Bountiful Game and Wildlife Integrity
The Sabi Sand Reserve, crossed by the Sand River, comprises groves of acacia thornveld and marula trees giving way to open expanses of grassland where zebra, antelope and wildebeest graze freely.
This reserve is known for its large concentrations of game, including the Big Five - lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo and leopard – with the latter arguably being the region’s most famous resident. It is the objective of Singita’s environmental team to protect and conserve the biodiversity of the region and to ensure that the land, fauna and flora resemble as closely as possible the state in which it was found when it was first taken over by the Bailes family.
The earliest aerial photographs, taken in 1935, were used as a guide in this process. In addition, Rhino poaching has become one of Africa’s most pressing conservation issues. In 2012, Singita took the bold step of employing a highly-skilled team of dog handlers to improve anti-poaching patrols on its concession. This intrepid unit conducts patrols 24 hours a day throughout the year.
Singita's Conservation Efforts
The Sabi Sand Reserve is a precious environment that needs careful conservation. Acacia thornveld, grasslands, koppies and large concentrations of game make for a bounteous lowveld habitat in pristine condition. It is up to the custodians of Singita to protect and maintain nature’s balance here.
Dave Wright has been the environmental manager of Singita Sabi Sand for more than 30 years. He has made it his life’s work to conserve the biodiversity of the large part of Sabi Sand Reserve under Singita’s care. Together with a long-serving, dedicated environmental team, Dave has taken the lead in ensuring that the land, fauna and flora resemble as closely as possible the state in which they were found nearly a century ago when they first came under the care of the Bailes family.
The team’s principal responsibilities are anti-poaching, environmental protection, fire management, the prevention of erosion, water management, building roads and ensuring minimal impact caused by the lodges. Singita’s ‘treading the earth lightly’ philosophy extends to the visitors’ experience. Guests are assured of a safari that has very infrequent encounters with other game vehicles and minimizes pressure on the land and wildlife.
By Justin Fox
In South Africa, Singita Sabi Sand, adjoining the Kruger National Park, is recognised globally for its diversity and formidable concentratio...