Three white Disa orchids are Verloren Valei specials, although infrequently seen. By Gerrit van Ede There are three Disas found on Verloren Valei that are basically white with some spots. While they are specials on the Reserve, they are not … Read More
Infrequently observed at Verloren Valei, the Basuto Skolly or Basuto magpie has a somewhat disreputable reputation, as its name implies. By Justin Bode Thestor basutus, Basuto Skolly or Basoetoe Skollie, is the most widely distributed species in its genus. While … Read More
Izak Smit, University of Pretoria; Dian Spear, University of Cape Town; Marina Joubert, Stellenbosch University, and Nicola van Wilgen-Bredenkamp, Stellenbosch University Fire can destroy infrastructure and livelihoods, and claim lives. Yet fire is inevitable and has helped to shape ecosystems … Read More
Recently published research shows that sustained and targeted efforts in conservation can reverse adverse trends – no doubt aided by nature’s astonishing power to regenerate itself, given half a chance. Cranes are a subject close to the heart of Friends … Read More
The renowned orchid expert shared his knowledge with a mostly young group. Doug McMurtry, one of South Africa’s leading orchid experts, kindly agreed to lead a field trip to Verloren Valei on 26 February 2022. Accompanied by fellow expert, Shane … Read More
Work by Steve Johnson and his team at the School of Life Sciences at the University of KwaZulu-Natal expands our knowledge of how this plant is pollinated. Streptocarpus dunnii is associated with mistbelt grasslands, and grows on Verloren Valei, so … Read More
They will gain valuable experience and bolster the resources reserve management can call on. Sbongile Moyana obtained an Advanced Diploma in Nature Conservation 2019 at the University of Mpumalanga. She grew up in Kwamhanga, Mpumalange. Although she didn’t know much … Read More
BirdLife South Africa, the Endangered Wildlife Trust, and the Department of Small Business Development, Tourism, and Environmental Affairs (DESTEA) in the Free State, together with support from the Ingula Partnership (a collaboration between Eskom Holdings (SOC) Ltd, Middelpunt Wetland Trust, … Read More
Take advantage of these opportunities to visit the beautiful Verloren Valei Nature Reserve near Dullstroom in the company of experts. Verloren Valei is a pristine wetland reserve northeast of Dullstroom, and is renowned as a biodiversity hotspot. Rare indigenous orchids … Read More
Hannes Marais, Wetland Scientist, MTPA, shared some of his knowledge on a recent field trip. By James van den Heever One of the most important reasons for conserving Verloren Valei is the significant contribution it makes to securing South Africa’s … Read More
