A new world of discoveries at Mountainlands

Many who are beguiled by Africa are familiar with the famous phrase attributed to Pliny the Elder, “ex Africa semper aliquid novi” (out of Africa, always something new).

It reflects the idea that Africa is a source of unique and surprising things, particularly hybrid animals in his original context. It captures the perceived mystery and novelty of the continent, a concept that has been applied to new discoveries and innovations from Africa throughout history and continues to resonate today. 

Though there are some 73, 274 known tree species worldwide, there are an estimated 9, 186 still regarded as undiscovered. Now, we believe that the Spirit Foundation-supported Mountainlands nature reserve may be home to a record-breaking tree.

Earlier this month, Dr Theunis Morgenthal from the Dendrological Society of South Africa visited Mountainlands to measure a Kiaat tree and compare it with the current record holder for the largest measured individual. The Kiaat tree (Pterocarpus angolensis), also widely known as the Bloodwood tree or African Teak, is a protected and highly valued hardwood species native to Southern Africa. It is famous for the dark red, sticky sap that “bleeds” from its trunk when cut, resembling blood. The resemblance of the sap to blood has led to the belief in supposed magical healing powers concerning the blood. It is also fire resistant.

The Mountainlands tree is now the front-runner. (See blog post: South Africa’s largest measured Kiaat found on Mountainlands | Mountainlands Nature Reserve.) Theunis will return in March next year with Dr Francois du Randt, author of The Sand Forest of Maputaland, to examine and measure additional “super trees”.

Dr Garth Batchelor also visited Mountainlands to look for the possible nesting site of a pair of Crowned Eagles and the rangers have been roped in to help with the search.

The crowned eagle, also known as the African crowned eagle or the crowned hawk-eagle (Stephanoaetus coronatus), is a large bird of prey found in southern Africa, it is restricted to more easterly areas.  Its preferred habitats are principally riparian woodlands and various forests. The crowned eagle is the only extant member of the genus Stephanoaetus.

 Please see blog post:  Crowned Eagles spotted on Mountainlands – search for nest underway | Mountainlands Nature Reserve). The nest still needs to be found, but we will be sure to update you once we have discovered this natural treasure.