Ghosted: First Scientific Record of Albino Honey Badger on De Hoop Nature Reserve
BirdLife South Africa and Panthera were granted a research permit to undertake a camera trap survey at De Hoop Nature Reserve to determine the relative abundance of predators which could be a potential threat to the establishment of a new penguin colony at De Hoop. While the purpose of the camera trap survey was focused on species such as leopard and caracal, which have been known to predate on penguins, all species captured on the cameras were recorded. Among the images captured was an extremely rare albino honey badger (Mellivora capensis), which is the first record of this condition for this species in scientific literature (although we are aware of at least one other record within CapeNature). Albinism is an inherited disorder which occurs due to a reduction in or absence of melanin formation. The natural colouration of a honey badger is black underparts, including the face, with an off-white dorsal surface, while the albino honey badger is completely white. Albinism generally results in reduced fitness for wild animals, which means a reduced chance of survival, and as a result it is an extremely rare trait as natural selection reduces the chances of this gene being passed on. The reduced fitness is caused by reduced visual perception, increased sensitivity to solar radiation and reduced camouflage – the latter of which affects both predators and prey. |
Related News
Progress update on Whale Trail maintenance at De Hoop Nature Reserve
Following recent concerns raised by our valued visitors and stakeholders regarding the maintenance and invasive alien plant species on the much-loved Whale Trail at De Hoop Nature Reserve, CapeNature has listened and taken action to help address these challenges.
The Entity would like to use this opportunity to give feedback to our hiking fraternity and affected tour operators.
The Western Cape’s natural wonders continue to be a key economic contributor to the tourism sector
Through the peak summer season in December 2024 and January 2025, there was a tremendous influx of visitors to CapeNature-managed provincial reserves, with over 146 550 overnight and day visitors passing through many reserve gates. Minister Bredell unpacks why more visitors are seeking nature-based attractions when it comes to deciding on a holiday destination.
Elusive Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew recorded for the first time in 46 years!
One of the Western Cape’s most mysterious mammals, the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew (Myosorex longicaudatus boosmani), has made a reappearance, 46 years after it was last recorded! Conservationists from CapeNature, Grootvadersbosch Conservancy and Helihack, together with volunteer biologists found one of these tiny mammals in CapeNature’s Boosmansbos Wilderness Area.
CapeNature’s annual 40% discount is back - Embrace nature, embrace winter!
Wonderful winter experiences at affordable prices! Keep warm, embrace nature! CapeNature’s annual 40% winter discount on select accommodation at camping and glamping spots this May – July, is back!
Water is the lifeline that sustains us all and our future
Today is World Water Day! The 2025 theme for the annual United Nations World Water Day is “Glacier Preservation”. These unique and very sensitive ecosystems, holding vast volumes of global freshwater have started to melt at alarming rates due to global warming.
CapeNature welcomes in principle agreement to protect the African Penguin
CapeNature is thankful that the government, seabird conservation organisations and the pelagic fishing industry have worked together to reach an in-principle agreement on overfishing restrictions around critical penguin breeding areas.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?