Volume 19 by Cobus Steyl

Volume - 19

Mountains of gold

Targeting golden yellows in Lesotho

The joys of a great hunt What goes around, comes around

A magical white carpet ride Slipping and sliding to sipping warm Gl端hwein

HUNTING I FISHING I ADVENTURES I CONSERVATION I DESTINATIONS

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Black Rhino Dugong European Bee-Eater Christmas bells

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The joys of a great hunt Tips for improving your wingshooting

Rock & Surf reels - All the backing 22 youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need 30 Mountains of gold for the soul

Adventures

Top 5 - Adventure Activities in South Africa A magical white carpet ride

41 50

cONSERVATION

Caring for our Coastal Birds

Travel & Stay

Regulars

Editors Letter Events Recipe: Bacon and rosemary roast lamb

dESTINATIONS

Contents

FIshing

Hunting

Featured species

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Vol 19 2013

Editors Letter

It is hard to imagine that 2013 is drawing to a close. It was a wonderful year for the African Adventures team, a year in which we overcame a lot of challenges and steady progress was made to reach our ultimate goal. I would like to use this opportunity to thank my entire team for their commitment and hard work. Each and every one of you plays a vital role in the success of the publication and your efforts are much appreciated. With that said, it’s ultimately you the reader, and our loyal advertisers that makes this job worthwhile. Your loyalty and support is the corner stone on which we build our success, and I thank you therefore. I also wish to extend a word of gratitude to the numerous contributors, your knowledge and experiences converted in to words is the motivation and inspiration that feeds the passion we all have for nature. Merry Christmas and enjoy your well deserved holiday. “The cure for anything is salt water sweat, tears, or the sea.”

Johan Viljoen

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hunting hunting

The joys of a great hunt Fritz Rabie Freddy and Kelly Chesney arrived on the farm for their first African Safari from Palm Beach Florida. They were two of the friendliest, caring and enjoyable clients I ever had the privilege of guiding. The hunt did not start well as the airline lost their luggage and it got sent to another continent. This not only included their clothes and personal items, but also all their hunting gear. The airline promised to look into the matter. This is not good news on a ten day hunt. Every day is precious and expensive. I called Redge Grant from Archers Edge that night and explained the problem. Redge and his team moved mountains to get replacement archery equipment delivered at the farm within a day and a half. Luckily, both husband and wife used Bowtech so it was easier to supply them. Redge delivered the exact same setup that Freddy used but for Kelly he brought the new Heartbreaker bow set at 46lb in pink camo. All other equipment like arrows, broad heads, releases etc. were already tuned in and all we had to do was to finetune the sights. The hunt could finally start and it was decided that Kelly would join her husband in the blind as it would be her first hunt with a bow. They were not in the blind for more than one hour when a huge Kudu walked in. Kelly took one look and pushed her husband aside with a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dirty Harryâ&#x20AC;? look on her face. Freddy knew better than to argue with his wife. 8

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hunting Kelly drew the bow and settled into her anchor point and the 450gr CE arrow with a 100gr Slick Trick blew a hole through the Kudu’s lungs. As the bull ran off Kelly started shaking like a wet dog. Buck fever like that I have never witnessed before. The shot looked good and after waiting a while we followed the wide, clear blood trail. 60 yards further we came upon her monster Kudu. 54” for your first African animal, is not something that happens every day and after only one hour in the blind it is double happiness. After the customary photos and excitement the Kudu was dropped off at the skinning shed for a pedestal mount and the two of them went back to the same blind. A short while later a few Warthogs came in with a nice big boar leading the crowd. Freddy made a perfect double lung shot and the pig was in the salt. He said that the bow Redge lent him felt precisely like his and he never knew the difference.

Kelly with her magnificent 54” Kudu bull

That first day of hunting ended perfectly. The following day started off with Kelly placing a perfect arrow through both lungs of a magnificent Nyala bull. This lady was on the war path and her husband could not have been more proud. Just before lunch the bomb dropped. A big lone Sable bull slowly appeared and was loitering around the area. Kelly told her husband that he was not to move or to shoot at anything including the big Blue Wildebeest that was at the water. She wanted that Sable. We never came into camp for lunch. Kelly wanted the Sable and we waited a few hours for it to come closer and present a shot. Finally it happened and Kelly, after shaking the “buck fever” let lose an arrow that went straight through both lungs. The Sable did not make 50 yards before it expired. The tape measured out at 39,5” and that is big for any hunt. Kelly could not stop smiling and laughing that evening around the camp fire. She and her husband both were having a great time even though the trip started out with a lot of stress. Freddy wanted to catch up with Kelly and arrowed a great 51” Kudu bull and a 27” Nyala the next day while Kelly took the day off to go to town and get some new clothes etc. Freddy got busted twice by a herd of Buffalo as he was drawing to shoot a pig. The buffalo came right up to the shooting hole to have a look at what was going on. Every time I told

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hunting him to calm down and shoot the pig. He just looked at me with big eyes and said that he heard too many stories of Big, Bad, Buff and that he was not so keen on playing with them. The Buff finally left after turning the whole water hole into a mud puddle and we sighed with relief. In the wake of the Buff came a lone male Impala with too much horn on his head. He had a huge headache from carrying them everywhere and Freddy decided to put an end to his suffering with a great double lung shot at 19 yards. The Slick Trick really does work well as both entrance and exit holes are much bigger than the diameter of the broadhead. The next day I took them to the opposite side of the farm as they have not been to that side of the property yet. This proved to be a good thing as we were in the blind only 15minutes when a nice big Waterbuck bull walked in as if he owned the place. Kelly lifted her finger and both of us men knew to “SS” Sit and shut-up. Kelly let the bull drink and as he turned broad side she gave him a Slick Trick tight behind the shoulder. He dropped within sight of the blind and before he gave his last twitch, Kelly had another arrow nocked and was lining up on a Warthog that wanted to sneak in under the radar. The Warthog was tough as can be, but made it 150 yards when his steam also ran out. This lady was COOKING! Freddy asked me if we could go fishing as his wife was turning into the great animal slayer and all he could do was eat the scraps. The twinkle in his eye was proof that this man could not have asked for a better, better-half. As the days passed, the salt room filled up with all sorts of animals. Kudu, Sable, Impala, Waterbuck, Warthog, Red Hartebeest, Blue Wildebeest and Zebra all made the journey to the skinning shed. Freddy and Kelly were properly accustomed to the African hunting scene by now and we all were having a great time. Before long the safari came to an end and we were saying our good-byes. Freddy took me aside and booked the same slot for next year with the instructions that we have to find his wife a Leopard. As they walked off to the departure terminal, I was deep in thought making plans for next year because those two people deserve everything that is good. Just like the old saying: – What goes around, comes AA around. 10

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hunting

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Featured species

Black Rhino Diceros bicornis www.theanimalfiles.com The Black Rhinoceros is a large land living animal. They have a body length between 2.9 and 3.1 m, a tail length of 60 cms and they weigh between 0.9 and 1.3 tonnes. They have a large, solid body with a large head and short, stocky legs. Black Rhinos are coloured grey and they only have hair on their ear fringes and tail bristles. They have a distinctive pointed, prehensile upper lip that curls around vegetation and pulls it into their mouth. They have two large horns on their snout. They are made from keratin fibres, which is the same substance that hair is made from. The front (anterior) horn is larger and it measures between 50 and 130 cms. The rear (posterior) horn is smaller and can measure up to 55 cms. Black Rhinos have bad eyesight, good hearing, and a very good sense of smell. They are known to be very aggressive and will charge if they sense a threat. They enjoy mud baths and during times of peak heat they can be found wallowing in mud. The mud cools them down and also helps to get rid of parasites. Habitat The Black Rhinoceros is found on grasslands, and wooded savannahs of east and southern Africa. Black Rhinos tend to be solitary but they sometimes form loose groups and their home ranges often overlap with others. They mark their home range with dung and urine. The size of a home range will vary according to the season and the available resources but they can be between 2.6 and 130 kms.

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Featured Featuredspecies species Diet The Black Rhinoceros is a herbivore and they feed on leafy plants, shoots, leaves, twigs and fruit. They need to drink regularly but they can go for up to 5 days without water during a drought. Breeding After a gestation period of 15 - 16 months, the Black Rhinoceros will give birth to one calf. At birth the calf will weigh between 35 and 50 kgs and it is able to follow its mother around after a few days. The calf will start to eat solid food after a few weeks but it will not be weaned until it is 2 years old. The Black Rhinoceros has a birthing interval of 2 - 3 years and the mother will chase away the older calf before a new one is born. Females reach sexual maturity at 5 - 7 years of age and males at 7 - 10 years of age. Predators Humans are the only predators to the Black Rhinoceros.

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hunting

Tips for Improving Your Wingshooting

David Rearick

For most hunters, the summer months are left to catch up on items that were left unattended during hunting season, take a family vacation, and prepare for the next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grind. While cleaning equipment, re-building spreads, and fixing the boat are all things that are on top of the list; one forgotten piece of the puzzle is the lack of time with your favorite fowling piece. In this 2 part article we will give you pointers and tips on improving your success rate at hunting feathered fowl. We discuss training techniques to get you of the couch and start nailing those clays. Wing shooting well is one of the hardest feats many hunters have trouble overcoming. Lead, reaction time, and general form are all part of the game. An easy way to circumvent the first day frustration is to get out and practice not only shooting clays, but your form, gun mounting and even your thought process before the shot. While you may not have the desire to compete in competitions, the accomplished competition shooters below will give you some points and inside tips on how to improve your wing shooting on the course or in the field. The forearm grip using pointer finger Forearm Grip Without (Left) and With (Right) Pointer Finger

A technique that I have found to be very useful is the way that a shooter holds the forearm of the shotgun. With a standard grip, most shooters hold the forearm with their thumb on one side, while cradling the forearm of the gun in their palm and wrapping fingers around to the opposite side. Although this is a fairly standard way of holding the shotgun, I personally feel that an alternate grip gives a shooter an advantage. Since your forearm holding hand controls all gun movement, it only makes sense to use your pointer finger as a guide. A grip that utilizes an extended pointer finger to control the shotgun direction can be very beneficial. It is much easier to point at a target and use your finger to direct your shotgun versus the standard grip. Simply place your pointer finger in parallel alignment 16

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hunting with your barrel, while you hold the forearm. Each personâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hold will depend on comfort and functionality and may vary slightly. I personally place my extended pointer finger and align it to the top of the forearm parallel to the barrel. This method is also very user friendly in building hand-eye coordination. If you use your pointer finger as the director of your shotgun aim, while watching the target closely, your eye and pointer finger will likely work in unison. As a result, this method will increase hand-eye coordination and put your barrel in the exact location of the target. Correct Form When Shouldering Gun (Note Pointer Finger Placement on Forearm)

Keeping Your Head On The Stock â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Elevated Elbow One of the root causes of missing targets is due to the shooter lifting his or her head off of the stock. On targets that are flying straight away, angling, or dropping, it is often natural for a shooter to lift his or her head before pulling the trigger. As a result, the shooter will shoot just over the top of the target. To keep your head down on the stock and maintain a proper sight plane, I have found a method that is comfortable and has become a natural habit. When the gun is mounted, I tend to elevate my elbow of the arm that the gun is shouldered to. This will naturally pull your head closer to the stock and keep the gun tight to your cheek. The elevation of my elbow will sometimes vary depending on the way that the target is thrown. For targets that are rapidly descending, I will often raise my elbow slightly higher to keep my head down on the stock with the downward gun movement. For ascending targets, I will be less apt to raise my elbow as it is easier to keep the gun to the cheek with an upward swinging movement. Pay attention to your target and to your misses. Elbow height can be used as a variable to keep your head on the stock and can be easily adjusted for the target movement and for your comfort. Without Elevated Elbow - Incorrect

With Elevated Elbow - Correct

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hunting Stance Relative To Target Flight Path Aligning your stance relative to the target and shot location is very important to consistency and success. A shooter’s stance can often make gun movement much easier depending on how one positions him- or herself. It seems that the key is to position your stance and body where your gun movement is fluid and comfortable. To help decide on how to position yourself as well as your stance, watch the target and decide exactly where you want to break the bird. Since I am right handed, I position my left foot slightly ahead and in front of my right foot with a slight distance between my feet. I will often apply more of my body weight onto my left foot with a slight and comfortable forward lean. I actually use my left foot as a pointer to the exact flight path location of the target where I want to break the bird. Even if the bird is quartering, angling, or going straight away, I know that my body alignment and weight on my feet will keep my gun movement fluid and uniform. Aligning your stance to the location of where you want to break the target will allow a shooter to minimize body movement as well as maintain good form. Above: Proper Stance Before Bird is Released; Can Also Be Applied to Standing Hunting Position Shotgun Placement Before Mounting The Gun Sporting clays shooters often call for birds with a shotgun in the non-mounted position. When the gun is not mounted, a shooter should develop habits of mounting the gun fluidly and comfortably when the bird appears. It seems as though many shooters make mistakes of holding the shotgun too low or with the barrel pointing in an awkward direction relative to the target’s flight path. The key is to position the gun correctly before mounting it. Simply align your shotgun somewhere between the trap house and the point in which you want to break the target. Also, keep your gun aligned in the same direction as the target as well as aligned to the relative height of the target’s flight path. This will help minimize unneeded gun movement so your mount is fast, fluid, and on target. For example, if a shooter is shooting a low and fast left to right crossing target, it does not make sense to have your shotgun positioned with the barrel pointed straight up in the air and have yourself positioned directly towards the trap house. By making this mistake, a shooter not only has to bring the gun down to mount it, he also has to catch up to the bird since he has already positioned himself behind it. Improper gun placement will likely result in a miss, as well as, unnecessary gun movement. The proper way to break this target would be to keep your shotgun pointed and positioned along the same relative flight path of the target. Position your gun about half way between the trap and the point you want to break the bird. When the target comes out, you will easily be able to mount your gun, 18

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hunting follow through, and break the bird in a fluid motion at the desired breaking point. The proper gun placement will keep your gun movement at a minimum and it is likely that you will not have to play target catch up due to shotgun positioning. The sequence of pictures below show the entire gun mounting process from before bird is released until the trigger is pulled

Now that you realize the importance of your grip and stance it is important to practice these techniques in order to maintain your form throughout your setup. Join us next month as we continue to improve your wing shooting success with more insightful tips and guidelines.

hunting hunting

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fishing

Rock & Surf ReelsAll the backing you’ll need Clive Kinghorn Having spent a large amount of time discussing rock and surf rods, the next step to kitting yourself out for that trophy fish is of course the reel. Again, the principles of reel selection are exactly the same as rod selection. Don’t go out and buy the first thing someone sells you. Reels can be the difference between landing the 200kg fish and simply fighting it for hours and losing the struggle in the end. While a rod is ultimately responsible for pulling the fish, the reel is doing all of the work. Some of the important factors to look at when considering a reel include: Durability In South Africa, we enjoy a rather unique manner of fishing. There are few places in the world where multiplier reels are used to cast from the surf, slide out big baits etc. In most cases these reels are used to fish off boats with specialised rods that look like broomsticks. So the durability of a reel in South African terms is far more important than is advertised globally. Corrosion resistance is extremely important. No-one can protect their reels 100% from the scratches, chips and nicks experienced when fishing off rocks. Similarly, most anglers want to wade out when casting from the beach, leaving their reels to get totally submerged in salt water during the process. Ensure the reel is made from corrosion resistant materials and has durable parts that are not likely to break or fail under pressure, potentially ruining your trip. Drag The drag system allows line to be removed from the reel in a controlled manner. The idea is to set the drag so that the fish has to exert maximum energy to fight without breaking the line, thus tiring the fish and making it easier to land. Every reel has a different drag allowing different maximum pressure. The drag system is made up of several washers. In most cases these are a combination of fibre and metal washers. Depending on the reel, system design and materials used, you’ll have a drag pressure from 9kg to 20+kg’s. It is important to note that the drag must be as smooth as possible. If the drag jams during a fight, the tension in the line increases and the fish could break off. Even at maximum pressure, the drag should always allow a smooth and even release of line. Many anglers also upgrade the drag washers from the standard fibre to carbontex. 22

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fishing Carbontex washers are stronger and more durable adding a good percentage to the drag pressure. These washers are easy to obtain and do not cost a fortune. Always make sure you know what you are doing when installing them though. If you are unsure, take your reel to a pro to get it done properly. Incorrectly installed washers can play havoc with any reel. Gear ratio The gear ratio refers to the amount of times the spool revolves for every completed turn of the reel handle. On average, the top of the range reels have gear ratios from 4.9:1 up to 6.3:1 and in some of the newer reels today as much as 7.1:1. The ratio depends on the purpose of the reel. Some reels are specifically designed for use when targeting larger games fish and small and medium sharks and rays. In these cases the reels have higher ratios to bring in line as quickly as possible when the fish are swimming towards you. This prevents a slack in the line which could cause the fish to escape. In some reels designed to target huge sharks and rays, the gear ratio may be slower. This is because the reels are designed with very heavy drag systems and the likely hood of a 250kg ray screaming towards you is extremely low. The gear ratio, like your rod and reel, is dependant on the target species and conditions you will be fishing. Line capacity Like with rods, reels have to be bought, based on the fishing conditions and target species. A small reel in the 30 class is not exactly ideal for the enormous runs we get from several shark species, not to mention the game fish like Giant Kingfish. Thanks to technological breakthroughs in lines, both monofilament and braid, lines today are thinner and more abrasion resistant than ever. Take note of the line you’ll need to fish with and compare it to the reel’s capacity. You don’t want to go out with 200m of line when fishing for giants. Feedback Speak to other anglers and get their reactions about reels as well. Not everyone will agree, but you will soon realise that specific names keep popping up. This is because there are a few manufacturers who have developed reels to perfectly suite the SA style fishing. Once you have information you like, test; test; test. Like with rods, arrange a test day and get a feel for the different reels. Not all reels are the same and just because pro anglers are able to make them seem that way, as an amateur angler, you will soon find out it is not the case. To this day, I find casting the range of Daiwa Saltist and Saltiga reels far easier than the Shimano range of Toriums and Trinidads. It’s just a personal thing, but I own reels from both manufacturers because they each bring something to the table that is a must, depending on the conditions and target species. On the next page is a list of some of the reels most commonly used today:

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Daiwa Saltist: This range of reels is undoubtedly a favourite amongst many anglers. A fast gear ratio, aluminum frame, strong drag and great casting ability all make up this reel. The range comes in a 30, 40 and 50 class with the smaller reels being superb for anglers targeting edible species. The 50 is capable of landing monster fish, including three digit sharks and rays. The newer version of the original is the Saltist Black Gold. This reel has all the great specs of the original with a few added extras including higher corrosion resistance, carbon drag and a design that is very easy to strip and service. Saltiga: The big brother to the Saltist, the Saltiga offers a superb drag stronger than that of the original Saltist and is specifically aimed at big non edibles. The reel boasts an aircraft grade aluminum spool and 7 ball and roller bearings. It also has a massive hand fitting grip to ensure more comfort during a long fight. The extra strong spool is ideal for the pressure created by braid backing with monofilament top shot. Shimano Torium: These reels are made with one piece aluminum frames and have a special adjustable power handle with an ergonomic handle knob for maximum comfort. These reels use a Dartanium drag and have the power to tow massive fish. These are truly high speed power reels and come in several sizes to handle any fish under any conditions. Trinidad: One of the best reels ever made by Shimano, the Trinidad is compact, lightweight and incredibly powerful. The reel has 8 bearings, a super powerful drag and an extremely smooth spool rated for use with monofilament, braid and fluorocarbon line. It is highly corrosion resistant and also comes with an adjustable handle shank. This reel in combination with a powerful rod will ensure that very few fish, if any, are lost, no matter what the size. Fin-Nor The Fin-Nor range of reels are relatively new to South Africa in comparison to names like Daiwa and Shimano and so the reels have a lot to prove if they were to make it in a competitive market already heavily under the control of a select few. They have managed to do just that. Superior craftsmanship has ensured a corrosion resistant reel that can take a lot of punishment. By replacing the washers with carbontex washers, the drag will compete with any of the big names in the industry. In some cases here in South Africa the reel is sold with the drags already upgraded. The reel casts beautifully and is in the same class as both Daiwa and Shimano where that is concerned. The reel is light weight and can handle the harsh conditions in SA, including wading through water and fights with big sharks like Bronze Whalers. The reel also retails at a much cheaper price than most others in the same class and therefore makes for a super value for money item. To summarize: Just because there are so many reels in the same class, doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t mean that you will enjoy fishing all of them. As with 24

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fishing rod selection, the best thing you can do is go out and test a number of reels and get a feel for the one(s) that suits you best. I personally prefer casting the Daiwa reels but I love the added drag of some Shimanoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. This also brings me to the next point. Ensure you are fishing the right reel for the right conditions and target species. If you know there are big game fish around and plan to target them, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll want a reel with a higher gear ratio. Big rays and some of the shark species are easier on the more powerful reels with a reduced gear ratio and higher drag system. Smaller reels like the Saltist 30 are ideal for casting plugs if you are targeting species like Garrick. Reels can be very technical. Get to know the reel. Many tackle stores will help you service and maintain reels and several forums contain step by step guides with photos explaining the entire process. Make use of these platforms so that you can best care for each reel in your arsenal and ensure they last for years and years. It is also imperative that you rinse your reels after use to eliminate the salt and residue that is harmful to the inner working parts and corrodes these parts very quickly. Buy a reel bag or cover to prevent excess sand from entering the reel when walking on the beach. Take care of the reel and it will help you land the big fish. Tight Lines

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Featured species

Dugong Dugong dugon

www.theanimalfiles.com

Main Characteristics Dugongs are large marine mammals. They can grow up to 3 m in length and they weigh between 250 and 300 kgs. They have a large body with thick, smooth skin. They are cream coloured at birth but develop a brownish/grey or dark grey colour as they get older. Their underside is slightly paler and they have a sparse covering of hair over their body. They have paddle-like front flippers which measure between 35 and 45 cm in length and they have a â&#x20AC;&#x153;flukedâ&#x20AC;? tail which propels them through the water when they move it up and down. Their head is rounded with small eyes and they have a large snout. Their upper lip is well developed and it forms a U-shaped pad that has two ridges with large, stiff bristles. Dugongs, like other mammals, must surface to breath, as they cannot hold their breath for very long. Their nostrils are situated on the top of their snout and they are able to close them when they go underwater. Dugongs have excellent hearing but not very good eyesight and sometimes adult males and older females have small tusks. Habitat Dugongs are found on sea grass beds and in the shallow tropical waters of east Africa, west, south and south east Asia, Australia and the Pacific Islands. Areas around northern Australia are where most of the worlds population of Dugongs can be located.

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Featured species They are sometimes solitary but most form loose groups that average 10 - 20 individuals. During the winter months some Dugongs will migrate to warmer waters. Diet Dugongs mainly feed upon seagrass. They eat large amounts of seagrass and they leave a trail of bare sand and uprooted grass behind them. Breeding After a gestation period of 13 - 14 months, a single calf will be born in shallow water. At birth calves will be 100 - 120 cms in length and they will weigh 20 - 30 kgs. They stay with their mother until they are weaned at 18 - 24 months old. Dugongs reach their full adult size between 9 and 17 years of age. Dugongs can reach 17 years of age before they start to breed and when they do they will only reproduce every 3 - 7 years. Predators The main predators of Dugongs are sharks, killer whales and crocodiles. Subspecies Subspecies of Dugong include: Dugong dugon dugon, Dugong dugon hemprichii. Interesting Facts Dugongs are also known as: Sea Cow. The name Dugong originated from the Malay language â&#x20AC;&#x153;duyungâ&#x20AC;? meaning lady of the sea or mermaid.

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fishing

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fishing

Keith Clover

Lesotho and fly fishing are often mentioned in the same sentence, and rightly so, for these mountains have been providing superb fly fishing for adventurous anglers since the late nineteen hundreds when trout were first stocked in a few of the countries rivers. Having been left to their own device for well over a century, the fish have spread around the Senqu catchment, with almost all rivers in Lesotho containing wild populations of trout at some point along their length. The quality of the fishing ranging from mediocre to magnificent. The difference, often directly proportional to the effort needed to access the river. But what about the indigenous yellowfish (smallmouth) in Lesotho? South African fly fishermen have had a love affair with yellowfish since they became a popular fly rod target in the late 80’s. They are a “proudly South African” fly fishing species, and display all the traits one can hope for in a fly fishing quarry. Although they are most often taken on subsurface flies, in the right conditions they love a dry fly, they can be picky to the point of ridiculous (or occasionally super aggressive), they are skittish, streetwise, beautiful,

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fishing and pound for pound fight well above their weight class. The only potential downside to targeting yellowfish in South Africa is some of the waters in which they are found. Many rivers are dammed at numerous points along their length giving erratic flow rates; or pass through industrial, residential, and agricultural areas leading to rivers with poor water quality and hence a sub standard fishing experience. Places like Sterkfontein, that offer sight fishing to yellowfish in pristine natural environments, are justifiably popular. The Senqu River (or Orange River as it named when in flows through South Africa) has it source in the Lesotho Mountains so it surely goes without saying that Lesotho rivers should offer some great yellow fishing at the right time of year? However, exploring a country which is home to more water than you can possibly fish in a life time, for a fishery you are not sure even exists can prove difficult. Time thankfully was on our side when we began exploring the area for quality yellowfish waters in 2009. Three years later, casting large terrestrials at sighted yellowfish in gin clear rivers has finally signaled the end of this chapter and the realization of a dream. The very same rivers that have exposed millions of carats of Diamonds over the last century, have produced a gem of a different kind â&#x20AC;Ś.yellow fishing that I can confidently describe as some of the best stream fishing I have yet to experience! The Fishing: The key with any world class fishery is consistency and uniqueness. Targeting yellow fish in Lesotho offers both in bucket loads. South African fly fisherman who regularly target yellowfish in rivers such as the Vaal, Tugela, Orange, Duzi, uMnegni etc are plagued with the inconsistency of the fishing -this primarily, a factor of water levels. One weekend will find you fishing in perfect conditions with fish coming to the net freely, the very next you can possibly blank as the water levels change, water clarity degrades, or in worst cases, the river is affected by severe pollution or a fish kill. The fact that the majority of fly fishing for yellowfish coincides with hotter months and rain, means to a great extent, this is just nature doing her thing. However, far too often the inconsistency over a stretch of river can be blamed directly on human interference. Dam releasesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, over grazing, industrial development and intensive agriculture all results in

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fishing erosion and excess runoff and therefore high or dirty water. In addition, chemical spills, sewerage leakage, and illegal dumping are among a few other man made scenarios that play havoc when planning a fishing trip. The logical step to avoid these issues is to fish rivers in a state they are found naturally, where they are not affected by agriculture, industry, dams and human settlement. The high altitude streams of Lesotho are the perfect place. Rivers unaltered by the myriad issues facing our countries water ways due to mans careless ways. Here anglers have the chance to fish yellowfish in crystal waters, where fish seemingly float in a liquid state between the river bed rock and the blurred boundary between air and water. However, everything is not always rosy in paradise, and as with any high altitude stream, localized rains, although to a far less degree due to the pristine natural environment through which they flow, can and will, affect fishing conditions. Lesotho however once again offers those who have put in the hard yards a plan B, and escape route of sorts. And in this lies another key to consistency. With careful planning, the correct vehicle, and obtaining permission from landowners, it is not difficult to plan a fishing trip to Lesotho focusing on three or more rivers within a region, each with a different catchment, thus greatly increasing the odds of an uninterrupted fly fishing excursion. Rivers being dynamic and distinctive by nature also react to rains in different manners. So, with a quiver of rivers in ones proverbial fly fishing adventure arsenal, being washed off a river becomes a far less consequential occurrence. One does not need to take the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;sit-it-out, or pack-it-in-routeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, but can now be proactive when faced with imperfect water conditions. Hike up a valley to cleaner water, break camp and travel over a catchment to a different river or, as is often the case, make a cup of tea and tie fly and then get back to the fishing as these high altitude streams often clear up as quickly as they dirty. Sight fishing to any species of fish is the pinnacle of our sport. However apart from a select few spots in Southern Africa, this is the exception rather than the norm when it comes to yellow fishing.

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fishing

Similarly, conditions that allow fishing a dry fly to yellowfish in rivers, as opposed to weighted nymphs, are few and far between. In both of these aspects Lesotho offers fly fisherman what I rate as one of my ultimate river fishing experiences, and I mean this on an international front, not just in relation to our home waters. For me, and for most readers I am sure, the process of sighting, stalking, casting and catching a fish in river environment is the cream of the fly fishing crop. Now, call me nepotistic, but if I can do this on a ‘local fishery’ while targeting a proudly local species, it feels like I have just watched Joel Stransky kick the winning drop goal all over again. It fills me with pride to know that fisheries of such class exist on our door step. On the correct rivers, one can confidently fish large terrestrials all day to sighted fish. Indeed, on our most recent exploratory trip to the mountains I took out my Patagonia fly box and spent half the day seeing just how big and bright we could go. Some of the images in this article will give you an idea of what the fish would come up to! While on the subject of tackle, you will not need to break the bank or make any drastic changes to your current yellowfish set up when fishing Lesotho. A 9ft 5 weight rod with matching floating line will be more than adequate, although if you do have the option, a 4wht and 6wht are our preferred rods. We match these rods to the size of the rivers and flies we are fishing. 9 to 12ft tapered leaders (we prefer to fish homemade furled leaders – Ed, maybe you will consider doing a piece on furled leaders?) ending in 3X – 5X tippet will do fine leading up to the fly. We advocate a selection of hoppers, flying ants, and attractor dries such as stimulators, and DDD’s to compliment the terrestrials. Staying on the dry fly front, we will also always have a selection of Kilnkhammers, Adams, CDC caddis and RAB’s in our fly boxes for these streams. On the nymphing side, weighted GRHE, pheasant tail, and ZAK nymphs will be more than adequate as long as you have a good selection of sizes (#10 - #16) and weights (unweighted through to 2.5mm Tungsten beads).

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fishing As with any fly fishing destination, it is not all about, fish, rivers, tackle and tactics. The journey and life lessons one can acquire from a trip are what really set remarkable destinations apart from the pedestrian. Thus, fishing aside, what really caps Lesotho off as one of my favorite destinations is the idiosyncratic mountain experience only fly fishing her remote rivers can provide. It truly is a life shifting experience walking up a pristine mountain stream with only the odd herd boy and ringing sheep bell keeping you company. The drastic views and harsh mountain environment are in stark contrast to the broad smiles and welcoming arms of the local people who live in these mountains. It is the combination of all of one’s senses, emotions and the exceptional experiences, that only those who venture deep into the Lesotho mountains will understand, that fashion a fly fishing experience like no other. At the risk of sounding like I have been indulging in Lesotho’s ‘other’ cash crop, one leaves Lesotho a better person, the mountains do this to people. Perspectives are altered. It is on introspection that these life experiences cause a good fly fishing trip to metamorphose into a sublime trip, and in this lies the beauty of fly fishing in Lesotho. Should any readers like more info on fishing in Lesotho, please feel free to contact the author on 084 622 2272 or email keith@tourettefishing.com

All pictures supplied by Keith Clover

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Vol 19 2013

events

Not to be missed KwaZulu-Natal

GAUTENG Classic Car Show 1 December Johannesburg 011 432 0463

Umhlanga Summer Carnival 7 - 21 December Umhlanga 031 312 1281

My Petâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Out Event 1 December Johannesburg hallo@phatic.co.za

Around the World in the Berg Charity Golf Day 13 - 16 December Underberg 083 642 5223

NORTH WEST Nedbank Golf Challenge 5 December Sun City www.nedbankgolfchallenge.com

Xmas Gift Expo Ballito 13 -23 December Ballito 032 946 1531

Rainhill Farm Christmas Market 7 -21 December Rustenburg 082 357 5882

KwaZulu Weavers Summer Holiday 23km Run and Walk 15 December Bergville Jenny Taylor: 036 352 2985

Limpopo Mapungubwe Arts and Cultural Festival 16 - 19 December Polokwane 015 290 2111

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Shongweni Farmers Christmas Market 16 December Gillitts 031 304 4934

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events WESTERN CAPE Wavescape Surf Film Festival in Cape Town 17 November - 16 December Clifton | Labia Theatre 083 509 5106

Dazzling New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve at the V&A Waterfront 31 December - 1 January V&A Waterfront 021 408 7600

Eastern Cape SA Schools Boat Race 5 - 7 December Port Alfred Sherwin Johnson on - 021 504 7111

Bare to Care 7 December Campsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; bay Brent - 082 806 3928 Wings and Wheels Festival 7 - 8 December Blaauwberg Johnny Malherbe - 021 685 0848

Friends of St Francis Nature Areas 10km 28 December Cape St Francis Joan Brady - 083 398 3948

Durbanville Beer Fest 14 - 15 December Durbanville 021 976 4959

New Years Festival of Lights 31 December Nieu-Bethesda 049 841 1731

Cape Bonsai Kai Show at Kirstenbosch 14 - 16 December Newlands Dorothy Franz on - 021 797 8972 Mountain biking straight into 2014 30 December Great Brak River Interface by goji: Mimi Finestone 084 583 3144

Northern Cape Richtersveld Liggie Fees 13 -16 December Port Nolloth www.experiencenortherncape.com If you would like to publish your event here, please send details of event to: info@africanadventures.co.za

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Braaimate - mushroom braaipan R380 plus R60 posgeld 072 998 6969 / 016 973 2967 www.braaimate.co.za

Quality Genuine Leather and Canvass travel bags. From R350 to R4000. KDK Leatherworks. Quality repair and retail of quality leather. www.kdkleatherworks.co.za

UNDER the Stock up on great Christmas gift ideas for the adventurer

Sniper 700 Lumen. 10W rechargeable torch. Retail R1199 www.adventuretech.co.za

TREE

Evakool Icekool 60L Cooler Box, with thick Wall. Keeps ice up to 10 dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s! Five year warranty! info@evacool.co.za Contact us for your nearest stockists

Buck vantage avid pocket knife - R 720 Shop Online for more knives including hunting, tactical, skinning, chef and pocket knives and sharpeners. 012 661 6600 | www.outdoorstuff.co.za Gift Cards Available 38 Vol 19 2013 www.africanadventures.co.za

Vortex DiamondBack: 8x42 and 10x42 Full size Roof Prism Binocular. Waterproof and Argon gas filled to prevent fogging. SRP - R 3450 and R 3599

Going over seas? A wide range of First Accent and Cape Storm apparel available at Hikers Paradise 012 663 7647 South Street , Centurion

A MUST FOR EVERY OUTDOOR LOVER !! Scrubba washbag Wash clothes faster, cleaner, use less water and super lightweight available at Hikers Paradise Centurion 012 663 7647 South Street , Centurion

Want to travel easy and convenient ? Karrimor Global 70 90 travel bag available at Hikers Paradise 012 663 7647 South Street , Centurion Camouflage clothing from kiddies to adults, from fashion to the Bush. Available from Hunting & Tactical Supplies. Tel: 011 025 9949 www.hntsupplies.co.za Official Stock of Sniper Africa

Large range of hand reared baby parrots, and exotic birds available. Cages and accessories also available - Wonderboom VoĂŤlpark - 012 567 1921

BSA METEOR MK7 AIR RIFLE R 2400 Shop Online for more air guns and accessories like pellets, targets, scopes and many more. 012 661 6600 | www.outdoorstuff.co.za Gift Cards Available

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GAME CAMERA Stealth security monitoring Sends photos by email & MMS Invisible infra-red Up to 32GB memory Video function 2” TFT screen built-in Retail Price R4399 Adventure tech 011 021 3869

UNDER

Home Biltong Making since 1995 Was R 1295 and NOW only R 1095 Order via our online shop at www.biltongmakers.com

“The best braai tools for the greatest braaing nation” Proudly made in Mzanzi 011 452 7313 www.madmonkeyoutdoors.co.za 40

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Minelab detectors available from R 5499 visit www.minelab.co.za

the

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AQUA EYE UNDERWATER MONITORING DEVICES Available at leading tackle, outdoor and photographic stores or call 082 856 8659 To view some amazing footage please visit www.zapmarketing.net/aquaeye RSP from R2900

Hornady progressive reloading press R 8500 Shop Online for more reloading gear such as dies, brass, bullets and more. 012 661 6600 www.outdoorstuff.co.za Gift Cards Available

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adventures

Top 5

Adventure Activities in South Africa www.destinology.com

Hike Table Mountain Table Mountain is simply breath-taking. The world famous landmark boasts an impressive 3km flat top that offers undeniably spectacular panoramic views of Cape Town, the Cape Peninsula, and surrounding areas, not to mention the views of the mountain itself, its dramatic cliffs, ravines and unique rock-formations. If you are looking to excite your sense of adventure then embarking on an exhilarating hike to Table Mountain’s summit is the activity for you.

On any average day you will hear a multitude of different languages spoken by a diverse mix of individuals, looking to immerse themselves in nature and discover what the mountain has to offer. With an estimated 25 different paths to follow, Table Mountain caters for beginners and expert hikers alike. Riaan from Hike Table Mountain tells us that it does not matter if you are inexperienced as there are “routes for all levels of fitness, experience, challenge and adventure.” The mountain can be a somewhat daunting prospective for any first timer. With steep inclines, unstable surfaces, unpredictable wildlife, and ever-changing weather patterns, hiking Table Mountain is not for the faint hearted. Riaan informs us that, “Table Mountain is not to be trifled with. Making use of a mountain guide takes the worry and risk out of the experience. It also allows climbers to maximize their experience of Table Mountain through hiking up a route that suits their needs and preferences; and through learning about the mountain's fauna, flora, history and geology.” For those with an inquisitive mind there is a multitude of different animal and plant species that inhabit the mountain. “There is not much in the way of big game, only smaller animals like lizards, birds and rock hyraxes (a beaver-like mammal). However, what the mountain lacks in fauna, it makes up in flora: the floral diversity is unmatched anywhere in

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adventures the world with 3 times more plant species per square mile on Table Mountain than in the Amazon rainforest, many of them endemic to the mountain.” To ensure the most enjoyable experience make sure that you visit Table Mountain in February, March, April, and September as these months provide the best hiking conditions. The Bloukrans Bridge Bungy Jump Located on the world's highest single span arch bridge, measuring a whopping 708 feet (216 m) above the river of the same name, The Bloukrans Bridge Bungy Jump is “the highest bungy from a bridge, and cheapest per metre jump in the world”. Braden Tuohey, Face Adrenalin’s General Manager, states that the jump makes you feel, “ecstatic, bullet proof and on top of the world”. The aptly named Face Adrenalin provides an electrifying, adrenalin pumping atmosphere for all prospective jumpers. Their expert staff have thousands of hours of safety training between them and, with no accidents ever recorded, it is safe to say they know what they are doing. Braden explains that, “The Bloukrans Bungy jump appeals to anyone with a sense of adventure. Our minimum age requirement is 14; the oldest to jump from Bloukrans was 96.” Those who have performed the jump argue about the scariest part. “Some would say the scariest part is walking along the steel mesh walkway before the jump. As you see the earth drop away we say “If you’re not scared, we are!” The tension and the excitement is building…” Although you probably won’t be paying much attention to the scenery as you walk towards the jumping platform, you will be surrounded by the majesty of South Africa’s landscape. There are beautiful views of the Indian Ocean, Tsitsikamma National Park and mountain range to behold after, or if you can manage to keep your eyes open, during your jump. Zip Slide 2000 Zip Slide 2000 has been described as “…a flying feeling, not a falling feeling”. The Zip Slide 42

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adventures 2000, located at South Africa’s Sun City resort, is one of world’s longest, highest and fastest zip slides. Its tarts at the top of a 280m high koppie, stretches over an incredible 2kms and reaches electrifying speeds of up to 160km/h. The zip slide is extremely safe. ‘Flyers’, as they are affectionately known, are secured by two separate harnesses and suspended below a free running trolley attached to a steel cable. With a minimum age requirement of 12 years, this attraction prides itself on being accessible to everyone, especially families. Offering a truly unique experience, you can choose to slide either solo or in tandem, sharing your experience with a partner. If bungy jumping is not your thing, this is the perfect alternative. Marine Dynamic Shark Tours The Great White Shark is without a doubt one of the world’s most legendary apex predators. To visit South Africa, see, and swim with one of these animals features highly on many people’s bucket lists. Delving deep into shark invested waters is a life changing experience and a must for any adrenaline junkie. “Gansbaai, South Africa, is a natural hotspot for the Great White Shark having the highest aggregation of sharks in the world and the perfect place to see them, as the viewing area is only twenty minutes from the harbour.” “Some people arrive in tears that their dream is finally coming true. Those that feel fearful are changed once they have seen the Great White in its natural environment. These predators are sleek and graceful in the water and seeing one eye to eye is very special. ”Brenda from Marine Dynamic Shark Tours, one of South Africa’s top shark tour operators, tells us. Shark diving isn’t just for those who are seeking the thrill of a lifetime but also offers an incredible opportunity to those with an appreciation for wildlife. “The incredible ecosystem of Dyer Island and Geyser Rock is an attraction all on its own. Geyser rock is home to a colony of nearly 60,000 Cape Fur seals, a favourite meal for the Great White Shark and the main reason they are here. The seals pup in November and it is around April that the sharks actively start hunting the pups. During the summer months the sharks are more in the shallows than around the Island, when they feed on fish and smaller shark species.”

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adventures The shark diving industry fulfills people’s dreams, teaches them about these iconic animals and tirelessly works towards the conservation of this endangered species. Brenda tells us, “Studies have helped in the understanding of population dynamics, predatory interactions and new insights into their life history. The population study combined with this knowledge can help drive conservation decisions with regards to this species.” Abseiling down Table Mountain Ever wondered how it feels to abseil down the face of a mountain? When visiting South Africa your dream can be turned into reality. Abseiling 112m off the side of Table Mountain is exhilarating to say the least. You are always in safe hands and the best thing about this activity is that it is available to any and all thrill seekers. Matthew from Abseil Table Mountain states that: “You do not need any experience to Abseil off Table Mountain. Our guides will teach you everything you need to know when you are on top with them.” “The experience of hanging on a rope 1000m above sea level with Camps Bay beneath you, Lions head to one side and the twelve apostles to the other is something you will never get anywhere else. It really is something to tick off your bucket list.” Abseiling down Table Mountain is the best way to understand its true grandeur and those intangible qualities that have deemed it to be one of the New 7 Wonders of the world.

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Conservation

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COMPACT BINOCULARS, IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE

Conservation

THE NEW CL COMPANION 30. CLOSE AT HAND

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To ďŹ nd your closest Stockist, Vol 19 2013 please 46 call Brad on 031-5848088

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Featured species

European Bee-Eater

Merops apiaster

www.theanimalfiles.co.za

Main Characteristics European Bee-Eaters are one of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most colourful birds and they are one of the most aerial of all Bee-Eater species. They have a body length of around 30 cms, a wingspan of 46 cms and they weigh approximately 70g. They are a slender bird with yellow and brown upper parts, blueish-green underparts and a black, sharply pointed beak. They have two elongated central tail feathers and both sexes are alike. They are a gregarious species and they feed and roost communally. They also have a very distinctive call, it is a pleasant trill. Habitat European Bee-Eaters are found in open country, woodland and farmland in Europe, Africa and Asia. During the day they can often be seen perched on telegraph wire, fences or branches. They are a migratory species and they spend the winter months in sub-Saharan African and western India. During the spring they move to north Africa, Europe and Asia to breed. Diet European Bee-Eaters mainly feed on stinging insects like bees and wasps. They capture them in flight then remove their sting by rapidly rubbing them on their perch. They eat around 250 insects each day.

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Featured species Breeding European Bee-Eaters breed in colonies and they make their nests in sandy banks, usually near a river. Their nest is a relatively long tunnel and they lay 5 8 white, spherical eggs. Both the male and female incubate the eggs and after about 20 days they hatch. Predators Predators of European Bee-Eaters include snakes and larger birds. Subspecies There are no subspecies of the European Bee-Eater Interesting Facts European Bee-Eaters are also known as: Bee-Eater. Egg size: 2.6 x 2.2 cms, Egg Weight: 6.5g - of which 6% is shell.

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adventures

A magical white carpet ride

Gerald O’Brien

I had a very interesting and challenging trip up in Lesotho a few months ago. Why some people always request a winter trip is beyond me, but if that’s what they want, that’s what they get. We left Fouriesburg on the Friday morning and hoping to get to Litseng mine and then down into the Khubelu valley on the eastern side of the road. Once around halfway up Moteng pass and at an altitude of around 1500 meters the seriously bad weather started, before the summit at around 2400 meters we all had to squeeze past a grader scraping the snow away from the road. At this stage I was in low range with the rear diff lock on. This was on the tar road too. We always say never use centre diff lock, drive in 4x4 mode and certainly never a rear diff lock on the tar, but when it comes to survival, I guess that anything goes. Once passed Moteng and on the way to Afri-Ski, the conditions deteriorated to such an extent, that on a few occasions I had to stop as visibility was not much further that my bull bar and to go off the road in those conditions would really be looking for trouble. Once at Afri-Ski, a decision was made that we go back to Fouriesburg and try again the next day. Afri-skis was fully booked, cars were lying stranded all over and the snow was really coming down heavily. The decent back down Moteng pass had me worried as icy conditions, tar roads and BFG Mud terrain tyres do not mix at all well. Needless to say I now used front and rear diff locks on the tar.

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The following day was not much better but we got all the way to the lodge on the banks of the Khubelu River, it did entail a lot of path finding in the snow and slipping and sliding on the way down into the valley. The next day would be fun getting back up the mountain on the way back, and fun it was indeed. We woke on the Sunday morning to fresh snow, and this time a lot lower down into the valley. This told me that it would be a lot deeper on the high ground. After rushing at the climbs with as much momentum as possible we were able to get within a few hundred meters or so when I simply could go no further, the snow was too deep. After numerous run ups in 2nd low with front and rear diff locks on I was eventually able to get onto the main road, somewhere under all the snow. The convoy of 5 vehicles was now on its way to the Sani top for lots of Glühwein. Black mountain was quite a site, snow as far as the eye could see in all directions, a thick white carpet in all directions. The mulled wine (Glühwein), was excellent on those cold conditions, I think it also prepared us for what was to come. When one hits ice on a fairly steep and rugged decent it comes as quite a surprise and does not leave much time for discussion on how best to overcome the immediate situation that you have driven yourself into. No matter how well trained we are, when that 4x4 suddenly starts sliding with big drop offs all round, that brake pedal get pressed hard, very hard. Fortunately, after what felt like a long way, my vehicle came to a standstill, why I’m not sure, but grateful

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adventures I was. When I alighted from the vehicle for a better look at the road surface, I nearly saw my *** as the ice was so slippery, even trying to walk on it was near impossible. The only nonice areas was where previous 4x4 tyres had not been and this was on the loose rocks very close to the edge with the left hand wheels in the middle. Even getting there was a mission as the wheels only wanted to go straight down and not to the side, lots of tense moments to follow, this is why the wine stuff that they sell at the top is good. It slows the heart beat down considerably which has a direct impact on the nervous scale. Eventually the 5 of us all made it down to the SA border post, all very relieved and pleased that it was a drive now in the memory bank. One driver did comment that there was not enough POO in his body to do that trip twice. AA

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Product Review

PGO BugRacer 600i The buggy is a fun and easy approach to any terrain and challenge. Quads require some handling qualities and learning, but as you move into the buggy tub sensation you are instantly in the pilot seat! You need a sturdy and well-designed machine to surpass the golf game feel and PGO, leader in the field for a decade, has proven itself world class once again. It has been a long time since we tried a buggy. While the market is not what it was due to many poor quality Chinese products that has diverted customers phenomenon with the buggy, PGO the pioneer in the industry has not given up. After the success of the BugRacer 500, the Taiwanese brand was passed to the next level with the Bug Racer 600i, high end, while remaining below R120 000. At 3 meters long and 1,6 meter wide, the BR 600i is a buggy which imposes. The Bug Racer is a very successful combination between an insect and a lunar rover. Supporting lines that is fine and elegant with its beautiful grill and four headlights. Designed by the French engineer Xavier de la Chappelle, the buggy is built around a strong tubular frame with a large section of steel that is aircraft quality. The Bug Racer is tough without compromise and has no â&#x20AC;&#x153;frailâ&#x20AC;? other side. The body has been kept minimalistic and has quality plastic and paint to add good looks and style. The resin roof gives it a cozy feel and a long side fender will be appreciated on the road... 54

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Product Review The BR 600i comes with 14-inch rims and road tires, but do not despair this poses no disabilities. The fuel tank has been increased to 30 liters for a 300-500 km range. It takes the space behind the seats up on the rear rack with a more convenient filling from above and not on the side of the buggy. Metal plates now separate the cockpit from the engine to reduce noise. Settling on board lets us appreciate this natural bornkiller from inside. The bucket seats are welcoming, comfortable and you do not feel cramped. You simply take the hit to the driver’s seat. The seats are adjustable on sliding rails and allow children and adults to adjust their positions correctly. The pace at which the Bug Racer accelerates is exhilarating and provides an unmatched feeling with directional stability at the 120 km/h maximum speed. Most importantly, the engine is quiet and has even more all-terrain capability. The first kilometers in all things on earth are on the fast track and the Bug Racer is an immediate pleasure. The buggy accelerates masterfully and drifts on the earths curves effortlessly. The high level of comfort evens out and devours even the toughest track. The dampers are not gas, but still provides quality. It is homogeneous, well balanced both in acceleration and the braking phase. With one finger, the Bug Racer avoids a stone and the anticipation is growing. Sitting close to the ground the feeling of power passes right through you, and then we come down a large rise and scree that I realize it is only a two-wheel drive... My guide, the friendly dealer Arthur Sumares just told me: “It is worth it, just lock the differential lock”. Well, I went ahead anyway, even though I was still left with slight doubt. Nothing could pass the hardness of this command and I would’ve preferred an electric drive. None the less I attacked the nearly impossible climb, hoping that the buggy would stay planted and I wouldn’t be left behind. At the first big stones, it goes fingers in the nose. I guide the buggy in the direction the stones are lying, to avoid abrupt returns to the wheels. The engine breathes slowly and sustains low revolutions, managing the automatic clutch perfectly. To my amazement, the Bug Racer 600i GOES EVERYWHERE! Finally the 2- wheel drive is surprisingly impressive despite it’s 500 kg nett weight. With a little practice you can do without the differential lock in most of the crossings. The “ Sportsride “ carry a full spares range for their products guaranteeing a 24 hour turnaround time on servicing and repairs. For more details contact them at 012 347 7562 or browse their website. BugRacer can be financed and insured. Price: R 119,000.00. www.sportsride.co.za

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Recipe

Bacon and rosemary roast lamb

Louise van der Walt

What you need 2 tablespoons chopped rosemary leaves 2 cloves garlic, crushed 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 x 1.3kg easy-carve lamb leg 1 teaspoon sea salt flakes 2 tablespoons olive oil

12 slices streaky bacon 1.25 litres chicken stock 1 cup instant polenta ¼ cup single (pouring) cream 50g butter

The Process Preheat oven to 200°C. Place the rosemary, garlic, salt and oil in a bowl and stir to combine. Place 1 tablespoon of the rosemary mixture in the center of the lamb leg. With a small, sharp knife make shallow slits in the lamb leg and spread the remaining rosemary mixture over, pressing it into the slits. Wrap the bacon around the lamb and secure with kitchen string. Place the lamb on a wire rack in a baking dish. Add 500ml of stock to the baking dish and roast for 1–1¼ hours for medium or until cooked to your liking. Place remaining stock in a saucepan over high heat and bring to the boil. Gradually add the polenta, whisking continuously. Cook for 2–5 minutes or until thickened. Stir through the cream and butter. Slice the lamb and serve with the polenta. Enough for 4 people.

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Francois Louw

Caring for our Coastal Birds

Conservation

The Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds (SANCCOB)is a leading marine-orientated non-profit organization which has treated more than 95 000 oiled, ill, injured or abandoned African penguins and other threatened seabirds since being established in 1968. Independent research confirms that the wild African population is 19% higher directly due to SANCCOBâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts. SANCCOB works with numerous conservation-minded local and international partners and promotes projects which contribute toward the conservation and protection of Southern AfricaÂ´s seabirds, especially threatened species such as the African penguin. As project administrators we facilitate the funding of projects which are in line with the (draft) Biodiversity Management Plan for the African penguin, and which carry the approval of the South African government and mandated authorities. SANCCOB is an internationally recognized leader in oiled wildlife response, rehabilitation and chick-rearing. We contribute to research which benefits seabirds, train people to care for the birds and educates the public to appreciate this unique heritage. SANCCOB and partner projects SANCCOB is involved in numerous marine conservation projects, many of them in

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Conservation collaboration with our partners in conservation, locally and internationally. All SANCCOB projects strive to contribute towards healthy, wild seabird populations through rehabilitation and research; raising awareness to encourage people to develop behavior patterns which benefit marine life and the environment it depends on; and through our readiness to respond to oil spills in our region. All of SANCCOB’s African penguin projects are orientated towards arresting and reversing the decline of wild populations of African penguins and are aligned to the (draft) Biodiversity Management Plan for the African penguin. Rehabilitation and chick-rearing. SANCCOB’s primary objective is to reverse the decline of seabird populations through the rescue, rehabilitation and release of ill, injured, abandoned chicks and oiled African penguins and other vulnerable seabirds through artificial hand-rearing of orphaned seabirds, such as the African penguin and the Bank Cormorant. SANCCOB works closely with colony managers to identify birds in need of our care in the wild and bring them to our centre in Cape Town for rehabilitation and hand-rearing. In a non-spill year we typically treat about 1 500 African penguins and 1 000 other seabirds. SANCCOB has two facilities – Cape Town and St. Francis Bay in the Eastern Cape. Chick Bolstering Each year hundreds of African penguin chicks abandoned by their moulting parents are hand-reared at SANCCOB. SANCCOB is the administrator and a founder member of the Chick Bolstering Project, which aims to increase the number of African penguins in the wild through bolstering chicks and through understanding the foraging behavior of juvenile penguins. A long term aim of the project is to establish the viability of an artificial colony for African penguins along the South African coast line. Project partners include SANCCOB, Bristol Conservation and Science Foundation, Animal Demography Unit (University of Cape Town,) the South African government - Department of Environmental Affairs (Oceans a n d Coasts), Cape Nature, Robben Island Museum and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). Chick Rearing Unit The CRU was officially opened on 25 November 2011 and is a culmination of extensive

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Conservation research on and fundraising for such a facility. It affirms SANCCOB’s commitment to reverse the decline of seabird populations through the rescue, rehabilitation and release of ill, injured, abandoned chicks and oiled African penguins and other vulnerable seabirds. SANCCOB has developed the expertise to hatch chicks from eggs and the unit includes a ‘nursery’ for underweight and weak chicks brought into the centre. Oiled Wildlife Response SANCCOB maintains a state of 24/7 readiness to act in the event of an oil spill; to rescue and rehabilitate affected seabirds. SANCCOB has a national unfunded mandate, and responsibility, to respond to oil spills involving seabirds along the South African coastline. Via its relationship with Sea Alarm, this readiness to act extends into the rest of Africa, the Indian Ocean Islands and Sub-Antarctica. SANCCOB is recognized as one of the top international leaders in wildlife oil spill respondents with a strategic relationship with IFAW and strong working relationships with international emergency response organizations (Tri-State, International Bird Rescue, etc). Oil spills are unpredictable and can be devastating to species such as the African penguin. It is critical that SANCCOB essential services are fully funded and ready to respond immediately to a call-to-action. Research SANCCOB and our partners in conservation conduct research which contributes towards saving African penguins - a species in rapid decline, and other seabirds similarly threatened. In 2009 a benchmark Health Survey to establish the health of seabirds in the wild, mainly concentrating on African Penguins, was initiated. There are a number of important unfunded research projects which can contribute significantly towards saving African penguins and Bank Cormorants. On-going support is needed to fund in-situ research projects and researchers. SANCCOB is collaborating with the University of Cape Town’s Dr Katta Ludynia by making funding available to conduct a tracking study of Cape Gannets in Namibia. This important work, spanning two breeding seasons, will give researches important insights into their foraging behavior. Education The focus of Wild About Exploration…SANCCOB’s Environmental Education Centre is to create awareness of the plight of African penguins and other vulnerable seabirds, to

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Conservation educate the general public (children and adults) to preserve their natural and marine biodiversity and encourage individuals to actively combat the effect of pollution on the marine eco-system. The programs are designed with the sincere hope that the outcomes will result in conservation-minded action and sustainable behavioral changes. Training SANCCOB is a CATHSSETA Accredited service provider and offer a number of training courses through our Eco-Skills Academy. This Academy of learning contributes towards the development of a professional environmental-worker skills base which can be called upon in times of emergency. SANCCOB has a long history of training field workers and rescue teams to work with seabirds and has a bursary fund for underprivileged students. Project Administration SANCCOB administers projects and partners with like-minded organizations to roll out projects which benefit in-situ marine conservation. One such project, The Burgherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Walk Restoration Project, is in the process of restoring the area adjacent to the Boulders African penguin colony where a significant percentage of African penguins are breeding and living. The project is a collaboration between The City of Cape Town, South African National Parks and SANCCOB. The restoration outcomes include adequate fencing to safeguard these Endangered penguins, a structured walk way, and four Penguin monitors to monitor the area. Advocacy SANCCOB actively works together with government to ensure that the decline of wild populations of African penguins and other threatened species is arrested and reversed, and that legislation which supports a healthy marine climate is developed and upheld. Civic Participation Volunteering is at the heart of the SANCCOB operation. Each year about 200 international volunteers spend periods of 6-weeks or longer at SANCCOB working hands-on alongside the team. SANCCOB has a well-developed Volunteer Program, which supports local and international volunteers and facilitates structured intern and learner programs, with links to leading international universities. www.sanccob.co.za

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Christmas bells Sandersonia aurantiaca Alice Aubrey & Moeketsi Letsela Seldom seen in cultivation in southern Africa, the highly ornamental, lantern-like flowers of Sandersonia aurantiaca are universally admired, and highly prized as long-lasting cut flowers and graceful container plants. Description Sandersonia aurantiaca is an erect or suberect, deciduous, summer-growing geophyte reaching up to 1 m high, and the genus contains just one species. The subterranean storage organ or rootstock is a fairly deep-seated, stoloniferous corm consisting of two swollen, jointed lobes. New growth is produced in spring; the new rootstock and slender aerial stems are produced from a bud at the tip of one of the two old, swollen lobes. The lance-shaped leaves are arranged alternately along the stem, and unlike the closely related genera Gloriosa and Littonia, do not usually have tendrils at their tips. The elegant, lanternlike flowers of S. aurantiaca are borne on long stalks produced in the leaf axils; they open from the bottom upwards and occur in shades of pale to deep orange. The fruit is a capsule containing many small, hard brown seeds, without a papery seed coat. Distribution and habitat Sandersonia aurantiaca flowers were once a common sight throughout its grassland and forest margin distribution range in the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Swaziland and southern Mpumalanga, but severe habitat loss from agricultural expansion and indiscriminate picking of flowers has made it a rare sight in the wild today; it is usually only seen in nature reserves. It occurs in deep, heavy soil on damp hill slopes in full sun. Uses and cultural aspects The rootstocks of Sandersonia aurantiaca have traditionally been used by the Zulu people

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Featured species as an aphrodisiac, and the leaves are also used in combination with other plants in bathing infusions as protection against evil. The compound colchicine is present in this species, and all parts of the plant should therefore be regarded as potentially toxic. Growing Sandersonia aurantiaca They can be successfully grown in deep bulb beds, provided that the dormant rootstocks are kept dry during the winter months. The flowering time of S. aurantiaca in the wild is mid-December to January, but under cultivation in southern Africa it tends to start earlier, from late November onwards. New Zealand bulb growers have successfully commercialized this plant, and in the mid 1990s it was that countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s second-most important export cut flower crop after orchids. Sandersonia is not especially susceptible to pests, however aphids may attack new foliage in early summer, while snout beetles sometimes damage the flower stems. Slugs and snails are partial to the foliage. Fungal rotting of the rootstock is the most important disease affecting these plants and it can be greatly reduced by growing them in a wellaerated, well-drained, sandy medium, and by ensuring that the rootstocks are kept in dry soil throughout the winter dormant period.

Vol 19 2013

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Vol 19 2013

Travel & Stay

Vol 19 2013

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Travel & Stay

www.africanadventures.co.za

Vol 19 2013

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Vol 19 2013