City scoops first spot in nature test

I urge residents to explore these nature conservation areas

Dan Plato CAPE TOWN MAYOR

THE Mother City took first prize in two categories in the 2019 City Nature Challenge.

Cape Town came out tops in the categories for making the most observations and recording the most species.

Yesterday, the City of Cape Town thanked its residents for their contribution in helping the City win in the international competition that saw over 150 cities from around the world compete.

Cape Town participants recorded an impressive 53775 observations and 4 587 species across the City. Runners-up in the recorded observations category were La Paz, Bolivia, with 46931 observations and San Diego, US, with 38241.

In the recorded species category runners-up were Hong Kong, with 3 596 species and Houston, US, with 3367.

The competition took place from April 26 to 29. Capetonians were encouraged to explore the City’s nature reserves and natural open spaces, and to record all of the local plant and animal species that they spotted over the four days.

Mayoral committee member for spatial planning and environment Marian Nieuwoudt said: “Capetonians really went out and showed the world what incredible biodiversity our City has to offer.

“Cape Town certainly rose to the challenge, considering that we are entering autumn and there were over 150 cities competing, many of which are in the throes of spring.

“I want to thank each and every resident and visitor who took the time to explore our pristine natural environment and for capturing the beauty and life they encountered.

“We’re extremely proud to be hosting a globally recognised and important biodiversity.”

Nieuwoudt thanked Capetonians for putting the City on one of the top spots on the international biodiversity map.

Mayor Dan Plato said: “I think this challenge has reminded many of our residents how privileged we are to call this beautiful region of the world our home.

The City is proud of its more than 20 nature reserves across the metro, he said.

“I urge residents to explore these nature conservation areas, embrace the natural beauty we have on our doorstep, but often overlook, and to be custodians of our unique environment,” Plato said.