Eco Minute 13:30

BULLETIN 14 August 1:30 pm

Good afternoon, here is your Eco Minute:

# SANParks, in partnership with the Endangered Wildlife Trust, launched a new lion research project in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the Northern Cape, which also extends into Botswana. SANParks’ JP Louw says over the next few months, teams will be out in the field using cameras, tracks, sightings, and other safe, non-invasive methods to gather information. He says each lion has unique features like whisker spots and scars, which will help identify them individually:

# The flower season at Namaqua National Park in the Northern Cape is in full bloom, with vibrant carpets of wildflowers following excellent rainfall. SANParks says the five-kilometre Skilpad circular trail is a must-visit, showcasing rare blooms like Bittergousblom, Cape marigold, daisies, vygies, and drumsticks. Nature lovers can expect a breathtaking, colourful experience in the heart of Namaqualand. Peak season runs from mid-August to mid-September. Visitors are advised to explore on sunny days for the best display of this natural spectacle.

# And finally: Some Alaskans are evacuating their homes as water escapes a basin dammed by the Mendenhall Glacier amidst fears of glacial outburst water putting homes in the area at risk. Local officials confirmed water had begun escaping the ice dam and flooding was expected in the coming days. Glacial lake outbursts happen when a lake of melting snow and ice and rain drains rapidly and can be compared to pulling a plug from a full bathtub.

Stay tuned for more news………….