CapeNature’s De Hoop Nature Reserve has welcomed a new foal, born just three weeks ago, that joined the reserve’s small vital population of Cape mountain zebra, reports Cape {town} Etc.
The newborn is an ‘exciting addition’ to the herd and for the conservation of the once-endangered species.
The new foal’s arrival has also coincided with International Zebra Day, which is celebrated annually on 31 January and serves as an important reminder of the ‘need to protect all zebra species and their habitats.’
The population of the Cape mountain zebra has recovered, which has been a cause of optimism.
Last year, CapeNature conducted an aerial game survey over De Hoop and the neighbouring Overberg Test Range (OTR) to assess population numbers, which was made possible by Brian Blackstock of the Bateleurs.
Brian Blackstock of the Bateleurs is an organisation that supports environmental initiatives through aerial reconnaissance.
The results of the survey indicated that over one hundred Cape mountain zebra were counted across the two properties, with the majority being observed on OTR.
While De Hoop’s landscape has provided suitable grazing for the zebras, the reserve has a limited capacity to support a large population of this subspecies.
CapeNature has instead played a strategic role in ensuring the genetic diversity of Cape mountain zebra by relocating excess individuals to reserves with more optimal habitats.
In these new areas, they can contribute to strengthening other populations.
CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo has highlighted the value of partnerships in the entity’s conservation efforts while emphasising the importance of growing the Cape mountain zebra population.
‘Every new foal is an important addition to the Cape mountain zebra population and useful example of what ongoing collaborative conservation initiatives can yield,’ said Naidoo.
‘At CapeNature, we recognise that partnerships, whether with researchers, conservation organisations, or the public, are vital to ensuring this species’ future,’ Naidoo added.
Previously, in the 1950s, the Cape mountain zebra were on the brink of extinction with fewer than 100 left in the wild.
Their numbers have risen steadily over the years through careful management of their populations.
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Picture: Supplied
