Another first for the Cape mountain zebra genetic rescue project
The Cape mountain zebra known as GB42 has had an exciting year! In January, this stallion from Gamkaberg Nature Reserve sired a foal with genetic material from two of the three genetically distinct stocks of the species. In March, there was proof that 2023 was a busy year for GB42 after a second foal was born with genes from all three stocks.
The foals were born at Sanbona Wildlife Reserve as part of a genetic rescue project, developed by CapeNature and Sanbona. The entities also collaborated with genetic experts from SANBI and the University of Venda. The aim is to restore the lost genetic diversity of the Cape mountain zebra by mixing genetic stocks that were artificially isolated from each other decades ago, namely the Cradock (C), Kammanasie (K) and Gamkaberg (G) stocks.
In 2021, stallions from Gamkaberg were introduced into a dedicated genetic rescue camp in Sanbona. The following year, a group of mares was added. Some females were of C stock, but others were descendants of mixed C-K stock zebras, which were sent from De Hoop Nature Reserve to Sanbona in 2016.
Each Cape mountain zebra has a unique stripe pattern, and CapeNature along with Sanbona, maintain zebra photo-identification kits and studbooks, making it possible to identify individuals and track their history.
When Sanbona ecologist Liesl Vorster spotted the first foal born to the project in January, she noticed that two other mares in the rescue camp looked rather plump. Her suspicions were confirmed in March when seven-year-old SWR3 gave birth to the first foal from all three genetic stocks.
SWR3 is not only the first Cape mountain zebra foal ever born at Sanbona, but she is also the first foal born to the batch of zebra moved from De Hoop to Sanbona. When she was moved to the genetic rescue camp in 2022, she aborted a pregnancy, and there were concerns that she might have long-term fertility issues. Dung samples were analysed by a researcher at the University of Manchester, indicating that she had not resumed her reproductive cycle six months after the move. This fear was laid to rest – not only can she breed, but she has produced the only foal in the world from all three genetic stocks.
CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo said, “The ongoing success of the Sanbona genetic rescue project is a beacon of hope for conservation efforts. Through innovative collaboration and dedicated effort, we are not only restoring the genetic diversity of the Cape mountain zebra, along with our partners at Sanbona, but also setting a precedent for effective conservation strategies.
“These recent births are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of these animals and a reminder of the importance of our continued efforts to protect and restore species at risk.
Related News
How biodiversity crime threatens the Western Cape’s people, economy, and ecosystems
Biodiversity crime may sound like something intangible compared to other crimes encountered on a daily basis in our lives, but it is a very real and growing threat to our planet’s delicate ecosystems. It includes any illegal activity that harms plants, animals, or the ecosystems they depend on from high-profile crimes like rhino poaching to illegal plant trade in the Western Cape. It can even be something as simple as picking wildflowers in a nature reserve without permission or a permit.
Young leopard dies after being caught in gin traps near Heidelberg
CapeNature can confirm the death of a young leopard following a call to assist in a rescue operation on 2 July in the Heidelberg area, near the World Heritage Site of Boosmansbos.
Officials discovered a young 13 kg male leopard, estimated to be around six months old, ensnared in two gin traps set adjacent to each other. One front paw and one hind leg were caught. Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the leopard did not survive.
Darwin200 Young Leaders & CapeNature Launch Inspiring Documentaries
Three DARWIN200 young leaders worked hand in hand with CapeNature to produce awe-inspiring and heartwarming videos on the Cape vulture colony of Potberg, the bontebok at De Hoop Nature Reserve and the invasive carp at Groenvlei. Click read more to watch the videos.
Three Arrested for Illegal Rhino Horn Trade
On Wednesday, 2 July 2025, the Directorate for Priority Crimes Investigations (Hawks) assisted by SAPS K9 Unit, Overberg and Stock Theft and Endangered Species based in Swellendam, executed an undercover operation at Buffeljags River, N2 route outside of Swellendam.
Three suspects were arrested after being found in possession of the rhino horn and engaged in a transaction to sell the rhino horn during an undercover operation. CapeNature officials were contacted to assist in the further investigation of the case, which was subsequently registered at the Swellendam Police Station.
BOCMA & CapeNature Boost Water Sustainability
On 8 May 2025 a capacity building event was held at the Barn Owl Conference Venue in Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve provided by the Breede Olifants Catchment Management Agency (BOCMA) to CapeNature staff from Landscape South and Central. BOCMA are responsible for implementing the National Water Act (NWA) within the Breede and Gouritz catchments, which regulates water use. A similar event was held in Oudtshoorn with the Landscape East staff on 23 May 2025. Water is an essential natural resource that requires responsible management to ensure the sustainability of the resource both for human use and ecological function.
Marine Dynamics Wins ATTA® Award
Marine Dynamics Shark and Whale Tours has been honoured with the ATTA® Marine Impact Award during the Experience Africa Travel Conference in London on 23 June 2025. The award recognises organisations making a tangible difference in protecting Africa’s marine and coastal environments while fostering long-term community benefits.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?