The Kogelberg Biosphere, like much of the Western Cape, has once again been severely impacted by wildfires. This year, fires began long before the official start of the Overberg fire season on 1 December. And we’re now only halfway through the season.
According to the Greater Overberg Fire Protection Association, tens of thousands of hectares have burned across the Overberg since October 2025.
According to Corlie Hugo, CEO of the Kogelberg Biosphere, the frequency of these fires is a major concern. “We know fynbos must burn, but it’s vital that it doesn’t burn too often. Fires that are too frequent destroy young plants before they’ve had a chance to set seed, which can lead to local extinctions.
In hot, dry conditions, animals caught in fire zones are unlikely to survive – succumbing either to intense heat or thick smoke. And even for those that do escape, the aftermath presents new challenges. Normally, as vegetation recovers, animals move back into burnt areas from surrounding natural habitat. But when so much of the landscape is affected, where does that recruitment come from? This is deeply concerning. For the animals that do survive – and for those indirectly affected – there needs to be a place of safety where they can recover before being released back into the wild.
This is where the Kogelberg Biosphere Wildlife Rescue & Training Centre plays a critical role. Most recently SPCA officials rescued a number of tortoises and snakes from the Stanford fire, all suffering from burn wounds. They were quickly taken to local vets in Kleinmond and Hermanus for emergency treatment and then transferred to the centre for additional treatment and care.
Michelle Watson, Rehabilitation Specialist of the Wildlife Rescue & Training Centre, says community support has been invaluable. “We’re incredibly grateful to local residents, firefighters and everyone across the Overberg who has gone out of their way to help rescue wildlife during these fires. We’re doing everything we can to care for these vulnerable animals – but we can’t do it alone. We’re calling on the community to assist once again, whether by volunteering their time or donating to help us source enough food and medical supplies for our patients.”
Corlie adds that wildlife surviving the fires will now be hungry and thirsty, and may move into towns and gardens in search of food and water – with these towns playing an increasingly important role as a habitat for animals. She says, “Having a fynbos garden is an ideal way to provide support to these species naturally. Your garden in effect acts as a corridor for wildlife.”
Residents with gardens or green spaces can help by putting out shallow containers of water, with a rock placed inside to prevent smaller birds or mammals from drowning. It’s also good to keep this clean, by regularly replacing the water.
If you would like to support some of the fire victims at the Kogelberg Biosphere Wildlife Rescue Centre please consider making a monthly donation via our website – www.kogelbergbiosphere.org.za, or donate you time by helping out at the centre – contact Michelle Watson – 060 861 5653.
Corlie Hugo