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Would I see the elusive Klipspringer today….that was foremost in my mind as I started the Klipspringer Trail.

I set off up the Buffalo kloof, and before reaching the top, I explore the rock formations, finding beautiful plants growing within the tight crevices. The kloof takes me to the top of the plateau, and I have to pause to take in the spectacular views. The trail now heads in a westerly direction, along the ridge, meandering through low fynbos vegetation. I have to remind myself to ‘watch where you walk’ as the views to the north and south are fantastic! The rocky terrain offers so much potential for exploring the biodiversity under the rocks.

I reach a Trig Beacon, which tells me that I’m close to the western boundary of Mountain Pastures. From here I descend down a kloof, would I see Klipspringers here? Well, I see signs of Klipspringers, the distinctive paired rounded depressions of their hoof prints.

From the bottom of the kloof, the trail winds past a small koppie and then heads back in an easterly direction. I meet up with a group of healthy zebras and then pass springbuck at one of the dams, always a delight to see!

I may not have seen Klipspringers today, but the zebras and springbuck more than make up for that. I’m not surprised that I didn’t spot any Klipspringers today as I had chosen a hot day, they would be resting in the shade under bushes and so very difficult to see.

Well, this just means I will have to walk this trail again, what a pleasure!! But next time an early start to increase my chances of seeing them…..

Written by Dr Joy Coleman (PhD Zoology)