Download APPENDIX D: Specialist reports - Sazi Environmental Consulting

ECOLOGICAL ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR THE PROPOSED RAND
WATER ADDITIONAL 200ML RESERVOIR IN BRAKPAN, EAST RAND,
GAUTENG PROVINCE
04 May 2015 vs 2
Prepared for:
Sazi Environmental (Pty) Ltd
B16 Lone Creek, Waterfall Park,
Vorna Valley, Midrand, 1684
Cell: +27 084 800 0187
E-mail: [email protected]
Prepared by: Farai Dondofema Unit 2, 1 Alwyn StreetLouis Trichardt,South
AfricaTel: +27 76 5004979Cell: 82 82 65371e-mail:
[email protected]
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Rand Water intends to construct an additional 200ML reservoir in Brakpan within the Ekurhuleni
Metropolitan Municipality, Gauteng. The proposed development is in line with the Ekurhuleni
Metropolitan Municipality Urban Spatial Development Framework.
SAZI Environmental Consulting cc was commissioned to undertake the basic assessment process
in order to determine the level of impact associated with the proposed development. This report
aims to provide information on the Ecological importance of the proposed development site and
to provide information to support a variety of decision making and project planning processes on
project feasibility and a final site layout. Methods of data collection and analysis included a GIS
desktop exercise, a review of aerial imagery, a site visit and sampling exercise, as well as the use
of published data. The results were then used to rate the sensitivity within the study area, to
compile a species list and classify vegetation communities. These attributes were then rated on
their level of sensitivity, ecological functionality and conservation importance.
The vegetation type on site was described by Mucina and Rutherford (2006) as the Soweto
Highveld Grassland. From the ecological data collected, a sensitivity map was compiled as a
precursor to this report. Sections of the site were rated as low, medium or high sensitivity based
on the level of disturbance, ecological condition and species composition. Results of the study
indicate that the species composition of the vegetation of approximate less than 5% of the
species suggested by Mucina and Rutherford (2006). However, species diversity was low on both
the preferred and alternative sites due to past human disturbances.
This study recommends the construction of the additional 200ML Rand Water reservoir to be
undertaken on the preferred site as it constitutes much lower sensitivity than the alternative site.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY .................................................................................................................... 1
1
INTRODUCTION ....................................................................................................................... 5
TERMS OF REFERENCE...................................................................................................... 7
LIMITATIONS .................................................................................................................... 7
2
BACKGROUND INFORMATION ................................................................................................ 9
LOCATION ......................................................................................................................... 9
LAND USE AND LAND COVER ........................................................................................... 9
GEOGRAPHICAL PROFILE .................................................................................................. 9
VEGETATION ..................................................................................................................... 9
3
METHODOLOGY .................................................................................................................... 11
DATA COLLECTION, SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS ............................................................. 11
3.1.1
Belt transect sampling ............................................................................................ 12
DESCRIPTION OF HABITATS ............................................................................................ 12
ECOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY RATING ................................................................................. 12
CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL SUPPORT AREAS ........................................ 14
FIELD SURVEYS ............................................................................................................... 14
4
FINDINGS OF ASSESSMENT ................................................................................................... 16
THE ALTERNATIVE SITE ................................................................................................... 18
THE PREFERRED SITE ...................................................................................................... 18
ALIEN VEGETATION ........................................................................................................ 20
RED DATA FLORA SPECIES .............................................................................................. 20
4.4.1
Faunal assessment .................................................................................................. 21
4.4.2
Avifauna Species ..................................................................................................... 22
4.4.3
Invertebrates Species.............................................................................................. 22
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4.4.4
Mammals Species ................................................................................................... 22
4.4.5
Protected Plant Species .......................................................................................... 22
4.4.6
Medicinal Plant Species .......................................................................................... 23
DECLARED WEEDS AND INVADER PLANTS ..................................................................... 24
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS .......................................................................... 25
CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL SUPPORT AREAS ........................................ 27
5
IMPACTS AND MITIGATION .................................................................................................. 28
NATURE OF THE IMPACT ................................................................................................ 28
SCALE .............................................................................................................................. 28
DURATION ...................................................................................................................... 28
INTENSITY ....................................................................................................................... 28
PROBABILITY ................................................................................................................... 29
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE – WITH AND WITHOUT MITIGATION ................... 29
CONFIDENCE................................................................................................................... 29
6
CONCLUSION ......................................................................................................................... 31
7
GLOSSARY.............................................................................................................................. 32
8
REFERENCES .......................................................................................................................... 34
9
APPENDICES .......................................................................................................................... 37
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Location of the preferred and alternative site for the construction of the additional Rand
Water 200ML reservoir ................................................................................................................... 6
Figure 2: The conservation status of the vegetation associated with the preferred and alternative
sites ............................................................................................................................................... 17
Figure 3: Portion at the proposed alternative site. ...................................................................... 18
Figure 4: Portion at the proposed preferred site. ........................................................................ 19
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Figure 5: Portion at the proposed preferred site ......................................................................... 19
Figure 6: Alien invasive species at the proposed preferred and alternative sites. ...................... 20
Figure 7: Sensitivity Map ............................................................................................................... 26
Figure 8: Gauteng ecological conservation plan associated with the preferred and alternative sites
....................................................................................................................................................... 27
LIST OF TABLES
Table 1: Alien and invasive species observed within the study area ........................................... 20
Table 2: Red Data species that may occur within the study area ................................................ 22
Table 3: List of exotic and invasive species found within the study area ..................................... 24
Table 4: Impacts on vegetation..................................................................................................... 30
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1
INTRODUCTION
The increasing human demand for space and life-supporting resources has resulted in a rapid loss
of natural open space and ecological degradation in South Africa. When open space systems are
rezoned for development, indigenous fauna and flora are replaced by exotic species and the
environment is converted to sterile landscapes with no dynamic propensity to regenerate or
ecological value (Wood, et al., 1994).
Historically, planning of developments did not consider environmental integrity, which
consequently led to the wasteful exploitation and the destruction of sensitive habitats, all of
which could have been avoided or mitigated. Legislation has noted this shortcoming of the past
and now requires that an environmental process and evaluation be undertaken prior to the
approval of a development. This ensures that developments are planned in a manner that makes
the best possible use of natural resources and avoids environmentally sensitive areas. An
ecological assessment forms part of this process. It includes studies relating to faunal and floral
communities, and is necessary to identify ecologically sensitive areas, to provide mitigatory
measures for potential environmental threats, and to allocate areas for potential development
and conservation. The aim of this report is to convey the ecological sensitivities within the study
area, and to guide the process in an ecologically sound manner.
This document aims to assess the potential impacts of the construction of the Rand Water
additional 200ML reservoir in Brakpan, in the East Rand, Gauteng Province. The preferred
location of the proposed additional Brakpan reservoir is the vacant land inside the premises of
the existing Brakpan reservoir. The alternative site is the land located south of the current
Brakpan reservoir and across the 2nd Road as indicated on the locality map below (Figure 1).
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Figure 1: Location of the preferred and alternative site for the construction of the additional Rand Water 200ML reservoir
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TERMS OF REFERENCE
The terms of reference were as follows (According to SAZI Environmental Consulting cc (SAZI),
2015):

To undertake a vegetation survey on site and provide species lists;

To identify possible Red Data floral species and important habitat that may occur within
the proposed site;

To provide a desktop faunal survey of the area;

To provide an indication of the relative conservation importance and ecological function
of the study area in terms of flora and fauna. This will be captured in a sensitivity map;

To assess the impacts of the proposed activity on the ecological integrity of the area; and

To provide recommendation on ecological mitigation measures for the proposed
development.
LIMITATIONS
The following limitations were associated with the fauna and flora assessment:

Ideally an ecological assessment should be carried out over a longer time frame and
should be replicated over several seasons. Due to the constraints of time and season, the
results were collected and concluded from sample plots laid out in areas of natural
vegetation.

General observations upon walking through the proposed study site and a survey of aerial
imagery also assisted in the compilation of the sensitivity map. Information about this
study relied heavily on data from representative sections of natural grassland.

Flora species composition was used as an indication of disturbance and to identify
possible faunal habitat.

Presence of a few conserved areas in the Soweto Highveld Grassland, time constraints
and a high rate of grassland degradation and transformation, comparison with benchmark
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site was not possible. Instead published species lists from Mucina & Rutherford (2006)
were relied upon for data comparison.
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2
BACKGROUND INFORMATION
LOCATION
The proposed additional 200ML Rand Water reservoir construction site is located in Brakpan in
the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality within the Gauteng Province. The preferred
construction site is located on the Witpoortjie farm.
LAND USE AND LAND COVER
The land use around the study area consists of Built-up area, tarred roads, informal settlements
and some industrial developments. Community clusters around the proposed project sites
include Witpoort Estates, Sallies Village and Ergo Squatters. The primary current land cover can
be described as Urban - built-up land used for residential purposes with small holdings that have
patches of grass in various parts. Witpoort Estates, Sallies Village and Ergo Squatters house
businesses and light industrial developments that support the local industry.
GEOGRAPHICAL PROFILE
The terrain class according to Kruger (1983) comprises mainly “Plains with moderate relief” with
a small area of “Plains with low relief” in the far north and an area of “Lowlands with parallel
hills” in the south-west. The altitude above sea level falls from around 1 420m in the far south to
as low as 1 760m in the north-east.
VEGETATION
The dominant vegetation type found close to the study site is grasslands. The Soweto Highveld
Grassland vegetation type extends westwards along the southern edge of the Johannesburg
Dome (including part of Soweto) as far as the vicinity of Randfontein. It occurs on gently to
moderately undulating landscape on the Highveld plateau, supporting short to medium-high,
dense, tufted grassland dominated almost entirely by Themeda triandra.
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The Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality provides suitable habitat for numerous threatened
floral, faunal and invertebrate species. The environmentally sensitive areas/hotspots include
Nature Reserves, Conservancies, rivers and drainage lines, riparian buffer zones, wetlands,
natural vegetation areas and rocky ridges and hills. It is evident from the various assessments
that the study area is representative of a high and intricate biodiversity as a result of the
grasslands-Bushveld ecotone, which is similarly supported by a diverse physical, geological and
mineral landscape, as well as rich cultural/ historical past.
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3
METHODOLOGY
Satellite images (Google-Earth, 2013) and topographical maps (scale: 1:1 000) were used to
delineate relatively homogeneous units within the study area. Transects were walked within the
perceived habitat types on the site, concentrating on moving through environmental gradients
encountered within the habitat type in order to identify species and communities. This was
continued until few to no new species were encountered. Any additional information on any
other feature thought to have ecological significance within the site, such as fauna or evidence
of fauna, soil type, altitude, erosion, rocky cover, alien/exotic/invasive plants as well as Red Data
Species and/or their habitat was also recorded.
DATA COLLECTION, SAMPLING AND ANALYSIS
The site visits and formal sampling was done from the 30th of March 2015. Vegetation refers to
the great diversity of plant species which occur in repeating assemblages. A combination of
physiognomy, floristic composition, and profile was used to identify and describe plant
communities.
The following brief descriptions of most common vegetation parameters were used in the current
ecological assessments as follows:

Species Occurrence: The species component is the fundamental structure of a plant
community. A species list is an essential part of all vegetation survey activities.

Frequency: The frequency of a species is defined as the probability of finding it within a
plot when the plot is placed on the ground. The prime requirement in estimating
frequency is to use as large a sample size as possible.

Cover: The cover of a species is defined as the proportion of ground occupied by vertical
projection. Cover is normally expressed as a percentage and the maximum cover of any
one species is 100 percent. For classification purposes, the most common practice is
estimation of cover in field. There are a number of "scales" or ratings based on cover
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(Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg, 1974; Causton, 1988). Sampling of percentage cover is
very similar in principle to the sampling of frequency.
In this study a GIS desktop exercise and literature review preceded the site visits. Areas of natural
vegetation were identified from imagery and groundtruthed upon arrival on site. Vegetation
sampling within the project area was then focused on the identified areas, data was collected
during the sampling visit. The adopted methodology comprised of scientific vegetation sampling
(Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg, 1974) method, where data was collected using the Belt transect
sampling.
3.1.1 Belt transect sampling
The Belt transect sampling method was undertaken during the site visits at the same time,
species were recorded at 10m intervals whilst walking along the altitudinal gradient of the site.
DESCRIPTION OF HABITATS
The ecological status of the vegetation is discussed below in terms of species composition,
ecological sensitivity and conservation importance. These sections of the sites were walked and
a corridor width of 100 m wide was covered and examined for the presence of protected or
sensitive species. In addition, data gathered from databases such as the Gauteng Conservation
Plan (C-Plan 3.3) and South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) were consulted.
ECOLOGICAL SENSITIVITY RATING
The ecological sensitivity rating was based on the ecological function and conservation
importance of the project site. The relative ecological function (e.g. connectivity & presence of
wetland systems) of an area was based upon the inherent function of the system or portion of
land. For example, highly sensitive or dynamic systems will be those systems contributing to
ecosystem service (e.g. wetlands) or the total preservation of biodiversity. Secondly, it relates to
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the degree of ecological connectivity between systems within a landscape matrix. Systems with
a high degree of landscape connectivity among each other are perceived to be more sensitive.
On the other hand, ecological conservation importance relates to species diversity, endemism
(unique species or unique processes) and the high occurrence of threatened species and species
(or ecosystems) protected by legislation. The following categories were used to describe the
ecological sensitivity of the study site:

High ecological function: Sensitive ecosystems with either low inherent resistance or
resilience towards disturbance factors or highly dynamic systems considered to be stable
and important for the maintenance of ecosystems integrity and offering ecosystem
services (e.g. large pristine grasslands, wetlands and ridge systems). These areas are not
suitable for development.

Medium ecological function: Relatively important ecosystems at gradients of
intermediate disturbances. An area may also be considered to be of medium ecological
function if it is directly adjacent to sensitive/pristine ecosystem. These areas may be
considered suitable for development, if mitigation measures are included.

Low ecological function: Degraded and highly disturbed systems with no ecological
function. These areas are suitable for development.

High conservation importance: Ecosystems with high species richness and usually provide
suitable habitat for a number of threatened species. Usually termed ‘no-go’ areas and
unsuitable for development, and should be protected.

Medium conservation importance: Ecosystems with intermediate levels of species
diversity without any threatened species. These areas may be considered suitable for
development, if mitigation measures are included.

Low conservation importance: Areas with little or no conservation potential and usually
species poor (most species are usually exotic). These areas are considered suitable for
development.
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CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL SUPPORT AREAS
A Gauteng Conservation plan (C-Plan 3) was used to determine the ecological status of the
Brakpan reservoir construction sites. Landscape features associated with ESAs (termed spatial
surrogates for ESAs) that are essential for the maintenance and generation of biodiversity in
sensitive areas and that require sensitive management were incorporated into C-Plan 3. Spatial
surrogates included dolomite, rivers, wetlands, pans, corridors for climate change and species
migration, ridges and low cost areas for Gauteng received from Dr S Holness).
FIELD SURVEYS
The fieldwork component of this survey was conducted on the 30th of March 2015. The preferred
and alternative sites were examined for the presence of protected or sensitive species. Data
gathered from databases such as the Gauteng Conservation Plan (C- PlanV3) and South African
National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) was consulted.
Quantitative data was collected in natural vegetation by undertaking vegetation sampling
according to the Braun-Blanquet approach (Mueller-Dombois & Ellenberg 1974; Westhoff & van
der Maarel 1978). In each sample site the following data was collected:
•
Species present;
•
Cover estimation of each species according to the Braun-Blanquet scale;
•
Vegetation height;
•
Amount of bare soil and rock cover;
•
Slope, aspect in degrees, latitude and longitude position (from GPS) in decimal degrees;
and
•
Presence of biotic disturbances, e.g. grazing, animal burrows, etc.
Additional checklists of plant species were compiled by traversing areas around each site on foot
and recording species as they were encountered. Plant names follow Germishuizen & Meyer
(2003). The field survey was conducted during the growing season as per GDARD’s guidelines as
site visits were planned to coincide with the flowering seasons of the various Gauteng Red Data
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species. The study concentrated on identified biodiversity hotspots (identified according to
GDARD information and the ESS) and is therefore not a comprehensive list of species for the
vegetation type. The species lists provided do however contain many of the dominant and
common species within the Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation.
Searches were undertaken specifically for Red List plant species (according to SANBI and GDARD),
and any other species with potential conservation value (according to GDARD). Historical
occurrences of threatened plant species were obtained from the South African National
Biodiversity Institute and GDARD for the quarter degree squares 2528AC. For all threatened plant
species that may occur along the proposed site, a rating of the likelihood of it occurring is given
as follows:

LOW: no suitable habitats occur on site / habitats on site do not match habitat description
for species;

MEDIUM: habitats on site match general habitat description for species (e.g. grassland),
but detailed microhabitat requirements (e.g. rocky grassland on shallow soils overlying
dolomite) are absent on the site or are unknown from the descriptions given in the
literature or from the authorities;

HIGH: habitats found on site match very strongly the general and microhabitat description
for the species (e.g. rocky grassland on shallow soils overlying dolomite);

DEFINITE: species found on site.
All exotic species categorised as alien invaders or weeds (as listed in amendments to
Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act, 1983, Act No. 43 of 1983) were recorded.
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4
FINDINGS OF ASSESSMENT
Routine communication with the Gauteng Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
(GDARD), a GIS scan and site observations revealed that no red data fauna and flora were
historically confirmed on site.
The alternative and preferred sites for the proposed reservoir contains plant communities that
may be broadly classified as Soweto Highveld Grassland (Figure 2). The Soweto Highveld
Grassland is considered as Endangered with a conservation target of 24%. Data from the sites
was collected in the field, the vegetation types on the proposed sites are described in more detail
below and alien invasive species are indicated with an asterisk.
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Figure 2: The conservation status of the vegetation associated with the preferred and alternative sites
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THE ALTERNATIVE SITE
The remaining patches of grassland are considered to have elevated conservation importance
due to the poor rates of conservation of this vegetation type nationally and specifically within
the Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type within which the study area is located as well as
the fact that four species, including two high priority threatened plant species are likely to occur
within this vegetation type. Remaining patches of untransformed Soweto Highveld Grassland
vegetation are therefore considered to have a HIGH sensitivity and conservation importance
within the study area.
Figure 3: Portion at the proposed alternative site.
The alternative site contained patches of endemic Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation like the
clusters of Cymbopogon pospischilii, Heteropogon contortus, Aristida congesta, Themeda
triandra and Eragrostis plana. Very few herbaceous and tree species were evident on the
alternative site, with the exception of a few alien invasive species.
THE PREFERRED SITE
This site showed higher levels of disturbance with no remaining patches of grasses of high
conservation importance within the Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type. Potentially
remaining patches of untransformed Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation are therefore
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considered to have a LOW sensitivity and conservation importance within the study area along
the proposed development site. There was evidence of Acacia karroo invasion of the site due to
the disturbance of the site
Figure 4: Portion at the proposed preferred site.
The preferred site contained species that are typical of disturbed areas in the Soweto Highveld
Grassland vegetation like the clusters of Sporobolus africanus, Cynodon dactylon, Paspalum
dilatatum and Aristida congesta. They was evidence of Medicago Sativa, Bidens pilosa, Datura
ferox, Pennisetum clandestinum invasion of the site due to the disturbance of the site. Very few
herbaceous and tree species were evident on the preferred site, with the exception of a few alien
invasive species.
Figure 5: Portion at the proposed preferred site
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ALIEN VEGETATION
Due to the fact that the fieldwork component of this survey was only undertaken during a limited
period during summer, the species list provided is unlikely to be comprehensive but is likely to
provide a good indication of the species diversity and composition of plant communities at the
site. Both the Preferred and alternative site had a few notable alien invasive species shown in
figure 6 and table 1.
C
B
A
Figure 6: Alien invasive species at the proposed preferred and alternative sites.
A. Large thorn apple (Datura ferox) – preferred site
B. Kikuyu Grass (Pennisetum clandestinum) – preferred site
C. Tall Khakiweed (Tagetes minuta) – alternative site
Table 1: Alien and invasive species observed within the study area
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
INVADER CATEGORY
Cynodon dactylon
Couch Gras
Category 2
Datura ferox
Large Thorn Apple
Declared weed Category 1
Pinus taeda
Loblolly pine
Category 2
Pennisetum clandestinum
Kikuyu Grass
Declared weed Category 2
Tagetes minuta
Tall Khakiweed
Declared weed Category 1
RED DATA FLORA SPECIES
No threatened species were encountered during the field surveys of the study area. None of
the plant species recorded in the study area are found in the “Red Data List of Southern African
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Plants” (Craig Hilton-Taylor, 1996) or on the updated PRECIS database of the National
Botanical Institute (NBI), Pretoria.
South Africa has been recognised globally as a country with remarkable plant diversity and
high levels of endemism. Almost ten percent of the earth’s plants are found within South
Africa approximating 23 420 species (Golding, 2002). Of the 948 taxa assessed, 414 species
are ‘threatened with extinction’, while 270 of these have populations with extremely localised
geographic distributions (Golding, 2002). In terms of conserving biodiversity, there has been
a shift towards focussing on ecosystems and landscapes (habitats) rather than efforts in
conserving specific species.
This is the case due to the variety of living organisms, which make up ecosystems relying on
suitable habitats to which they have become adapted over long periods of time. Habitat
degradation is one of the main reasons for species becoming extinct in a particular area.
However, it can be viewed that threatened species are seen as indicators of the overall health
of an ecosystem and serve, with varying degrees of success, as ‘umbrellas’ for the protection
of other organisms as well as ecosystems (Hilton-Taylor, 1996; 2000). According to HiltonTaylor (1996) threatened species can be seen as “biodiversity attention grabbers”.
The Threatened Plant Species Programme (TSP) is currently revising all threatened plant
species assessments made by Craig Hilton-Taylor (1996) using IUCN Version 2.3 criteria. The
following assessment made reference to the current TSP interim assessment (updated August,
2006).
4.4.1 Faunal assessment
Reductions in fauna numbers and occurrence in the Gauteng Province can be attributed to the
introduction of alien and invasive plants that do not offer a variation in plant communities,
with most of the plant species being unpalatable.
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4.4.2 Avifauna Species
No Red Data bird species were identified on the study site during the site visit. However
Appendix 1 provides a list of the common bird species of the Gauteng province and the
possibility of occurrence on the study site.
4.4.3 Invertebrates Species
No Red Data invertebrates were observed during the site visit. The conservation status of
many invertebrates in the Gauteng Province is still in the process of being established with the
21 species listed as priority invertebrates for conservation.
4.4.4 Mammals Species
No Red data mammals were identified during the field studies.
4.4.5 Protected Plant Species
It is important to note that no person shall remove, donate, sell, export or disturb a protected
plant unless he/she is a holder of a permit that authorises him/her to do so. The table below
lists the red data species that may occur in the preferred and alternative sites.
Table 2: Red Data species that may occur within the study area
SPECIES
STATUS
LIKELIHOOD OF OCCURRENCE ACCORDING
*
TO MAIN HABITAT PREFERENCES
Central Sandy Bushveld
Aloe vryheidensis (succulent shrub)
R
Unlikely
Brachystelma minor (herb)
R
Likely
Bulbine brunsvigiaefolia (herb)
R
Likely
Gladiolus dolomiticus (herb)
R
Unlikely
Sartidia jucunda (grass)
R
Likely
Tetradenia barberae (shrub)
R
Unlikely
Barleria rehmannii (herb)
K
Likely
Bowiea volubilis (herb)
K
Likely
Melhania integra (herb)
K
Likely
Mosdenia leptostachyus (grass)
K
Likely
Parapodium costatum (herb)
K
Possible
Rhynchosia nitens (shrub)
K
Likely
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Tristachya biseriata (grass)
K
Likely
R – Rare; V – Vulnerable; K – Insufficiently known Endangered Species:
At least one species that is categorised as Endangered (Euphorbia groenewaldii, dwarf
succulent) may occur in the study area, with a high likelihood of occurrence in the Soweto
Highveld Grassland, which occurs within corridors 1 and 5.
A permit is required to be obtained for the removal of any Red Data plant species, in terms of
Article 98 of the Transvaal Nature Conservation Ordinance (No 12 of 1983), which applies to
the old Transvaal area including the Gauteng Province. Apart from the Red Data species,
several species occurring in the study area are listed in the Transvaal Nature Conservation
Ordinance (No 12 of 1983) as protected and specially protected plants:
•
Scadoxis multiflora
•
Huernia hystrix
•
Amocharis coranica
•
Aloe – several species
•
Cussonia - several species
•
Protea- several species
4.4.6 Medicinal Plant Species
South Africa is home to a diversity of cultural groups all of which utilise plant species for some
purpose. A number of these species are highly prized for their traditional healing properties;
especially for “muthi” (they have ethno-medicinal value). An estimated 28 million people in
South Africa consume about 19 500 tonnes of medicinal plant material per annum (Mander,
1998). The Gauteng Province alone has around 1 049 plant taxa utilised for medicinal
properties, 31 % of the total estimated number of ethno-medicinal plants in South Africa
(Arnold et al, 2002). It is therefore imperative that the population demographics of these
species (especially the more conspicuous and sought-after species) be closely monitored and
utilised in a sustainable manner. The proposed increase in development, and at a local scale
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the construction phase of any developmental project will increase human activities within the
area, leading to uncontrolled harvesting of such resources. Although most of these plant
species are regionally widespread and abundant, some of the more economically important
species should be envisaged as high priority conservation entities (Van Wyk et al, 1997;
Pooley, 1998).
DECLARED WEEDS AND INVADER PLANTS
Concern is growing over the way in which alien/exotic plants are invading large areas within
South Africa. Invasive species are a major threat to the ecological functioning of natural
systems as well as the productive use of the land, and should ideally be removed if they are
serving no ecological function. In terms of the amendments to the regulations under the
Conservation of Agriculture Resources Act, 1983 (Act No. 43 of 1983), landowners are legally
responsible for the control of invasive alien plants on their properties. There are currently 198
alien species listed as declared weeds and invaders, and have been divided into three
categories (Henderson, 2001):

Category 1 plants are prohibited and must be controlled;

Category 2 plants (commercially used plants) may be grown in demarcated areas
proving that there is a permit and that steps are taken to prevent their spread; and

Category 3 plants (ornamentally used plants) may no longer be planted; existing plants
may remain, as long as all reasonable steps are taken to prevent the spreading there
of, except within the flood line of watercourses and wetlands.
Table 3: List of exotic and invasive species found within the study area
SCIENTIFIC NAME
COMMON NAME
INVADER CATEGORY
Datura stramonium
Common Thorn Apple
Declared weed Category 1
Pennisetum clandestinum
Kikuyu Grass
Declared weed Category 2
Solanum alaeagnifolium
Silver Leaf Bitter Apple
Declared weed Category 1
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There were a few locations which were infested by stands of the Australian wattle. These
species invade riparian and seep zones with disastrous impacts on water resources, especially
within the upper catchment regions. These species should be controlled to prevent further
infestation and it is recommended that all individuals of the above invader species be removed
and eradicated.
ENVIRONMENTALLY SENSITIVE AREAS
Environmentally sensitive habitats such as proclaimed nature reserves, private nature
reserves, conservancies, permanent wetlands, perennial rivers (Rietspruit), non-perennial
rivers/streams (Withokspruit), dams (VanDyk Dam), seasonal wetlands (pans and drainage
lines), primary vegetation, rocky ridges and hills are located close to the study area within the
Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality. The majority of threatened faunal species are likely to
occur in these habitats none of which a located within a distance of 500m from the project
site.
Figure 7 below illustrates the ecological sensitivity of the preferred and alternative sites based
on the baseline species composition likely to occur as well as site observations.
25 | P a g e
Figure 7: Sensitivity Map
26 | P a g e
CRITICAL BIODIVERSITY AND ECOLOGICAL SUPPORT AREAS
The study site is located in Unit 206400 and 924852 close to the Ecological Support Areas (ESA)
206400 and 924852. ESAs are an imperative part of C-Plan 3 to ensure sustainability in the
long term (persistence principle, Margules and Pressey, 2000b, Cowling, et al., 2003e).
According to the Gauteng C-Plan the Rand Water Brakpan reservoir proposed alternative site
falls within important areas for terrestrial biodiversity and ecological support. The preferred
site falls outside of the CBA and ESA as indicated on figure 8 below.
Figure 8: Gauteng ecological conservation plan associated with the preferred and alternative
sites
27 | P a g e
5
IMPACTS AND MITIGATION
NATURE OF THE IMPACT
The reservoir construction within the preferred and alternative sites will have minimal impact
on the ecology of the area as it is already highly disturbed. The grasslands area that exist on
the site has been greatly manipulated and changed by human activities, with evidence of
disturbance by construction waste dumping which left significant scars in the areas which are
now covered by Kikuyu grass and a few endemic grass species. The low plant species diversity
precludes the site from being a potential habitat for red data species both flora and fauna.
Since the area has been affected and continually disturbed by human being over a long period,
the introduction of new developments is not expected to affect the area’s integrity.
SCALE
The scale of the impact can be described as site specific during the construction phase and will
include removal of the existing vegetation and change in landscape.
DURATION
The time frame over which the impact is expected to occur can be classified as short term for
the construction phase as there will be heavy movement and disturbance by construction
machinery for about a year. The duration becomes permanent as the development involves
replacement of existing flora and fauna habitat with artificial and inhabitable surfaces.
INTENSITY
The intensity of the development can be categorised as medium since the impacts of the
activity will alter the environment during the construction phase due to increased disturbance
of the site by heavy construction machinery. The increased human activities within the project
site during and after development will tend to increase the levels of pollution and disturbance
of the few floral and faunal species that are resident to the area.
28 | P a g e
PROBABILITY
There is a medium probability that the impact of constructing the residential area on the
project site will occur. Provisions must therefore be made to mediate the undesirable impacts
like pollution, erosion and disturbance of the site. In the operational phase the probability is
still medium since the residential area will be inhabited. Pollution levels and disturbance to
the remaining habitat will be increased.
DETERMINATION OF SIGNIFICANCE – WITH AND WITHOUT MITIGATION
The significance without mitigation is medium; meaning that the impact of constructing the
residential area is of importance and is considered to have a medium negative impact. During
the operational phase the significance without mitigation is medium thus mitigation measures
are necessary to reduce the impact during the operational phase to acceptable levels. The
significance of the impact with mitigation is low.
CONFIDENCE
The confidence level can be classified as medium during the construction phase. The
confidence level becomes low during the operational phase as there is not enough
information to decide on the possible response of the environment to continuous human
disturbance.
29 | P a g e
Table 4: Impacts on vegetation
Significance
Destruction
construction
populations
of
a
Scale
of
local
storm
water
Duration
Intensity
Probability
Confidence
Without
With
mitigation
mitigation
Permanent
Medium
Probable
Medium
Medium
Low
Off-site
Clearance of land for
Permanent
Medium
Probable
Medium
Medium
Low
Reservoir
Tarred
Operation
Nature of impact
Local
Construction
Source of impact
surfaces,
Increase
concrete bridge and
drainage and pollution
increased traffic
levels
to
the
Blesbokspruit
30 | P a g e
6
CONCLUSION
Even though no protected plant and animal species were identified on the site, the site warrants
a careful approach to development through keeping the lay-out and construction footprints to a
minimum.
In general, the majority of the site is suitable for development but the remaining unsuitable
portions should be afforded formal protection. Therefore a development with its associated
footprint and impacts can only be possible under strict environmental protection guidelines to
ensure prevention of further habitat loss for present flora and fauna as it causes irreversible
damage to high biodiversity ecosystems within the Soweto Highveld Grassland vegetation type
in the Savanna biome.
This study recommends the construction of the additional 200ML Rand Water reservoir to be
undertaken on the preferred site as it constitutes much lower sensitivity than the alternative site.
7
GLOSSARY
Alien species: Plant taxa in a given area, whose presence there, is due to the intentional or
accidental introduction as a result of human activity
Biodiversity: Biodiversity is the variability among living organisms from all sources including inter
alia terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and ecological complexes of which they are
part; this includes diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems.
Biome: A major biotic unit consisting of plant and animal communities having similarities in form
and environmental conditions, but not including the abiotic portion of the environment.
Conservation: The management of the biosphere so that it may yield the greatest sustainable
benefit to present generations while maintaining its potential to meet the needs and aspirations
of future generations.
Ecosystem: Organisms together with their abiotic environment, forming an interacting system,
inhabiting an identifiable space.
Ecosystem services: Activities that help to maintain an ecosystem but are not directly part of
energy flows and nutrient cycles. Examples include pollination, dispersal, population regulation,
and provision of clean water and the maintenance of liveable climates (carbon sequestration).
Endangered: A taxon is endangered when it is not Critically Endangered but is facing a very high
risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
Endemic: Occurring in a particular region, and nowhere else.
Environment: NEMA defines “environment” as “the surroundings within which humans exist and
that are made up of the land, water and atmosphere of the earth; micro organisms, plant and
animal life; any interrelationships among and between them and the physical, chemical aesthetic
and cultural properties and conditions that influence human health and well-being”.
Forb: An herbaceous plant other than grasses.
Habitat: Type of environment in which a plant or animal lives.
Indigenous: Any species of plant, shrub or tree that occurs naturally in South Africa
Invasive species: Naturalised alien plants that have the ability to reproduce, often in large
numbers. Aggressive invaders can spread and invade large areas.
Rare species: Species, which have naturally small populations, and species, which have been
reduced to small (often unstable) populations by man's activities.
Threatened species: Species, which have naturally small populations, and species, which have
been reduced to small (often unstable) populations by man's activities.
Red Data: A list of species, fauna and flora that require environmental protection. Based on the
IUCN definitions.
Soil: A mixture of organic and inorganic substances, the composition and structure of the latter
is derived from the parent rock material. Soil also contains bacteria, fungi, viruses and microarthropods, nematodes and worms.
Species diversity: A measure of the number and relative abundance of species (see biodiversity).
Species richness: The number of species in an area or habitat.
8
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Allen, T.F.H. and T.B. Starr. 1982. Hierarchy: perspectives for ecological complexity. University of
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Barnes K. N. (2000). The Eskom Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland.
BirdLife South Africa, Johannesburg.
Barnes, K.N. 1998. The Important Bird Areas of southern Africa. BirdLife South Africa,
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Bredenkamp, B. & N. van Rooyen (1996a). Rocky Highveld Grassland. In: Low, A.B. & Rebelo, A.G.
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Bredenkamp, G. & N. van Rooyen (1996b). Moist Cool Highveld Grassland. In: Low, A.B. & Rebelo,
A.G. (eds) Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland. Dept Environmental Affairs and
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Causton, D.R. 1988. Introduction to vegetation analysis. Unwin Hyman. London, England.
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Town.
Conservation of Agricultural Resources Act 43 of 1983.
Davies, B. & Day, J. 1998. Vanishing Waters. University of Cape Town Press, Cape Town.
Department of Environment and Tourism, 2001. Environmental Potential Atlas. DEAT, Pretoria
Department of Agriculture, Conservation and Environment (DACE) (1997). State of the
Environment in Gauteng: a preliminary report. Pretoria.
Gillison, A.N. and K.R.W. Brewer. 1985. The use of gradient directed transects or gradsects in
natural resource survey. Journal of Environmental Management. 20:103 127.
Godron, M. and R.T.T. Forman. 1983. Landscape modification and changing ecological
characteristics. In: H.A. Mooney and M. Godron (editors). Disturbance and ecosystems:
components of response. Springer-Verlag, pp. 12 28. New York, USA.
Golding, J. 2002. Southern African Plant Red Data Lists. South African Botanical Diversity Network
Report no 14. SABONET. Pretoria
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Green, R.H. 1980. Multivariate approaches in ecology: the assessment of ecological similarity.
Annual Review of Ecology and Systematics, 11:1 14.
Henderson l. (2001). Alien weeds and invasive plants. Plant Protection Research Institute, ARC.
Hilton-Taylor, C. 1996. Red Data List of southern African plants. Strelitzia 4. National Botanical
Institute, Pretoria.
Hilton-Taylor, C. 2000. The IUCN/SSC Red List Program: Toward the 2000 IUCN Red List of
Threatened Species. Species 33: 21-29
Kuchler, A.W. and I.S. Zonneveld. 1988. Vegetation Mapping (Handbook of vegetation science, v.
10). Kluwer Academic Publishers, Dordrecht.
Le Roux, J. (2002). The Biodiversity of South Africa 2002: Indicators, trends and human impacts.
Struik Publishers. Cape Town
Loafer, D., eds. 2004. Atlas and Red Data Book of the Frogs of South Africa,
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Mucina, L., & Rutherford, M.C. (eds.). 2006. The Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland,
Strelitzia 19. South African National Biodiversity Institute Pretoria.University Press.
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Pfab, M.F. & Victor, J.E. (2002). Threatened plants of Gauteng, South Africa. South African Journal
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Botanical Institute, Pretoria.
9
APPENDICES
Appendix 1: Red Data bird species
Species
Cape Vulture
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Mostly mountainous country, or open country with inselbergs and escarpments; less commonly in
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
NO
savannah or desert (Maclean 1993). Forages over open grassland, woodland and agricultural areas;
usually roosts on cliffs, but will also roost on trees and pylons (in Barnes 2000). Forages over both open
country (grassland) and woodland. It is reliant on tall cliffs for breeding and it usually roosts on cliffs,
but it wanders widely away from these when foraging and will roost in trees and on pylons in open
country. It occurs and breeds from sea level to 3100m. Current distribution is closely associated with
subsistence communal grazing areas, characterised by high stock losses and low use of poisons and, to
a lesser extent, with protected areas (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Blue Crane
Midland and highland grassveld, edge of karoo, cultivated land and edges of vleis (Maclean 1993). Nests
in both moist situations in vleis which have short grass cover and in dry sites far from water, usually
exposed places such as on hillsides; forages in grassland and cultivated and fallow lands; roosts
communally in the shallow water of pans and dams (Tarboton et al. 1987). Short dry grassland, being
more abundant and evenly distributed in the eastern "sour" grasslands, where natural grazing of
livestock is the predominant land use. Prefers to nest in areas of open grassland (in Barnes 2000). In
the fynbos biome it inhabits cereal croplands and cultivated pastures and avoids natural vegetation. By
contrast, it is found in natural vegetation in the Karoo and grassland biomes, but it also feeds in crop
fields (Harrison et al. 1997a).
NO
Species
Lesser Kestrel
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Forage preferentially in pristine grassland, but will also hunt in converted grassland such as small scale
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
NO
pasture provided the conversion is not as total as in plantation forestry or in areas of consolidated
agricultural monoculture. They roost communally in tall trees, mainly Eucalyptus, in urban areas (in
Barnes 2000). Open grassland and intensively cultivated agricultural areas under maize, sorghum,
peanuts, wheat, beans and other crops (Tarboton & Allan 1984). Typical of semi-arid grasslands,
avoiding wooded areas, but it may also forage in agricultural fields, predominantly cereal crops. Large
numbers congregate in the sweet and mixed grasslands of the South African highveld. Roosts
communally in large trees, frequently eucalyptus, usually in urban areas (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Grass Owl
Almost exclusively in rank grass, typically, although not only, at fairly high altitudes. Breeds in
NO
permanent and seasonal vleis, which it vacates while hunting or post-breeding, although it will breed in
any area of long grass and is not necessarily associated with wetlands. Foraging apparently confined to
tall grasslands and does not extend to short grasslands, wetlands or to croplands nearby (in Barnes
2000). Restricted to wet areas - marshes and vleis where tall, thick grass and /or sedges occur. Prefers
permanent to seasonal vleis and vacates the latter when they dry up. Roosts and breeds in vleis but
often hunt elsewhere e.g. old lands (Tarboton et al. 1987). Rank grass and marshes are preferred
habitat, usually in open habitat at fairly high altitudes. May occur in sparse Acacia woodland where
patches of dense grass cover are present (Harrison et al. 1997a).
African Marsh Harrier
Wetlands and surrounding grasslands. Most highveld wetlands > 100ha support a breeding pair
(Tarboton & Allan 1984). Nests in extensive reed beds often high above water. Forage over reeds, lake
margins, floodplains and occasionally even woodland. Almost entirely absent from areas below 300mm
of rainfall (Harrison et al. 1997a). Marsh, vlei, grassland (usually near water); may hunt over grassland,
NO
Species
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
cultivated lands and open savannah (Maclean 1993). Dependant on wetlands, particularly permanent
wetlands for breeding, roosting and feeding. May utilise small wetlands 1-2ha in extent for foraging,
but larger wetlands are required for breeding (in Barnes 2000).
Whitebacked Night Heron
Swift- and -slow flowing rivers and streams with heavily wooded margins or overhanging vegetation.
NO
Occasionally utilise small dams with dense overhanging vegetation. Forage along the margins of
waterways by night and roost within dense vegetation during the day (in Barnes 2000). Quiet tree-lined
rivers and streams, mangroves; less commonly in reed beds along rivers and in marshes (Maclean 1993).
Present on both large rivers (e.g. the Vaal where dissected by islands) and along smaller rivers (e.g.
Skeerpoort and Crocodile) where suitable cover exists (Tarboton et al. 1987); Prefer quiet, heavily
wooded, clear, slow-moving, perennial rivers, roosting in densely foliaged trees (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Whitebellied Korhaan
Relatively tall vegetation, typically fairly dense grassland in either open or lightly wooded regions. Most
NO
abundant in hilly areas at the interface between the grassland and savannah biomes. Low abundances
at severely grazed and recently burnt sites (in Barnes 2000). Grassland or open savannah in undulating
or hilly country prefers longer, thicker grass than Blue Korhaan (Tarboton et al. 1987). Tall, fairly dense
grassland either in open or lightly wooded regions (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Martial Eagle
Woodland, savannah or grassland with clumps of large trees or power pylons for nest sites (Maclean
1993). Tolerates a wide range of vegetation types, being found in open grassland, scrub, Karoo and
woodland. It relies on large trees (or electricity pylons) to provide nest sites. Typically found in flat
country and is rarer in mountains and it also avoids extreme deserts, and densely wooded and forested
areas. (in Barnes 2000). Woodland, savannah, grassland as well as agricultural and forestry areas
(Tarboton et al. 1987). Open grassland and scrub, and woodland. Nests in large trees, but will also utilise
NO
Species
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
electricity pylons, wind pumps and cliffs in treeless areas. Typically found in flat country and is rarer in
mountainous areas. Avoids extreme deserts, and densely wooded and forested areas (Harrison et al.
1997a).
African Finfoot
Clear, perennial rivers and streams, lined with reeds, overhanging trees and shrubs (avoids both
NO
stagnant and fast-flowing waters). Roosts and breeds in dense overhanging vegetation (in Barnes 2000).
Frequents larger perennial rivers with overgrown or reed-lined banks (Tarboton et al. 1987). Quiet
reaches of streams, rivers, pans and lakes, fringed with dense trees and bush drooping into water
(Maclean 1993). Occurs in forest and woodland regions. Inhabits streams and rivers lined with reeds,
overhanging trees and shrubs. Avoids both stagnant and fast-flowing water, is typical of perennial
rather than ephemeral watercourses, and apparently prefers clear to silted water. Occasionally found
in dams, especially the upper reaches (Harrison et al. 1997a)
Blue Korhaan
Open grassveld, karoo scrub and cultivated lands (Maclean 1993). Frequents shortly grazed grassland,
NO
old lands, fallow fields covered with weeds and pastures. Usually in flat or undulating open Highveld
grassland (Tarboton et al. 1987). Inhabits open, fairly short grassland in the grassland biome and
mixture of grassland and Karoo dwarf shrub land in the ecotone between these two biomes i.e. the
Grassy Karoo. Most common in the dry Grassy Karoo, followed by Sweet (also dry) Grasslands, and less
common in eastern, moister Mixed, Alpine and Sour Grasslands. Can also be found in crop fields and
planted pastures (Harrison et al. 1997a)
Melodious Lark
Open climax grassland, especially Rooigras (Themeda triandra), sometimes with rocky outcrops, also
cultivated fields of Teff (Eragrostis tef) (Maclean 1993). Open grassland or grassland with scattered trees
and shrubs: not in savanna or closed woodland. Favours dry grassland types (Cymbopogon-Themeda,
NO
Species
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
dry Cymbopogon-Themeda and Bankenveld Veld types), usually on sandy or stony soils with a rather
low grass basal cover (Tarboton et al. 1987). Relatively dry grasslands dominated by Rooigras (Themeda
triandra), but sometimes also in planted Eragrostis pastures and fallow fields. Habitat usually at 5501750 m, with a mean annual rainfall between 400 and 800 mm. Generally avoids the hard, wiry grasses
of the alpine and sour grasslands. Most often recorded in grassy Karoo, and sweet and mixed grasslands
(Harrison et al. 1997b). Open grassland dominated by Themeda triandra with high grass basal cover
and open grassland dominated by Hyperrhenia hirta with lower grass basal cover (pers. obs).
Lesser Flamingo
Shallow pans, especially saline pans when they contain water (Tarboton et al. 1987). Larger brackish or
NO
saline inland and coastal waters (Maclean 1993). Requires shallow eutrophic wetlands, saltpans and
sheltered coastal lagoons, and may occur on water bodies which are more saline and more alkaline than
those used by the Greater Flamingo. It breeds on mudflats far out in pans and lakes (Harrison et al.
1997a).
Secretarybird
Semi desert, grassland, savannah, open woodland, farmland, mountain slopes (Maclean 1993).
NO
Grassland to open woodland at all altitudes. Not in forested or densely wooded areas or in hilly, rocky
country (Tarboton et al. 1987). Open country, mainly savannah, open woodland, grassland and dwarf
shrub land. Also attracted to man-made habitats such as airfields, grazing paddocks and fallow fields.
Absent from mountain fynbos, and avoids forest, dense woodland and very rocky, hilly or mountainous
areas (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Black Stork
Feeds in and around marshes, dams, rivers and estuaries; breeds in mountainous regions (Maclean
1993). Feeds on dams, pans, floodplains, shallows of rivers and sometimes in marshland and flooded
grassland (Tarboton et al. 1987). Feeds in shallow water, but occasionally on dry land, in streams and
NO
Species
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
rivers (including those as large as the Zambezi and Orange rivers), marshes, floodplains, coastal
estuaries, and large and small dams; it is typically seen at pools in large rivers. Feeds mainly on fish and
is therefore uncommon at seasonal pans lacking fish. It nests on cliffs; breeding distribution is closely
associated with hilly and mountainous regions (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Lanner Falcon
Mountains or open country from semi desert to woodland and agricultural land, also some cities
NO
(Maclean 1993). Generally a cliff nester and its breeding distribution is closely associated with that of
cliffs. Able to breed on lower rock faces than Peregrine Falcon and also utilise the disused nests of other
species such as crows, both in trees and on power pylons. Generally prefers open habitats e.g. alpine
grasslands and the Kalahari, but exploits a wide range of habitats. Also breeds in wooded and forested
areas where cliffs occur (Harrison et al. 1997a). Diverse - grassland, open savannah, agricultural lands,
suburban and urban areas, rural settlements - in both flat and hilly or mountainous country. Nests on
cliffs, quarry walls, in trees and on pylons and buildings (Tarboton et al. 1987).
Halfcollared Kingfisher
Fast-flowing perennial streams, rivers and estuaries, usually with dense marginal vegetation (Maclean
NO
1993). Perennial streams and smaller rivers overhung with trees or marginal vegetation. Nests in earth
banks (Tarboton et al. 1987). Most typically found along fast-flowing streams with clear water and wellwooded banks, often near rapids. It is most frequent in broken escarpment terrain. It requires at least
1km of river territory while breeding. It occurs from sea-level to as high as 2000m in southern Africa.
Usually perches low down on the banks of streams, often on exposed roots. Requires riverbanks in
which to excavate nest tunnels (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Greater Flamingo
Shallow pans, especially saline pans when they have water; also occasionally on other bodies of shallow
water such as dams and vleis (Tarboton et al. 1987). Large bodies of shallow water, inland and coastal;
NO
Species
Habitat requirements
(list of texts is not exhaustive and additional habitat information may be available)
Does suitable habitat
exist on site or within
500m (YES/NO)?
saline and brackish waters preferred (Maclean 1993). Its favoured foraging areas are open shallow
eutrophic wetlands. Occasionally forages along sandy coasts. Usually breeds colonially on mudflats in
large pans (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Yellowbilled Stork
Mainly inland waters; rivers, dams, pans, floodplains, marshes; less often estuaries (Maclean 1993).
NO
Frequents dams, pans, large rivers and seasonal wetlands where there are areas of shallow water free
of emergent vegetation (Tarboton et al. 1987). Utilises diverse habitats, including dams, large marshes,
swamps, estuaries, margins of lakes or rivers, seasonal wetlands where there are areas of vegetation
free shallow water, and even small pools (Harrison et al. 1997a).
Redbilled Oxpecker
Savannah and bush-veld (Maclean 1993). Deciduous woodland and savanna (Tarboton et al. 1987). Uses
hosts in a variety of woodland, all in rainfall zones of more than 400mm p.a. Needs holes in trees for
nesting and uses Ilala Palms, reed beds and larger game to roost at night (Harrison et al. 1997b).
NO