The Cape Flats Nature Reserve is a hidden gem in the heart of an urban area. Despite the location, 119 species have been recorded with the list growing each year.
The 34ha reserve has a seasonal wetland and two vegetation types; endangered Cape Flats Dune Strandveld and critically endangered Cape Flats Sand Fynbos. This vegetative combination lends to a unique habitat to attract wildlife. The reserve provides a safe bird watching experience while you absorb your senses in nature.
A variety of birds can be seen ranging from the pretty Bee-eater and Paradise flycatcher to interesting LBJs like the Bar-throated apalis and Brown-backed honeybird. You might even be lucky enough to spot a nesting Fiery-necked nightjar or Spotted eagle-owl.
We have a downloadable checklist below for the avid birder and a photographic checklist for the beginner birder. We rely on you to continue growing our list, so should you spot anything of interest or an addition to the list, please let us know by emailing Laurenda van Bread on Lvanbreda@uwc.ac.za.
The Cape Flats Nature Reserve’s annual Faunal Survey is a skills training activity for conservation biology students, exposing them to various monitoring techniques that they would need in their studies, future research and careers.
UWC staff, students, future students and outside expertise in the biodiversity field help make this event fun and successful. The survey happens over a weekend in October, at night and during the day.
We do fieldwork and carry out monitoring techniques for different plant and animal species. It is enjoyable hard work, interesting long hours, filled with enthusiastic participants having fun during this learning process.
Besides the training exercise, all the nature reserve species lists get updated, therefore your participation and contribution are highly valued towards the greater good of conservation.
Interested, or need more information?
Contact Laurenda van Breda Lvanbreda@uwc.ac.za or Robin Adams rwadams@uwc.ac.za
Studies show that students who learn outdoors can tackle their subjects with enhanced motivation, creativity and competence, and may even strengthen their peer relationships in the process.
Outdoor learning also encourages learners to understand the interplay and relationship between the different curriculum areas. This awareness promotes lifelong learning and develops critical thinking skills.
A fun learning environment also helps students focus once they are back in the classroom and alleviates stress by simply being in the outdoors. A simple change of scenery and the fresh outdoor air can make the world of difference.
Outdoor learning can also greatly assist students who experience learning difficulties in the structured classroom. Outdoor learning experiences help to increase student motivation, whilst building their confidence and in turn improving student behaviour.
The concept of Photo Walks officially started in May 2016 with the intention of getting staff and students into the reserve to enjoy nature in the comfort of a group.
It is a short guided walk with information provided about the reserve and their chosen photographic interest.
All photographs assist by updating the photographic library and species lists with sometimes exciting discoveries of previously unrecorded species.
Twenty five fauna and flora species were added to the species list between 2014 and 2018; seven of which came from Photo Walks. Even taking photographs of you and your friends having fun in nature helps promote the nature reserve as a place of interest.
These walks happen every Thursday between 1pm and 2pm. Staff, students and non UWC members are welcome. All that is needed is your enthusiasm and a camera/cell phone camera to partake in the fun.
For bookings: contact Laurenda van Breda at lvanbreda@uwc.ac.za.
The UWC Nature Reserve Unit supports the academic programmes of the university through field work, practical teaching and research guidance. Through our volunteer programme, students have the opportunity to gain required skills and practical experience in Biodiversity, Conservation, Horticulture and Environmental Education.
Interested, or need more information?
Contact Laurenda van Breda Lvanbreda@uwc.ac.za or Robin Adams rwadams@uwc.ac.za
