Steiltes Nature Reserve | A wild place in the city
Undisturbed natural land is quite rare to find nowadays and if it is found in the middle of town, it makes it all the more special. The Steiltes Nature Reserve, also known as the Nelspruit Nature Reserve, is nestled in the quiet suburb of Steiltes behind suburban residences.
The centre point of the nature reserve is marked by a massive granite dome. This rocky terrain is a good habitat for klipspringer and the reserve serves as a sanctuary in town for these agile antelope. The granite outcrops are also home to a specialised community of plants and trees like Rock Figs, Stamvrug and a variety of aloes.
A little stream runs through the middle of the reserve and is lined by Matumi, Waterberry and Mitzeri trees. Some of the Matumi trees are gigantic and their shade creates a forest environment that is the perfect hunting ground for the Crowned Eagle. The Steiltes Nature Reserve is a nesting area for these magnificent birds and they are often be seen or heard. Other forest species include the African Goshawk, Robins and an amazing variety of butterflies.
Between the hills of granite rock you will find bushveld habitat with open grassy areas where you will see typical Lowveld trees such as Kiaat, Silver Cluster Leaf, Sickle Bush and Marula. The busveld offers an array of butterfly species totally different to those found in the forest.
The granite rock hills offer protection from veld fires and host a very rich and different tree community including the Lowveld Chestnut and round leaved Kiaat, among others. The variety of spiders is fascinating and sometimes baboons can be heard from the surrounding areas.
This little reserve offers an amazing diversity of wildlife and natural landscapes. There are a number of great walking trails and a dedicated parking area. It is the ideal place to spend some time in nature right on your doorstep.
There is no entry fee, all that is asked is to leave it as you found it. If you plan on going for a walk, it is always wise to go in pairs or a group, take a water bottle as some of the trails can take up to two hours to complete. A signboard in the parking area at the bottom of Melkweg Street will give you an idea of the different walking routes that you can take.
Article by Eco Walking Nelspruit