WESSA Southern KZN visit to Mbumbazi, Saturday, October 20th: at 8:15 for 8:30 am

Greetings one and all.

Are you enjoying the weather? Our last walk was decidedly damp, but those who came along to Umtamvuna were rewarded with a lovely display of spring flowers.

This month we are planning to visit Mbumbazi, to see how the flora is doing there. A very different ecosystem, with different geology, topography and micro-climate.

The walks can be a bit steep, but are generally quite easy going. And there is always the chance of seeing something different in the fauna department. Is there really a leopard there?

So please make a plan and come and join us on Saturday, October 20^th: at 8:15 for 8:30 am. The usual terms and conditions apply: bring a picnic, and be prepared for walking over grassy and stony tracks. And since the views are magnificent and the zebra are co-operative, a camera may be worth-while – even if the leopard are elusive.

The arrangements have yet to be confirmed, but I am optimistic. They have always managed to fit us in before, and it is only a case of making sure the gate is unlocked for us. But please contact me beforehand just in case – or the risk is your own!

To get there you have two alternatives.

Form Port Shepstone go inland on the N2 to Paddock, and turn left at the petrol station; go past the police station and follow the road for about 2km. Turn right on the D174, and follow this to its end, at the entrance to the reserve.

Alternatively, turn inland at Shelly beach on the road to Izotsha, and follow this until it becomes a sand road. Keep going for another 5.6km and then turn left on the D174, and follow this to its end, at the entrance to the reserve.

A special thanks to Peter Vos who some years ago sent me a map – it is still a work of art, and most helpful…

I have sent a notice to the SC Herald, as follows:

Saturday, October 20^th: at 8:15 for 8:30 am – The Southern KZN branch of WESSA will be walking among the hills – Join us for a walk in the Mbumbazi Nature Reserve, near Paddock (venue to be confirmed), followed by a picnic. We recommend that you bring refreshments, suitable footwear, hats, and some lunch. Meet at the Reserve. All are welcome. To confirm the details and get directions contact Paddy on 039-695-2827, or Dorothy on 072-219-1548.

Hope to see you there.

Kind regards,

Paddy Norman

Branch Chairman,

WESSA – Southern KZN