On the brink, but not without hope - SANBI’s ongoing conservation efforts to save South Africa’s endangered plants and animals

On Friday, 16 May, as the world commemorates Endangered Species Day, South Africa stands proud as home to some of the most remarkable plant and animal species on Earth, many of which exist nowhere else. From hidden gems in rocky cliffs to the treetops of tropical forests, each plays a role in keeping our ecosystems thriving. Yet, many face increasing threats. Fortunately, through focused conservation work, and working with national and international conservation organisations and partners, SANBI and its partners are making real progress.

Each species, plant or animal, whether it is held in natural habitats, protected areas or national botanical and zoological gardens, tells a story of survival, of exploitation, and of hope.

Endangered Species Day provides us with an opportunity to reflect on our fragile natural heritage, its interconnectedness and the factors negatively impacting our natural ecosystems, whether it be through human-induced habitat destruction and transformation (through mining, plantations, invasive alien species, pests and pathogens, clearing of natural habitats for new developments) or effects of poaching, over-harvesting, and climate change. 

Just a year ago, the National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria celebrated the birth of a baby buffed-cheeked gibbon, the first born to proud parents Silvester and Lony. This marks a major milestone in SANBI’s contribution to international efforts to save this endangered species.

Silvester, born in Czechia and transferred from France, arrived at NZG in May 2023 as part of a European conservation breeding programme. After a carefully managed introduction process, starting with brief visual contact and gradually moving to shared enclosure time, Silvester and Lony were successfully paired. Their bond grew, and just a few months later, the pair welcomed their newborn.

“This is not just a baby,” says Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Conservation at the NZG. “It’s a lifeline for a species.”

Buffed-cheeked gibbons are native to Cambodia and classified as endangered due to habitat destruction and poaching. Through the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA) studbook programme, a global matchmaking system to preserve genetic diversity, SANBI and NZG are helping ensure the long-term survival of this remarkable species. Today, 15% of the species at the National Zoological Garden are classified as threatened, from birds to big cats. Each one reinforces the central message: every species has a story, of survival, of exploitation, and of hope.

“SANBI’s work in both in situ (in natural habitats) and ex situ (outside of natural habitats) conservation shows that change is possible, but only with public support. Most of SANBI’s national botanical gardens are classified internationally as conservation gardens and manage areas of natural vegetation with their associated biodiversity,” explains Nontsikelelo Mpulo, Director Marketing, Communication and Commercialisation. 

SANBI’s gardens also share information around the traditional value of plants and animals and how they support South Africa’s economy. South Africa’s network of local, provincial and national protected areas, such as our national parks, also serve as important conservation areas to safeguard plants and animals from extinction.

Responsible citizens can play a vital role in protecting South Africa’s biodiversity, especially in monitoring plants and animals listed as threatened,” says Mpulo. “Start by never buying wild plants or animals from illegal traders. Instead, support ethical nurseries and reputable conservation programmes that prioritise sustainability.”

“If you witness any suspicious activity involving wildlife or plant harvesting, report it to the authorities,” says Mpulo. “Most importantly, take time to learn about South Africa’s unique biodiversity by visiting a national botanical or zoological garden and share that knowledge with others.”

“Conservation begins with awareness, and every informed action helps secure a future for our natural heritage. There are also opportunities for members of the public to get involved with local environmental NGOs (such as Botanical Society of South Africa, WWF SA, Birdlife SA, EWT and WESSA, amongst others), societies and citizen science programmes and to contribute, either individually or as groups, towards a greater understanding of the distribution and conservation status of plant and animal species across South Africa’s nine biomes, from forest to grassland and savanna.

“Everything is connected,” says Nontsikelelo Mpulo, Director Marketing Communication and Commercialisation, “When we lose a plant, we may lose a pollinator. When we lose a pollinator, we lose food. When we lose food, we lose people. Conservation is not just about saving species. It’s about saving ourselves.”