Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve – Abundant Flora and Fauna
Situated on the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal, with the closest town being, Umzinto, and Scottburgh, lies the rolling hills of grassland, called the Vernon Crooks Nature Reserve. The Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve is 2189 hectares, and the vegetation not only consists of grasslands, but beautiful coastal forests with an abundance of wildlife. This nature reserve is also known as the Crooks Nature Reserve.
As the vegetation on the Vernon Crooks Nature Reserve is endless and
conducive to most herbivores, eland, zebra, blue wildebeest and
bushbuck
have been introduced. Currently, the reserve has 56 animal species,
which
also include, caracal, slender, Egyptian, banded and white tailed
mongoose,
black-backed jackal, oribi, vervet monkeys, reedbuck, blesbok,
porcupine,
rock and tree hyrax and blue and grey duikers, and many more. Rare and
exquisite butterflies can also be viewed fluttering about their daily
lives,
on the reserve.
The bird life at the Crookes Nature Reserve, has been confirmed at
over
300 species, and includes nesting Crowned and Martial Eagles, which are
probably the most breathtaking raptors to view. As they are nesting
within
the reserve, travelers have a greater opportunity to spot them. In
spring
the fields come alive with color, an endless sea of spectacular views,
and
magical sunsets. The indigenous flora on the Vernon Crooks Nature
Reserve
is just another attraction that makes a trip to this nature reserve
worth
your while.
The Crooks Nature Reserve also provides accommodation, at Nyengelezi
Camp. This camp offers a tree house, which has the sleeping capacity
for
ten travellers, and five rondawels which have two beds each. Tree
house
visitors are kindly requested to supply their own towels and bedding.
The
Nyengelezi Camp is fully equipped with cooking utensils, stoves,
fridges,
cutlery and crockery and any other items needed for self catering.
Study
groups and small conferences can be accommodated at the camp, as the
hall
can be used as a conference venue or laboratory for students in the
study
groups.
Over all, the Vernon Crookes Nature Reserve is a wonderful location
to
escape to, for photographic opportunities, the scenic views, or just
for
relaxation. Be sure to add this nature reserve to your list of
attractions
when visiting the Scottburgh, KwaZulu Natal area.