Boost for freshwater biodiversity as Wilderness Nature Reserve declared
A new nature reserve has been declared in the Western Cape, marking another significant milestone for the province’s environment. The Wilderness Nature Reserve, spanning over 643 hectares, has been declared a Provincial Nature Reserve in terms of the National Environmental Management: Protected Areas Act (Act 57 of 2003).
Situated near Heidelberg, the reserve, newly declared on 17 July 2025, has a significant role in protecting freshwater biodiversity, endangered species, and ecological corridors. It is home to a range of important species, including the Critically Endangered Breede River Redfin. It also serves as a breeding site for the Black Harrier, the rarest raptor in Southern Africa and an Endangered species.
Approximately 615 hectares of the new reserve are designated as a Priority Biodiversity Area, creating a key protected corridor directly linked to the Boosmansbos Wilderness Area, a formally protected Provincial Nature Reserve and part of a World Heritage Site.
Western Cape Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Mr Anton Bredell, welcomed the declaration, commending the joint efforts of CapeNature and landowners.
This new nature reserve is a win not just for biodiversity, but for the people who rely on the ecosystem services it provides. Our commitment to expanding protected areas is essential in the face of biodiversity loss and climate change. The declaration of Wilderness Nature Reserve strengthens our efforts to connect and protect biodiversity across the Western Cape.
The reserve marks a step towards ensuring the long-term health and resilience of the province’s biodiversity by protecting essential parts of an ecosystem, which ensures important species have a safe space to thrive.
Wilderness Nature Reserve forms a direct ecological link to the adjacent Boosmansbos Nature Reserve, enhancing the overall protected area network. The properties have a very high conservation value, not only from providing habitat for threatened species but also in the delivery of essential services from nature, forming part of a critical catchment for the Duivenhoks Dam, which provides water for people downstream.
Landowners who are considering having their land formally protected can contact CapeNature’s Antia Wheeler on awheeler@capenature.co.za and Kaylin Reid on kreid@capenature.co.za.
Related News
Public urged to stay alert this fire season: Prevent wildfires, save lives
CapeNature is calling on the public to stay alert and proactive as the wildfire season gears up, reminding all that the cost of runaway fires is far greater than many realise.
Rare Erica species rediscovered after nearly four decades
After an unsuccessful search in 2012, the rare Erica cunoniensis was feared extinct, but in September 2025, a team of conservationists made a rediscovery of this Endangered plant species, found for the first time in nearly four decades.
New Conservancy to Protect Biodiversity in the Karoo
A long-cherished dream has come true with the establishment of the 18 000 ha Karoo Gateway Conservancy in the Klaarstroom district. This initiative provides a strong framework for biodiversity conservation in the region.
Make space in your heart for penguins at Penguin Palooza 2025
African Penguins are now listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, with scientists warning they could vanish from the wild by 2035. CapeNature and SANCCOB are collaborating to protect the species at their annual Penguin Palooza event at Stony Point Nature Reserve.
Man convicted and sentenced for attack on Protected Spotted Eagle-Owl thanks to joint efforts
CapeNature welcomes the successful conviction and sentencing of 38-year-old Mozambican national Gustigu Mthini, who was found guilty on four charges following a violent attack on a Protected Spotted Eagle-Owl along the Sea Point Promenade earlier this year.
The Vrolijkheid Nursery Project is Growing Conservation Through Community
The nursery project at Vrolijkheid Nature Reserve has officially entered its early stages of becoming operational, marking an exciting step towards a collaborative conservation and community initiative.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?