This site was proclaimed a nature reserve in 2001. Residents formed the Uitkamp Action Group in 2006 to help conserve this precious 32 ha wetland valley in a renosterveld region, with its 140 different plants and many rare species. In spring, masses of arum lilies (Zantedeschia aethiopica) and pink watsonias (Watsonia meriana) flower in the waterlogged central valley amid restios, besemriet and the rare Ischyrolepis duthieae. The dryer edges are home to moederkappie orchids (Disperis capensis), babianas, sparaxis, moraeas, sundews and purple-and-red wine cups (Geisshoriza radians) as well as a variety of bushes. The wetland valley is also home to the Cape caco frog (Cacosternum capense) and the Cape rain frog (Breviceps gibbosus), both of which are considered as threatened.
Challenges
The wetlands are threatened by invasive alien port jackson (Acacia saligna) trees, kikuyu grass (Pennisetum clandestinum) and other garden plants. Pollution by stormwater from the surrounding d’Urbanvale residential area also poses a challenge.
ADDRESS: Mosselbank Road, Durbanville
OPENING HOURS: 24 hours
SIZE: 32 ha
ENTRANCE FEE (2020): None
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Taxi or bus
ACTIVITIES: Nature walks amid a small wetland; interesting plants, birds and frogs
FRIENDS GROUP: Uitkamp Action Group, e-mail: yoellmj@mweb.co.za
CONTACT: Tel 021 979 0060; fax 021 979 0093
E-MAIL: uitkamp.wetland@capetown.gov.za
Source: City of Cape Town (2010) City of Cape Town nature reserves: A network of amazing biodiversity. City of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa.
