DE BEERS CONSOLIDATED MINES LIMITED · 2019. 8. 30. · De Beers Voorspoed Mine October 2010...
Transcript of DE BEERS CONSOLIDATED MINES LIMITED · 2019. 8. 30. · De Beers Voorspoed Mine October 2010...
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DE BEERS CONSOLIDATED MINES LIMITED
BASELINE BIODIVERSITY ASSESSMENT AT DE BEERS VOORSPOED MINE, FREE STATE, SOUTH AFRICA
October 2010
Compiled by: Hélen C. Prinsloo Reinier F. Terblanche (Pr.Sci.Nat.) Reg. No. 400244/05
Ref. No. DB/VM/01/09
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction ..................................................................................................................... 1
2. Study area......................................................................................................................... 3
2.1 ............................................................................................................................. Renosterkoppie 3
2.2 ........................................................................................................................ Pans and wetlands 3
2.3 .......................................................................... The current Baseline Biodiversity Assessment 4
3. Methodology ..................................................................................................................... 7
3.1 ........................................................................................ Habitat characteristics and vegetation 7
3.2 ........................................................................................................................ Vertebrate surveys 7
3.3 .................................................................................................................................. Gap analysis 7
3.4 .................................................................................................................................... Limitations 8
4. Results .............................................................................................................................. 8
4.1 ........................................................................................ Habitat and vegetation characteristics 8
4.1.1 ............................................................................................................................... Topography 8
4.1.2 .................................................................................................................................. Rockiness 8
4.1.3 ................................................................................................................ Presence of wetlands 8
4.1.4 ............................................................................................................... Vegetation in general 8
4.1.5 ................................................................................................................. Signs of disturbance 9
4.1.6 ....................................................................................... Characteristics of surrounding areas 9
4.2 ............................................................................................................................ Vegetation units 9
4.2.1 ...................................................................................................... Previously cultivated fields 9
4.2.2 ............................................................................................................................. Gentle slopes 10
4.2.3 ..................................................................................................................... Seasonal wetland 10
4.2.4 ............................................................................................................ Rocky ridge vegetation 10
4.2.5 .............................. Woodland (Tarchonanthus camphoratus – Ehretia rigida community) 10
4.3 ........................................................................ Plant species of particular conservation priority 11
4.4 ................................................................................................................................... Amphibians 12
4.5 ......................................................................................................................................... Reptiles 12
4.6 .............................................................................................................................................. Birds 13
4.7 ...................................................................................................................................... Mammals 15
4.8 ................................................................................................. Species of conservation concern 16
4.8.1 ............................................................................................................................... Amphibians 16
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4.8.2 ......................................................................................................................................Reptiles 16
4.8.3 .......................................................................................................................................... Birds 17
4.8.4 ...................................................................................................................................Mammals 18
5. Discussion ....................................................................................................................... 18
5.1 ............................................................................................................................ Specific surveys 18
5.1.1 ........................................................................................................................... Reptile survey 19
5.1.2 .............................................................................................................................. Bird surveys 19
5.1.3 .............................................................................................................. Small mammal survey 19
5.1.4 ................................................................................................... Additional vegetation survey 20
5.2 .......................................................................................... Habitat improvement and utilisation 20
5.2.1 ............................................ Restoration of the wetland (Seasonal wetland vegetation unit) 20
5.2.2 ..Grassland conservation (Previously cultivated fields and gentle slopes vegetation units) 21
5.2.3 ............................................. Renosterkoppie (Rocky ridge and woodland vegetation units) 21
5.2.4 ...................................................................... Control and monitoring of exotic plant species 21
5.3 ............................................................................. Improving conservation efforts in the region 22
5.3.1 ............................................................................................. Farmer assistance and education 22
5.3.2 ..................................................................................... Establishment of community projects 23
5.3.3 .............................................................................................. Establishment of a conservancy 23
5.3.4 ................................................................................................ Protecting specific tree species 23
5.4 ........................................................................................ Compiling a Biodiversity Action Plan 24
6. Conclusion ...................................................................................................................... 24
7. References ...................................................................................................................... 25
Appendix A .............................................................................................................................. 27
Appendix B .............................................................................................................................. 36
Appendix C .............................................................................................................................. 38
Appendix D .............................................................................................................................. 47
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LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Locality map for Voorspoed Mine ..................................................................................... 3
Figure 2: Areaas of conservation importance at Voorspoed Mine ....................................................... 5
Figure 3: Vegetation classification for Voorspoed Mine (Mucina & Rutherford, 2006) ..................... 6
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LIST OF TABLES
Table 4.3: A list of plant species of the Free State Province that are listed in the most recent
updated red list of South African plant species (Raimondo et al. 2009), showing
the conservation status of each specis and the recorded presence / absence at
Voorspoed Mine. .............................................................................................. 11
Table 4.6: A list of birds observed at Voorspoed Mine during surveys conducted in 2005 and
2010 respectively ............................................................................................... 13
Table 4.7: A list of mammals observed at Voorspoed Mine during surveys conducted in 2005
and 2010 respectively ......................................................................................... 16
Table 4.8.2: A list of reptile species of conservation concern observed in the Free State
Province that potentially occur on Voorspoed Mine ........................................ 16
Table 4.8.3: A list of bird species of conservation concern observed in grid 2727AC and
likely to occur on Voorspoed Mine .................................................................. 17
Table 4.8.4: A List of mammal species of conservation concern observed in grid 2727AC
and likely to occur on Voorspoed Mine ........................................................... 18
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1. INTRODUCTION
De Beers Voorspoed Mine (Voorspoed) is located approximately 8km east of the R76
between Viljoenskroon and Kroonstad in the north-eastern Free State (Figure 1). The current
mining operations started in 2006 after an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) including
an Environmental Management Plan (EMP) was completed in 2005. The life of mine (LOM)
is estimated to run from 2006 - 2021. During the original EIA, areas of conservation
importance were identified and the mine plan was designed in order to minimise the impact
on these areas. The two major areas of conservation importance were Renosterkoppie and
pans and wetlands on the site. Ecological knowledge on the fauna and flora, as well as type
of habitats which are present is required in order for efficient biodiversity management to
take place.
Results from habitat surveys of fauna and flora at the mining site and surrounding areas are
thought to serve as valuable reference for biodiversity action plans, conservation and
rehabilitation planning. A twofold approach was therefore followed during this assessment
which is in line with the Biodiversity Act of 2004. Conservation priorities were identified by
1) verifying the presence /abscence of species and subspecies of particular high conservation
priority and by 2) describing biodiversity for future reference.
This report focuses on fauna and flora at the site in order to provide:
1) Records of plant species and selected faunal groups with notes on their general status.
2) Integration of biodiversity information from all the surveys up to date with the aim at
formulating possible impacts and constructing a practical ecological management
plan.
3) Allowing for more informed decision-making by providing a basis for possible
ecological management plans, partial restoration or rehabilitation.
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2. STUDY AREA
The study area is located north of Kroonstad in the Free State Province and comprises the
mining site as well as the surrounding area that falls within the boundaries of the mine
premises. Gentle slopes and flat plains characterise the region which is only interrupted by a
rocky hill (koppie) Renosterkoppie. This rocky hill is located partially inside the premises of
the mine.
The site is located in the Grassland biome (Mucina & Rutherford 2006), but elements of the
savanna vegetation of the Vredefort Dome region further north from the site are also present
on the rocky hill. The vegetation types on the flatter plains lies at the intersection of Central
Free State Grassland and Vaal-Vet Sandy Grassland (Mucina & Rutherford 2006). A
wetland at the study area forms part of the Highveld Salt Pans vegetation type which
constitutes an azonal vegetation type (Mucina & Rutherford 2006).
2.1 Renosterkoppie
This area is located in the southernmost corner of the mining lease area (Figure 2).
According to Mucina and Rutherford (2006), Renosterkoppie is located on Vredefort Dome
Granite Grassland (Figure 3). Satellite imagery suggests that this “koppie” is one of the
southernmost outliers of the Vredefort Dome and would therefore be quite unique in its
geology and ecology. The area is in a nearly pristine condition with only small impacts that
could reduce the natural biodiversity. These include large towers and a few small buildings
constructed at the summit, barbed wire fences and a concrete and dirt road approaching the
towers. Individual prickly-pear trees (Opuntia ficus-indica) are scattered over the area, but
this seems to be the only alien vegetation occurring on Renosterkoppie.
2.2 Pans and wetlands
Due to location, smaller wetlands on the site could not be preserved, but a large wetland
located in the middle of the site close to the eastern boundary will not be impacted on directly
by mining activities and will be preserved. This wetland is classified according to its
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vegetation as a Highveld Salt Pan (Mucina and Rutherford, 2006) (Figure 3). The waste
management strategy was designed in order to minimise the impact on the catchment area of
this particular wetland and to prevent any dirty water from entering the wetland. Voorspoed
Mine has broken through a dam wall that was constructed by previous land owners in order to
contribute to the restoration of the functionality of the wetland.
2.3 The current Baseline Biodiversity Assessment
De Beers Family of Companies (DBFoC) have made a commitment to minimise the impact
of their operations on biodiversity. It is therefore critical for Voorspoed Mine to be aware of
the species currently and potentially occurring on their land and to develop the necessary
action plans in order to protect the area and minimise the impact on biodiversity. With this
objective in mind, Bucandi Environmental Solutions was asked to conduct a Baseline
Biodiversity Assessment on the natural areas occurring in the Voorspoed Mine mining lease
area, focussing specifically on Renosterkoppie and the wetland. This assessment consists of
two major components, a faunal component and a floral component.
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3. METHODOLOGY
Field surveys were conducted on the 13th, 14
th and 21
st of September 2010 and again from 13
- 15 October 2010.
3.1 Habitat characteristics and vegetation
The habitat was investigated by noting structure as well as floristic composition. No plant
specimens were collected as voucher specimens or sent to a herbarium for identification,
since the observers successfully identified all the specimens in the field. For the most recent
treatise of scientific plant names and broad distributions, Germishuizen, Meyer & Steenkamp
(2006) as well as Raimondo et al. (2009) were followed to compile the lists of species.
Conservation statuses of plant species follow the Red list of South African plants (Raimondo,
et al., 2009).
3.2 Vertebrate surveys
Making use of various field guides and Red Data books, a literature survey was conducted to
establish which species of amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals possibly occur in the
area, specifically focussing on threatened and endangered species. The current EIA and EMP
for Voorspoed Mine were also studied to determine what species have previously been
recorded on the mine and surrounding areas. The results from the field surveys done in 2005
for the EIA are included in this report.
During field surveys point-counts were conducted and transects were completed to cover all
the different habitat types present. All animals or signs of animals (such as tracks, burrows,
nests and droppings) encountered during the surveys were recorded.
3.3 Gap analysis
A gap analysis was conducted, taking into account the current EMP for Voorspoed Mine and
the conservation needs of species currently occurring on and around the mine in order to
establish areas where conservation needs could be addressed comprehensively.
Recommendations were then made in order for Voorspoed Mine to be able to adequately
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address the conservation needs of the species occurring in the area as well as meet the
biodiversity objectives set out in the original EMP.
3.4 Limitations
It should be noted that these results cannot be considered an exhaustive list of the plants and
animals present on the site. This is mainly due to the surveys being conducted during one
season only and before adequate rain had fallen. The field surveys were conducted during
September and October and due to windy and dry conditions the weather was not optimal for
the recording of vertebrates. No rains had yet fallen for the 2010 / 2011 summer season. A
survey in November after ample rains would benefit the description of biodiversity in the
study area substantially. Unfortunately the surveys had to be conducted in September and
October due to time constraints on the project. The focus of the surveys therefore remains on
sensitive habitats and species of particular conservation priority.
4. RESULTS
4.1 Habitat and vegetation characteristics
4.1.1 Topography
Overall the landscape consists of plains and gentle slopes which are only interrupted by a
rocky hill known as Renosterkoppie. A depression where a seasonal wetland occurs is also
present.
4.1.2 Rockiness
A rocky hill occurs outside the mining site at the southern extreme of the premises. Most of
the study area is devoid of surface rock.
4.1.3 Presence of wetlands
Wetlands are confined to a depression at the central north western part of the study area.
4.1.4 Vegetation in general
The vegetation in general ranges from almost pristine savanna at Renosterkoppie to severely
disturbed or degraded grassland, the latter especially on some of the plains near the mining
site, and some previously cultivated fields further south. A mosaic of numerous small plant
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communities and variations could be identified in the study area but five communities were
determined to provide a practical classification. During the site visits these five broad
vegetation types or relatively homogenous vegetation units were identified (see 3.2).
The vegetation overall contains a moderate number of indigenous plant species. Indigenous
biodiversity at the rocky hill appears much richer in terms of species diversity and also for the
flora in terms of life forms and vegetation structure. Varied vegetation structure and
topography result in the presence of many microhabitats in the Renosterkoppie area with
probable corresponding richness in indigenous faunal biodiversity. Exotic herbaceous weeds
and invasive plant species are mostly confined to the disturbed plains and the areas around
the watercourses. Infestation of prickly-pear the summit of Renosterkoppie is of concern. A
relatively high cover of pioneer species or exotic weeds at disturbed areas such as along
roads, previously cultivated fields and possibly overgrazed areas were also observed.
4.1.5 Signs of disturbance
The mining site is obviously disturbed to a large extent. Surrounding areas have previously
been disturbed where fields have been cultivated or where overgrazing may have occurred.
Overgrazing in the past is reflected in areas where encroachment by the bankrupt bush
(Seriphium plumosum) is encountered.
4.1.6 Characteristics of surrounding areas
These characteristics are considered with a view to identify buffer zones, corridors and
connectivity of habitats with more natural vegetation.
The site is surrounded by agricultural areas as well as natural veld. There is scope for
conservation corridors and buffer zones on the site, which will need careful planning. The
rocky hill and the wetland section should be viewed as highly important conservation
corridors.
4.2 Vegetation units
Vegetation on the site was classified into relatively homogenous units in order to facilitate the
planning and focus of conservation related actions.
4.2.1 Previously cultivated fields
Previously cultivated fields appear to be present to the south of the current mining operations
and to the north of Renosterkoppie and its foot slopes. Vegetation at these areas appears to
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be extensively modified. These fields were rested in the past few years and partial recovery
of the vegetation is noticeable. Exotic weeds are present in this vegetation unit including
khaki weed (Tagetes minuta), purple-tops (Verbena spp.), Peruvian zinnia (Zinnia
peruviana), flea banes (Conyza spp.) and fine-leaved verbena (Verbena aristigera). Patches
of bankrupt bush are also present here.
4.2.2 Gentle slopes
This vegetation unit contains alternating patches where grass species such as red grass
(Themeda triandra), common thatch grass (Hyparrhenia hirta), spreading three-awn
(Aristida congesta subsp. barbicollis) and couch grass (Cynodon dactylon) dominate
respectively. Patches where couch grass and spreading three-awn dominate suggest that
overgrazing took place in some area where soil conditions may be less favourable for
recovery of grassland. Restricted patches of the indigenous sweet thorn tree (Acacia karroo)
are also present in these grasslands.
4.2.3 Seasonal wetland
The wetland is clearly seasonal and consists of a depression where the vegetation gradually
ranges from terrestrial species on the wetland fringes to a higher frequency of wetland plant
species where the depression is at its lowest. Wetland plant species include Persicaria
species.
4.2.4 Rocky ridge vegetation
This vegetation unit occurs at the summit and slopes of Renosterkoppie. A variety of
indigenous trees occur here including ankle thorn (Acacia robusta), common hook-thorn
(Acacia caffra), sheppard’s tree (Boscia albitrunca), mountain karee (Searsia leptodictya),
thorn pear (Scolopia zeyheri), jacket-plum (Pappea capensis), puzzle bush (Ehretia rigida),
blue guarrie (Euclea crispa), common spike-thorn (Gymnosporia buxifolia), blue bush
(Diospyros lycioides subsp. guerkei), highveld cabbage tree (Cussonia paniculata), cross-
berry (Grewia occidentalis) and small knobwood (Zanthoxylum capense).
4.2.5 Woodland (Tarchonanthus camphoratus – Ehretia rigida community)
A woodland type of vegetation is present on the gentle footslope (almost a plain) of
Renosterkoppie. Camphor bush (Tarchonanthus camphorates) and puzzle bush appear to be
the most conspicuous trees in this vegetation unit. Other indigenous tree species occurring
here include sheppard’s tree and ankle thorn.
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Many smaller pockets of vegetation can potentially be identified, but division of the
vegetation into five units is retained here as it has great practical value and the smaller
vegetation communities, though not less important, are likely to represent different patches
that can be categorised under these five main vegetation units. A complete list of plants
observed at the site is provided as Appendix A in this report.
4.3 Plant species of particular conservation priority
The presence / absence of all the species listed in Table 4.3 were investigated during the site
visits. Habitat information was also gathered and audited with field surveys. Considering the
present red list of plants in South Africa (Raimondo et al. 2009), it becomes clear that many
of the threatened and rare plant species of the Free State Province are associated with
highlands in the north-eastern parts of the province with a number present in the central and
western areas as well. There are a few plant species of which the absence at the site needs
final confirmation. These are declining species which are not threatened and only likely to
occur in the natural grassland near or at the present wetland site. No plant species that are
threatened or near-threatened are suspected to occur at the study area.
Table 4.3: A list of plant species of the Free State Province that are listed in the most recent
updated red list of South African plant species (Raimondo et al. 2009), showing the
conservation status of each specis and the recorded presence / absence at Voorspoed Mine.
Species Conservation Status Recorded at site
Kniphofia ensifolia subsp. autumnalis
Endangered No
Alepidea amatymbica
Vulnerable No
Dioscorea sylvatica
Vulnerable No
Protea subvestita
Vulnerable No
Prunus africana
Vulnerable No
Anemone fanninii Near Threatened No
Argyrolobium campicola Near Threatened No
Curtisia dentata Near Threatened No
Eucomis bicolor Near Threatened No
Gladiolus robertsoniae Near Threatened No
Hoodia officinalis subsp. officinalis Near Threatened No
Isoetes transvaalensis Near Threatened No
Lithops leslei subsp. leslei Near Threatened No
Sporobolus oxyphyllus Near Threatened No
Trachyandra erythrorrhiza Near Threatened No
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Brachystelma dimorphum susbp. gratum
Rare No
Calpurnia reflexa
Rare No
Helichrysum haygarthii
Rare No
Lotononis amajubica
Rare No
Schizoglossum montanum
Rare No
Searsia dracomontana
Rare No
Selago longicalyx
Rare No
Stipagrostis proxima
Rare No
Acacia erioloba
Declining No
Boophone disticha
Declining ?
Crinum bulbispermum
Declining ?
Crinum macowanii
Declining ?
Dioscorea elephantipes
Declining No
Drimia altissima
Declining No
Eucomis autumnalis
Declining ?
Gunnera perpensa
Declining No
Hypoxis hemerocallidea
Declining ?
Ilex mitis
Declining No
Pelargonium sidoides
Declining No
Rapanea melanophloeos
Declining No
Hoodia gordonii
Data Deficient No
Lepidium mossii
Data Deficient No
Manulea deserticola Data Deficient No
Manulea flanaganii Data Deficient No
Phyllobolus rabiei Data Deficient No
4.4 Amphibians
No amphibians were recorded during the field surveys and it is nearly impossible to
determine the presences of amphibian species without specialised surveys. Mine staff has
photographical evidence of Giant Bullfrog (Pyxicephalus adspersus) that was found on the
mine. Suitable breeding habitat for Giant Bullfrog exist in the wetland and it should be
assumed that this species occur on the mine and utilise the wetland for breeding habitat.
4.5 Reptiles
Various reptiles (mostly lizards and geckos) were observed during the surveys, but it is
impossible to accurately identify these species without a close look at them. Suitable habitat
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exists for a variety of species and it is likely that a specialised reptile survey will prove that a
wide variety of reptiles occur on the site. See Appendix B for a list of reptiles that potentially
occur on the site.
4.6 Birds
Table 4.6 contains a list of bird species observed during this and previous field surveys, as
well as the conservation status of each species. See Appendix C for a list of birds that have
been observed in grid 2727AC and therefore are likely to occur at Voorspoed Mine.
Table 4.6: A list of birds observed at Voorspoed Mine during surveys conducted in 2005
and 2010 respectively.
Species name Scientific Name 2006 2010
Swainson’s Spurfowl Pternistis swainsonii X X
Helmeted Guineafowl Numida meleagris X X
Yellow-billed duck Anas undulata X
Egyptian Goose Alopochen aegyptiaca X
South African Shelduck Tadorna cana X
Lesser Honeyguide Indicator minor X
Black-collared Barbet Lybius torquatus X X
Crested Barbet Trachyphonus vaillantii X
Acacia Pied Barbet Tricholaema leucomelas X
African Hoopoe Upupa africana X X
Common Scimitarbill Rhinopomastus cyanomelas X
White-backed Mousebird Colius colius X X
Red-faced Mousebird Urocolius indicus X
Speckled Mousebird Colius striatus X X
Little Swift Apus affinus X X
Grey Go-away-bird Corythaixoides concolor X
Marsh Owl Asop capensis X
Speckled Pigeon Columba guinea X X
Laughing Dove Streptopelia senegalensis X X
Cape Turtle-Dove Streptopelia capicola X X
Red-eyed Dove Streptopelia semitorquata X
Namaqua Dove Oena capensis X X
Northern Black Korhaan Afrotis afraoides X X
African Snipe Gallinago nigripennis X
Wood Sandpiper Tringa glareola X
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Three-banded Plover Charadrius tricollaris X
Blacksmith Lapwing Vanellus armatus X
Crowned Lapwing Vanellus coronatus X
Black-shouldered Kite Elanus caeruleus X X
Little Grebe Tachybaptus ruficollis X
Cattle Egret Bubulcus ibis X
Black-headed Heron Ardea melanocephala X X
Hadeda Ibis Bostrychia hagedash X
Brubru Nilaus afer X
Brown-crowned Tchagra Tchagra australis X X
Bokmakierie Telophorus zeylonus X X
Pied Crow Corvus albus X
Common Fiscal Lanius collaris X X
Ashy Tit Parus cinerascens X
Greater Striped Swallow Hirundo cucullata X X
Rock Martin Hirundo fuligula X
African Red-eyed Bulbul Pycnonotus nigricans X X
Cape Grassbird Sphenoeacus afer X
Long-billed Crombec Sylvietta whytii X X
Yellow-bellied Erenomela Eremomela icteropygialis X
Chestnut-vented Tit-babbler Parisoma subcaeruleum X X
Cape White-eye Zosterops virens X
Rattling Cisticola Cisticola chiniana X X
Neddicky Cisticola fulvicapilla X X
Zitting Cisticola Cisticola juncidis X X
Tawny-flanked Prinia Prinia subflava X
Black-chested Prinia Prinia flavicans X X
Rufousnaped Lark Mirafra africana X X
Chestnut-backed Sparrowlark Eremopterix leucotis X
Marico Flycatcher Bradornis mariquensis X
Fiscal Flycatcher Sigelus silens X X
Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata X
Cape Robin-chat Cossypha caffra X X
White-browed Scrub-robin Cercotrichas leucophrys X
Kalahari Scrub-robin Cercotrichas paean X X
African Stonechat Saxicola torquatus X X
Familiar Chat Cercomela familiaris X
Capped Wheatear Oenanthe pileata X X
Ant-eating Chat Myrmecocichla formicivora X X
Cape Glossy Starling Lamprotornis nitens X X
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Pied Starling Spreo bicolour X
Wattled Starling Creatophora cinerea X X
Common Myna Acridotheres tristis X
White-bellied Sunbird Cinnyris venustus X X
Scalyfeathered Finch Sporopipes squamifron X
White-browed Sparrow-weaver Plocepasser mahali X X
Sourthern Masked-weaver Ploceus velatus X
Cape Weaver Ploceus capensis X
Red-billed Quelea Quelea quelea X
African Quailfinch Ortygospiza atricollis X
Green-winged Pytilia Pytilia melba X
Violet-eared Waxbill Granatina granatina X
Blue Waxbill Uraeginthus angolensis X X
Jameson’s Firefinch Lagonosticta rhodopareia X
Long-tailed Paradise-whydah Vidua paradisaea X X
Pin-tailed Whydah Vidua macroura X X
Great Sparrow Passer motitensis X
Cape Sparrow Passer melanurus X X
Sourthern Grey-headed Sparrow Passer diffuses X
Cape Wagtail Motacilla capensis X
Cape Longclaw Macronyx capensis X
African Pipit Anthus cinnmomeus X
Buffy Pipit Anthus vaalensis X
Black-throated Canary Crithagra atrogularis X
Yellow Canary Crithagra flaviventris X
Streaky-headed Seedeater Crithagra gularis X
Endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa
4.7 Mammals
Table 4.7 contains a list of mammals observed during the field surveys. Mammals identified
through the presence of signs such as droppings, burrows and tracks are also included. See
Appendix D for a list of mammals observed in grid 2727AC and therefore possibly occurring
on Voorspoed Mine and the surrounding areas.
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Table 4.7: A list of mammals observed at Voorspoed Mine during surveys conducted in
2005 and 2010 respectively.
Species name Scientific name 2005 2010
Porcupine Hystrix africaeaustralis X X
Springhare Pedetes capensis X
Ground Squirrel Xerus inauris X
Small-spotted Genet Genetta genetta X
Yellow Mongoose Cynictis penicillata X X
Slender Mongoose Herpestes sanguine X
Small Grey Mongoose Galarella pulverulenta X
Antbear Orycteropus afer X X
Blesbok Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi X X
Common Duiker Sylvicapra grimmia X X
Steenbok Raphicerus campestris X
Kudu Tragelaphus strepsiceros X
4.8 Species of conservation concern
4.8.1 Amphibians
Photographic evidence exist that Giant Bullfrog exist on the Voorspoed Mine area and it is
highly likely that this species utilise the wetland as a breeding site.
4.8.2 Reptiles
Table 4.8.2 lists the reptile species of conservation concern that have been observed in the
Free State Province and can possibly occur on Voorspoed Mine as well as the conservation
status of each species.
Table 4.8.2: A list of reptile species of conservation concern observed in the Free State
Province that potentially occur on Voorspoed Mine.
Species Name Scientific Name Conservation Status
Sungazer Cordylus giganteus Vulnerable
Breyer’s Long-tailed Seps Tetradactylus breyeri
Vulnerable
Yellow-bellied House Snake Lamprophis fuscus Near-threatened
Striped Harlequin Snake Homoroselaps dorsalis
Near-threatened
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4.8.3 Birds
Table 4.8.3 lists the bird species of conservation concern that have been observed in grid
2727AC and are likely to occur on Voorspoed Mine as well as the conservation status of each
species.
Table 4.8.3: A list of bird species of conservation concern observed in grid 2727AC and
likely to occur on Voorspoed Mine.
Species Name Scientific Name Conservation Status
African Grass-Owl Tyto capensis Vulnerable
Blue Korhaan Eupodotis caerulescens Near-threatened
Blue Crane Antrhopoides paradiseus Vulnerable
Greater Painted-snipe Rostratula benghalensis Near-threatened
Chestnut-banded Plover Charadrius pallidus Near-threatened
Black-winged Pranticole Glareola nordmanni Near-threatened
Cape Vulture Gyps coprotheres Vulnerable
African Marsh-harrier Circus ranivorus Vulnerable
Pallid Harrier Circus macrourus Near-threatened
Martial Eagle Polemaetus bellicosus Vulnerable
Lesser Kestrel Falco naumanni Vulnerable
Lanner Falcon Falco biarmicus Near-threatened
Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrines Near-threatened
Secretarybird Sagittarius serpentarius Near-threatened
Black Stork Ciconia nigra Near-threatened
Yellow-billed Stork Mycteria ibis Near-threatened
Marabou Stork Leptoptilos crumeniferus Near-threatened
Melodious Lark Mirafra cheniana Near-threatened
Endemic to Southern Africa
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4.8.4 Mammals
Table 4.8.4 lists the mammal species of conservation concern that have been observed in grid
2727AC and possibly occur on Voorspoed Mine as well as the conservation status of each
species.
Table 4.8.4: A List of mammal species of conservation concern observed in grid 2727AC
and likely to occur on Voorspoed Mine.
Species Name Scientific Name Conservation Status
Schreibers’Long-fingered Bat Miniopterus schreibersii Near-threatened
Welwitsch’s Hairy Bat Myotis welwitschii Near-threatened
Geoffroy’s Horseshoe Bat Rhinolophus clivosus Near-threatened
Highveld Golden Mole Amblysomus septentrionalis Near-threatened
Least Dwarf Shrew Suncus infinitesimus Data deficient
Lesser Dwarf Shrew Suncus varilla Data deficient
White-tailed Rat Mystromys albicaudatus Endangered
South African Hedgehog Atelerix frontalis Near-threatened
Brown Hyaena Hyaena brunnea Near-threatened
5. DISCUSSION
Surveys show that Renosterkoppie and the wetland at Voorspoed Mine host a variety of
species and contain high biodiversity value, with plant diversity at Renosterkoppie being
exceptionally high and also unique. Considering the land use in the surrounding areas,
existing mostly of agriculture and mining, it is crucial to preserve these areas and increase the
capacity of these areas, as well as create linkages between these and other areas of
biodiversity importance. This is in agreement with the policy of DBFoC to protect and
increase biodiversity and with the objectives stipulated in the EMP for Voorspoed Mine.
Preliminary recommendations are given here in order to pursue these objectives. A
Biodiversity Action Plan should ultimately be developed and implemented in order to clearly
identify biodiversity objectives and stipulate a roadmap for achieving the objectives.
5.1 Specific surveys
It is highly likely that the majority of reptiles listed in Appendix B, birds listed in Appendix C
and mammals listed in Appendix D occur on Voorspoed Mine and the surrounding areas, but
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preliminary surveys associated with a Baseline Biodiversity Assessment are not adequate to
determine the absence / presence and the status of these species on the mine area. It is
recommended that the following follow-up surveys are conducted as part of a Biodiversity
Action Plan in order to better assess the conservation requirements of the area.
5.1.1 Reptile survey
Suitable habitat exists on Renosterkoppie, the wetland and the grassland linking these two
areas for various species of reptiles occurring in the area, including the Sungazer. A specific
reptile survey will be necessary in order to determine what species occur on the mine and if
the Sungazer is present on the mine. If the presence of this lizard is confirmed, it will
influence decision-making regarding the utilisation of the grassland area where it is found. A
reptile survey should be done in summer - between November and March - and will consist
of placing reptile traps in various areas with suitable habitat.
5.1.2 Bird surveys
No wading birds could be surveyed during 2010 since the seasonal wetland was dry during
the time of the survey. The 2010 surveys were also conducted during spring (September and
October) before any summer rains had fallen. Many seasonal migrants would not be in the
area until after suitable summer rains. It is suggested that bird surveys are conducted during
mid-summer (December - February), autumn (April - May), mid-winter (July) and spring
(September - October) respectively. All these surveys should include daytime and night-time
surveys and possible call-playback surveys focussed on certain target species.
The winter survey can also include a gamebird count making use of pointing dogs. This will
ensure that a complete bird list including residents, visitors, travelling migrants and nocturnal
birds are compiled. This will better enable adequate management and utilisation of the avian
biodiversity in the area.
5.1.3 Small mammal survey
A variety of small mammal species, including at least 7 species of conservation concern
(Table 4.8.4) possibly occur on Voorspoed Mine. It is impossible to determine the presence /
absence of these species or their status on the mine area without conducting a specialised
small mammal survey. This will consist of trapping and counting small mammals, using
Sherman live-traps in various areas with suitable habitat. There will likely be a distinct
difference in species compilation of small mammals between the wetland, grassland and
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Renosterkoppie. This can influence management and conservation decisions during the
LOM.
5.1.4 Additional vegetation survey
A vegetation survey in November after sufficient rainfall will be valuable for constructing a
biodiversity action plan in the study area. More plant species, especially at the wetland, will
be identified after the rains.
5.2 Habitat improvement and utilisation
Though a variety of species already occur on the Voorspoed Mine area, various other species
occurring in the surrounding areas will likely utilise the area with an increased focus on
habitat protection and improvement. Steps to improve the habitat and therefore the
biodiversity can include the following:
5.2.1 Restoration of the wetland (Seasonal wetland vegetation unit)
The wetland is partially blocked by an old dam wall that was used to contain the water in the
wetland. Voorspoed Mine has already broken through the dam wall in certain areas in an
effort to restore the flow of water through the wetland. It would be advisable to collaborate
with Working for Wetlands, a division of the South African National Biodiversity Institute
(SANBI) in order to fully restore the wetland. This will ensure that the correct measures are
taken not only to restore flow of water, but also to control water levels, curb erosion and
minimise the damage caused by humans and animals utilising the wetlands. Sufficient and
adequate vegetation in and around the wetland will ensure that the wetland can be used as
breeding habitat for various vertebrate species, including species of conservation concern.
Grey-crowned Cranes (Balearica regulorum) - now listed as Vulnerable - used to occur in
high numbers in the area and are gradually recolonising various areas in the Free State
Province. Suitable restoration of the wetland could provide this species and even the
critically endangered Wattled Crane (Bugeranus carunculatus) with suitable habitat during
certain times of the year.
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5.2.2 Grassland conservation (Previously cultivated fields and gentle slopes vegetation
units)
Despite the intense agriculture in the region, a variety of grassland species make use of this
habitat type. Though the small section of grassland between Renosterkoppie and the wetland
degraded, it should not be excluded from biodiversity conservation efforts on the mine. It is
likely that area supports a variety of gamebirds and other ground-nesting birds, as well as a
variety of small mammals and reptiles that contributes to the biodiversity on the mine. This
area should therefore be protected from intense utilisation and land use during and after the
LOM should be designed with this in mind. A specific burn plan should be developed to
ensure that the grassland is kept free from bush encroachment. An alien eradication
programme should be instituted to control the exotic plan species that are currently invading
this area.
5.2.3 Renosterkoppie (Rocky ridge and woodland vegetation units)
This area is in almost pristine condition and not much can be done to improve habitat on the
koppie. It is important to ensure that vehicle access is kept to demarcated roads and to
protect the area against runaway fires. During the October 2010 field surveys, it was evident
that a very hot fire ran through the area somewhere around 10 or 11 October 2010. This fire
severely damaged some of the vegetation along the lower edges of the koppie, especially the
woodland vegetation unit. Some of the larger trees higher up on the koppie that were
previously damaged by porcupine activity, were also highly impacted on by this fire. Before
the fire, it was evident that the field was very overgrown with thick patches of debris around
the area, fuelling the fire when it did occur. This area should most certainly not be excluded
from fire, but runaway fires should be prevented or the impact minimised. This can be done
by implementing a scheduled burn plan for the area, ensuring that debris don’t build up to a
critical point where it would do too much damage during a wildfire.
5.2.4 Control and monitoring of exotic plant species
Some prickly-pear trees occur on Renosterkoppie and a variety of exotic plants occur in the
grassland areas. An effort should be made to eradicate these invasive exotic plants.
Monitoring programmes should be put in place to monitor the entire mine area for invasion of
exotic plant species, since disturbance of natural vegetation, such as through mining
practices, often provides suitable habitat for exotic species to establish themselves. The
wetland and Renosterkoppie should both be focal points of such a monitoring programme,
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since both habitats would risk a severe loss in biodiversity and functionality if invaded by
exotic plants.
5.3 Improving conservation efforts in the region
Because of the variety in agricultural and land use activities in the region and fairly low
grazing impact, the area still contains a high level of biodiversity. This not only applies to
Voorspoed Mine, but also to the surrounding farms. Many farmers in the region have
adapted their farming practices to be more environmentally friendly. This includes for
example practicing no-till agriculture, minimising the use of pesticides and using non-lethal
predator control methods. Because of the high level of biodiversity and the generally positive
attitude towards it from Voorspoed Mine and the surrounding farmers, this area could benefit
greatly from a region wide effort to increase conservation of biodiversity in the area.
Voorspoed Mine would be essential in the initiation and management of such an effort. Here
are a few recommendations that could form part of such an effort.
5.3.1 Farmer assistance and education
There are many ways for farmers to operate in environmentally friendly ways, but these
avenues are not always known to the farmers. Voorspoed Mine could be instrumental in
educating farmers on these methods, through making use of outside resources. A suggestion
would be to organise speakers from various organisations that focus on this farmer-
environment interaction to address farmers during monthly meetings. This will include for
example the Wildlife Conflict Prevention Group from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT-
WCPG) and similar organisations and can also extend to students that are focussing on
specific areas of interaction between agriculture and the environment. This can help to set at
ease the concerns of farmers that are worried about the effect of increased biodiversity such
as e.g. crane species returning to the area. Through collaboration with these organisations,
assistance could also be provided to farmers experiencing conflict with biodiversity issues.
An example of this can be found in the management of Brown Hyaenas in the area. The
majority of farmers in the Voorspoed Mine area confirmed that Brown Hyaenas are often
seen in the area and that they sometime incur stock losses attributed to the hyaenas. One
farmer confirmed that he had recently killed six hyaenas on his property in one year. This
species is classified as Near-Threatened, but has become locally extinct in many areas.
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Voorspoed Mine could be crucial in organising a response unit, in collaboration with e.g. the
EWT-WCPG, which could organise the relocation of problem animals, preventing the killing
of a species of conservation concern. This could extend to other predators causing conflict
with farmers.
5.3.2 Establishment of community projects
Voorspoed Mine could play a role in educating surrounding communities in the sustainable
utilisation of the environment. This could include for example the harvesting of thatch
during certain times of the year, as well as the harvesting of medicinal plants. Voorspoed
Mine could also work with Working for Wetlands and the surrounding communities to
restore other wetlands in the region and to establish erosion control programmes in rural
areas. Another example would be the utilisation of gamebirds in collaboration with the
surrounding farmers. Various gamebirds such as Helmeted Guineafowl and Swainson’s
Spurfowl occur in high numbers in the region and organised wingshooting during winter
could greatly benefit the community if it is done sustainably.
5.3.3 Establishment of a conservancy
It is important to keep in mind that Voorspoed Mine has a limited lifespan in the region and
that the land will return to local farmers after the completion of the LOM. It is crucial to
ensure continued stewardship and sustainable management of biodiversity after DBFoC has
left the area. This can be done through the establishment of a conservancy, including the
mine area, as well as farms in the region. The conservancy can specify certain practices that
would ensure that damage to the environment are minimised, while farmer efforts in the
region continue successfully.
5.3.4 Protecting specific tree species
Protected tree species are present on the site. In terms of the National Forests Act No. 84 of
1998, no person may cut, disturb, damage or destroy any protected tree or possess, collect,
remove, transport, export, purchase, sell, donate or in any other manner acquire or dispose of
any protected tree, except under a license granted by the Minister. Sheppard’s tree
(“witgat”), Boscia albitrunca is a protected species under this Act and present on the site.
The conservation of this tree species should be kept in mind by future management plans.
This tree species is well established at Renosterkoppie and its slopes and even on the flatter
areas near the foot of Renosterkoppie.
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5.4 Compiling a Biodiversity Action Plan
A Biodiversity Action Plan (BAP) should be developed and implemented for Voorspoed
Mine. Such a plan will focus on specific species and habitats occurring on the mine and
specify actions to be taken to ensure the conservation and sustainable utilisation of the
species and habitats. It is a legally recognised framework for conservation and the
determination of land use that will contribute greatly to the efficiency of Voorspoed Mine’s
environmental management policy. A BAP will require species specific surveys to be
completed, such as mentioned in 4.1. This, together with the habitat types identified on the
Voorspoed Mine area will then be used to develop a plan focussed on the conservation of the
species and the sustainable utilisation of the habitats. The objectives of the mine, as well as
the conservation needs will be taken into account in order to identify specific areas that need
to be addressed. Specific biodiversity objectives will be developed and an extensive plan will
be designed in order to meet these objectives. This plan will include the recommendations
made in this document, as well as others, but will contain a comprehensive roadmap for
developing these recommendations into comprehensive conservation actions.
6. CONCLUSION
Preliminary investigation shows that Voorspoed Mine contains a high level of biodiversity.
This mostly refers to the area known as Renosterkoppie, the wetland and the grassland
linking these two areas. More specific surveys are necessary to determine the exact level of
biodiversity and the presence of species of conservation concern in the area. Though
recommendations have been made on certain actions that can be taken to increase
biodiversity stewardship right away, it is critical that a Biodiversity Action Plan is developed
and implemented in order to identify specific biodiversity related objectives for Voorspoed
Mine and to develop a road map for achieving these objectives.
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7. REFERENCES
AlEXANDER, M. G. & MARAIS, J. 2007 A guide to the reptiles of Southern Africa. Cape
Town. Struik
BARNES, K.N. (Ed.). 2000. The ESKOM Red Data Book of Birds of South Africa, Lesotho
and Swaziland. Birdlife South Africa. Johannesburg.
BRANCH, B. 1998. Field Guide to the Snakes and Other Reptiles of Southern Africa.
Struik. Cape Town.
BROMILOW, C. 2001. Problem Plants of South Africa. Pretoria. Briza Publications.
CARRUTHERS, V. 2001. Frogs and froging in southern Africa. Cape Town. Struik.
CHITTENDEN, H. 2007. Roberts Bird Guide: A comprehensive field guide to over 950
bird species in southern Africa. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Cape Town.
COLLAR, N. J. & ANDREW, A. 1988. Birds to Watch: The ICBP world checklist of
threatened birds. ICBP Technical Publication 8. Cambridge: International Council for Bird
Preservation.
FRANDSEN, R. 2004. Southern Africa’s Mammals: A field guide. Thirtheenth
Impression. Honeyguide Publications. Sandton.
FRIEDMAN, Y. & DALY, B. (eds.). 2004. Red Data Book of the Mammals of South
Africa: a conservation assessment. CBSG Southern Africa, EWT. South Africa.
GERMISHUIZEN, G. 2003. Illustrated guide to the wildflowers of northern South Africa.
Briza. Pretoria.
GERMISHUIZEN, G., MEYER, N. L. & STEENKAMP (eds). 2006. A checklist of South
African plants. Southern African Botanical Diversity Network Report No. 41. SABONET,
Pretoria. L. & Steenkamp (eds) 2006.
GOLDBLATT, P. 1986. The Moraeas of Southern Africa. Annals of Kirstenbosch Botanic
Gardens, Volume 14. National Botanic Gardens, Cape Town.
HOCKEY, P. A. R., DEAN, W. R. J. RYAN, P. G. 2005. Roberts Birds of Southern Africa.
Seventh Edition. John Voelcker Bird Book Fund. Cape Town.
IUCN. 2001. IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria: Version 3.1. IUCN Species Survival
Commission. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland and Cambridge, UK.
JAVED, S. & KAUL, R. 2002. Field Methods for Bird Surveys. Bombay Natural History
Society. New Delhi.
KOK, J. C. 1988. Vrystaatse bome, struike en klimplante. Kontak-uitgewers. Pretoria.
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LOW, A. B. & REBELO, A. G. (eds. 1996. Vegetation of South Africa, Lesotho and
Swaziland. Pretoria: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.
MANNING, J. 2009. Field guide to the wild flowers of South Africa. Struik. Cape Town.
MINTER, L. R., BURGER, M., HARRISON, J. A., BRAACK, H. H., BISHOP, P. J. &
KLOEPFER, D. 2004. Atlas and Red Data Book of Frogs of South Africa, Lesotho and
Swaziland. SI/MAB Biodiversity Program, Series #9. Smithsonian Institute. Washington
DC.
MUCINA, L. & RUTHERFORD, M. C. (eds). 2006. The Vegetation for South Africa,
Lesotho and Swaziland. South African National Biodiversity Institute. Pretoria.
RAIMONDO, D., VON STADE, L., FODEN, W., VICTOR, J. E., HELME, N. A.,
TURNER, R. C., KAMUNDI, D. A. & MANYAMA, P. A. (eds). 2009. Red list of South
African Plants 2009. Strelitzia 25. South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria.
SMITHERS, R. H. N. 1996. (Edited by Peter Apps). Smithers’ Mammals of southern
Africa. Southern Books. Cape Town.
STUART, C. & STUART, T. 2000. A Field Guide to the Tracks and Signs of Southern and
East African Wildlife. Struik. Cape Town.
VAN OUDTSHOORN, F. 1999. Guide to grasses of southern Africa. Briza. Pretoria.
VAN WYK, B. 2000. A photographic guide to wild flowers of South Africa. Struik. Cape
Town.
VAN WYK, B. & MALAN, S. 1998. Field Guide to the Wild Flowers of the Highveld.
Struik. Cape Town.
VAN WYK, B. E. & SMITH, G. F. 2003. Guide to the aloes of South Africa. 2nd
ed. Briza.
Pretoria.
VAN WYK, B. & VAN WYK, P. 1997. Field guide to trees of southern Africa. Struik.
Cape Town
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APPENDIX A
List of plant species that have been recorded at the site
Compiled by R.F. Terblanche
Plant species marked with an asterisk (*) are exotic.
Key: DG = Previously cultivated fields; GR = Gentle slopes; WT = Seasonal wetland; RR =
Rocky ridge vegetation; FT = Woodland
PLANT GROUPS
AND SPECIES
COMMON
NAME
RELATIVELY
HOMOGENOUS AREAS PLANT FAMILY
GRASSES/
GRAMINOIDS
DG GR WT RR FT
Acroceras macrum Nile Grass WT POACEAE
Grass family
Aristida
adscensionis
Annual Three-
awn
WT POACEAE
Grass family
Aristida congesta
subsp. congesta
Tassel Three-
awn
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Aristida diffusa Iron Grass RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Arundinella
nepalensis
River Grass WT POACEAE
Grass family
Brachiaria serrata Velvet Signal
Grass
GR RR POACEAE
Grass family
Chloris virgata Feather-top
Chloris
DG RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Cymbopogon
pospischilii
Narrow-
leaved
Turpentine
Grass
GR RR POACEAE
Grass family
Cynodon dactylon
Couch Grass DG GR WT POACEAE
Grass family
Digitaria eriantha
Common
Finger Grass
GR WT RR POACEAE
Grass family
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Eleusine coracana
Goose Grass DG POACEAE
Grass family
Elionurus muticus
Wire Grass GR RR POACEAE
Grass family
Enneapogon
cenchroides
Nine-awned
Grass
POACEAE
Grass family
Enneapogon
scoparius
Bottlebrush
Grass
RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis
chloromelas
Narrow Curly
Leaf
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis curvula
Weeping Love
Grass
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis
gummiflua
Gum Grass GR POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis
lehmanniana
Lehmann’s
Love Grass
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis obtusa
Dew Grass GR POACEAE
Grass family
Eragrostis superba
Saw-toothed
Love Grass
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Eustachys
paspaloides
Brown
Rhodes Grass
GR RR POACEAE
Grass family
Helictotrichon
turgidulum
Small Oats
Grass
WT POACEAE
Grass family
Heteropogon
contortus
Spear Grass
RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Hyparrhenia hirta
Common
Thatching
Grass
DG GR WT RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Imperata
cylindrica
Cotton Wool
Grass
WT POACEAE
Grass family
Leersia hexandra
Rice Grass ? POACEAE
Grass family
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Melinis
nerviglumis
Bristle-leaved
Red Top
RR POACEAE
Grass family
Melinis repens
Natal Red Top
DG RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Panicum
coloratum
Small Buffalo
Grass
DG GR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Panicum maximum
Guinea Grass RR POACEAE
Grass family
* Paspalum
dilatatum
Dallis Grass WT POACEAE
Grass family
Pogonarthria
squarrosa
Herringbone
Grass
DG GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Setaria pallide-
fusca
Garden Bristle
Grass
DG WT POACEAE
Grass family
Setaria sphacelata
var. torta
Creeping
Bristle Grass
GR RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Setaria verticillata
Bur Bristle
Grass
WT POACEAE
Grass family
* Sorghum
halepense
Johnson Grass DG POACEAE
Grass family
Sporobolus
africanus
Ratstail
Dropseed
DG GR POACEAE
Grass family
Sporobolus
fimbriatus
Dropseed
Grass
DG GR POACEAE
Grass family
Themeda triandra
Red Grass
GR WT RR FT POACEAE
Grass family
Trachypogon
spicatus
Giant Spear
Grass
RR POACEAE
Grass family
Trichoneura
grandiglumis
Small Rolling
Grass
GR FT POACEAE
Grass family
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HERBS, SEDGES
AND
GEOPHYTES
Aloe greatheadii
var. davyana
Kgopane RR ASPHODELACEAE
* Alternanthera
pungens
Paper
Duwweltjie
DG AMARANTHACEAE
* Argemone
ochroleuca
White-
flowered
Mexican
poppy
DG PAPAVERACEAE
Berkheya radula
WT ASTERACEAE
* Bidens bipinnata
Spanish
blackjack
DG ASTERACEAE
* Bidens pilosa
Common
blackjack
RR ASTERACEAE
Cheilanthes hirta
RR
* Cirsium vulgare
Scotch Thistle WT ASTERACEAE
* Conyza
bonariensis
Fleabane DG GR ASTERACEAE
* Conyza
canadensis
Fleabane DG GR ASTERACEAE
Conyza
podocephala
GR ASTERACEAE
* Cyperus
esculentus
Yellow
nutsedge
WT CYPERACEAE
* Datura
stramonium
Common
thorn-apple
DG SOLANACEAE
Gazania krebsiana DG GR WT ASTERACEAE
* Gomphrena
celosioides
Bachelor’s
Button
DG AMARANTHACEAE
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Helichrysum
argyrosphaerum
DG GR WT ASTERACEAE
Helichrysum
nudifolium
Hottentot’s tea
DG GR WT ASTERACEAE
Helichrysum
rugulosum
DG GR WT ASTERACEAE
Hermannia
depressa
Creeping Red
Hermannia
GR STERCULIACEAE
Hibiscus pusillus
GR RR MALVACEAE
Indigofera
melanadenia
RR FABACEAE
Pea family
Kalanchoe
thyrsiflora
RR CRASSULACEAE
* Melilotus alba
Bokhara
Clover
DG FABACEAE
Monsonia
angustifolia
Crane’s Bill GR GERANIACEAE
* Oenothera rosea
Rose Evening
Primrose
WT ONAGRACEAE
* Oenothera
tetraptera
White
Evening
Primrose
DG ONAGRACEAE
Pellaea
calomelanos
RR
Persicaria sp.
WT POLYGONACEAE
* Plantago
lanceolata
Narrow-
leaved
plantain
DG PHYTOLACCACEAE
* Portulaca
oleracea
Purslane DG PORTULACACEAE
Ranunculus
multifidus
Buttercup WT RANUNCULACEAE
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* Rumex crispus
Curly Dock WT POLYGONACEAE
* Schkuhria
pinnata
Dwarf
marigold
DG GR WT RR FT ASTERACEAE
Selago densiflora
DG GR FT SELAGINACEAE
Senecio
consanguineus
Starvation
senecio
DG ASTERACEAE
Senecio inornatus
WT ASTERACEAE
Sida rhombifolia
Arrowleaf
Sida
FT MALVACEAE
Solanum
panduriforme
Poison Apple DG GR WT RR FT SOLANACEAE
* Tagetes minuta
Khakiweed DG GR WT RR FT ASTERACEAE
* Taraxacum
officinale
Common
Dandelion
DG ASTERACEAE
Teucrium trifidum
RR LAMIACEAE
Tribulus terrestris
Devil’s Thorn DG FT ZYGOPHYLLACEAE
* Verbena
aristigera
Fine-leaved
Verbena
DG GR VERBENACEAE
* Verbena
brasiliensis
DG GR VERBENACEAE
Vernonia
oligocephala
GR ASTERACEAE
* Zinnia peruviana
Redstar Zinnia RR ASTERACEAE
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CLIMBERS
Clematis brachiata
Traveller’s
Joy
RR FT RANUNCULACEAE
Pentarrhinum
insipidum
RR FT ASCLEPIADACEAE
SHRUBS
Asparagus
laricinus
Common
Wild
Asparagus
GR WT RR FT ASPARAGACEA
Asparagus family
Asparagus
suaveolens
Wild
asparagus
RR FT ASPARAGACEAE
Asparagus family
Felicia filifolia
RR ASTERACEAE
Gomphocarpus
fruticosus
Milkweed DG GR WT RR FT APOCYNACEAE
Lantana rugosa
RR FT VERBENACEAE
Lippia scaberrima
GR RR FT VERBENACEAE
Pentzia globosa
GR RR FT ASTERACEAE
Plumbago sp.
RR PLUMBAGINACEAE
Seriphium
plumosum
(=Stoebe vulgaris)
Bankrupt
Bush
DG FT ASTERACEAE
Viscum
rotundifolium
Round-leaved
Mistletoe
RR FT LORANTHACEAE
Mistletoe family
Ziziphus
zeyheriana
Dwarf
buffalo-thorn
GR RR FT RHAMNACEAE
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TREES
Acacia caffra
Common
Hook-thorn
RR FT MIMOSACEAE
Acacia karroo
Sweet Thorn GR RR FT MIMOSACEAE
Acacia robusta
Ankle Thorn RR FT MIMOSACEAE
Boscia albitrunca
Shepherd’s
Tree
RR FT CAPPARACEAE
Buddleja saligna
False Olive RR BUDDLEJACEAE
Cussiona
paniculata
Highveld
Cabbage Tree
RR ARALIACEAE
Diospyros
lycioides
var. guerkei
Bluebush
RR EBENACEAE
Dombeya
rotundifolia
Common
Wild Pear
RR STERCULIACEAE
Ehretia rigida
Puzzle Bush RR FT BORAGINACEAE
* Eucalyptus
camaldulensis
Red Gum DG MYRTACEAE
Euclea crispa
Blue Guarri RR EBENACEAE
Grewia flava
Velvet Raisin RR FT TILIACEAE
Grewia
occidentalis
Cross-berry RR FT TILIACEAE
Gymnosporia
buxifolia
Common
Spike-thorn
RR CELASTRACEAE
* Melia azedarach
Seringa
DG MELIACEAE
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Nuxia congesta
Common
Wild Elder
RR LOGANIACEAE
Olea europaea
subsp.
africana
Wild Olive RR OLEACEAE
* Opuntia ficus-
indica
Sweet Prickly
Pear
RR FT CACTACEAE
Osyris
quadripartita
Transvaal
Sumach
RR SANTALACEAE
Pappea capensis
Jacket-plum RR SAPINDACEAE
Searsia lancea
Karree RR FT ANACARDIACEAE
Searsia rigida
RR ANACARDIACEAE
Searsia leptodyctia
Mountain
Karree
RR ANACARDIACEAE
Searsia pyroides
Common
Wild Currant
DG ANACARDIACEAE
Scolopia zeyheri
Thorn Pear RR FLACOURTIACEAE
Tarchonanthus
camphoratus
Wild
Camphor
Bush
RR FT ASTERACEAE
Vangueria infausta
Wild Medlar RR RUBIACEAE
Zanthoxylum
capense
Small
Knobwood
RR RUTACEAE
Ziziphus
mucronata
Buffalo-thorn RR FT RHAMNACEAE
Note the genus Rhus has recently changed to Searsia
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APPENDIX B
Reptiles
The following is a checklist of likely species for the Voorspoed Mine area.
Tortoises
Pelomedusa subrufa Marsh Terapin
Lizards
Pacydactylus capensis Cape Thick-toed Gecko
Agama atra Southern Rock Agama
Agama aculeata Ground Agama
Trachylepis capensis Cape Skink
Trachylepis varia Variable Skink
Trachylepis punctatissima Montane Speckled Skink
Panaspis wahlbergii Wahlberg's Snake-eyed Skink
Acontias gracilicauda Thin-tailed Legless Skink
Gerrhosaurus flavigularis Yellow-throated Plated Lizard
Cordylus giganteus Sungazer
Cordylus vittifer Highveld Girdled Lizard
Nucras holubi Sandveld Lizard
Nucras intertexta Spotted Sandveld Lizard
Varanus albigularis Rock Monitor
Snakes
Rhinotyphlops lalandei Delalande's Beaked Blind Snake
Leptotyphlops scutifrons Peters' Worm Snake
Leptotyphlops s. conjunctus Eastern Cape Worm Snake
Lamprophis aurora Aurora House Snake
Lamprophis capensis Brown House Snake
Lycophidion capense Common Wolf Snake
Pseudaspis cana Mole Snake
Prosymna sundevalli Sundevall's Shovel-snout
Dasypeltis scabra Common Egg-eater
Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Herald Snake
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Psammophylax rhombeatus Spotted Skaapsteker
Psammophis trinasalis Kalahari Sand Snake
Psammophis crucifer Crossed Whip Snake
Aparallactus capensis Black-headed Cenipede-eater
Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals
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APPENDIX C
Bird Species recorded for 2727 AC
The list below includes species recorded for 2727 AC and for which suitable habitat
exists on site. They could therefore occur on Voorspoed.
1 Struthio camelus Common Ostrich
6 Podiceps cristatus Great Crested Grebe
7 Podiceps nigricollis Black-necked Grebe
8 Tachybaptus ruficollis Little Grebe
55 Phalacrocorax lucidus White-breasted Cormorant
58 Phalacrocorax africanus Reed Cormorant
60 Anhinga rufa African Darter
62 Ardea cinerea Grey Heron
63 Ardea melanocephala Black-headed Heron
64 Ardea goliath Goliath Heron
65 Ardea purpurea Purple Heron
66 Egretta alba Great Egret
67 Egretta garzetta Little Egret
68 Egretta intermedia Yellow-billed Egret
69 Egretta ardesiaca Black Heron
71 Bubulcus ibis Cattle Egret
72 Ardeola ralloides Squacco Heron
74 Butorides striatus Green-backed Heron
76 Nycticorax nycticorax Black-crowned Night-Heron
81 Scopus umbretta Hamerkop
83 Ciconia ciconia White Stork
84 Ciconia nigra Black Stork
85 Ciconia abdimii Abdim's Stork
89 Leptoptilos crumeniferus Marabou Stork
90 Mycteria ibis Yellow-billed Stork
91 Threskiornis aethiopicus Sacred Ibis
93 Plegadis falcinellus Glossy Ibis
94 Bostrychia hagedash Hadeda Ibis
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95 Platalea alba African Spoonbill
96 Phoenicopterus ruber Greater Flamingo
97 Phoenicopterus minor Lesser Flamingo
99 Dendrocygna viduata White-faced Duck
100 Dendrocygna bicolor Fulvous Duck
102 Alopochen aegyptiacus Egyptian Goose
103 Tadorna cana South African Shelduck
104 Anas undulata Yellow-billed Duck
106 Anas capensis Cape Teal
107 Anas hottentota Hottentot Teal
108 Anas erythrorhyncha Red-billed Teal
112 Anas smithii Cape Shoveller
113 Netta erythropthalma Southern Pochard
116 Plectropterus gambensis Spur-winged Goose
118 Sagittarius serpentarius Secretarybird
122 Gyps coprotheres Cape Vulture
126 Milvus milvus Black Kite
127 Elanus caeruleus Black-shouldered Kite
136 Hieraaetus pennatus Booted Eagle
140 Polemaetus bellicosus Martial Eagle
149 Buteo buteo vulpinus Steppe Buzzard
152 Buteo rufofuscus Jackal Buzzard
158 Accipiter melanoleucos Black Sparrowhawk
161 Melierax gabar Gabar Goshawk
164 Circus aeruginosus Eurasian Marsh-Harrier
165 Circus ranivorus African Marsh-Harrier
166 Circus pygarus Montagu's Harrier
167 Circus macrourus Pallid Harrier
168 Circus maurus Black Harrier
169 Polyboroides typus African Harrier-Hawk
171 Falco peregrinus Peregrine Falcon
172 Falco biarmicus Lanner Falcon
179 Falco vespertinus Red-footed Falcon
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180 Falco amurensis Amur Falcon
181 Falco rupicolis Rock Kestrel
182 Falco rupicoloides Greater Kestrel
183 Falco naumanni Lesser Kestrel
188 Peliperdix coqui Coqui Francolin
193 Scleroptila levaillantoides Orange River Francolin
196 Pternistes natalensis Natal Francolin
199 Pternistes swainsonii Swainson's Spurfowl
200 Coturnix coturnix Common Quail
201 Coturnix delegorguei Harlequin Quail
203 Numida meleagris Helmeted Guineafowl
205 Turnix sylvatica Kurrichane Buttonquail
208 Anthropoides paradisea Blue Crane
210 Rallus caerulescens African Rail
212 Crecopsis egregia African Crake
213 Amaurornis flavirostris Black Crake
214 Porzanza porzanza Spotted Crake
215 Porzanza pusilla Baillon's Crake
223 Porphyrio madagascariensis African Purple Swamphen
226 Gallinula chloropus Common Moorhen
228 Fulica cristata Red-knobbed Coot
234 Eupodotis caerulescens Blue Korhaan
239b Eupodotis afraoides Northern Black Korhaan
240 Actophilornis africanus African Jacana
242 Rostratula benghalensis Greater Painted Snipe
245 Charadrius hiaticula Common Ringed Plover
248 Charadrius tricollaris Three-banded Plover
252 Charadrius asiaticus Caspian Plover
254 Pluvialis squatarola Grey Plover
255 Vanellus coronatus Crowned Lapwing
258 Vanellus armatus Blacksmith Lapwing
260 Vanellus senegallus African Wattled Lapwing
262 Arenaria interpres Ruddy Turnstone
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264 Actitis hypoleucos Common Sandpiper
266 Tringa glareola Wood Sandpiper
269 Tringa stagnatilis Marsh Sandpiper
270 Tringa nebularia Common Greenshank
272 Calidris ferruginea Curlew Sandpiper
274 Calidris minuta Little Stint
284 Philomachus pugnax Ruff
286 Gallinago nigrpennis African Snipe
287 Limosa limosa Black-tailed Godwit
289 Numenius arquata Curlew
290 Numenius phaeopus Common Whimbrel
294 Recurvirostra avosetta Pied Avocet
295 Himantopus himantopus Black-winged Stilt
297 Burhinus capensis Spotted Thick-knee
299 Cursorius rufus Burchell's Courser
300 Cursorius temminckii Temminck's Courser
301 Rhinoptilus africanus Double-banded Courser
305 Glareola nordmanni Black-winged Pratincole
315 Larus cirrocephalus Grey-headed Gull
338 Chlidonas hybridus Whiskered Tern
339 Chlidonas leucopterus White-winged Tern
344 Pterocles namaqua Namaqua Sandgrouse
349 Columba guinea Speckled Pigeon
350 Columbe arquartrix African Olive-pigeon
352 Streptopelia semitorquata Red-eyed Dove
354 Streptopelia capicola Cape Turtle-dove
355 Streptopelia senegalensis Laughing Dove
356 Oena capensis Namaqua Dove
373 Corythaixoides concolor Grey Go-away-bird
374 Cuculus canorus Common Cuckoo
377 Cuculus solitarius Red-chested Cuckoo
380 Clamator glandarius Great Spotted Cuckoo
382 Clamator jacobinus Jacobin Cuckoo
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385 Chrysococcyx klaas Klaas's Cuckoo
386 Chrysococcyx caprius Diderick Cuckoo
392 Tyto alba Barn Owl
393 Tyto capensis African Grass Owl
395 Asio capensis Marsh Owl
397 Ptilopsus granti Southern White-faced Scops-owl
401 Bubo africanus Spotted Eagle Owl
402 Bubo lacteus Verreaux's Eagle Owl
404 Caprimulgus europaeus European Nighjar
405 Caprimulgus pectoralis Fiery-necked Nightjar
408 Caprimulgus tristigma Freckled Nightjar
411 Apus apus Common Swift
412 Apus barbatus African Black Swift
415 Apus caffer White-rumped Swift
416 Apus horus Horus Swift
417 Apus affinis Little Swift
418 Tachymarptis melba Alpine Swift
421 Cypsiurus parvus African Palm-Swift
424 Colius striatus Speckled Mousebird
425 Colius colius White-backed Mousebird
426 Urocolius indicus Red-faced Mousebird
438 Merops apiaster European Bee-eater
440 Merops persicus Blue-cheeked Bee-eater
445 Merops hirundineus Swallow-tailed Bee-eater
446 Coracias garrulus European Roller
451 Upupa africanus African Hoopoe
452 Phoeniculus purpureus Green Wood-Hoopoe
454 Rhinopomastus cyanomelas Common Scimitarbill
464 Lybius torquatus Black-collared Barbet
465 Tricholaema leucomelas Acacia Pied Barbet
473 Trachyphonus levaillantii Crested Barbet
474 Indicator indicator Greater Honeyguide
476 Indicator mino r Lesser Honeyguide
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478 Prodotiscus regulus Brown-backed Honeybird
486 Dendropicos fuscescens Cardinal Woodpecker
489 Jynx ruficollis Red-throated Wryneck
492 Mirafra cheniana Melodious Lark
494 Mirafra africana Rufous-naped Lark
495a Mirafra fasciolata Eastern Clapper Lark
497 Mirafra africanoides Fawn-coloured Lark
498 Mirafra sabota Sabota Lark
500a Certhilauda semitorquata Eastern Long-billed Lark
506 Chersomanes albofasciata Spike-heeled Lark
507 Calendrella cinerea Red-capped Lark
508 Spizocorys conirostris Pink-billed Lark
515 Eremopterix leucotis Chestnut-backed Sparrowlark
516 Eremopterix verticalis Grey-backed Sparrowlark
518 Hirundo rustica Barn Swallow
520 Hirundo aligularis White-throated Swallow
523 Hirundo dimidiata Pearl-breasted Swallow
524 Hirundo semirufa Red-breasted Swallow
526 Hirundo cucullata Greater Striped Swallow
528 Hirundo spilodera South African Cliff-Swallow
529 Hirundo fuligula Rock Martin
530 Delichon urbica Common House-Martin
532 Riparia riparia Sand Martin
533 Riparia paludicola Brown-throated Martin
534 Riparia bicincta Banded Martin
541 Dicrurus adsimilis Fork-tailed Drongo
543 Oriolus oriolus Eurasian Golden Oriole
547 Corvus capensis Cape Crow
548 Corvus alba Pied Crow
552 Parus cinerascens Ashy Tit
567 Pynonotus nigricans African Red-eyed Bulbul
577b Turdus smithi Karoo Thrush
580 Psophcichla litsitsirupa Groundscraper Thrush
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586 Oenanthe monticola Mountain Wheatear
587 Oenanthe pileata Capped Wheatear
589 Cercomela familiaris Familiar Chat
593 Thamnolea cinnamomeiventris Mocking Cliff-chat
595 Myrmecocichla formicivora Ant-eating Chat
596 Saxicola torquata African Stonechat
601 Cossypha caffra Cape Robin-Chat
613 Cercotrichas leucophrys White-browed Scrub-robin
615 Cercotrichas paena Kalahari Scrub-robin
619 Sylvia borin Garden Warbler
620 Sylvia communis Common Whitethroat
621 Parisoma subcaeruleum Chestnut-vented Titbabbler
625 Hippolais icterina Icterine Warbler
626 Acrocephalus arundinaceus Great Reed-Warbler
633 Acrocephalus palustris Marsh Warbler
643 Phylloscopus trochilus Willow Warbler
651 Sylvietta rufescens Long-billed Crombec
653 Eremomela icteropygialis Yellow-bellied Eremomela
664 Cisticola juncidis Zitting Cisticola
665 Cisticola aridulus Desert Cisticola
670 Cisticola lais Wailing Cisticola
672 Cisticola chinianus Rattling Cisticola
677 Cisticola tinniens Le Vaillant's Cisticola
679 Cisticola aberrans Lazy Cisticola
681 Cisticola fulvicapillus Neddicky
683 Prinia subflava Tawny-flanked Prinia
685 Prinia flavicans Black-chested Prinia
689 Muscicapa striata Spotted Flycat