|
South Africa has seven major vegetation biomes: Desert, Savanna, Grassland, Succulent Karoo, Nama-Karoo, Forest and Fynbos, and is one of only few countries in the world that is considered to be mega-diverse. Between them, these countries are home to the majority of the earth's species.
The country has almost 300 species of mammals found throughout South Africa in a wide spectrum of wildlife and nature areas, ranging from snow-clad mountains to subtropical coastal regions. These areas include National Parks, marine reserves, wilderness areas as well as private game and nature reserves, which are ideal destinations for wildlife viewing and nature related activities on offer in South Africa.
Numerous mammals are found in the bushveld including lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, white and black rhinos, hippos, blue wildebeest, kudus, impalas, hyenas, hippopotamus and giraffes. A significant extent of the bushveld exists in the north-east including Kruger National Park and the Mala Mala Reserve, as well as in the far north in the Waterberg Biosphere.
The largest mammal of all – in South Africa and the world – is the blue whale, which can grow to 33 meters in length. But of the eight whale species found in South African waters (including the dramatic black-and-white killer whale), the most frequently seen by humans is the southern right whale. This imposing creature comes into coastal bays to calve, allowing for superb land-based viewing. A great spot to watch the southern right whale is at Hermanus, about 1½ hours’ drive from Cape Town.
South Africa's seas are rich in fish species. Perhaps the most awesome of these is the great white shark, but this is only one of more than 2 000 species, comprising 16% of the world's total. Various line fish, rock lobster and abalone are of particular interest to gourmets, while pelagic fish (sardines and pilchards) and hake have large-scale commercial value.
The crocodile still rules some stretches of river and estuary, lakes and pools and is as much as any of the Big Five, a symbol of Africa. South Africa's land reptiles include rare tortoises and the fascinating chameleon. There are well over 100 species of snakes; about half of them non-venomous, others – such as the puffadder, green and black mamba, boomslang and rinkhals – are very venomous.
Of the 850 or so species birds that have been recorded in South Africa, about 725 are resident or annual visitors, and about 50 are birds found only in South Africa. Among its larger bird species, South Africa has several species of eagles and vultures. Among its most colorful are kingfishers, bee-eaters, sunbirds, the exquisite lilacbreasted roller, and the Knysna and purple-crested louries. The beautiful blue crane is South Africa's national bird. Many of the hundreds of nature reserves and game reserves throughout South Africa provide excellent opportunities for birders of all descriptions. These facilities include trails, hides, information sheets and checklists, and trained bird guides.
|
