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.
CapeNature staff, in partnership with members of the Custodians of Rare and Endangered Wildflowers (CREW), embarked on a challenging expedition to conduct threatened flora monitoring in the Kogelberg Nature Reserve.
Kogelberg is known to contain around 1 800 plant species, of which 150 are only found within the reserve.
The team's persistence was rewarded with the rediscovery of eight Erica cunoniensis plants, confirming that even endangered species can survive with sustained conservation focus.
Sylvia Wolita, a Pupil Field Ranger at Kogelberg, made the pivotal first sighting of the elusive plant.
Finding a rare plant species is a reminder that nature is both fragile and resilient. The dedication of our field staff and partners helps us to achieve our mandate as custodians of the Western Cape’s incredible floral diversity.
The sighting was met with great excitement and is a reminder of the value of ongoing monitoring and conservation efforts. It also demonstrates the impact of collaborative fieldwork between CapeNature and citizen scientists through the CREW network.
By combining expertise, curiosity, and commitment, we’re able to make meaningful contributions to biodiversity knowledge and ensure that even the rarest species are not forgotten.
The rediscovery of Erica cunoniensis underscores the ecological significance of the Cape Floristic Region, which is recognised as one of the most biologically diverse regions on the planet. This region, located almost entirely within the Western Cape, is a biodiversity hotspot containing 13 489 recorded plant species, of which 6 776 (50.2%) are endemic to the province.
To ensure the hotspot and thus the exceptional biodiversity located within it remain conserved, CapeNature is involved in various management activities, including preventing fires, managing invasive species, and ensuring responsible tourism and appropriate urban development.
CapeNature's Takalani Makhomu and Cairestine Lottring share their excitement over the discovery.
Takalani Makhomu takes a closer look at the find whilst Sylvia Wolita looks on as her find is confirmed.
Related News
Firefighters honoured after one of the Western Cape's toughest fire seasons
CapeNature hosted an appreciation event in Velddrif on 4 August 2026 to honour firefighters who were on the frontlines during the Western Cape's most recent fire season. A representative group attended the event on behalf of CapeNature's larger cohort of Field Rangers and firefighters working across the Province. Despite extreme heat and challenging terrain, the firefighters remained steadfast in their commitment to protecting communities, infrastructure and the Western Cape's
CapeNature welcomes the conviction of Cape Town couple for wildlife crime
CapeNature welcomes the sentence imposed by the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court on Mr Zirkie Bernardus Jansen and Mrs Valerie Gayle Simpson-Jansen of Kirstenhof following their conviction on multiple offences relating to the unlawful keeping, possession and transport of reptiles. The couple were each sentenced on 30 July 2026 to pay a fine of R40 000 or serve 18 months’ imprisonment after being convicted on seven counts under the Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974.
The joy of being outdoors
Life has a way of becoming busy, but sometimes the greatest luxury is simply slowing down. Imagine waking up to fresh mountain air, taking a gentle stroll beneath towering trees, listening to birdsong, or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee while overlooking breathtaking natural landscapes. These are the moments that help us reconnect with ourselves and appreciate the simple joys of life. We believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience the restorative power of nature. That's why we're inviting senior citizens to enjoy peaceful escapes across the Western
Freshwater science takes centre stage at the 2026 SASAqS Conference
The Southern African Society of Aquatic Scientists (SASAqS) is a learned society concerned with the research, management and conservation of inland waters and their associated biota throughout southern Africa. Established in 1964 as the Limnological Society of South Africa, SASAqS provides an important forum for discussion and sharing of scientific ideas. The two cornerstones of the society's activities are the annual conference and the African Journal of Aquatic Science.
Marine Protected Areas hold the key to human wellbeing
On 1 August, we celebrate Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) Day, a global occasion first marked in 2021 to recognise the role that MPAs play in conserving our oceans while supporting the wellbeing of people and communities. The day encourages us to appreciate the value of MPAs and the many ways they benefit both us and the extraordinary marine biodiversity they are designed to protect. This year's theme, "Ocean Protection Needs Human Connection," reminds us that conserving our oceans is a shared responsibility.
Bringing Conservation to Life Through Storytelling, Film and Digital Media
When was the last time a film, photograph or story about nature made you stop and feel something? Perhaps it was a breathtaking wildlife documentary. A short social media reel that transported you to a mountain peak. A travel video that inspired your next adventure. Or a story that highlighted the impact of a wildfire and reminded you why conservation matters. Every adventure has a story. Watch ours on our YouTube channel and subscribe for more.