Ecological
and social importance of Tillietudlem Nature Reserve
Tillietudlem Nature Reserve is located in the Upper Dargle
Valley of the KZN midlands. The 1928 ha reserve is primarily Drakensberg
Foothill Moist Grassland. It is situated three kilometers north of the Impendle
Nature Reserve, 14 kilometers south-east of Umgeni Vlei and 40 kilometers east
of the UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. Tillietudlem Nature Reserve is also near
other stewardship sites such as Mount Shannon and Boston View. This greater
area, with Tillietudlem Nature reserve included, is therefore of importance as
a macro-ecological corridor and a stepping stone for the dispersal and movement
of species between these important reserves.
This is further highlighted by the fact that Tillietudlem
Nature Reserve is classified by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife as irreplaceable in terms
of its Conservation Plan data layers. It also falls within the five year
protected area expansion priority areas identified by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife.
The value of Tillietudlem Nature Reserve is due to the endemic and endangered species which occur here, most notably Blue Swallow, Wattled Crane, Grey Crowned Crane, Blue Crane, Southern Ground-Hornbill, Oribi and Midlands Dwarf Chameleon to name but a few. Other values of Tillietudlem Nature Reserve include:
• The area forms an important corridor between other important nature reserves in the area.
•Tillietudlem Nature Reserve is an Important Biodiversity and Bird Are (IBA) and is therefore recognised internationally for it importance as an conservation area.
•The reserve forms part of the upper catchment of the Eland river and is therefore vital in soil stability, ground water recharge, water supply regulation and storage linked to the uMkomazi River.
Tillietudlem Nature Reserve has a number of anti-poaching rangers on constant patrol against trespassers poaching some of the most endangered species in Africa. All these efforts cost amounts of money each year . With that in mind a NPO was set up in order to assist the farm with it conservation activities. All funds donated to this cause is strictly used for the manner it was intent for and all accounting records is available for review by our donors on request.
If you would like to assist us in protection this unique and ecologically important area, please contact us on info@tillietudlem.co.za