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.

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.