The elusive Moonlight Mountain Toadlet and a Critically Endangered Erica now have a permanent home. The Western Cape has formally declared the Mount David Nature Reserve, securing over 800 hectares of vital fynbos ecosystem.
The declaration, formalised on 7 November 2025, protects the site known historically as Diepgat. This remarkable reserve is the culmination of 17 years of tireless rehabilitation by landowner Antony van Hoogstraten.
17 Years of restoration
Van Hoogstraten purchased the property in 2008. The land had been degraded by livestock and grain farming. He dedicated nearly two decades to transforming it into a thriving natural area. His efforts included the systematic clearing of alien vegetation, restoring the land’s ecological integrity, The site now boasts flourishing wetlands and pristine fynbos.
Crucial finds confirmed protection
The site’s critical importance first emerged in 2010. Post-wildfire surveys unexpectedly found a species of Erica previously thought to be almost extinct.
The most significant discovery occurred in 2020. Conservationists from Bionerds, while surveying a neighbouring reserve, serendipitously found a healthy breeding population of the Moonlight Mountain Toadlet (Capensibufo selenophos). The species was so little understood it was classified as Data Deficient.
Diepgat
Alouise Lynch, Director of Bionerds, confirmed the significance. “To have recorded a new breeding locality for the Toadlet was a special addition to the ecological diversity of this property,” she stated.
The reserve is also home to iconic species including Leopard, Black Harrier, Verreaux’s Eagle, and Blue Cranes.
Minister Hails Ecological Win
Anton Bredell, MEC for Environmental Affairs, hailed the move. “Mount David strengthens the province’s growing network,” Minister Bredell said. “It helps conserve biodiversity and strengthen the province’s ecological services—which are indispensable for clean water and complex climate regulation.”
The administrative process was led by CapeNature, with support from the Endangered Wildlife Trust. Landowners interested in formalising protection for their property should contact CapeNature’s Stewardship Team at wcpaes2025@capenature.co.za.
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