals; as well as its responsible
citizenship programme is reflected in its alignment with the SDGs,
whereby the group is either directly or indirectly working towards all
17 SDGs. This is further demonstrated through their support of the
EWT as we actively work towards achieving the SDGs through our
conservation programmes.
The environment competes with a number of other causes for
funding and support and we appreciate that Barloworld shares our
understanding that our conservation work saves not just species and
their habitats, but also supports ecosystems goods and services that
are essential for human survival and wellbeing.
The EWT would like to thank Barloworld for their ongoing support
and their commitment to helping us to achieve our vision of a healthy
planet and an equitable world that values and sustains the diversity
of all life.
5 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition
Features feed and cropping purposes. Thus, healthy riparian systems are key
resource areas in the landscape. Given the national importance of
water catchments, the role of riparian areas, and the impact of climate
In pursuit of sustainable land change, the need to restore these critical areas to a resilient state is
imperative.
management – Notes from the
field: Planning fieldwork With this in mind, and based on the fact that degradation in this
landscape poses threats not only to biodiversity but also to livelihoods,
around rainy days during a The EWT’s Drylands Conservation Programme (DCP) launched its
Riparian Habitat Restoration Project in 2007. The objective was to look
drought at different techniques to restore degraded riparian habitat along the
seasonal rivers in the Nama Karoo.
Bonnie Schumann, Senior Field Officer, Drylands Conservation
Programme The first step was to establish a Karoo Indigenous Plant Nursery to
BonnieS@ewt.org.za support restoration efforts by providing seedlings for planting. In 2009,
three restorations sites were established. Since then, several additional
Autumn in the Nama Karoo is a bit like a second spring as many of the sites have been established along the Sak- and Brak rivers, and one
hardy Karoo shrubs make a final attempt at reproduction before the site along the Maanhaarspruit. Various different methodologies
cold winter sets in. At this time of the year, temperatures start turning and techniques were trialled, and a Master’s student-produced a
as the brutal summer sun eases its grip on the landscape. Fortunately, dissertation looking at the effectiveness of micro-catchments in this
in 2018 this time of year also coincided with welcome rains. particular habitat to promote seedling survival.
The Karoo biome, covering more than 27% of South Africa, contains Erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts and heavy downpours are
concerning levels of land degradation (Land Degradation Assessment very much a natural part of this drylands landscape. These factors
in Drylands, 2012). Climate change will exacerbate existing droughts do however, make habitat restoration a particularly challenging
and natural disasters. This will place further stress on water resources, undertaking. To compound matters, the nature of the riparian areas,
thus further limiting this natural resource upon which all biological, with their deep, fine soil, which has a high clay content, make them
cultural and economic activity depends. particularly vulnerable to erosion, capping and compacting.
The riparian habitat, with its unique vegetation, is home to the Critically The prospect of further droughts has halted the establishment of any
Endangered Riverine Rabbit. In addition, these highly productive new sites for the near future. Establishing new plants on restoration
catchment areas are a valuable resource to agriculture in the area, sites in these drought conditions is simply not feasible. The drought
in terms of grazing for livestock and for the cultivation of livestock has also had an impact on grazing systems, placing increasing pressure
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 6
on the productive riparian zones, as natural fodder continues to conditions, as well as size of farm etc.
decrease as the current drought progresses.
The resilience of a farmer’s management system to adverse conditions
This year the autumn rains were particularly soothing and welcome, is tested to its utmost during a drought such as the one we are
boosting both veld- and livestock condition somewhat, following the experiencing. Addressing resilience and reducing negative impacts on
failed spring and summer rains. We were patiently holding out for the veld, which can take years to remedy following a drought, needs
some rain to stimulate plant activity since spring last year, as we had an to be addressed well in advance so that a farms ability to bounce back
ecologist on standby to carry out evaluations of restoration techniques after a drought is not impaired.
and associated veld.
Access to early warning systems, as well as having a sound strategy
Simon Todd, a drylands ecologist, finally got the “green light” to visit for adapting the farming system to adverse conditions are critical
the Loxton area in mid-April. The veld was looking great following the components of any farm management plan.
rain.
Often the response to adverse conditions is a reactionary one and
Our first day out in the field literally started out with a “bang” as we not pro-active one. Biodiversity conservation is inexorably linked to
were severely hampered by yet more rain in the form of a dramatic agriculture in the Nama Karoo, given that extensive farming of livestock
storm, with thunder, lightning and cloudbursts throughout the day. in a largely intact landscape is the primary activity. Aligning agricultural
and conservation priorities to achieve the common goal of sustainable
These evaluations are the culmination of eight years of habitat land management in this vast landscape is the ultimate prize.
restoration work carried out by the DCP team. We decided to have the
restoration efforts evaluated externally to assess the effectiveness of The DCP recently embarked on a five-year project in partnership with
the methodologies employed. We use the term restoration to describe the United Nations Development Programme and the Department of
our activities. Although damaged sites can never be completely Environmental Affairs to promote sustainable land management (SLM)
restored it is possible to restore some functionality to the landscape. in the Nama Karoo. The project is funded by the Global Environmental
Facility (GEF).
This will help us to identify best practices in terms of restoration
methodologies. It will also give us an objective opinion on progress on The project, entitled “Securing multiple ecosystems benefits through
these sites. Once we understand the appropriateness and challenges Sustainable Land Management in the productive but degraded
associated with each technique, we will train farmers and other landscapes of South Africa” also known as the Sustainable Land
stakeholders and promote the use of highly effective techniques. Management Project will be rolled out in three different geographic
regions by three partners. The EWT will implement the project in the
In addition, riparian habitat, as well as the veld adjacent to the riparian Northern Cape’s Nama Karoo.
zones were evaluated on five farms, by carrying out cover and diversity
assessments every 20m along 1km transects.
This work, both the restoration and the veld condition forms part of
our work to promote sustainable land management in the Karoo, by
identifying both best practice restoration, as well as veld management
techniques. There are various grazing systems farmers can choose
to apply, how they apply these systems varies greatly from farmer
to farmer, depending on how local environmental and topographical
7 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition
A WINTER’S “TAIL” For the threatened grassland species in this biome, winter is certainly a
different season compared to summer. Sungazer lizards generally stay
in their burrows (where they live) for the majority of the winter period.
Bradley Gibbons, Field Officer, Threatened Grassland Species Although one would like to say that they hibernate, they sometimes
Programme surprise us when a Sungazer’s head appears in the grasslands on a
BradleyG@ewt.org.za winter’s day, but this obviously only happens when the weather is
warm and sunny.
Winter has arrived in the Highveld Grasslands. The green colours are
slowly changing, and although the characteristics of the landscape Oribi often come together in small groups because the breeding
change with it, the Grassland biome offers a different type of beauty season is over, and their territories are no longer functional.
in our coldest season. In the pristine areas, some hillsides display a red
colour due to the grass species very aptly called Red Grass (Themeda The Botha’s Lark also shows a local migration pattern. The birds move
triandra). The winter winds blow the grasses like waves over a lake. from their breeding areas, but their colour remains brown, hence
Frost very often occurs on the cold winter mornings, but the snow on they remain “little brown jobs”. Yellow-breasted Pipits lose their
the high-lying majestic Drakensberg is a must see, and sometimes, the yellow colour, and can easily be mistaken for an African Pipit (Anthus
sandstone mountains also become snow-capped. Very often one may cinnamomeus). However, they also move to lower areas, sometimes to
see a layer of ice on the tops of water bodies, such as on the edges of other different habitats, and even fallow lands.
dams... that confirms it’s a cold morning!
The grasslands are full of surprises, so don’t forget that they are still
Winter can also change the behaviour of our Threatened Grassland worth a visit at this time of the year. Remember to be on the lookout
Species Programme’s flagship creatures. A Sungazer’s (Smaug for threatened species, but most importantly to explore the beauty
giganteus) brown and spiky tail is not often seen in winter, but you that is still evident, even when there is a chill in the air.
should see an Oribi’s (Ourebia ourebi) black tipped tail within their
distribution area. The Yellow-breasted Pipit (Anthus chloris) may be This work is made possible by People’s Trust for Endangered Species,
hard to see in their normal summer areas, as well as the Botha’s Lark WWF Nedbank Green Trust, Rand Merchant Bank, and N3TC.
(Spizocorys fringillaris).
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 8
County governments’ climate
change adaptation
preparedness in Kenya
Rudolf Makhanu, Kenya Country Coordinator, ICF EWT Partnership
RudolfM@ewt.org.za
The majority of Kenya’s counties are highly vulnerable to climate
change impacts. This is because production systems and livelihoods
in most counties are highly dependent on natural resources, meaning
that climate change, as manifested through increasing temperatures,
recurring droughts, erratic rainfall patterns and floods, amongst
others, will continue to negatively impact livelihoods, general health
of the population, and community assets. This is threatening the
sustainability of development both at county and national level.
Climate change is defined by the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as “a change of climate
which is attributed directly or indirectly to human activity that alters
the composition of the global atmosphere and which is in addition to
natural climate variability observed over comparable time periods”
(GOK, 2013). Current data demonstrates that the climate in Kenya, and
globally, is changing at an unprecedented rate and that unparalleled
levels of human-induced greenhouse gas (GHG), especially carbon
dioxide, emissions are causing an increase in global temperatures that
creates changes in the earth’s weather. It is now clear that climate
change has become an impediment to the sustainable development of At national level, towards tacking the challenge of climate change,
Kenya, and urgent action is required (GOK, 2016). the country has enacted legislation, policy frameworks and plans. The
Climate Change Act 2016, require county governments to integrate
The evidence of climate change in Kenya is unmistakable. Temperatures and mainstream climate change actions, interventions and duties
have risen throughout the country. Rainfalls have become irregular into County Integrated Development Plans (CIDPs), budgeting and
and unpredictable, and when it rains, downpour is more intense. implementation.
Extreme and harsh weather is now a norm in Kenya. More specifically,
since the early 1960s, both minimum (night time) and maximum Developed in July 2016, the National Adaptation Plan (NAP) 2015-2013
(daytime) temperatures have been on an increasing (warming) trend. is another planning tool aimed at enhancing climate resilience towards
The minimum temperature has risen generally by 0.7 - 2.0°C and the the attainment of vision 2030 and beyond. It builds on the foundation
maximum by 0.2 - 1.3°C, depending on the season and the region. In laid by the National Climate Change Response Strategy (NCCRS) and
areas near large water bodies, the maximum temperatures have risen the National Climate Change Adaptation Plan (NCCAP). Additionally,
much like in other areas but the minimum temperatures have either the NAP is the basis for the adaptation component of Kenya’s Intended
not changed or become slightly lower (GOK, 2010). Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) that was submitted to the
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
Some of the negative impacts include reduced agricultural output, Secretariat. The aim of NAP is to consolidate the country’s vision on
high incidence of malaria and destruction of infrastructure (such as adaptation supported by macro-level adaptation actions that relate
roads) by runoff associated with flash floods. Additionally, biodiversity with the economic sectors and county level vulnerabilities to enhance
has also been affected as rare species of birds and animals, which long-term resilience and adaptive capacity.
could otherwise boost tourism, have migrated to other areas. This
calls for urgent coordinated response to effectively adapt and mitigate This implies that at county level CIDP, County Climate Change
climate change. Adaptation Plans, Budgets, and Annual sector development plans are
critical spaces for integration of climate change.
Human-related actions aggravating climate change include high
population growth rate that has exerted pressure on existing land Most county governments are in the process of developing CIDPs as
leading to unsustainable agricultural practices. This trend has caused well as climate change action/adaptation plans. Nandi and Nakuru are
people to live in environmentally fragile places such as hilltops, among the first counties to draft county climate change action plans.
swamps and water catchments areas and in the process they accelerate Impacts of particular concern to the two counties are related to food
degradation of the environment as manifested in deforestation, production, water resources, human health, ecosystem health and
wetland reclamation, poor waste management, water and soil damage to infrastructure.
pollution, and unplanned settlements and developments. Majority
of forests and wetlands have been encroached contributing to water The following is recommended to ensure effective integration of
insecurity. Destroying forests and wetlands increases the community’s climate change in county planning, budgeting and implementation
vulnerability to negative impacts of climate change processes:
Preparedness of county governments to effectively adapt to negative 1. Undertake climate change vulnerability assessments, targeting
impacts of climate change is dependent on their ability to integrate critical ecosystems such as wetlands and forests to inform
and mainstream climate change in the county’s development planning, evidence based adaptation and mitigation interventions.
budgeting and implementation process. This implies that the top of 2. Adopt ecosystem-based adaptation in realisation of the
any county government’s agenda is the need to strengthen adaptive critical role healthy ecosystems play towards attaining
capacity and resilience to climate change, and promote sustainable adaptation and mitigation objectives to negative impacts of
development as a strategy for the enhancing wellbeing of human and climate change. Conserving wetlands enhances water security.
ecological systems.
9 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland EditionSurviving winter: Species that
hibernate
Innocent Buthelezi, Field Officer, Wildlife and Roads Project
InnocentB@ewt.org.za
When the environment becomes unfavourable for an animal, they
have to find a way to survive the unfavourable situation. Some animals
take the long journey to more hospitable climates, while others enter
an inactive state without leaving their habitat, which they stay in until
conditions suit them better. Winter is usually the season that brings
harsh conditions like cold weather and food is also lot harder to find,
to name just a few reasons.
The behaviour in an animal when it enters state of inactivity is known
as hibernation. This is the condition or period of an animal or plant
spending winter in a dormant state, remaining inactive or indoors.
During this period of deep sleep that helps save energy and survive the
winter without eating much. The animal’s body temperature drops,
and its heartbeat and its breathing slowing down. Several animals,
such as reptiles, mammals, insects, amphibians and even one bird
practice some form of hibernation during the winter.
In reptiles, instead of being called hibernation, it is known as
brumation. During this period of dormancy, snakes and tortoises
may not eat, drink, defecate, or move for several weeks. They bury
themselves underground or enclose themselves in the darkest and
3. Strengthen the county government’s capacity in Disaster Risk coolest part of their enclosure.
Reduction (DRR) and promote integration of DRR in all
sectors. In mammals, also known as endotherms, prior to hibernation they
store energy to last through the entire winter. They eat a large amount
4. Promote technologies that enhance water resource efficiency. of food and store the energy in fat deposits. It is this fat accumulation
5. Provide tools to assist the county government to mainstream prior to hibernation in mammals that enables them to survive the
climate change in their CIDP – including information about state of dormancy.
climate change, and a framework or guidance document for
mainstreaming climate change in CIDPs and county budgets. Birds typically do not hibernate but are commonly known for their
behaviours of migrating from one place to another during unfavourable
6. Prioritise climate proofing of infrastructure by integrating conditions. One known exception is the Common Poorwill. This is a
climate change risks and opportunities in the design, nocturnal bird of the family Caprimulgidae, the nightjars. It is found
operation and management of infrastructure. from British Columbia and south-eastern Alberta, through the western
United States to northern Mexico.
7. Build the capacity of county officials and planners – to enable
them to apply a climate change lens across sectors. This could Amphibians have developed strategies to deal with the most severe
also help officials to better understand climate change and conditions. Hibernation and estivation are the two strategies that
correctly address adaptation and mitigation. amphibians have developed for extreme cold and extreme hot
8. Develop common indicators to be used by counties to track conditions. Amphibians either make or find a living space during
climate change action – to improve understanding of the winter, depending on its type of habitat. This living space known as a
implementation of actions and climate change results, and hibernaculum, which protects it from winter and predation.
provide the basis for reporting on climate change, which is
required under the Climate Change Act, 2016. The hibernating habits of insects are more similar to those of plants,
than to many other animals, such as mammals and birds. Insects are
9. Invest in a resilient energy system through an energy ectothermic meaning they rely on external sources to provide them
generation mix for sustainable development. with heat. To avoid freezing up in winter, insects should be tolerant of
10. Promote innovative application of technology and science the cold conditions.
matched to local needs and risks.
11. Develop county climate financing mechanisms for
adaptation that should entail appropriate climate
adaptation financing tracking systems.
12. Put in place supportive climate change governance
infrastructure that should include establishment of a
County Climate Change Desk/Secretariat, enacting
appropriate county laws for climate change actions, and
establishment of an enabling institutional framework for
climate change action.
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 10Ways to give
Leaving a Legacy
Tammy Baker, Business Development Officer
TammyB@ewt.org.za
It’s the kind of subject we don’t always like to dwell on, but none of
us can avoid the need to have an up-to-date will, ensuring that our
last wishes are carried out and our legacy is continued in the way that
we would choose.
Including a bequest to an organisation that you have supported in
your lifetime, or that you would have liked to support, had you been
able to, is a way to bring dignity, meaning and purpose to a life well-
lived. You, and your values, beliefs and generous philanthropic role
modelling, will live on in the memories of those you support.
Should you choose to remember the EWT in your will, you are not
only ensuring that the vital work that the organisation does carries
on and benefits generations for years to come, you could also be
providing tax benefits to your loved ones.
Section 4(h) of the Estate Duty Act determines that bequests made to
public benefit organisations such as the EWT should first be deducted
from the nett value of your estate before estate duty is determined.
This means that remembering the EWT in your will could exempt
your estate from estate duty. A deduction for estate duty purposes
is allowed in respect of the value of property bequeathed to a public
benefit organisation.
The EWT relies on bequests both large and small to ensure that we
continue fulfilling our vision of a healthy planet and an equitable
world that values and sustains the diversity of all life.
We would like to thank you if you have already decided to leave
a bequest and invite you to consider doing so if you have not. We
assure you that your legacy will make a lasting impact for the benefit
of all people who inhabit our beautiful land.
There are different types of bequests that you can select from,
namely:
• Residue of your estate
• A percentage of your estate
• A specific sum of money Tails from the field
• A life insurance policy
Wild Dog conservation in action
• Property
Cole du Plessis, KZN Regional Carnivore Coordinator, Carnivore
Conservation Programme
We recommend that you use the below wording: ColeD@ewt.org.za
“I bequeath to the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) registered Cole du Plessis, the EWT’s KZN Regional Carnivore Coordinator, takes
NPO number 015-502 of K2 Pinelands Office Park, Ardeer Road, us inside the historic recent translocation of a pack of Wild Dogs to
Modderfontein, Gauteng, (insert bequest details of your choice), and Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique, with this personal account
I express the that such estate be used for the purpose of conserving of a unique conservation experience.
threatened species and habitats for future generations”.
“While a Wild Dog might look like a domestic dog in many ways, the
genetic lineage is far removed, making the species incredibly unique
and invaluable in biodiversity conservation – especially with only 600
left in South Africa.
11 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland EditionA key means of encouragement for landowners to have these special
animals on their properties should be tourist demand: if lodge
bookings and guest experiences are hindered by non-existent Wild
Dog sightings, then reserves will surely be willing to introduce a pack
of Wild Dogs. Be it for conservation value or tourism, the trick is to
encourage perfectly good areas to be opened up to this species, thus
enabling them to thrive in their natural environment. Gorongosa
National Park (Mozambique) has done just this.
National Geographic has declared Gorongosa National Park as one of
Africa’s last wild places, and with the accomplished staff, the amount
of available safe space, and the prey numbers, it could be termed a
Wild Dog’s paradise. What is even more special, however, is that Wild
Dogs were wiped out from this area during the 16-year civil war. So,
these newly introduced African Wild Dogs are the first to make an
appearance in decades. I feel so fortunate to have had the privilege of
coordinating this relocation, and even more blessed to have Ezemvelo
KZN Wildlife’s Dr Rowan Leeming (aka my partner in crime) alongside
me to successfully complete the mission.
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 12What makes this story quite interesting is that the independent groups The females share a similar story. Toward the end of 2017, a free
of male Wild Dogs and female Wild Dogs that were eventually brought roaming pack (a pack outside a protected area) emerged in KZN. The
together to become Gorongosa’s first introduced pack had been under pack was made up of one adult male, one adult female and eight pups.
threat by local farmers in two completely different areas of KwaZulu- Again, this pack was under threat…and at times it feels as if we are too,
Natal (KZN) at two different times. as we are often the target of anger and rage when this Endangered
species settles on land where they are ‘not meant to be’. In this case,
In 2016, the male uMkhuze Wild Dogs had on occasion taken to after a month of intense effort, helicopters, capture nets, you name
leaving the reserve with the rest of their pack. In the early stages, they it… the whole pack was captured.
would return to the reserve, but as time went on they began to deviate
further and further from home. Eventually, they made their way to a Because of the population structure, however, we had to separate the
hunting farm where their presence was not tolerated. The day before males and the females. If we had placed this pack on another reserve
Christmas of that year conflict arose which resulted in our capture of and something had happened to one of the parents, it would instantly
these Wild Dogs in order to take them to safety. The only solution we have become unstable. Inbreeding or breaking out of the reserve
had was to immobilise them and place them in a holding facility, which would likely have been the result. Sad, I know, but necessary for the
would become their new home for the next year. Sadly, there were no long-term best interests of the Wild Dogs. The males were sent up
other reserves in the country willing to take these Wild Dogs. to a reserve called Maremani Nature Reserve in Limpopo and have
13 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Editionsince been introduced to four females from Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game we had done it! These Wild Dogs had escaped persecution and were
Reserve; while the females were moved to a boma adjoining the one now at their new home with new beginnings… and they were being
that the uMkhuze males had been held in for the better part of 2016. welcomed with love!
After months and months of planning, meetings, paperwork, vaccine
and collar orders, D-Day eventually arrived. On 16 April 2018, it was To date, that moment has been the highlight of my career in
time to move these two groups of Wild Dogs to their new home: conservation!
Gorongosa National Park. To get things underway, our team met up
on 15 April to strategise and finalise our action plan. This was followed We touched down and Raymond pulled the plane around to the
by a merry braai with great excitement brewing the night before the friendly Mozambicans eagerly waiting to meet their new pack of Wild
big move. That night I had only two hours sleep. When the alarm Dogs. The plane door opened and what a reception we were given! But
eventually rang, we packed our bags and headed to the holding facility the job wasn’t over. We needed to load the Wild Dogs into the back
where the Wild Dogs were lodged. It was feeding day for them so they of the Land Cruisers and get them to the boma. I was on the back of
were eager to see us, but they had no idea about the cross-border trip the Land Cruiser with Tonecas (one of the vets at Gorongosa National
that awaited them! Park) and Rowan accompanied the other half of the Wild Dogs in the
other Land Cruiser.
Just before sunrise, we downed a cup of coffee, then began to mix
the drugs and prep the darts. As the sun peeped over the horizon, I couldn’t stop telling Tonecas how the much the Wild Dogs were going
the game was on! Our strategy was to dart the females first as they to love it here! On behalf of the Wild Dogs, I was in awe! After 20
were significantly more skittish (being a free roaming pack that had minutes of driving, we made it to the boma, fitted the Wild Dogs with
only recently been captured). We had hoped for a speedy start, but their collars, completed the vaccinations and rubbed the male Wild
they didn’t make it easy. It took three-and-a-half hours to immobilise Dogs and the female Wild Dogs together (artificial bonding). We do
the six females! At that point I was told by the Mozambican crew this to kickstart the bonding process in a newly formed pack. Through
that if we didn’t leave the holding facility by 9:30, we wouldn’t make physical interaction and social activity, this would happen naturally,
Mozambican customs in time. Imagine that! A pack of Wild Dogs but the rubbing together speeds up the process. In addition, they are
sedated on a plane and you are held up at customs? placed in a boma to give them time to adapt to their new environment
and to concentrate the social interaction thereby intensifying the pack
All I could do was try to maintain a calm working atmosphere and cohesion.
passively push the team to keep up the tempo. Once we got around
to darting the uMkhuze males, Rowan didn’t miss. He darted seven Once this process was complete, we administered the drug reversals.
Wild Dogs in seven minutes! With just a few to go, I could update the All that was left for us to do was to watch and wait for the Wild Dogs
Mozambican crew on our progress. to wake up. The team stayed at the boma for the next eight hours
until all the Wild Dogs had come around and were fully awake. But it
As soon as all the Wild Dogs had been immobilised, we loaded them wasn’t until the following morning that I felt completely satisfied. The
into the crates and rapidly moved them to the uMkhuze airstrip where Wild Dogs had recovered well and were already bonding. The young
the very experienced Raymond Steyn (from The Bateleurs) was waiting females had instantly developed crushes on the older males and were
with a prepped Pilatus PC 12. Each Wild Dog was removed from its literally chasing them around the boma as though playing a game of
crate, had a nametag fitted, was topped up with the sedative, and ‘kissing catchers’. The males didn’t seem to mind all that much. In fact,
loaded onto the plane. Every inch of floor space was utilised! it only took about three days for one of the males to begin mating with
the alpha female.
I didn’t want to create stress but I had to subtly tell the pilots that
we were behind schedule and the deadline was approaching! We took It was the perfect ending to a wonderful story, where many
off soon after that and within a half hour touched down at Kruger collaborations had come together in pursuit of Wild Dog conservation
Mpumalanga International Airport. This is where we had to clear South and now hopefully, we might be expecting some new Wild Dog
African customs. After being faced with some paperwork hitches that Mozambican citizens in a few months’ time!”
cost us one-and-a-half hours, we were free to move on.
The Wild Dogs were released from their holding boma on 16 June
We were en route to Beira (Mozambique) for our next customs check 2018, and Beira, the alpha female, is indeed in the early stages of
and were further behind schedule by then, but there was no going pregnancy!
back. The next stretch was about two hours and
working on the Wild Dogs was a full-time job.
There was literally no place to stand in the plane
but we were somehow having to hover above
each of the Wild Dogs to apply their sedative top-
ups and vaccines.
To help matters and to try to catch up some time,
some of the Gorongosa crew had chartered a
helicopter to Beira International Airport ahead
of our arrival. They had also delivered all the
paperwork to the Mozambican customs officials
so that by the time we got there, we were basically
cleared for an immediate turnaround. We were
on our final stretch: Beira to Gorongosa National
Park.
It was only a 20-minute convoy to Mozambique’s
flagship national park. I recall looking out of the
plane window and I couldn’t help but grin. This
was Wild Dog paradise… and it never ended! It
wasn’t long before Raymond circled the airstrip
and I got goose bumps. After months of work,
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 14Crowned Eagle returns home After Bennie stitched up her left wing, the large female Crowned
Eagle was collected by the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre, where she
recovered and underwent two weeks of rehabilitation. The hard work
Dr Gareth Tate, Manager, Birds of Prey Programme and commitment from the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre team paid
GarethT@ewt.org.za off, and after picking up a substantial amount of weight, the eagle was
ready to be taken back home for release.
In late April, Dr Gareth Tate, manager of the Endangered Wildlife
Trust’s Birds of Prey Programme, received a report of an African On Sunday the 13th of May, the Dullstroom Bird of Prey Centre drove
Crowned Eagle that had been struck by a car near the farming town a very anxious eagle back to the place where the incident occurred.
of Hazyview, Mpumalanga. Gareth was on assignment in the area Here, they were met by Gareth and Bennie, and some very excited
and drove to where the bird had last been seen. After a tip off from spectators. The EWT fitted the bird with a GPS tracking device. She was
a helpful local farm worker, Gareth managed to locate the eagle in a then released in a nearby indigenous forest in a pristine valley near to
ditch below a busy highway, not far from where it had been hit. where she was originally found. The EWT is currently monitoring her
recovery with the help of the tracker, and has received information
As Gareth approached the bird, it spooked and, although dazed and from the local farmer that another Crowned Eagle has been seen
clearly wounded, scurried off and disappeared into a dark thicket in perched near to her – we are hoping this is her original mate. This
a nearby ravine. It took nearly two hours to re-locate the distressed bird will form part of a monitoring study headed up by Dr Garth
eagle, which had hidden itself tightly beneath the thick undergrowth. Bachelor, who monitors the Crowned Eagle population in and around
Gareth, assisted by some of his SANParks colleagues, managed to pick the Nelspruit region of the Lowveld. Her data will also feed into Dr
up the bird with caution, and immediately set off to the local vet, Dr Shane McPherson’s post-doctoral research on the species, which he is
Bennie Pienaar from the White River Animal Hospital. Here the bird conducting through the University of KwaZulu-Natal.
was examined and x-rayed, and despite its run in with a large 4x4
vehicle, astonishingly had no broken bones. This work is made possible by support from Rand Merchant Bank.
15 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland EditionTaking stock bass and Bluegill Sunfish to eat. Smaller fish do not stand a chance
and are unable to establish themselves or survive in pools below the
barrier were alien species live. This stresses the importance of the
Phetole Peter Ramollo, Northern Cape Department of Environment and Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve as a sanctuary for the indigenous species
Nature Conservation and a fish nursery and refuge area into the Koebee, Doring and Olifants
ramollopp@gmail.com rivers. Overall the sawfin was the most dominating fish species caught
in the Oorlogskloof River, and some with black spots, an indication of
The Oorlogskloof River is an important river for conservation of parasitic infestation.
freshwater fish. This is mainly because it supports a presence of several
endemic and Endangered indigenous fish species, including Clanwilliam The fish surveys are conducted every year in autumn before the winter
Sandfish (Labeo seeberi), Clanwilliam Sawfin (Pseudobarbus serra), rainfall in the area, and only last for a week. Volunteers are welcome
Clanwilliam Yellowfish (Labeobarbus capensis), and one locally invasive and must ensure a reasonable level of fitness, and willingness to hike
species, the Banded Tilapia (Tilapia sparrmanii). The dedicated staff of in and out of the Oorlogskloof Canyon every day. The survey entails
Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve staff in Niewoudtville, members of the hiking, walking in rough terrain and swimming in order to cast the net
public and EWT team members recently conducted the annual fish in various pools to catch fish, so quick dry clothes and good hiking
survey to assess 36 sites in the Oorlogskloof-Koebee River system. The shoes are essential. The caught fish are measured with a ruler for
fish surveys are aimed at assessing fish distribution and abundance, standard length and fork length and returned into the water alive.
and establishing whether the alien invasive species have a negative
impact on the indigenous species. The Banded Tilapia does not eat
the indigenous fish and does not pose a serious threat as opposed to
species such as bass(Micropterus sp.) and Bluegill Sunfish (Lepomis
macrochirus).
Due to the current drought some of the pools were too low, while a
few were completely dry, making it difficult to net. Regardless of the
drought conditions, there are deep permanent pools providing refuge
for the fish species in the Oorlogskloof River. These deep pools are
supplied through seepage from the mountains, and even the severe
drought being experienced in the region did not have a negative
impact in drying up the pools.
There is a natural barrier of huge boulders, located in the lower reaches
of the Oorlogskloof River that prevents the Bluegill Sunfish and bass
from moving upstream in the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve. Currently
the sites below the natural barrier are green because there are no
indigenous fish species like Clanwilliam Sawfin to eat the algae. Overall,
indigenous fish are very scarce below the natural barrier because they
are eaten by alien fish species and that results poor water quality in
the pools. During this survey, only one large yellowfish that had come
from the Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve was found below the natural
barrier, primarily because fish that are too large are difficult for the
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 16Orange River Mouth closes for Botswana, Lesotho and Namibia. Where this mighty river enters the
Atlantic Ocean at the South Africa/Namibia border, it constitutes the
first time in two decades second most important estuary in South Africa. This is because it forms
a fish nursery, with nutrients that wash out into the ocean and support
Grant Smith, Estuaries Project Coordinator, and Bridget Jonker, many of the west coast fisheries. It is also a key habitat for birds, with
Manager, Source to Sea Programme thousands of flamingos regularly using its salt marsh.
GrantS@ewt.org.za and BridgetJ@ewt.org.za
On 12 April 2018, as a result of extended periods of low river flows
The Orange River basin covers a massive area of southern Africa and and high seas off the coast of Alexander Bay, marine sand built up
supports a significant agricultural and industrial economy along its to close the mouth of the Orange River for the first time in 20 years.
length. It is our biggest transboundary river, traversing South Africa, This historic event could prove pivotal in the recovery of this critical
17 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Editionecosystem, which the Endangered Wildlife Trust, in collaboration with For South Africans, one of the most important services provided by
government departments, research institutions and other NGOs, has this system is critical nursery habitat for fish. The Orange Estuary
been working towards since 2014. comprises 15-20% of available estuarine nursery area on the West
Coast. Growth and survival of the young of many coastal estuary-
From 2014 to 2017, the EWT partnered with the IUCN to improve associated fish species is limited without the relatively warmer, murky
integrated water resources management at the Orange River Mouth waters, abundant food and sheltered habitat provided by the Orange
(ORM) with funding from USAID. The EWT supported the work of Estuary. Its role as a refuge area is emphasised by the frequent 10-15 °C
government departments through water quality monitoring, animal difference between cold upwelling in the ocean and estuarine waters
data collection and high resolution mapping so that the estuary during the summer months. The Orange Estuary is a transboundary
boundaries could be properly delineated and, from there, the mouth system shared between Namibia and South Africa and there are
proclaimed a Protected Environment. very few predominantly open estuaries of this nature on southern
Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland Edition 18Africa’s West Coast, making the ORM not only locally important, but Grant Smith, EWT Estuary Projects Coordinator, says, “It’s very
internationally as well, from an ecological perspective. This makes disappointing that nature wasn’t allowed to take its course. The flood
recovery of this ecosystem essential. posed no threat to life or infrastructure and because of the potential
ecological benefits, the parties involved should have waited for the
The ORM Ramsar Site is South Africa’s second most important estuary rising river to breach the mouth naturally. Either way, this is an
for biodiversity conservation. Human activities, dating back to the historical moment in the recent history of the Orange River Mouth
early 1900s, have placed the ecosystem under increased pressure. An and its response to this environmental event will provide scientists and
observable symptom of ill-health presented itself in 1988 when the environmentalists with critical information needed in the struggle to
estuary salt marsh, once home to over 25,000 birds, collapsed. nurse the system back to health.”
While many factors led to this event, it is thought that constructions, Stephen Lamberth and a collaborative DAFF, DEA fisheries research
in the form of a causeway and a beach access road, ostensibly team took the opportunity to survey the fish assemblage during the
flood-control measures contributed significantly. These structures mouth closure event for comparison with standard sampling that
effectively split the estuary into segments and prevent the free flow has been undertaken regularly since 2003. Although river inflow was
of water needed to flush excess salts from the salt marsh. During fairly low, the water level was rising at about 30 cm per day and the
the last mouth closure in 1998, high river waters were able to flow estuary had back-flooded from the mouth to about 15 km upstream
over these structures but were then prevented from draining, which and 7 km above average tidal influence. Without exception, fish at
lead to the pooling and evaporation of standing water which in turn all the usual sites had moved out of the main channels and into the
left an environment too salty even for salt tolerant plants to survive. back-flooded saltmarsh area and there was very high activity of birds
Exacerbating the problem was the continuous “mouth management” and fish. Contrary to claims by those that breached the estuary that
of the estuary to prevent back-flooding in which the respective mining these animals were trapped, there were a number of fur seals making
concerns in Namibia and South Africa took turns in keeping the mouth merry of the concentrations of fish in the system. In the past, fur seals
open by breaching the berm as soon as any closure was set to occur. have been reported more than 100 km inland of the Orange Estuary.
If too little water escapes and water is trapped for too long, then Unfortunately, the estuary was breached on the second day of work so
salinities may increase further compounding this threat to the all the inundated area was not as intensively sampled as was initially
already 90% degraded salt marsh. However, should the estuary drain planned. On the plus side it, allowed a good appraisal of the draining
effectively these salts should, for the most part, be flushed out into the of the saltmarsh and fish stranding. As predicted, all stranding was
ocean reducing the overall salt levels in the marsh to provide a natural behind road, fences, causeways and old mining infrastructure. Some of
platform from which the ecosystem is able to recover. these areas continued draining after most of the estuary had emptied
with birds concentrated at these outlets. Salinity of outflowing water
Unfortunately, the mouth was breached manually by Namibian was 0-5 parts per thousand (seawater 35) indicating some dilution of
recreational fishermen, only a few days later, who, in contravention the hypersaline soil and possible benefits to saltmarsh plants and the
of the environmental legislation of both countries, hired manual labor animals that live amongst this habitat.
to dig a trench with spades. What started as a trickle soon turned into ,
a raging torrent as the 1-2m head of backed up river water found a The next step is to develop a sophisticated water flow model that will
way to escape out to the ocean. The reason they provided for their inform managers on the optimal places to breach the impeding berm
action was that they wanted to have ample beach to drive upon on structures to improve water flow and allow the sufficient flushing
the Namibian side of the estuary. The system was also breached with of salts. However, valuable insights may be gained if regular aerial
absolutely no regard for the safety of South African Branch Fisheries, monitoring of the estuary could take place from now until the salt
DEA Oceans & Coasts as well as Namibian Ministry of Fisheries research marsh drains once more.
staff who were working on the estuary at the time.
Find out more about this fascinating ecosystem by visiting https://
www.youtube.com/watch?v=ETExdjjUQv0
19 Conservation Matters - Issue 9: The Winter Wonderland EditionYou can also read
