Spring treat for ramblers

THE Mzimkhulu Honorary Officers invite local nature lovers to come and see the spectacular spring floral display at the Red Desert Nature Reserve near Port Edward.

As the spring flowers are now starting to bloom in the reserve’s extensive coastal grasslands, the honorary officers have decided to host a Walking in Nature ramble there. It takes place on Sunday, September 22, at 8am.

The Red Desert is a very special place and visitors will find its stretch of strange, bare red soil quite fascinating. However, it is the grasslands that steal the limelight during spring when many grassland species come into bloom.

Some of the orchid species should be flowering by the time of the walk and, with a bit of luck, the large stands of colourful watsonias should be looking stunning by then.

The ramble will be a relatively easy walk. It would suit anyone who enjoys peace and quiet and a gentle stroll through beautiful natural surrounds.

Entrance is a R20 donation, which will help to finance the honorary officers’ wonderful conservation work. Bacon and egg rolls and tea and coffee will be on sale after the walk.

Unfortunately, as the Red Desert is a reserve, no dogs will be allowed. Anyone who wants to do the walk should head south along the Main South Coast road and turn inland at the traffic lights at Port Edward. Proceed up to the Old Pont Road and turn left then go down towards the old pont and follow the Walking in Nature signs to the start.

Regular Walking in Nature ramblers might also like to diarise the Mbumbasi Nature Reserve ramble. It takes place on October 13.

Members of local conservancies or conservation groups are welcome to organise a Walking in Nature ramble to raise funds for their organisation. Walks should be through attractive natural areas and should be about 5km to 8 km in length. Contact David Hallé at 082 300 4283 with your ideas.