Graderia scabra

Name: Graderia scabra (L.f.) Benth.Family: Orobanchaceae Common names: Pink ground-bells (Eng.), Wild penstemon (Eng.), Inkunzi (Eng.), Impundu (Zul.), ibeja(Zul.), Ugweja (Zul.), Isiqomiso (Zul.), Umphuphutho (Zul.), Uvelabahleke(Zul.)  Isimonya (Xho.)

Graderia scabra is a perennial shrublet with an erect growth form. It grows up to 600mm. It has a woody rootstock, stems are either hairless or hairy. The leaves are overlapping, grows about ±50 x 15mm, margins are entire and they do not have leaf stalk. Between August and December, it produces flowers that grows up to ±30mm, are pink to deep mauve or reddish or whitish in colour. They are also thinly hairy and have 5  lobed calyx.

It is found in grasslands with elevation of up to 2100m. In South Africa, it occurs only in Eastern Cape, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and the Western Cape provinces. It is also found in eSwatini (Swaziland), Zimbabwe, Tanzania and Angola.

Graderia scabra, previously known as Bopusia scabra in old literature. It belongs to the Orobanchaceae family, which is a large family of approximately 101 genera. The Graderia genus is native to South Africa and comprises three known species.

The plant was initially described as a member of the genus Gerardia, which is named after the English botanist John Gerard. However, George Betham later transferred G. scabra to a new genus that he named “Graderia.” Interestingly, Betham created this new genus name by rearranging the letters of “Gerardia,” forming an anagram. The specie name “scabra” is derived from the Latin word “scabo,” which means ‘to scratch’ or ‘rough.’ This name is in reference to the presence of hairs on the leaves and the stem of the plant.

Graderia scabra flowers attracts bees, potentially due to the darker throat area or the presence of dark veins, which might serve as guides to nectar. The wide-open nature of the blossoms also makes it easy for pollinators to reach them, allowing various types of insects, not limited to bees, to visit these flowers.

Graderia scabra serves a dual purpose; it is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks and as a medicinal plant. The plant has a history in traditional medicine, often combined with other plants, to address a variety of health concerns. These include stomach issues, fevers, skin rashes, sores, prevention of miscarriage, alleviation of menstrual pain, and even its use as a component in love charm emetics.

Cold water infusions of the leaves mixed with those of various plants such as Antidesma venosum, Trimeria grandifolia, Zanthoxylum capense and Canthium inerne are used for stomach complaints. They may help with digestive issues or provide relief from gastrointestinal discomfort. The cold water infusions are also administered as enemas, which could potentially help with digestive and stomach issues, such as constipation or cleansing the digestive tract. The inner root bark, when mixed with the roots of Tephrosia macropoda, is used to treat various febrile conditions, including typhoid fever. This suggests that these plants may have properties that help reduce fever and treat related symptoms. The roots are used as strong purgatives to induce bowel movements and cleanse the intestines. A paste made from dried roots, pulverized with those of an unidentified Gnidia species and mixed with wet termite earth, is applied to smallpox rashes. A paste made from ground moisture roots is applied to sores, indicating its use for wound healing or soothing skin irritations. The name “Isimonyo” suggests that the roots are also used as an ointment for the face for cosmetic or skincare purposes. Men use root infusions as love charm emetics, indicating a belief in their potential to affect romantic or love-related aspects. The plant is also utilized by either being snuffed, inhaled, or used as an emetic to address issues related to sexual complaints.

Additional Medicinal Uses: In Sotho culture, decoctions from unspecified plant parts in combination with parts of Salvia runcinata L. are used to prevent miscarriages and alleviate menstrual discomfort. In the Pondoland region young boys who are just beginning to show an interest in girls and engage in efforts to capture their attention, they chew the roots of this plant and then apply the saliva to their hands and faces as a form of fragrance or perfume.

Graderia scabra is one of those plants which are difficult to grow. It is a hemi-parasitic plant and it receives part of its nutrition from another plant, the host, without contributing to the benefit of the host. Therefore, it’s complicated parasitic behaviour makes it hard to cultivate. It would be ideally to firstly grow the host plant, but currently hosts are unknown. Sow the seeds close to the roots of the host. The seeds have very little stored food, so quick contact with the host is crucial after germination. After sowing the seeds, it is best to put the plant in a sunny position and keep the soil damp for at least a fortnight. Use loamy soil and add compost. and perhaps some organic fertilizer.

Compiled by: Sharlotte Kwenaite and Dineo Dibakwane of South African National Biodiversity Institute. Thanks to Peter Warren for the images.

Cyrtanthus breviflorus

Name: Cyrtanthus breviflorus Harv. syn. Anoiganthus breviflorus (Harv.) Baker

Family: Amaryllidaceae

Common names: Geelvuurlelie (afrikaans), Injobo/ Ujobo (zulu), Uvelabahleke (zulu), Wild Crocus (english), Wildekrokus (afrikaans), Vuurlelie (afrikaans), Yellow Fire Lily/ Fire Lily (english), Umpimpilizi (Swati)

Cyranthus breviflorus, commonly known as Yellow fire lily is a member of the Amaryllidaceae family, a perennial bulb often found in grassland areas blooming pure yellow flowers after veld fires creating a visual harmony that captures the eye and the heart.

Description

Cyrtanthus is a bulbous perennial plant found across from the Eastern Cape of South Africa to Kenya. These plants display two main growth patterns: the slender, short stems that thrive in coastal and inland grasslands, and the robust, tall stems that occur in inland marshes. There are also intermediary forms, and their differences in appearance tend to diminish when these plants are cultivated. The plant grows from 7-30cm in height and has 3 to 4 leaves that coincide with the blooming of the flowers. These leaves are green, long and slender, hairless, strap-shaped, standing upright, with blunt tips, and emerging from the base of the bulb. Their length ranges from 15-30cm, and they are about 0.6cm to 1.3cm wide.

The plant produces vibrant yellow, fragrant flowers that stand upright, borne on inflorescences of an umbel shape. The flower style extends above the anthers, which are situated at varying heights. The flower stems (peduncles) are 3 to 12 inches long, bearing umbrella-like clusters of 2 to 10 flowers. The flower stalks (pedicels) are erect and measure 1 to 2 inches in length. The perianth, which can be yellow or milk-white, consists of a tube that is 0.6cm to 0.9cm long, with segments that are 1.3cm to 1.9cm long and marked with about 5 ridges. The stamens are about half the length of the perianth segments. The ovary is green, smooth, and oblong, while the style extends beyond the anthers. The resulting fruits are capsules that contain seeds with flattened wings, and measure 1.3cm in length. Flowering within a population is often observed a week after a fire event, in the Natal region and the slender variation of this plant is among the earliest grassland species to bloom after late winter and spring fires. The bulb is egg-shaped, measuring around 2.5cm in diameter, with a short neck, and covered in brown membranous tunics.

The Fire Lily occurs in South Africa and Swaziland and is distributed in Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Limpopo and Mpumalanga, growing in moist and dry grassland or rocky areas, in coastal, and in inland marshes. In their natural habitat, flowering plants are discovered on slopes that have experienced wildfires, while on the very same slope where the grassland hasn’t been subjected to burning, no flowers are observed.

Bees are one of the main pollinators for the Fire Lily. The flowers of these plants have a self-incompatibility system that is late-acting. Because of this system, self-pollination reduces the chances of the plant being able to make seeds. The findings from the study by (Vaughton, G. et al, 2010) indicated that the pollination mechanism of C. breviflorus is adapted for efficient pollen gathering by bees and only indigenous honeybees (Apis mellifera scutellata) demonstrated effectiveness as pollinators.

The Fire Lily is propagated by offsets and seeds, offsets are obtained either when the plant is dormant or after the flowering season, and replanted immediately. Seeds are harvested once they are fully mature and sown in deep trays containing a sandy medium just below the surface. However, it’s uncommon for these plants to produce flowers in a cultivated environment, and sometimes triggering flowering can be achieved by encircling the plants with dried grass and igniting it. Like most summer rainfall bulbs, it is best to reduce watering in winter. They can actually survive even if you do not water them at all during winter.

Compiled by Sharlotte Kwenaite and Dineo Dibakwane

Thanks to Julie Braby for the images.

Watsonia pillansii

Family: Iridaceae Common names: Pillan’s Watsonia, Orange Watsonia (Eng.)Knolpypie, Lakpypie, Suurknol (Afrk.)

Watsonia pillansii is a beautiful wildflower native to only South Africa. It is a member of the Iridaceae family that captivates the eye with its vibrant orange flowers and evergreen leaves.

Orange Watsonia is a geophytic plant that grows up to 1 to 1.2 meters. It has smooth, sword-shaped leaves that are light green and have translucent yellow margins. The leaves are slightly twisted. It grows in clumps with lots of corms underneath the ground. The flowers are its main attraction, appearing in dense clusters at the top of sturdy stalks. They bloom from September to April, displaying striking bright orange to orange-reddish petals, luring pollinators like bees and birds.

Watsonia pillansii grows in clumps , in large colonies in grassland and on rocky areas of altitude up to 2400m.

It is pollinated by bees, butterflies, and sunbirds. Watsonias are one of the porcupine’s favourite meals, particularly the corms.

It is popular in the cut flower and horticulture industry due to its bright colours and long-lasting flowers.

It occurs only in South Africa, in only three provinces, namely: Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape. In KwaZulu-Natal, it also occurs in the midlands. It can take both summer and winter rainfall, provided it is planted in well-drained soil. It takes light frost. Mostly-sunny conditions are best.

The easiest and quickest way to propagate it is by dividing the clump with a spade and replant. In the right conditions, it is a low-maintenance and long-lived plant.

Dineo Dibakwane and Ndiyafhi Muthuhadini South African National Biodiversity Institute June 2023

Thanks to Peter Warren for the photos.

References:

• Foden, W. & Potter, L. 2005. Watsonia pillansii L.Bolus. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 2023/06/24.
• Manning, John, and Peter Goldblatt. The Colour Encyclopedia of Cape Bulbs. Timber Press, 2002.
• Watsonia Pillansii.” PlantZAfrica, South African National Biodiversity Institute, https://pza.sanbi.org/watsonia-pillansii.
• Pooley, E. 2005. A field guide to wild flowers KwaZulu-Natal and the eastern regions. The Flora Publications Trust, Durban.

Aloe maculata

Family: Asphodelaceae Common names: Common Soap Aloe (Eng.),Bontaalwyn (Afrk.), Amahlala, Icena (z), Ingcelwane (x), Lekhala (ss), Lekhala La Thaba (ss)

The Common Soap Aloe is an all-season show-stopper. Whether it is in flower or not, it always has some beauty to offer all year round.

Aloe maculata is a succulent that grows up to 1m including the flower stalk. The leaves have curled dry tips and are irregularly covered by dull white sports. The leaf margins have hard brown teeth. The inflorescences are branched flowers that have a flat top, which is a very distinctive feature for identifying this Aloe. This is one of the variable Aloe species, flower colour ranges from bright yellow, orange and red. It flowers between May and October. They are pollinated by bees and sunbirds.

In the wild, they favour milder coastal climates but also occurs in higher altitude such as Drakensberg flora. They grow in colonies in a variety of habitats, varying from rocky outcrops to thickets and grasslands.

It is very popular in the horticulture industry probably due to the variety of colours it provides, as well as its unique foliage.

It occurs only in Southern Africa, in only three countries, namely; South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. In South Africa, it occurs in 5 provinces, namely; Eastern Cape, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, Western Cape KwaZulu-Natal, and Western Cape. It can take both summer and winter rainfall, provided it is planted in a well-drained soil. It prefers sunny conditions, but it also does well in semi-shade.

Aloes are easy to grow and maintain. The best growth medium composition for both sowing seeds as well as for adult plants is equal parts of river sand and compost. Rule of thumb, succulents are more likely to die from overwatering than from underwatering. Drainage and less water are crucial.

Compiled and written by Dineo Dibakwane South African National Biodiversity Institute June 2023

Thanks to Peter Warren for the photos.

References:

• von Staden, L. 2018. Aloe maculata All. National Assessment: Red List of South African Plants version 2020.1. Accessed on 2023/07/02

• Reynolds, G.W. 1950. The aloes of South Africa. The Trustees of The Aloes of South Africa Book Fund, Johannesburg.
• Van Wyk, B.-E. & Smith, G. 1996. Guide to the aloes of South Africa. Briza Publications, Pretoria.
• Pooley, E. 2005. A field guide to wild flowers KwaZulu-Natal and the eastern regions. The Flora Publications Trust, Durban.

Rare Midlands Skink

– Article written by Nick Evans of KZN Amphibian and Reptile Conservation –

The Midlands boast a wonderful array of reptiles. Along with its endemic chameleon (the Midlands Dwarf), there is another reptile species endemic to this area: the Bourquin’s Dwarf Burrowing Skink (Scelotes bourquini). This legless lizard was only described as recently as 1994. It was named after the man who discovered it, Orty Bourquin, who used to work for the Natal Parks Board.

It looks very similar to other species in this genus. However, the tail is much longer than that in other species, and it has two extremely tiny limbs, barely visible to the naked eye. Some of the other Scelotes species either have slightly large legs, or none at all. This little lizard could be confused for a snake, due to its apparent limbless body. Those typical skink scales (small, smooth and shiny) are one way of identifying it, along with its indistinctive, small head.

It is currently listed by the IUCN Red List as Vulnerable, due to its restricted and fragmented range. It is found between Howick and Nottingham, a fairly small area, where they occupy grasslands. They spend most of their time underground, feeding on small invertebrates. They’re a difficult species to find, but do not seem to occur in high numbers. Their habitat is threatened by the usual: housing, plantations and agriculture.

Myself and three friends recently went on a mission to find one of these elusive skinks, after getting a reliable locality for them from a friend. Our trip was a success! One of our group, Darren Van Eyssen, managed to locate one hiding under a rock. It was a gravid (pregnant) female, which was great news for this species, measuring at around 15 cm long. We were delighted! After a quick photoshoot, to document the find, we put it back where it was found. These lizards are live-bearers. Little is known about their reproduction, but I would guess she could give birth to around five babies +-.

We managed to see a few other nice reptiles too, including Drakensberg Flat Geckos, Drakensberg Crag Lizards, two other species of skinks (with legs!), a harmless Slug-eater and a Skaapsteker. It’s always nice to spend a day out in the field!

I’d love to be able to see more of the amazing reptiles occurring in the KZN Midlands soon!

Nick Evans

Email: nickevanskzn@gmail.com
Website: www.kznamphibianreptileconservation.com

Mistbelt Chirping Frog

– Article written by Nick Evans of KZN Amphibian and Reptile Conservation –

In the KZN Midlands lives a tiny little frog, which few people have seen, and most members of the public have never heard of: the Mistbelt Chirping Frog (Anhydrophryne ngongoniensis).

Appearance

It really is a tiny frog! Their maximum size is a measly 22mm. It’s a very pretty little frog, being a light golden brown colour, with speckles running down its back in a striped formation. It has a dark band on each side of its head.

A species in danger!

The Mistbelt Chirping Frog is currently listed as ‘Endangered’, by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. It was previously listed as Critically Endangered, before survey work was carried out by herpetologist and researcher, James Harvey. He had found a few new localities, which came as great news for this species.

It only occurs in mistbelt areas in the KZN Midlands, in high altitude, moist grasslands. So it is not a widespread species at all. Unfortunately for this frog, much of its habitat has been destroyed for exotic tree plantations. Even its habitat type is considered endangered! The last few remaining areas in which this frog occurs in, are rather fragmented by these plantations, isolating populations. These mostly fall under private land, owned by forestry companies. Other threats include invasive alien plants, which take smother these grasslands, over-grazing, and incorrect burning programmes.

The few areas that are still home to this frog desperately need to be conserved, so that the world does not lose yet another species. It may be small, but it still matters. It still plays a role in a functioning environment. Fortunately, it is being monitored by the likes of James and the Endangered Wildlife Trust.

Did you know?

This species was only discovered and described in 1993! That was probably because of its size, and its undistinctive call, a subtle, insect-like, chirping sound.

What’s also interesting about this frog, is that they do not breed in water. Most frogs lay their eggs in water, but the Mistbelt Chirping Frog lays its eggs in leaf-litter!

Survey and photography mission

I was fortunate enough to join James Harvey recently, on some of his survey work. We went to a site near the Ixopo area where he had heard and found this species before.

We arrived in the afternoon, and conditions were perfect. There was a light drizzle, and it was misty too. The common but rarely seen Plaintive Rain Frogs were out in force, and although we did not see any, we heard dozens! Our hopes were lifted when, amongst the Rain Frog calls, we started hearing a couple of Mistbelt ‘Chirpers’! We walked down the slope where they were calling, hoping to find one. James warned me that they were extremely difficult frogs to find, and I soon learnt that he was not wrong. The long grass was so thick. Finding a frog that’s only two centimetres in length was seemingly impossible. Thankfully though, James knew a spot where it should be easier to find them, where the grass was a little shorter and slightly sparser than these thick patches we were searching in.

As we approached this particular area, we could hear a good few calling. Frogs are always easier to find at night, when they are generally more active and call from more obvious positions. However, we thought we’d have a quick try before heading back to camp for dinner, and resuming the search after dark. We were trying to track them down by their call, but as soon as you got one or two meters away, the little blighters would go silent. However, there was one that didn’t stop calling. Luck was on our side, and we spotted one quite high up in a grass tuft, calling. I scooped it up in my hands in great excitement, and called James to 100% confirm what I was holding- it was indeed a Mistbelt Chirping Frog! I was overjoyed! James was too, as despite his research work, he had only seen a handful of them. But our luck didn’t end there.

We returned to the sight that evening. We tracked down one which was calling in a tuft of grass. We were desperately trying to pinpoint its location, as it would emit a chirp every now and then. I thought it was in one place, and James thought it was in another. Their calls can confuse you like that. Eventually, we discovered we were looking in the wrong place. We thought it was calling at the base of the grass, when in fact, it had climbed around thirty centimetres up the grass clump, and was calling from there! Stunned at our luck of now finding two, we then went onto find another three in quick succession! Five endangered Mistbelt Chirping Frog, wow, just wow! We just couldn’t believe our luck! Our hard work certainly paid off!

This frog is one of the most difficult species to find that I have ever searched for. It’s been a species I have long wanted to see, and I feel privileged that my chance finally came around. We are now one of the few people that have actually seen and photographed this frog. What a special little animal.

It really is tiny!

Catchment to Confluence Complete

The excitement was brewing as the team were heading to the start of the final leg of the journey along the Karkloof river. This would involve walking the section from below the Karkloof Falls to the confluence where the Karkloof meets the uMngeni River.

Aerial view of the Karkloof Falls

This entire stretch traverses through the Karkloof Safari Spa property, which is an upmarket private game reserve, lodge and spa with restricted access. This day was set to be a little different from the rest, as we were missing half our team (Ndu and Ayanda), however, we were fortunate to be joined by Jenna Taylor of GroundTruth and Dr. Hans Grobler who is the specialist environmental and wildlife conservation advisor to Mr Worner (the landowner).

From left: Jenna Taylor, Dr Hans Grobler and Sue Viljoen.

The highlight of the day was reaching the base of the Karkloof falls (normally only seen from above) via a winding wooden boardwalk built by the Karkloof Spa.

The boardwalk that leads to the base of the Karkloof falls

The team enjoyed the lush mistbelt forest with the many flora treasures within, expansive cliffs that tell an incredible geological story, and the damp spray of the waterfall with misty clouds rising above the falls.

The magnificent Karkloof Falls

In this sacred place where time stands still, and one gets to just soak up the majesty and beauty of one of nature’s natural wonders, no one would guess that we were just 30 minutes from civilisation and the town of Howick.

A team selfie at the base of the Karkloof Falls, which is the starting point for the final leg of our journey.  From left: Twané Clarke (Karkloof Conservancy), Jenna Taylor (GroundTruth) and Sue Viljoen (WWF-SA)

Although the team could have stayed at these magnificent falls all day, they knew they had a journey to complete. Once back out of the forested boardwalk section, the valley opened up into savannah with thorn trees and grassland, with a wealth of indigenous species tracking the river’s course through the reserve.

Dierama sp.

A Buffalo stood watching us quietly from behind a large rock at the river. For at least 8km, the Karkloof’s last stretch before the confluence enjoys natural habitats all along its path, which gives the river an opportunity to heal itself of any impacts experienced higher up in the catchment. Water clarity noticeably improved as well as the levels of dissolved oxygen due to the regular riffles, rapids, and general fast flow of this section.

Fast flowing river through a natural area.

It is interesting to note that Lantana camara was absent along the entire stretch of river from the source to the falls, but was prolific throughout the last day’s journey. We could see that work was being done to combat this invasive alien plant, as well as many others.

Dr Grobler taking the water clarity reading at the weir for us. The clarity test tube is a brilliant citizen science tool which can be purchased through GroundTruth.

While taking water sample readings near the confluence, a young Spotted-necked Otter peeked its head out of the water with curiosity to see what we were doing. Spotted-necked Otters require clean, good quality water with clear visibility in order to catch fish. It was an encouraging sign to have this sighting at the end of our journey and certainly a highlight for the team.

Spotted-necked Otter just above the confluence at the end of our 64km journey,

The team were amused to see that hippo also rely on the Karkloof River as home. Have you ever seen a hippo in a natural flowing river in the KZN midlands? A rare sight indeed. We were also treated to sightings of Eland, Giraffe, Zebra, Bushbuck, Warthog and many more game species.

Hippo enjoying the tranquility of the Karkloof Safari Spa

The river walkers were indeed extremely privileged to have experienced the wildlife and scenery at the Karkloof Safari Spa and are very grateful for being afforded access in order to complete the journey and collect the necessary data along the full stretch of the river.

Identifying water invertebrates to obtain a miniSASS score

Very soon after the confluence where the Karkloof river joins onto the uMngeni, we could see the quick deterioration of water quality and the first signs of invasive water weeds on the uMngeni river at Morton’s Drift. Fortunately the Karkloof River is free of aquatic invasive weeds, and will hopefully remain that way.

Mortons Drift. Just below the confluence on the uMngeni River.

The team celebrated the end of the 6 day Karkloof River walk from Catchment to Confluence with sundowners at the top of the Karkloof Falls at the Sappi picnic site, joined by members of the Karkloof Conservancy and WWF staff. A toast was made to the river walk accomplishment and conquering the 64km journey through hill and vale, rain and shine.

Cheers! To a successful journey.

There is keen interest to see the official results of the river health sampling and the video that is being made of the C2C Karkloof River Walk journey, sponsored by Woolworths. Both of these will be shared at an upcoming Karkloof Conservancy event to be announced.

A huge note of thanks to all the sponsors and partners that have contributed in both cash and kind towards this project, and to the landowners who so willingly allowed access to their properties.

So which river is next? And who else is going to raise their hand to get to know the river in their own catchment?

Great to see the Goble family at the end of our journey. The support from landowners has been fantastic. We look forward to sharing the results with them. From left: Ros Lindley, Fuzz Goble and his mum, Carolyn Goble.

Finally the Falls!

On Day 5 of the Catchment to Confluence Karkloof River Walk the team was thrilled to be joined by 2 fresh pairs of legs, Mbuso Khambule (new SAPPI Environmental Officer) and Mondli Goba (SAPPI Communications Officer), just in time to pass through some of the SAPPI Shafton plantation areas on the Karkloof floodplain.

Team setting off. From Left: Nduduzo Khoza (EWT Eco-Ranger), Mondli Goba (Sappi), Mbuso Khambule (Sappi), Twané Clarke (Karkloof Conservancy), Ayanda Lipheyana (GroundTruth) and the photographer behind the camera is Sue Viljoen (WWF-SA)

Our destination for the day was the Karkloof Falls, starting at the pumphouse on Gartmore farm, which as the crow flies did not seem all that far. But we now knew by experience that following the meanders of a river over rough terrain or tall vegetation where there is no path is not likely to be a walk in the park.

Sue Viljoen (WWF-SA) pushing through the tall vegetation in the wetland

As we pushed through the wetland, we stopped to gaze at the distant Karkloof mountains, home to the river’s source where we had come from 5 days earlier, feeling pleased with the distance we had conquered so far.

The team felt a sense of pride as we gazed upon the distant mountain

We were excited to see 2 Grey Crowned Cranes fly over us, with their characteristic “mahem” call, en route to one of the bird hides at the Karkloof Conservation Centre. What would Karkloof be without its treasured cranes? We had been treated to sightings of a number of cranes on the previous days as well. In total 11 Grey Crowned Cranes were seen and 4 Wattled Cranes. And it was only fitting that most of these cranes were spotted on farms belonging to “Crane Custodians”.

Nduduzo Khoza (EWT Eco-Ranger) and Twané Clarke (Karkloof Conservancy) excited to see these custodianship signs.

Custodians are landowners who are formally recognised by the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) for their voluntary contribution to the conservation of threatened species on their farms, such as crane, oribi or blue swallows. (Download “Guidelines for Custodianship in SA” here)

By tea time, we had traversed the Shafton wetland and reached the Karkloof River bridge which crosses over the road to Cramond.

Karkloof River bridge along the Cramond road. From left: Ayanda Lipheyana (GroundTruth), Mbuso Khambule (Sappi), Twané Clarke (Karkloof Conservancy), Sue Viljoen (WWF-SA), Nduduzo Khoza (EWT Eco-Ranger) and Mondli Goba (Sappi)

Mbuso reminded us of the extent of SAPPI plantations that had been removed from the Shafton wetland a number of years ago and allowed to rehabilitate back to natural vegetation – some 186 ha were not replanted due to the existence of this important wetland system.

Looking back at the rehabilitated wetland beyond the bridge.

The next section of the river was slow moving, noticeably poorer in water quality and showed signs of being at the bottom of the valley’s catchment area, which ultimately receives all the nutrient rich runoff from the various activities along the way. The water colour had changed to a more murky greenish colour, there was a type of sludge on the rocks, in some quieter corners, traces of foam was seen on the surface and the sewage weed could be seen in many places along the river’s edge.

At the first set of large, impressive rocks above the falls, we did a Mini-SASS test, which showed the water was “critically modified”, confirming our impressions that the river’s quality was now compromised. At this site, a dead bushbuck was found between the large rocks, leaving us wondering what happened here. It looks like it lost its footing while trying to have a drink.

Doing a miniSASS before heading off on the last section to the Karkloof Falls

The condition of riverine buffer along this last stretch was also compromised due to high levels of alien invasive vegetation (such as the big clump of bamboo shown below, poplar saplings, elderflower and all the other commonly seen invasives we had seen higher up in the catchment). Pastures were unfortunately established very close to the river, and therefore without a wide section of natural vegetation to act as buffer and filter for the runoff, the river is all the more impacted.

A clump of bamboo at the river’s edge.

Having followed every twist and turn of the river now for 5 days, we felt a certain sadness at the deterioration of the river’s health. However, the sight of the picnic site for the Karkloof falls picked up our spirits. Destination at last! Hooray for being able to pull off our boots and take a break in the shade! Here we were spoilt with orange ice-lollies by our videographer, Jayne Symes, who is putting a video clip together of the river walk. What a welcome gift! Thank you Jane!

Jane Symes (Black & White Studios) was our hero that day. These ice cold treats were welcomed after a day of scorching heat and little shade.

While catching our breath over lunch, we chatted at length about the problem of litter at a public picnic site like this, and how increasingly popular the Karkloof Falls had become. Would new signage saying “litter free zone” and removing the dustbins help to change people’s behaviour so that all rubbish is taken away by visitors?

Karkloof Falls picnic site along the river could be the perfect setting for a litter free zone

There was just 1 section left to walk down to the actual Karkloof falls viewing point and lower picnic site, our end point for the day. We said “bye for now” to the river, with the very last leg of the river’s journey to be continued the following Thursday, 6th April. A team photo in front of the falls was a fitting way to exclaim “WE MADE IT!”.

We made it! The Karkloof River Walk team have reached the Karkloof falls

A Winding Watercourse

After difficult and long days, Day 4 promised to be less strenuous as the team were now truly in the Karkloof floodplain, where the terrain was more open and the river starts its characteristic meanders.

With Sue Viljoen (WWF) unable to join us for day 4, Simon Bruton of GroundTruth stepped in as a substitute for the day.

Day 4’s river walk team. From left: Twané Clarke (Karkloof Conservancy), Simon Bruton (GroundTruth), Ayanda Lipheyana (GroundTruth), and Nduduzo Khoza (EWT Eco-Ranger)

Given the open terrain, by tea time we could see in the far distance the start of a line of trees, the end of which marked our finish point for the day. However, we knew there was still much walking ahead, given the many meanders, oxbow lakes and fences we would still need to navigate.

On the floodplain cattle became a common sight, along with some of the impacts and risks they can introduce in proximity to watercourses. Eroded cattle crossings, drinking and feeding points (with associated cattle dung and trampling) contributed to water which showed gradual but increasing visual signs of change such as cloudiness, froth and abundant growth of nuisance vegetation, possibly thriving on an increased nutrient load. It will be interesting to see if the laboratory water quality analysis sponsored by Talbot & Talbot confirm the visual observations.

Sewerage plant along with other signs of deteriorating water quality

Days 3 and 4 were the days of fence crossings. Given the fatigue setting in, humour was found in the different ways each of us may tackle a fence in the least strenuous manner, given our different loads and skills. Some would prefer to vault over and leave pack and kit intact, while others would disrobe all kit, squeeze through and kit up again.

Ayanda negotiating yet another fence

Given the many meanders and fences, a tree trunk footbridge was a welcome but tricky crossing to negotiate.

Negotiating the log bridge

Twané showing the muscle required of a river walker.

After lunch we made a poor call on which side of the river to take, ultimately resulting in the need for a detour around a large mosaic of impenetrable wetland vegetation, which separated us from the river for some distance. Once re-united, water quality samples were again collected.

At the tar road bridge over the Karkloof River, illegal and irresponsible dumping of waste tar material into the river was noted, posing a significant constriction to flow, and perhaps even affecting flood risk to the bridge, with one of the two culverts effectively barricaded.

Waste tar material dumped off the Karkloof tar road bridge, introducing river impacts and potential flood risk

In the early afternoon Ouhout, Leucosidea sericea, was again found for the first time since the headwater sections. Numerous alien plants still made their presence felt (particularly bramble and bugweed), but not in the same densities that had been experienced on day 3. Having said that, some large isolated patches of bramble required some cautious retreat and detour.

Nduduzo taking a water clarity reading at one of the last water quality sites of the day.

As dusk approached and each camp fence was crossed, the team were joined by relays of inquisitive river walkers who call this beautiful area home.

Bushwillows, Bushbuck and Bushwhacking

on Tuesday 28 March, as we reached our drop off point for day 3, courtesy of C. MacGillivray’s Karkloof Taxi Services, Sue Viljoen (WWF-SA) remarked that she was in need of a double espresso and a red bull. Yip, the typical day 3 stiffness had set in, and our bodies were yelling for more sleep and wondering why on earth we had volunteered to walk from dawn to dusk through some rather difficult terrain. Once we were on our way, with the morning mist rising and the river looking really beautiful, we soon forgot our morning blues.

The Karkloof river, our source of inspiration

A hidden gem was waiting for us a few river bends later. Grassy river banks suddenly gave way to a small pocket of riverine forest and invited us in to explore. If we did not have at least another 10km to conquer that day, we would have loved to linger under that quiet, shady tree canopy created by some impressively tall forest trees, including Sue’s new favourite – The Forest Bushwillow (Combretum kraussii).

Close-up of the Forest Bushwillow

We wondered how old this particular bushwillow was – maybe a good 50 to 90 years?

Standing under the impressive Bushwillow

However the fantastical forest patches were soon forgotten when we saw the sad sight of green algae in a slow moving section of the river, a sure sign of nutrient enrichment.

Green algae – a sign of nutrient enrichment

When we stopped at the next suitable place to take water quality samples, the mini-SASS result reflected a decline in river health.

A sample to test for E. coli, nitrates and phosphates was definitely in order.

From this point on, the condition of the river bank vegetation also declined considerably with a proliferation of alien invasive vegetation, particularly bramble, which required frequent bushwhacking and made walking close to the river very difficult. We had to take a number of detours around or through plantations and lost sight of the river for a fair distance, often due to a hedge-like wall of bramble that separated us from the river.

Wall of Bramble separating us from the river

We also came across 2 large areas of erosion on exposed, steep river banks.

Riverbank erosion causes increased sediment deposit in rivers during rainy and stormy weather which leads to the silting up of rivers and dams.

While gazing at the extent of the erosion, a bushbuck suddenly bolted out and made a quick disappearance again. What a treat to see one of these shy antelope! Another boost to our spirits was coming across a few more forest patches with giant-size Bushwillows, Cape Chestnuts and Cabbage Trees.

Three noteworthy sightings from today can adequately be summed up as – The Good, The Bad and the Ugly.

The Good – Beloved Bushwillows

The Bad – Formosa Lilies (Lilium formosanum) an emerging weed, which despite its aesthetic appeal is spreading rampantly.

The Ugly – Bulldozer activity, altering the river banks and clearing vegetation. Such disturbance is likely to attract more invasive weeds.

When we finally got back to the river’s edge and put some of the more difficult terrain behind us, we came to one of the five fixed sampling points where water quality and river flow is sampled weekly by GroundTruth. This is part of a river monitoring project for the Karkloof Irrigation Board, funded by WWF-SA, along the Karkloof and Kusane Rivers. We were encouraged to find a stonefly at this site, doing a fine display of “push-ups” for us, whereby it pushes its body up and down with its legs which is one of the distinguishing features of stoneflies compared to other aquatic invertebrates.

Our “bodybuilder”, the Stonefly which was doing push-ups for us.

Seeing time fly by, we had to press on to try reach the pick up point before dusk. A new landscape lay before us of beef grazing peacefully on rolling hillsides, maize lands and lush dairy pastures. The change in land use was also coupled with a change in river characteristics, as the river flow slowed down over flatter floodplain terrain, and began to meander more and more.

After a long day, seeing our trusty steed comes into view (a certain white Prado) was truly a welcome sight – and one which deserved a silly photo to celebrate!