Anysberg Nature Reserve

The Anysberg Nature Reserve of 62,500 ha, is situated in the western Little Karoo region[1] of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve in the Western Cape province, South Africa. The central mountain is named after Anise, Pimpinella anisum, which is found in the reserve.[2] The reserve was established in 1984, to conserve succulent and fynbos flora in the Cape Fold Belt, and to reintroduce game which formerly occurred here.

Anysberg Nature Reserve
Gemsbok Oryx gazella, Anysberg Nature Reserve
TypeNature reserve
LocationWestern Cape, South Africa
Nearest cityLaingsburg
Coordinates33°31′S 20°37′E
Area796.29 km2 (307.45 sq mi)
Established25 May 1984 (1984-05-25)
Administered byCapeNature
WebsiteAnysberg Nature Reserve – Capenature

The nearest towns are Laingsburg and Ladismith, which are both about 55 km from the main reserve entrance.

History

Land for the reserve was first set aside in 1984 below the Anysberg Mountain Catchment Area (designated in 1978). This was further extended multiple times to its current area of 79,629 hectares (196,770 acres).[3][4]

Biodiversity

Fed by three rivers, the diversity of life is supported here amidst mountain feathers and the characteristic Klein Karoo veil.

About 180 species of birds are regularly spotted in the reserve, making it a popular choice for bird watchers. In addition to the enchanting landscape and rich plant and animal life, the reserve is also home to San rock art, painted thousands of years ago. [5][6]

  • Landscape, Anysberg Nature Reserve
    Landscape, Anysberg Nature Reserve
  • Succulents Gibbaeum pubescens, Anysberg Nature Reserve
    Succulents Gibbaeum pubescens, Anysberg Nature Reserve
  • Succulents (Aizoaceae), Anysberg Nature Reserve
    Succulents (Aizoaceae), Anysberg Nature Reserve
  • Succulents, Anysberg Nature Reserve
    Succulents, Anysberg Nature Reserve

References
  1. "Anysberg Nature Reserve Self Catering and Campsite, Ladismith". The Expedition Project. 17 March 2020. Retrieved 13 May 2021.
  2. du Plessis, E.J. (1973). Suid-Afrikaanse berg- en riviername. Tafelberg-uitgewers, Cape Town. p. 68. ISBN 0-624-00273-X.
  3. "Anysberg Provincial Nature Reserve" (PDF).
  4. "Anysberg Nature Reserve – Capenature". www.capenature.co.za. Retrieved 1 June 2022.
  5. "Anysberg Nature Reserve". CapeNature. Retrieved 25 August 2020.
  6. "Anysberg Nature Reserve". CapeNature. Retrieved 13 May 2021.

External reference
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