de beers consolidated mines limited · 2019. 8. 30. · de beers voorspoed mine october 2010...

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

De Beers Voorspoed Mine October 2010

Bucandi Environmental Solutions i

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


Bucandi Environmental Solutions ii

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


Bucandi Environmental Solutions iii

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


Bucandi Environmental Solutions iv

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


Bucandi Environmental Solutions 1

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.



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



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.



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



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



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



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.



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



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



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



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



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.



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



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.


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



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.


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



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



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.



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,



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.



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.



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.



7. REFERENCES

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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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Swaziland. Pretoria: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism.

MANNING, J. 2009. Field guide to the wild flowers of South Africa. Struik. Cape Town.

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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,

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RAIMONDO, D., VON STADE, L., FODEN, W., VICTOR, J. E., HELME, N. A.,

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Cape Town



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



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



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



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



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



* 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



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



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



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



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



Psammophylax rhombeatus Spotted Skaapsteker

Psammophis trinasalis Kalahari Sand Snake

Psammophis crucifer Crossed Whip Snake

Aparallactus capensis Black-headed Cenipede-eater

Hemachatus haemachatus Rinkhals



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



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



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



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



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



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



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

de beers consolidated mines limited · 2019. 8. 30. · de beers voorspoed mine october 2010...

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