On World Wildlife Day, celebrated on 3 March, Vergelegen wine estate in Somerset West marked the remarkable growth of its diverse wildlife population. Thanks to dedicated conservation efforts, rare Rau quagga, eland, black wildebeest, bontebok, and indigenous Nguni cattle are thriving in the estate’s 1900-hectare private nature reserve. The reserve holds the same conservation status as the renowned Kruger National Park, providing a safe haven for various species.
A Flourishing Wildlife Sanctuary
Vergelegen’s conservation efforts have led to a flourishing ecosystem where various species are thriving. The estate’s Rau quagga, a species selectively bred to resemble the extinct quagga, has seen the birth of four foals, marking significant progress in this ambitious project. The eland population, introduced through the Gantouw Project in 2020, has also expanded, with three calves now thriving after the arrival of a stud bull in 2023. Black wildebeest, introduced last year, have adapted well, with a new calf born in the spring.
Bontebok, once on the brink of extinction, have flourished at Vergelegen, growing from an initial population of 13 to an estimated 90-100 individuals today. The latest breeding season has been particularly successful, with 15 new arrivals. Indigenous Nguni cattle, prized for their resilience and striking hides, also contribute to the estate’s biodiversity, with approximately 100 calves born in the 2024/2025 season.
Vergelegen’s commitment to conservation is evident in its successful alien vegetation clearing project (2004-2018), which restored natural habitats and unlocked vital water resources. Visitors can explore this thriving ecosystem through guided environmental tours, including game drives and wine tastings, offering a unique opportunity to experience the estate’s remarkable biodiversity up close.
