Stripy New Arrival to Delight Visitors at CapeNature’s De Hoop Nature Reserve
Visitors to De Hoop Nature Reserve are in for a treat this month as a new foal, born just three weeks ago, joins the reserve’s small but vital population of Cape mountain zebra. The latest arrival is an exciting addition to the herd and for the conservation of this once-endangered species.
It is particularly fitting that this stripy youngster has arrived in time for International Zebra Day, which is celebrated annually on 31 January. International Zebra Day is an important reminder of the need to protect all zebra species and their habitats. The population recovery of the Cape mountain zebra is a worthwhile cause for optimism but also serves as an ongoing reminder of the challenges these animals still face.
Last year, CapeNature conducted an aerial game survey over De Hoop and the neighbouring Overberg Test Range (OTR) to assess population numbers. This survey was made possible through the generosity of Brian Blackstock of the Bateleurs – an organisation that supports environmental initiatives through aerial reconnaissance. The results of the survey were encouraging, with over one hundred Cape mountain zebra counted across the two properties, the majority of which were observed on OTR.
While De Hoop’s landscape provides some suitable grazing for the zebras, the reserve has limited capacity to support a large population of this subspecies. Instead, CapeNature plays a strategic role in ensuring the genetic diversity of Cape mountain zebra by relocating excess individuals to reserves with more optimal habitat, where they can contribute to strengthening other populations.
CapeNature CEO, Dr Ashley Naidoo, highlighted the value of partnerships in the Entity’s conservation efforts and emphasised the importance of growing the Cape mountain zebra population.
Every new foal is an important addition to the Cape mountain zebra population and useful example of what ongoing collaborative conservation initiatives can yield. At CapeNature, we recognise that partnerships, whether with researchers, conservation organisations, or the public, are vital to ensuring this species’ future.
In the 1950s, Cape mountain zebra were on the brink of extinction with fewer than 100 individuals left in the wild. Currently, their numbers have risen steadily, through careful management of their populations, such as those undertaken at De Hoop.
Visitors to the reserve are encouraged to keep a respectful distance when looking out for the new resident and other wildlife.
Related News
Biodiversity crime often overlooked but its impact is devastating
Biodiversity crime is a growing and often overlooked threat that directly harms South Africa’s unique ecosystems. From the illegal plant trade in the Western Cape to poaching and even picking wildflowers in protected areas without a permit, these acts all contribute to the degradation of biodiversity and the loss of crucial natural resources.
New EPWP intake launches careers in conservation and eco-tourism in the Western Cape
CapeNature has welcomed 475 new participants into a three-year Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP) cycle, emphasising its commitment to skills development, conservation, and community upliftment across the province.
A small cohort of these participants, based at Kogelberg and Stony Point Nature Reserves, were officially welcomed at an event hosted at Kogelberg and led by Western Cape Provincial Minister of Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning, Anton Bredell.
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.
How can I assist you today?
How can I assist you today?