Fransmanshoek Conservancy

“I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order” – John Burroughs 

Compliance Management 

Marine Living Resources Act 

During January, the Rangers came across a total of 57 fishermen, recreational fishing, spearfishing/diving, and bait collecting permits were inspected by Bernard, Eben, Hayley, Thomas, Ethan, and Erich in accordance with the Marine Living Resources Act (Act 18 of 1998). Of the 57 permits checked, two (4%) failed to produce a valid permit. We remind everyone that it is essential to be in possession of a permit, even if you are simply fishing for a day or two! We ask that if you witness any fishermen, divers, or bait collectors and suspect they are not following the rules and regulations, please get in touch with the Conservancy immediately.

Natural Resource Management 

Festive Footprints: Visitor Trends at Fransmanshoek Conservancy 

Fransmanshoek Conservancy is the oldest active conservancy within the Western Cape. In the conservancy area, many activities are available to all nature lovers. Whether you are into coastal walks or hiking trails, diving or fishing, animal or plant identification, a good picnic or braai spot, or looking for a natural place of beauty to enjoy, Fransmanshoek offers all this and more. Over the years, Fransmanshoek has grown in popularity, attracting more visitors eager to experience its natural beauty. 

During the festive season, we receive an influx of visitors. Because of the large number of visitors, a gate control guard has been placed to monitor the number of vehicles entering the Peninsula during this period. The purpose of the control point is not to restrict visitors from experiencing all that Fransmanshoek has to offer, but to manage human activity and minimize ecological impact. By regulating the number of visitors, we aim to prevent overcrowding and reduce disturbances to the natural environment, ensuring the long-term preservation of this unique area. 

Fishing Trends and Insights of 2024 

During the year 2024, Head Ranger, Erich and Field Ranger, Ethan patrolled the coastline to ensure that the fishermen were compliant with the regulations set out. During the year, a total of 284 fishermen were checked, where 259 had valid permits and 25 did not. Just a reminder that permits can be purchased online, so there’s no reason not to have one. Visit: https://www.fishing.dffe.gov.za/ and follow the steps to purchase your permit.

Fresh New Faces at Fransmanshoek Conservancy 

Every year, Fransmanshoek Conservancy has the privilege of welcoming new dedicated Student Rangers to join our team. These aspiring conservationists, undertaking their practical year (Work Integrated year) as part of their diploma program, bring fresh energy, new ideas, and a shared passion for preserving the environment. This year, we are thrilled to introduce four new Student Rangers who have joined us on this journey of learning, growth, and impactful conservation work. 

Meet the Student Rangers 

With their arrival, the Conservancy is buzzing with excitement about what the year ahead holds. From tackling pressing environmental challenges to gaining hands-on experience in managing and protecting our unique coastal ecosystems, these students are stepping into a year filled with opportunities to make a difference. Together, we aim to not only provide them with valuable skills and knowledge but also benefit from their enthusiasm and diverse perspectives. 

As they embark on this transformative chapter, we look forward to seeing how their contributions will shape our ongoing projects and initiatives. Welcome to the team, Student Rangers – let’s make this year one to remember. 

Geoff Cowley Trail Maintenance 

On January 8th, our team of Rangers rolled up their sleeves and tackled an essential task: maintaining one of Fransmanshoek Conservancy’s most scenic hiking trails, the Geoff Cowley Trail. This 0.9 km path offers visitors breathtaking views of both the rugged coastline and the lush Fynbos that make our region so special. However, over time, nature’s growth–especially invasive species–can make the trail challenging to navigate, requiring dedicated upkeep to preserve its accessibility and beauty. 

The morning was spent cutting back dense vegetation, much of which consisted of Rooikrans/Red Eyes (Acacia cyclops), an invasive alien species notorious for outcompeting native plants and encroaching on pathways. In some sections, the trail was almost complete. Rangers approached the challenge with determination and a positive spirit, even managing to have some fun along the way. 

Thanks to their efforts, the Geoff Cowley Trail has been restored to its serene state. Visitors can enjoy clear access to their favourite fishing spots without worrying about catching a branch along the way. The trail’s charm and natural beauty are now more accessible than ever, ready to welcome hikers and nature enthusiasts alike. 

Trail maintenance is a task that needs to be done regularly to ensure the safety and enjoyment of visitors while protecting the environment. Without it, paths can quickly become overgrown or damaged, impacting both accessibility and the surrounding ecosystem. By keeping our trial well-maintained, we not only support responsible recreation but also safeguard the unique landscapes we work so hard to conserve. 

Saving the African Penguin: A Fight for Survival Against Extinction 

The African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus), a critically endangered species, is found along the coastal regions of Africa, particularly where the Benguela currents flow. These penguins typically inhabit rocky areas with minimal vegetation. Unfortunately, their survival is under severe threat. Overfishing and climate change are drastically reducing their food supply, altering the distribution of their prey, and severely impacting their ability to thrive. As a result, juvenile survival rates have plummeted, and adult penguins are now abandoning their young in search of food. This species is on the brink of extinction, with a staggering 97% of the population already lost, leaving only 32,000 individuals remaining. 

To combat this crisis, efforts are being made to protect and restore the African Penguin population. BirdLife South Africa is leading the charge by advocating for the establishment of no-fishing zones, strategically placed around the largest penguin colonies. These protected areas will help replenish fish stocks and reduce competition between the penguins and the fishing industry, providing a crucial lifeline for this critically endangered species. 

A few other solutions could be: 

• To provide more shade using vegetation and nest boxes. 

• Preventing flooding in inhabited areas, using sandbags. 

• Improving rehabilitation techniques and facilities, specifically for individuals caught in oil spills and those who are sick. 

• Minimizing any human interaction, blocking off access to colonies from the public. 

Environmental Education 

The Illegal Trade of Succulents in South Africa 

South Africa is home to some of the world’s most unique and diverse succulent species, many of which are found nowhere else on Earth. However, this rich biodiversity is under severe threat due to the rampant illegal trade of these plants. Driven by international demand from collectors and horticultural enthusiasts, the unlawful harvesting and smuggling of succulents, particularly in the Western and Northern Cape provinces, pose significant risks to fragile ecosystems and local conservation efforts. 

Over the past decade, the illegal trade of South African succulents has escalated dramatically. Thousands of plants, including species from the highly sought-after Conophytum and Lithops genera, are being poached from its natural habitats. reports indicate that many of these plants are sold on the black market, with prices reaching exorbitant amounts, especially in countries such as China, Japan, and South Korea. 

Why Are Succulents Sought After? 

The illegal trade of succulents is driven by various factors, including: 

• Aesthetic Appeal: Succulents are admired for their unique shapes, colours, and resilience, making them highly desirable for home décor and landscaping. 

• Rarity and Exclusivity: Collectors often seek rare species, some of which are only found in small regions of South Africa, increasing their value on the black market. 

• Medicinal and Cultural Uses: Some succulents are believed to have medicinal properties or are used in traditional practices, further driving demand. 

• Trendy Houseplants: The global rise of succulent gardening, fueled by social media trends, has led to an increased appetite for exotic and rare varieties. 

Causes of Illegal Trade 

• High International Demand: The global fascination with rare and exotic plants has fueled the smuggling of South African succulents. 

• Lack of Awareness: Many buyers are unaware that the plants they purchase have been illegally harvested. 

• Financial Incentives: Poachers, often from impoverished communities, are lured by the financial gain associated with selling succulents to middlemen and international dealers. 

• Weak Law Enforcement: Despite efforts by conservation authorities, the vast and remote landscapes make it challenging to monitor and prevent poaching. 

The removal of succulents from their natural habitats has devastating ecological consequences. Many succulent species are endemic, meaning their removal significantly disrupts the ecosystem. The destruction of surrounding vegetation and soil structures due to poaching leads to long-term habitat degradation. Additionally, some succulents rely on specific pollinators, and their decline can have cascading effects on other species, further impacting biodiversity. Several initiatives have been put in place to combat the illegal trade of succulents in South Africa. Authorities, including SANParks and CapeNature, are working to crack down on poachers and illegal trade networks through increased law enforcement. Community awareness programs are being developed to educate local populations about the importance of conservation while providing alternative income sources. On a global scale, international cooperation plays a critical role in tracking and preventing the sale of illegally harvested succulents. Furthermore, some conservation groups are engaging in propagation and rehabilitation projects to cultivate endangered succulents and replenish depleted wild populations. 

The illegal trade of succulents in South Africa is a growing conservation crisis that requires urgent attention. While efforts are being made to curb poaching and illegal sales, greater awareness, stricter enforcement, and community involvement are essential to protecting these remarkable plants for future generations. Without immediate intervention, many of South Africa’s rare succulents face the risk of extinction, threatening not only biodiversity but also the ecological balance of their natural habitats. 

Monthly Species Profile 

Scientific name: Cotyledon orbiculata 

Family: Crassulaceae 

Description: Pig’s Ear is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy, rounded leaves that often feature reddish margins, resembling the shape of a pig’s ear. The leaves vary in colour, ranging from pale green to a powdery bluish-grey, often covered in a waxy coating that helps reduce water loss. It produces tubular, bell-shaped flowers in shades of orange, red, or yellow, which hang in clusters on tall stalks, usually during the summer. The plant typically grows to a height of 50-100 cm, making it a striking addition to gardens or natural landscapes. 

Distribution: This plant is native to South Africa and occurs widely across the country’s provinces, especially in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. It has also been introduced to other parts of the world as an ornamental plant due to its adaptability and aesthetic appeal. 

Habitat: Pig’s Ear thrives in arid to semi-arid regions, preferring rocky slopes, open grasslands, and well-drained sandy soils. It is well-suited to areas with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Its drought-resistant nature makes it ideal for xerophytic gardens. 

Conservation Status: The species is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, as it is widespread and abundant in its natural range. However, habitat loss due to urbanization and overharvesting in some areas for traditional medicinal use poses localized threats. Sustainable harvesting practices and cultivation efforts help mitigate these concerns. 

Usage: Pig’s Ear is widely used in traditional medicine in South Africa. The leaves are applied to wounds and boils or used as a poultice to treat skin infections and insect bites. Some communities use its leaf juice as a remedy for earache and sore throat. Beyond its medicinal value, Cotyledon orbiculata is a popular ornamental plant for rock gardens, pots, and drought-tolerant landscapes. Its striking appearance and low maintenance make it a favourite among gardeners worldwide. 

References 

HUBSCHLE, A., & MARGULIES, J. 2025. SA’s rare succulent plants are threatened by illegal trade – how to stop it. [online] https://theconversation.com/south-africas-rare-succulent-plants-are-threatened-by-illegal-trade-how-to-stop-it-244670. [Accessed Jan. 2025] 

MALCOLM-MCKAY, C. 2024. African Penguin on the Brink of Extinction. [online] https://www.birdlife.org/news/2024/11/20/african-penguin-on-the-brink-of-extinction/#:~:text=While%20diseases%20like%20avian%20flu,to%20the%20African%20Penguin%20population. [Accessed Jan. 2025] 

SANBI. 2004. Cotyledon orbiculata. [online] https://pza.sanbi.org/cotyledon-orbiculata [Accessed Jan. 2025] 

SANBI. 2025. Illegal Trade of South Africa’s Succulent Plants. [online] https://www.sanbi.org/biodiversity/building-knowledge/biodiversity-monitoring-assessment/threatened-species-programme/illegal-trade-of-south-africas-succulent-plants/ [Accessed Jan. 2025] 

SANCCOB. 2022. Save the African Penguin. [online] https://sanccob.co.za/news/save-the-african-penguin/ [Accessed Jan. 2025] 

BERNARD VAN HEERDEN 

EBEN DE WET 

HAYLEY THORPE 

THOMAS WILLEMS 

ETHAN ELBRECHT 

ERICH GOOLD 

FRANSMANSHOEK CONSERVANCY 

082 084 2791 | fransmanshoek@gmail.com