Latest News & Developments
biodiversity
Rediscovery of the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew after 46 years
Conservationists rejoice as the Boosmansbos long-tailed forest shrew, a species lost to researchers for 46 years, is rediscovered in CapeNature’s Boosmansbos Wilderness Area, marking a significant milestone in wildlife conservation efforts.
Endangered wildlife at risk from expanding road networks in mountainous regions
Professor Aliza le Roux reveals alarming findings on the rising threat of vehicle collisions to endangered wildlife in mountainous regions, as discussed at the Southern African Mountain Conference.
National Garden Week gives free access to South Africa’s botanical and zoological gardens from March 10-16
From Monday, March 10 to Sunday March 16, 2025, South Africans have free access to all of the country’s national botanical and zoological gardens.
Western Cape’s first wildlife rescue centre opens
The newly launched Kogelberg Biosphere Wildlife Rescue & Training Centre is the firstpermitted facility in the province to rehabilitate and release indigenous birds, mammals andreptiles.
Legal battle looms as African Penguin population faces critical decline
BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB are taking legal action against the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to secure effective protection measures for the declining African Penguin population.
Gauteng High Court to hear Landmark case for African Penguin conservation
The organisations have sought from the court to review and set aside the minister’s decision to put in place island closures at six breeding colonies “which are not biologically meaningful”, citing that the decision was irrational and unlawful.
BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB challenge government on African penguin protection
BirdLife South Africa and SANCCOB are taking legal action against the Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment to secure effective protection measures for the declining African Penguin population, as they challenge the government’s inadequate conservation efforts.
Government faces legal challenge over 'flawed' African Penguin protections
A landmark lawsuit challenges South Africa’s fisheries policies, as conservationists warn thatAfrican Penguins could disappear from the wild by 2035 without urgent intervention.
Conservation success for Cape Mountain Zebras, but threats persist
While Cape mountain zebras have made a remarkable comeback from near extinction, plainsand Grévy’s zebras continue to face habitat loss, poaching, and climate change-drivendroughts.
South African conservationist Dr Aaniyah Martin joins global Antarctic expedition
Dr Aaniyah Martin shares her journey as part of an elite group of women leaders heading toAntarctica to drive global sustainability and climate action.
South Africa's fight against poaching intensifies
Dion George, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, has declared war onpoaching syndicates, vowing to strengthen legislation and disrupt local and international networks.
Dr Donald Simon: from poverty to PhD success at Stellenbosch University
Dr Donald Simon’s remarkable journey from an impoverished township to earning a PhD in molecular biology at Stellenbosch University showcases the power of resilience, support, and academic dedication.
Celebrating International Mountain Day: Protecting our natural jewels
Every year on December 11, International Mountain Day serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to appreciate and protect our planet’s majestic landscapes.
Holiday wildlife safety: Top tips for eco-tourists
Practical tips for eco-tourists to navigate encounters with snakes, scorpions, spiders, and tickssafely while fostering biodiversity.
South Africa’s bioprospecting law: A call for indigenous inclusion and reform
A Durban-based traditional healer calls for reform to bioprospecting laws, urging inclusivity toprotect South Africa’s biodiversity and empower indigenous communities.
Sustainable resource use critical to South Africa’s biodiversity future, says DFFE
A recent webinar hosted by the South African Youth Biodiversity Network dissected SouthAfrica’s efforts under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.
Groot Phesantekraal’s André Brink named Farmer of the Year for 2024
Celebrating innovation in farming, André Brink of Groot Phesantekraal secures the 2024 Farmer of the Year title, showcasing how tradition meets sustainability.
New dung beetle species reveal insights into ecological relationships
Christian Deschodt, a doctoral student at the University of Pretoria (UP), has uncovered two new species of dung beetles over the past two decades of exploring Southern Africa’s diverse landscape.
Marion Island faces environmental threat from avian influenza
Marion Island, one of South Africa's sub-Antarctic gems, is facing a serious environmental threat as the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) virus appears to have reached the island's shores.
Supreme Court of Appeal blocks Monsanto’s GMO maize, citing flaws in government safety oversight
A Supreme Court of Appeal decision halts the release of genetically modified maize, pointing to ignored environmental assessment obligations and safety concerns.
Study of fruit flies could save South Africa's fruit industry millions
In a pivotal breakthrough for South Africa's agricultural sector, University of Pretoria (UP) researcher Tania Pogue has delved into the behaviour of one of the country's most notorious agricultural pests – the fruit fly.
Prince William, star of his Earthshot Prize, celebrating innovations for environmental solutions
In a spectacular tribute to innovation and environmental excellence, the winners of the 2024 Earthshot Prize were announced during a dazzling awards ceremony held in Cape Town.
Baobabs in the crossfire: Over 600,000 protected trees to be destroyed for coal-driven development
The Musina-Makhado Special Economic Zone project threatens to clear swathes of protected forests, raising urgent concerns over environmental and social costs.
How Africa’s Sustainable Finance Coalition is transforming conservation
With a focus on Africa's most vulnerable ecosystems, the Sustainable Finance Coalition aims to unlock billions in funding for biodiversity and community-based conservation projects.
South Africa’s Conservation efforts ranked 25th globally but challenges remain
South Africa’s conservation practices are recognised globally, but the Nature Conservation Index highlights urgent areas for improvement, especially in marine protection and policy enforcement.