Tankwa Karoo National Park
All-in-One
As luminous clouds of dust swirl through the ancient landscape, a tortoise patiently ambles around in search of some succulent morsel, a lizard basks in the sun while suricates and mongoose share the arid plains with orb-web spiders, centipedes and leggy toktokkies…
Tankwa Karoo National Park is situated on the southern boundary of the Northern Cape with the Roggeveld Escarpment in the East, Cederberg in the West, and Klein Roggeveld Mountains in the South.
Just a four hour drive from Cape Town brings you to this unique national park situated within the Succulent Karoo Biome where you'll find rare and endangered plant species, rich endemic birdlife, and landscapes that will take your breath away – from the sheer cliffs of the Roggeveld Escarpment to the moonscapes of the Tankwa Desert.
While Tankwa Karoo National Park is still in a developmental and land consolidation phase, expanding from the original 26,000 hectares in 1986 to nearly 111,000 ha in 2007, it is the ideal destination for those seeking the brightest stars in Africa, a once in a lifetime glimpse of a rare endemic bird or perhaps nothing more than a silence that reaches deep into the soul…
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Accommodation
Tankwa Karoo National Park is presently designated as a Scientific National Park and still in a developmental phase. As such the park offers limited visitor facilities, signage and other amenities and it is thus essential for prospective visitors to confirm availability, directions and other information with the park management prior to arrival.
Paulshoek Cottage
The Paulshoek farmstead, restored in 2003, is quaintly furnished with antique furniture and able to accommodate up to six people. The cottage is situated approximately 5km from the park offices at Roodewerf and has beautiful views of the imposing Roggeveld Escarpment and plains in-between.
- Two bedrooms, 4 beds (1 double bed and 1 single bed per room)
- One bathroom (shower only)
- Open-plan kitchen and living-room
- Braai-facilities
- Fully equipped with linen, cutlery, towels, cooking utensils etc.
- Gas two-plate stove and fridge
- Paraffin lamps and candles (provided)
- “Donkey” / boiler, wood supplied
- Wood stove for lighting during cold spells
Varschfontein Cottage
The Varschfontein Cottage, also an old farmhouse, was renovated in 2005 and and is able to accommodate up to nine people. The cottage lies is situated 45km from the park offices at Roodewerf within the dry westerly section of Tankwa National Park. The desolate beauty of the area is truly breathtaking and the cottage is the ideal getaway for those seeking a reprive from the human masses.
- Three bedrooms, 6 beds (1 double bed and 1 single bed per room)
- One bathroom (shower only)
- Open-plan kitchen and living-room
- Braai-facilities
- Reservoir for swimming purposes
- Accessibility by low-clearance vehicles hampered by the occurrence of water relay humps in road
- Access through sedan & 2x4 vehicles not advisable in winter
- Fully equipped with linen, cutlery, crockery, towels, cooking utensils etc.
- Gas two-plate stove and fridge
- Paraffin lamps and candles (provided)
- “Donkey” / boiler, wood supplied
- Hearth inside house for cooking or lighting of fire during cold spells
Elandsberg Wilderness Camp
Development of a five cottage wilderness camp was initiated in September 2006 and completed by April 2008. The cottages are situated 18km from the Park Offices at Roodewerf in the hills known as Elandsberge and has beautiful views of the Karoo plains and the imposing Roggeveld Escarpment. By the use of the locally made unbaked clay-and-straw bricks with sections of walls built with rock, a bygone era is evoked, one of simpler times… Examples of this building method can also be found in the many ruins within the park.
- 3 x One-bedroom Cottages, double bed
- 1 x One-bedroom Universal Unit, double bed
- 1 x Two-bedroom Cottage, 1 x double bed & 2 x single beds
- Queen-sized sleeper-couch in living room
- One bathroom (shower only)
- Open-plan kitchen and living-room
- Covered Braai / Stoep
- Fire-place in living room
- Splash-pool per unit
- Accessibility by low-clearance vehicles hampered at present
- Fully equipped with linen, cutlery, crockery, towels, cooking utensils etc.
- Gas appliances
- Paraffin lamps and candles (provided)
Tanqua Guesthouse
The Tanqua Guest House is very conveniently situated on the southern boundary of the Tankwa National Park and a stone’s throw from the Oudebaaskraal Dam. Built somewhat like a desert fort, the Tanqua Guest House was formerly run by Esther and Alewyn Burger but was incorporated into the Tankwa National Park since October 2007. The Guest House offers a range of accommodation and has played host to weddings, teambuilding exercises as well as film and commercial shoots. A 900m landing strip is also situated next to the main building allowing fly-ins by guests.
Main House (A)
- Six bedrooms, five double and one twin
- Four bathrooms (two en-suite, two shared)
- Open-plan kitchen
- Braai-facilities
- Fireplace in living room
- Fully equipped with linen, cutlery, crockery, etc.
Self-catering Family Unit (B)
- Four bedrooms, 1 double and 3 twin
- Two bathrooms (one en-suite)
- Open-plan kitchen, living-and dining room
- Braai-facilities
- Fireplace in living-room
- Fully equipped with linen, cutlery, crockery, etc.
*****Only self-catering accommodation available at present.*****
Camping facilities
No formal facilities for camping are currently available in Tankwa National Park. However, fully self-sufficient campers are allowed to camp at designated spots on an “only leave your footprints”-basis.
For further information, contact the Park Office on tel. 027 341 1927, fax 027 341 2814 or e-mail Tankwa National Park.
Gannaga Lodge
The Gannaga Lodge is situated on the striking Roggeveld Escarpment at the summit of the Gannaga Pass. This private property situated within the park, approximately 24km from the Park Offices at Roodewerf, features a conference venue, guesthouse, restaurant and licensed bar and is managed by the owners Johan and Norette Visagie.
Contact details:
For bookings and further enquiries please contact Johan or Norette Visagie at:
Tel: +27 (0)79 922 1688
E-mail: agterkop@hantam.co.za
Website: http://gannagalodge.blogspot.com/
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Vital Information
General Information
- Roodewerf Office GPS coordinates: S32°14’27.9” E20°05’44.5”
- Oudebaaskraal Airstrip GPS coordinates: S32°24.044 E19°50.576
- Last stops for fuel (measured from park offices) are Ceres (180km), Calvinia (110km), Sutherland (140km – closed from Saturdays 13:00 for weekend) and Middelpos (50km – only Lead Replacement and Diesel)
- Arrivals for accommodation from 14:00 only, departure at 10:00
- No shops, restaurants, public phones or ATMs in the park
- General Dealer and Bottle Store in Middelpos
- No cellphone reception within the park as well as main access roads
- No credit card or Wild Card facilities available at present
- Prosopis Wood for sale in park
- No pets allowed
- No fire-arms allowed
- Office Hours:
- Monday - Thursday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Friday: 08:00 - 21:00
- Saturday: 08:00 - 17:00
- Sunday: 10:00 - 16:00
- Please do:
- Ask for plant and animal species lists at Reception.
- Bring along insect repellent and sun-block.
- Bring along birding books and other plant and animal field guides as well as binoculars.
- Invite a friend to appreciate the beauty of day-break and the wonders of the Tankwa night sky.
- Remember to bring along lots of warm clothing in winter.
- Remember to bring along lots of cool goodies for summer!
- Please don't:
- Litter.
- Feed, disturb or injure any animal.
- Bring any pets into Tankwa National Park.
- Take any firearms into Tankwa National Park.
- Stay overnight at any other place than those designated as camping or overnight facilities.
- Damage, remove or destroy any natural item (seeds, plants, animals or rocks) or human artefacts.
- Light any fires at places not designated as camping or overnight facilities.
- Leave the road at any point.
Contact Information
For enquiries e-mail Tankwa Karoo National Park or phone us on the following numbers:
Tel: +27 (0)27 341 1927
+27 (0)27 341 2389
Fax: +27 (0)27 341 2814
Address:
Tankwa Karoo National Park, P.O. Box 299, Calvinia, 8190
Climate and Vegetation
The duration and temperature of the growing season clearly separates succulent Karoo from other biomes. The Tankwa Karoo (Region) is one of the most arid sections of the Karoo. Isohyets of mean annual rainfall (mm) for the Karoo indicate that the Tankwa Karoo National Park falls into the 0-100mm range (Venter et al. 1986), with 25% of the mean annual precipitation falling in summer. In contrast the higher lying regions, within the Roggeveld Escarpment, receive up to five times more rain annually.
The mean July minimum temperature is 5,7°C, and the mean January maximum temperature is 38.9°C. The highest average maximum temperatures occur from November to March with the hottest months being January and February. The highest wind speeds occur from October to March.
Planning Your Visit
Birding
Spring is best: birding it at its peak from August to October, when the region may also unpredictably burst into flower. However, the majority of the specials (with the possible exception of Black-headed Canary, Ludwig’s Bustard and Black-eared Finchlark) are accessible year-round with a little effort.
Roads
Please take care when driving in this region. The road gravel is sharp and often loose, and a great deal of caution needs to be taken with corners and sudden stops. Furthermore, please give some thought to your fuel and water requirements, bearing in mind that there are no proper towns in the Tankwa Karoo, and the closest refuelling points are Ceres, Sutherland, Middelpos and Calvinia. Those with thirsty engines may consider packing a (full) jerry-can to guard against potential concerns over birding detours.
Dirt Road Driving Tips:
- Slow down when you see approaching traffic.
- Do not allow wheels to lock when applying brakes.
- Never exceed 80km/h.
- Be aware of slippery conditions during wet weather.
- Be aware of flash floods crossing roads as well as road surface possibly washed away.
- If you need to overtake, avoid loose gravel at the side of the road.
- Take along enough drinking water, especially during hot conditions.
- Inform your host of your route and approximate arrival time.
- Check pressure of spare wheel and ensure tyres are at the correct pressure.
- Drastically reduce speed when transferring from tar to gravel and when approaching a motor grid.
- Drive in the existing tracks on the road.
- Keep to the left when approaching a blind hill.
- Put your lights on in the dust of passing traffic.
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Birding in Tanqua Karoo National Park and surrounds
This article on birding within and in the region of Tankwa-Karoo National Park has been reproduced with permission from the authors Callan Cohen and Claire Spottiswoode. It was published in Africa: Birds and Birding in the April/May 2002 edition, (volume 7, number 2). It may only be copied in portion or its entirety with the permission of either the authors or Africa: Birds and Birding.
Birding the Tanqua Karoo
Just two southern African regions have been bestowed the honour of designation as Biodiversity Hotspots by Conservation International. One is of course the Cape Floral Kingdom , and the other the Succulent Karoo. For those whose image of the southwestern Karoo is a shimmering wasteland to be endured as briefly as possible en route to Cape Town or Johannesburg , this may come as a surprise. Though - the remarkable endemism and diversity of the Succulent Karoo flora (at its most spectacular from August to October) is its most renowned aspect, the Karoo as a whole naturally has a great deal to offer the birder. With no less than 18 endemics almost wholly restricted to it, the Karoo is an essential destination for any birder visiting southern Africa, as well as a potential source of exciting new species for hardened locals.
Consequently, the accessible south-western corner of the Karoo – a low-lying, mountain-bound section of the Succulent Karoo biome known as the Tanqua Karoo, after the river that bisects it – has received a great deal of birding attention. Here, in sparsely populated semidesert just two and a half hours drive from Cape Town , the majority of the Karoo specials are easily accessible in a day’s outing from the city. The famous stretch of white, dusty R355 from Karoopoort through Eierkop to Skitterykloof (the latter popularly but erroneously known as “Katbakkies” – the true Katbakkies Pass lies 15km to the west) has been intensively birded as has already received detailed treatment in such accounts as The Birds of the South-Western Cape and Where to Watch Them (Cape Bird Club, 1995) and Essential Birding in Western South Africa: Key Routes from Cape Town to the Kalahari (Struik, 2000). For a detailed description of birding in these southerly reaches of the Tanqua, you may wish to visit the free, electronic version of the latter resource on the web at www.capebirdingroute.org.
Our purpose here, however, is to draw attention to some lesser-known areas north and west of the R355, which have proved to supply superb birding. Notably, a number of sought-after species, usually associated with the less accessible Bushmanland region to the north and difficult to find or absent at the traditional Tanqua Karoo sites, appear to reach the south-western limit of their regular range here. We also describe some highlights of the Tanqua Karoo National Park , a much overlooked yet fairly accessible and strikingly beautiful protected area north of the Tanqua River . Lastly, we suggest some practical itineraries for tackling a trip to the Tanqua and combining it with a more extensive tour of the arid west, and describe some of the excellent accommodation options now available in this region.
Larks, Eremomelas and the P2250
For those unfamiliar with the Tanqua Karoo, the stretch of R355 regional road linking Karoopoort, at the south-westernmost corner of the Tanqua Karoo, to Eierkop and Skitterykloof provides access to a good selection of Karoo endemics. Beyond the Skitterykloof turn-off, the R355 continues northwards to Calvinia through a lonely and very beautiful stretch of semidesert, bounded on the west by the dramatic skyline of the Cedarberg mountains. Conveniently, however, even day-trippers can add an attractive extra few Karoo specials and enjoy some great landscapes by continuing a more manageable distance north. Twenty-five kilometers north of the Skitterykloof turn-off, a minor road, the P2250 (1 on map), heads off northeastwards towards the distant towns of Middelpos and Sutherland. We consider this unassuming regional road to be perhaps one of the finest for birding of the southwestern Karoo , particularly in spring, when the scrub is alive with displaying, nest-building and chick-provisioning birds. The initial stretches are relatively heavily vegetated and resemble the familiar R355; however, before long the bushes grow further and further apart. Stretches of gleaming gravel appear, punctuated by the occasional clump of spiny Hoodia, a fly-pollinated succulent decorated in spring by droopy and foully malodorous pink flowers. Approaching the junction marked 2 on the map, two larger watercourses cross the road en route to the larger Tanqua River , not far to the north, and break the monotony with their dense Acacia karoo thickets.
Perhaps the most conspicuous species along these arid stretches is Tractrac Chat, a gravel-plains specialist with a short-tailed, dumpy jizz. The commonest bird of the adjacent scrub is usually Rufous-eared Warbler, a noisy, neurotic and beautifully marked endemic of southern Africa ’s arid west. Spike-heeled Larks are also particularly common here, as well as Thick-billed, Karoo and Red-capped Larks. Karoo Lark is particularly easy to find in spring, when its rattling call is heard everywhere. The commonest seedeater in the area is usually Yellow Canary; however, nomadic species like Black-headed Canary and Larklike Bunting periodically invade the area. The latter can be particularly abundant at times, and is generally present much more regularly than further south in the Tanqua Karoo. Coveys of Namaqua Sandgrouse, another erratic visitor further south, flush up at intervals from the roadside. Especially in winter and spring, Ludwig’s Bustard may be present in some numbers and are best spotted in flight, while Karoo Korhaans occur year-round. Pairs or small parties are occasionally seen within sight of the road, although their true density is only revealed at dawn, when their atmospheric frog-like duets drift across the scrub. Greater Kestrel, a scarce bird further south in the Tanqua, is fairly regularly seen along the P2250, as well as the commoner Pale Chanting Goshawk, Rock Kestrel and the occasional Black-chested (breasted) Snake Eagle and Martial Eagle.
Karoo Eremomela , a curiously localised and sometimes tricky Karoo endemic, is remarkably common along here. Look especially along the shallow drainage lines 4-7 km from the R355, always remaining alert for its two calls (a high-pitched, pulsating whine, somewhat like the tightening of a rusty bolt, and a Spike-heeled Lark-like krrr-krrr). Small groups of this social and cooperative-breeding species follow each other through the scrub, popping up at intervals to let forth a volley of whines.
The highly nomadic Black-eared Finchlark, usually considered a Bushmanland special, may well be a regular visitor to this region. In 1996, they bred in the Tanqua Karoo National Park (see Africa: Birds & Birding 2(1): 74), and in spring 2001 invaded the Tanqua Karoo once again. In this exceptional season, they occurred and probably bred right down to Eierkop at the Tanqua’s southern edge; however, they occurred at highest densities along the P2250, and patchily in the Tanqua Karoo National Park (see below). When breeding, aerially displaying males are easy to locate, looking more like giant, floppy black butterflies than birds. In flight, only their dangling white legs break the pure black of their underwings and bodies. Small groups tend to land frustratingly concealed in the scrub; the best technique is to walk slowly up to the spot, and wait quietly until a foraging bird potters into view in a gap between the bushes.
As the day heats up or once you have exhausted the possibilities of the gravel plains and scrub, you may wish to make a stop at the first or especially the second Acacia-lined watercourse, the latter crossing the P2250 27.6km from the R355. These supply all the expected Karoo thicket species, such as Pririt Batis, Cape Penduline Tit (also in the adjacent lower scrub), Rufous-ventedTitbabbler and White-backed Mousebird. Just beyond the second watercourse, a turn-off to the left, signposted ‘Tanqua’ and marked 2 on the map, takes one 12 km further to the Tanqua River and Tanqua Guest House (3 on map; see Box). The Tanqua Guest House (see Box) makes an excellent base for exploring this area and the adjacent National Park; however, the river does lie on private land, so if you wish to visit for the day please obtain prior permission from the landowners, Alewyn and Esther Burger (tel. 027 341 2366). Namaqua Warbler, which in the Tanqua Karoo occasionally also occurs into Acacia thickets far from water, is very common and fairly easily seen in the mixture of reeds and Acacia thicket densely lining the Tanqua River . This riparian strip is also one of the more reliable sites in the Tanqua Karoo to look for Dusky Sunbird, a highly nomadic desert sunbird that only occasionally ventures south to the Eierkop-Skitterykloof area. The Tanqua River is dammed just beyond the Guest House, rather startlingly creating a substantial waterbody which hosts varying numbers of waterfowl and waders, perhaps most characteristically South African Shelduck and Avocet.
The Tanqua Karoo National Park
The Tanqua Karoo National Park is designated as a Scientific National Park , and as such offers no visitor facilities. The park is not open to the public as a rule, but through direct contact with the park management, special entry permission can be requested. The Park protects one of the most starkly beautiful tracts of the Tanqua Karoo and is well worth visiting for several reasons, among them its koppie-studded, moon-like landscape, diversity of succulent plants, fine Karoo birding and, perhaps most notably for hardened birders, above-average chance of finding the enigmatic Burchell’s Courser. The park is criss-crossed by a number of vehicle tracks, most of which are easily negotiable by two-wheel-drive. The Park’s management currently welcomes visitors, on the understanding that no facilities are provided, and that prior permission is obtained from Park management at tel. 0273 412 352. However, please don’t let courser-ambition get the better of you, as should the presence of any birders result in any potentially negative impact on the park, such access may become restricted in the future.
Birders will probably want to concentrate their efforts along the track running parallel to the park’s southern boundary, and easily accessible from the Tanqua Guest House (see Box). Burchell’s Courser is seen fairly regularly on the patches of bare, burnished gravel along this road, and was even seen with chicks in spring 2001. Burchell’s Courser is a poorly known and notoriously tricky bird: it may be absent altogether in some years, and even when present requires considerable effort to spot. The best techniques are to drive along slowly, stopping now and then to scan promising-looking expanses of gravel, and to keep a very sharp eye out for odd-shaped birds flying over. Strangely, we have picked up most of the coursers we have seen in the park this way! Double-banded Courser also occurs here. A bird that appears to reach the southern limit of its regular range in the Tanqua Karoo here is Karoo Long-billed Lark , which becomes very much commoner as one enters Bushmanland to the north.
Ouberg Pass and on to Sutherland
Heading eastwards from the National Park, a potentially confusing network of roads (see map) works its way over the Roggeveld escarpment and on to the town of Sutherland, whose one-horse appearance belies its astronomical fame (as yet more literal than figurative, given that the new SALT, or Southern African Large Telescope is presently under construction here, and when complete will be the largest single telescope in the southern hemisphere). These are beautiful, remote roads, worth driving for their solitude and landscapes alone. However, if a birding objective is more acceptable, then Ouberg Pass (4 on map) does admirably. Ouberg is a truly spectacular pass, rising precipitously up through 600m of Roggeveld escarpment in a series of dramatic switchbacks which may not, perhaps, suit the particularly fainthearted. The rewards are superb views of the great, hazy basin of the Tanqua Karoo below, and excellent birding. Ouberg Pass is possibly the most reliable place within striking distance of Cape Town to see African Rock Pipit (knowledge of its call is essential), and is also a good site for other Karoo escarpment birds such as Sickle-winged Chat, Pale-winged Starling and, together with the plateau beyond, Cape Eagle Owl. The latter can be looked for any time from dusk onwards, simply by scanning the roadside telephone poles. Cape Eagle Owls can be unexpectedly common in many mountainous Karoo regions (see also Klein Cedarberg, boxed), though do beware of the occasional Spotted Eagle Owls venturing out of their favoured copses of exotic trees.
Planning Your Visit
When To Visit
Spring is best: birding it at its peak from August to October, when the region may also unpredictably burst into flower. However, the majority of the specials (with the possible exception of Black-headed Canary, Ludwig’s Bustard and Black-eared Finchlark) are accessible year-round with a little effort.
Itineraries & Approaches
Those approaching the Tanqua Karoo from Cape Town will find that although it is certainly possible to visit the areas described here in a (long) day trip from Cape Town , this really requires a desperately early start and making a weekend of it is far preferable. The R355/P2250 junction is 103 km from Ceres, and takes over three hours to reach from Cape Town . Coming from the east, an attractive option is work your way down into the Tanqua over Ouberg Pass , having first taken the tarred R354 from the N1 towards Sutherland. The Tanqua Karoo also makes an excellent start to a Bushmanland trip: the R355 can be followed north all the way to Calvinia. The road surface is generally excellent and the scenery superb, but please make sure that you’re adequately prepared for the lonely drive (see below).
Roads
Please take care when driving in this region. The road gravel is sharp and often loose, and a great deal of caution needs to be taken with corners and sudden stops. Furthermore, please give some thought to your fuel and water requirements, bearing in mind that there are no towns in the Tanqua Karoo proper, and the closest refuelling points are Ceres, Sutherland and Calvinia. Those with thirsty engines may consider packing a (full) jerry-can to guard against potential concerns over birding detours.
Where to Stay
Klein Cedarberg Private Nature Reserve
We can testify that a visit to Klein Cedarberg is an experience in itself, even aside from its beautiful location in the Koue Bokkeveld region, west of Skitterykloof and not far from the true Katbakkies Pass. Karoo cuisine, Cedarberg architecture and the hospitality of the Wullschleger family combine with nearby Bushman rock art, excellent potential for night drives (notably for Cape Eagle Owl, but don’t ignore Smith’s Red Rock Rabbit, Rhebok and perhaps some time a Leopard!) and ideal proximity to birding at Skitterykloof. See www.capebirdingroute.org for further details.
Tanqua Guest House
The Tanqua Guest House is very conveniently situated on the southern bank of the Tanqua Karoo, a stone’s throw from the National Park. Built somewhat like a desert fort and catering primarily to small-plane enthusiasts, the Tanqua Guest House is run by Esther and Alewyn Burger and offers a range of accommodation, from fully-catered to self-catering to a rustic ‘hunting lodge’. The Burgers are also able to arrange access to the National Park for their guests. See www.capebirdingroute.org for further details.
Claire Spottiswoode & Callan Cohen
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Mammals
| R = Rare |
| C = Common |
| W = Widespread |
| Specie Name | Common Name | Density |
|---|---|---|
| Antidorcas marsupialis | Springbok | R |
| Canis mesomelas | Black-backed jackal | W |
| Chrysochloris asiatica | Cape golden mole | C |
| Cynictis penicillata | Yellow mongoose | R |
| Felis lybica | African wildcat | W |
| Felix caracal | Caracal | W |
| Genetta genetta | Small-spotted genet | R |
| Hystrix africaeaustralis | Porcupine | C |
| Ictonyx striatus | Striped polecat | C |
| Lepus capensis | Cape hare | W |
| Lepus saxatilis | Scrub Hare | R |
| Malacothrix typica | Large-eared mouse | |
| Mellivora capensis | Ratel (Honey badger) | R |
| Mus domesticus | House mouse | C |
| Oreotragus oreotragus | Klipspringer | W |
| Orycteropus afer | Aardvark (Antbear) | C |
| Otocyon megalotis | Bat-eared fox | C |
| Otomys unisulcatis | Karoo bushrat | |
| Palea capreolus | Grey Rhebok | R |
| Panthera pardus | Leopard | R |
| Papio cynocephalus ursinus | Chacma baboon | C |
| Procavia capensis | Rock dassie | C |
| Proteles cristatus | Aardwolf | R |
| Raphicerus campestris | Steenbok | W |
| Rhabdomys pumilio | Striped mouse | W |
| Suricata suricatta |
Suricate | R |
| Sylvicapra grimmia | Grey duiker | R |
| Tragelaphus strepsiceros | Kudu | R |
| Vulpes chama | Cape fox | W |
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Vegetation
| Where to find | Density |
| P = Plains | R = Rare |
| FP = Flood Plains | C = Common |
| DVV = Doring Vygie Veld | W = Widespread |
| Specie Name | Common Name | Where to find | Density |
|---|---|---|---|
| Woody Plants | |||
| Aptosimum indivisum |
Karooviooltjie | FP | R |
| Asparagus multituberosum |
DVV | R | |
| Asparagus spp. |
DVV | C | |
| Berkheya fruticosa |
Vaaldissel | DVV | R |
| Berkheya spinosa |
Perdebos | DVV | R |
| Eberlanzia ferox |
Doringvygie | DVV | C |
| Eriocephalus capitellatus |
Kapokbos | FP | R |
| Eriocephalus spinescens |
Doringkapok | P | C |
| Eriocephalus spinosa | DVV | W | |
| Felicia lasiocarpa | DVV | W | |
| Forsskaolea candida | DVV | R | |
| Galenia Africana | Kraalbos | P | C |
| Galenia fruticosa | Vanwyksbos | FP | C |
| Galenia sp. DVV R |
DVV | R | |
| Hermannia cuneifolia |
Agt-dae-geneesbos | DVV | R |
| Hermannia spinosa |
Steekbossie | DVV | R |
| Hirpicium alienatum |
Kleihaarbossie | DVV | R |
| Lessertia pauciflora var. pauciflora |
Fyn-ertjie | FP | R |
| Limeum aethiopicum | Koggelmandervoetkaroo | DVV | R |
| Lycium bosciifolium |
DVV | R | |
| Lycium cinereum | Kriedoring | P | C |
| Lycium ferocissimum | Slangbessie | FP | C |
| Lycium horridum |
FP | C | |
| Lycium oxycarpum |
Wolwedoring | FP | C |
| Melolobium microphylum |
FP | C | |
| Microloma saggitatum | DVV | R | |
| Monechma spartioides | Sandsuikerbos | DVV | W |
| Osteospermum sinuatum | Geelbietou | DVV | C |
| Othonna arbuscula |
DVV | R | |
| Othonna multicaulis | DVV | R | |
| Othonna protecta |
DVV | R | |
| Othonna pteronioides |
FP | R | |
| Pelargonium magentium |
Persmalva | DVV | R |
| Pentzia incana |
Ankerkaroo | DVV | R |
| Pentzia spp. |
DVV | R | |
| Protasparagus capensis |
FP | W | |
| Pteronia glabrata |
DVV | C | |
| Pteronia intermedia |
FP | R | |
| Pteronia leucoclada |
DVV | W | |
| Pteronia mucronata |
Kersbossie | DVV | R |
| Pteronia pallens |
Scholtzbos | FP | W |
| Pteronia paniculata (cf.) |
Gombossie | DVV | R |
| Pteronia scariosa |
DVV | R | |
| Pteronia spp. |
P | R | |
| Pteronia villosa |
DVV | R | |
| Pteronia viscosa |
Gombos | DVV | R |
| Rosenia oppositifolia |
DVV | R | |
| Salsola aphylla |
Loog-asganna | FP | C |
| Salsola contrariifolia |
FP | C | |
| Salsola cryptoptera |
DVV | R | |
| Salsola dealata |
Ganna | FP | C |
| Salsola glabrescens |
Rivierganna | P | C |
| Salsola kali |
Rolbos | ||
| Salsola nigrescens |
P | R | |
| Salsola sp. | P | C | |
| Salsola tuberculata | Blomkoolganna | DVV | C |
| Salvia disermas |
Grootsalie | FP | R |
| Selago albida |
Berg-aar | DVV | R |
| Sericocoma avolans |
DVV | R | |
| Stachys aurea |
Geelteebossie | DVV | R |
| Stachys rugosa |
Kattekruie | DVV | C |
| Sutherlandia microphylla |
Kankerbos | FP | R |
| Tetragonia echinata |
DVV | W | |
| Tetragonia fruticosa |
Kleinsaadklappiesbrak | DVV | W |
| Thesium lineatum |
Witstorm | FP | C |
| Trichodesma africanum |
DVV | R | |
| Tripterus oppositifolia | Stinkskaapbos | FP | C |
| Tripteris sinuatum | P | C | |
| Zygophyllum lichtensteinianum | Skilpadbos | DVV | R |
| Zygophyllum meyeri |
Slymbos | DVV | R |
| Zygophyllum microcarpum | Ouooibos | P | C |
| Zygophyllum microphyllum P C |
P | C | |
| Zygophyllum morgsana |
DVV | R | |
| Zygophyllum retrofractum |
Hondepisbos | DVV | R |
| Zygophyllum sp. | DVV | F | |
| Succulents | |||
| Aridaria noctiflora |
Brakveldwitvygie | FP | C |
| Aridaria splendens |
Donkievy | DVV | R |
| Aridaria spp. | DVV | C | |
| Augea capensis | Kinderpiel | P | W |
| Brownanthus ciliatus |
Not listed | DVV | R |
| Cephalophyllum namaquanum | Namakwavygie | DVV | R |
| Cheiridopsis acuminata |
DVV | R | |
| Codon royenii |
DVV | R | |
| Crassula barbata subsp. Barbata | DVV | R | |
| Crassula deltoidea |
Kata-kisu | DVV | R |
| Crassula muscosa | Skoenveterbos | DVV | R |
| Crassula subaphylla |
Louhout | DVV | R |
| Crassula umbella |
DVV | R | |
| Cyrtanthus herrei | Vuurlelie | ||
| Drosanthemum archeri |
FP | R | |
| Drosanthemum eburneum |
FP | R | |
| Drosanthemum hispidum |
Bergvygie | FP | C |
| Drosanthemum liqui |
DVV | R | |
| Drosanthemum sp. |
P | R | |
| Drosanthemum spp. |
DVV | R | |
| Drosanthemum subcompressum | DVV | C | |
| Drosanthemum wittenbergense |
FP | C | |
| Drosanthemum wittenbergensis |
FP | R | |
| Euphorbia decussata |
DVV | W | |
| Euphorbia hamata |
Olifantsmelkbos | DVV | W |
| Euphorbia mauritanicum | Gifmelkbos | DVV | R |
| Euphorbia restituta |
DVV | R | |
| Haworthia arachnoidea |
Spinnekopbolletjie | DVV | R |
| Hereroa fimbriata |
DVV | R | |
| Hoodia bainii |
Bitterghaap | P | R |
| Lampranthus diffusus |
DVV | C | |
| Leipoldtia constricta |
DVV | R | |
| Leipoldtia schultzei | Kussingvygie | DVV | R |
| Leipoldtia spp. | DVV | R | |
| Malephora luteola |
FP | C | |
| Mesembryanthemum pachypus |
DVV | R | |
| Mesembryanthemum sp. |
FP | R | |
| Othonna arbuscula |
DVV | R | |
| Pelargonium crithmifolium |
Dikbasmalva | DVV | R |
| Phyllobolus spp. | FP | C | |
| Psilocaulon absimile |
Asbos | FP | C |
| Psilocaulon pageae |
FP | C | |
| Psilocaulon sp. | FP | R | |
| Psilocaulon spp. | FP | R | |
| Psilocaulon utile |
Loogbos | DVV | R |
| Ruschia cf. herrei |
DVV | R | |
| Ruschia cf. karooica |
DVV | R | |
| Ruschia robusta |
DVV | R | |
| Ruschia spinosa |
P | C | |
| Ruschia spp. |
P | C | |
| Ruschia wittenbergensis |
DVV | R | |
| Sarcocaulon crassicaule |
DVV | R | |
| Sarcocaulon salmoniflorum |
DVV | R | |
| Sceletium emarcidium | Kanna (Kougoed) | DVV | R |
| Stapelia spp. |
DVV | R | |
| Tylecodon reticularis |
DVV | R | |
| Tylecodon wallichii | Krimpsiektebos | DVV | R |
| Zygophyllum sp. | DVV | R | |
| Grass species | |||
| Bromus pectinatus | Japanese brome | DVV | R |
| Cenchrus cilliaris | Bloubuffelgras | DVV | R |
| Cladoraphis spinosa | Spiny lovegrass | FP | C |
| Enneapogon scaber | Rock nine-awned grass | FP | R |
| Enneapogon scabra | DVV | R | |
| Fingerhutia africana | Vingerhoedgras | DVV | R |
| Karoochloa purpurea | DVV | R | |
| Stipagrostis cilliata | Langbeenboesmangras | P | C |
| Stipagrostis namaquensis | Steekkweek | FP | C |
| Stipagrostis obtusa Fyntwa | Kortbeenboesmangras | P | C |
| Annuals in park | |||
| Amellus tridactylus |
FP | R | |
| Arctotis hirsuta |
FP | R | |
| Atriplex lindleyi ssp. inflata |
Blasiebrak | P | C |
| Euryops annuus | Wildeharpuisbos | P | W |
| Felicia lasiocarpa | DVV | R | |
| Galenia crystallina | DVV | W | |
| Galenia sarcophylla |
Vanwyksbrak | FP | R |
| Gazania crystallina |
DVV | R | |
| Gazania lichtensteinii | Botterblom | P | C |
| Hebenstretia parviflora | Skraalslakblom | DVV | |
| Heliophila deserticola | DVV | R | |
| Heliophila digitata | DVV | ||
| Heliophila herniarioides | DVV | R | |
| Lasiospermum brachyglossum |
DVV | R | |
| Lessertia annularis | FP | R | |
| Lotononis falcatus | DVV | R | |
| Lotonis pungens | FP | R | |
| Mesembryanthemum crystallinum | Brakvy | FP | R |
| Mesembryanthemum cf.stenandrum | FP | R | |
| Mesembryanthemum nodiflorum |
DVV | ||
| Nemesia karroensis | DVV | ||
| Nemesia ligula | DVV | ||
| Nemesia spp. | DVV | R | |
| Oncosiphon grandiflorum | FP | R | |
| Osteospermum pinnatum | Jakkalsbos | P | R |
| Oxalis namaquensis | DVV | C | |
| Oxalis pes-caprae |
Geelsuring | DVV | |
| Oxalis sp. |
DVV | ||
| Pentzia pilulifera |
DVV | R | |
| Senecio arenarius |
Hongerblom | DVV | R |
| Senecio ardaminifolius |
DVV | ||
| Sutera tristis |
DVV | ||
| Trichodesma africanum |
P | C | |
| Ursinia nana |
Kleinbergmagriet | DVV | |
| Zaluzianskya bella |
DVV | ||
| Zaluzianskya mirabilis | FP | R | |
| Zaluzianskya villosa | DVV | ||
| Zygophyllum retrofractum | Hondepisbos | DVV | R |
| Wahlenbergia arenaria | DVV | R | |
| Geophytes in park | |||
| Albuca cooperi |
Geldbeursie | DVV | W |
| Albuca sp. | DVV | R | |
| Androcymbium capense |
DVV | R | |
| Bulbine alooides |
Aalwynkopieva | DVV | W |
| Cyanella hyacinthoides | Blouraaptol | DVV | R |
| Dipcadi brevifolium | DVV | R | |
| Gethyllis cf.verticillata |
Fraaikukumakranka | DVV | W |
| Lachenalia mutabilis |
Bontviooltjie | DVV | R |
| Lachenalia anguinea |
DVV | R | |
| Lapeirousia arenicola |
DVV | W | |
| Lapeirousa pyramidalis |
DVV | W | |
| Moraea speciosa |
DVV | W | |
| Ornithogalum apertum |
DVV | W | |
| Ornithogalum xanthochlorum |
FP | R | |
| Herbs | |||
Berula erecta |
DVV | R | |
| Othonna amplexifolia |
DVV | R | |
| Othonna protecta | DVV | R |
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