Conservation efforts, led by Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm and its conservation partners in the Kouga region of the Eastern Cape, are working to increase awareness and reverse the current trajectory which shows that the black harrier (Circus maurus) is likely to go extinct within 75 years if nothing is done.
“This beautiful bird of prey is only found in Southern Africa and is in more danger of extinction than the black rhino, which has over 6 000 remaining individuals, compared with the black harrier’s population that comprises fewer than 1 000 mature breeding birds, demonstrating the urgent need for conservation efforts,” explained Marli Schoeman, environmental, social and governance and biodiversity manager at Jeffreys Bay Wind Farm.
Raptors play an important biological role in the control of rodent agricultural pests and other small mammals, an important consideration over and above the services that these birds provide to our greater natural environment.
The black harrier nests on the ground, and it only breeds in indigenous natural vegetation, preferring fynbos and renosterveld. Vast areas of natural fynbos have been cultivated for crops and the harrier’s breeding habitat has shrunk to tiny remnants.
Other impacts are human disturbance, poisoning by agrochemicals and pesticides, and poorly placed electricity powerlines or wind turbines.
This story is from the 16 June 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 16 June 2023 edition of Farmer's Weekly.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Care of newborn lambs and goat kids
It may be a relatively simple task to successfully get rams to mate and for females to give birth, but the first couple of weeks of the life of a lamb or kid is a crucial period in livestock farming.
Don't ignore ChatGPT for one more day
If you are not using the free artificial intelligence app you’re missing out on assistance from the most potent personal assistant you could ever have.
Afternoon tea at the famous Mount Nelson
Brian Berkman says there’s not much to beat afternoon drinks and snacks served in the gardens at the newly refurbished Mount Nelson.
Starting a small-farm vegetable project: Part 4
Bill Kerr says that increasing the organic and microbe content of your soil is the first step to ensuring healthier crops and greater yields.
Luxurious and powerful workhorse at a great price
The new JAC T9 is certainly great value for money by offering features and driver comforts that compare with brands twice its retail price.
Are there solutions to antibiotic resistance, or are we running out of time to find new antibiotics?
Free State regional sales manager for Alltech, discusses how farmers can mitigate the use of antibiotics in cattle.
Dream stud Merinos
This stud was winning awards and attracting top prices, thanks to a quality sire imported from Australia eight years ago.
Choosing a breed that goes along with your lifestyle
Jarred Hodgson gives farmers advice on choosing the dog breed best suited to them, their families and operations. Although only four specific breeds are highlighted here, other breeds can also be considered.
Wheat production in South Africa
Master’s in Integrated Pest Management candidate at North-West University Zunel van Eeden explores the increasing importance of wheat production and the challenges experienced on the way to harvest time.
Sorghum essential for South Africa
Magda du Toit discusses Grain SA’s focus on sorghum as an important grain crop to cultivate, research and develop further in the country.