Adrian Wood, University of Huddersfield Swamps, marshes, floodplains and mangrove forests, all known as wetlands, are a precious resource. In their natural state they provide a range of eco-system services. They regulate water flows, store eroded materials and nutrients and … Read more
As a defence mechanism, many butterflies are poisonous. Other butterflies mimic their poisonous cousins to warn off predators. By Justin Bode When a poisonous butterfly is bitten, the toxins released stimulate a vomiting reflex in the predator that results in … Read more
The biodiversity threat won’t be tackled by alarmist biologist hype and dismantling capitalism. By Matt Ridley | @mattwridley Driven perhaps by envy at the attention that climate change is getting, and ambition to set up a great new intergovernmental body that can … Read more
This beauty is one of the standout blooms at Verloren Valei despite the fierce competition. By Gerrit van Ede When in flower, this orchid is very noticeable in the sour-grass veld of Verloren Valei, and is one of the beauties … Read more
An episode of BirdLife Africa’s Conservation Conversations of great interest to Friends of Verloren Valei. Conservation conversations is a series of webinars presented by BirdLife Africa. This one features Dr Kyle Lloyd, Rockjumper Fellow of White-winged Flufftail Conservation, who is … Read more
The full life cycle of South Africa’s more than 10 000 species of Lepidoptera remains mysterious, even in the age of Google. Citizen scientists have a big role to play, writes Justin Bode. It may surprise you to learn that we … Read more
New measurements show just how much pristine water Verloren Valei contributes to the total ecosystem. By James van den Heever The last time a scientific study of the water provided by the Verloren Valei wetlands was in October 1995. Now, … Read more
Dr Kyle Lloyd, Rockjumper Fellow of White-winged Flufftail Conservation, says that his research project about these mysterious birds hopes to help preserve the endangered wetlands which they and the rest of creation relies. By James van den Heever Dr Lloyd … Read more
The Birds and Flowers field trip led by Susan Abell and Geoff Lockwood was a great success, but the second day had to be cancelled owing to heavy rain. By James van den Heever The two-day field trip focusing on … Read more
This lovely little butterfly is easy to miss, but it’s well worth keeping an eye out for it in the vlei areas of Verloren Valei. By Justin Bode Harpendyreus noquasa, Marsh Mountain Blue, Moeras-bergbloutjie, as the names suggest, is a … Read more
