Experiencing Cape Point

 Experiencing Cape Point

As students of LFS 151, we recently embarked on an excursion. Last week, September 23^rd 2014 we made a day of exploring Cape Point. 

We arrived at the Reserve late morning and were sent to the visitors centre, here we were required to complete a worksheet. The worksheet required great detail of the flora and fauna of the reserve. We kept a close eye on our surroundings to attempt to identify the different organisms and species.

We then visited the point. We decided to climb the cliff to get a greater view of the point. The climb was enjoyable as was the view. The winds picked up and we quickly retreated off the cliff. We enjoyed some time spent on the rocky shores. 

Our last stop was the light house. As we got off the bus we took one look at the steep steps awaiting us and decided then and there that we would be taking the vernacular cable car. We had just come from the mini hike. However we decided to join our peers on the walk. The scenery from this climb was beautiful. The little beach which lies just to the side of the point is breath taking. We soon reached the top of the slope and then climbed the few stairs, once at the top of the lighthouse we admired the view and took numerous photographs. We spent some time here and completed the worksheet. On or way back down the slope three of us swear to have escaped a near death experience with a sake on the reserve. As we made the walk down from the light house we heard a loud hiss, and turned to our side, a snake was slithering out of the bushes beside us. And with that sight all three of us in unison had jumped to the far opposite side of the path and had together whilst shouting sprinted a far distance ahead. Only then did we dare look back. The snake had come out onto the path but was now far behind us. We then continued our walk back to the bus at a more brisk pace and in the center of the path, away from the bushes.

Once back at the bus we had a quick lunch and ensured that our worksheets were completed. We then began the journey back to campus. After a long hour on the bus we were back at UWC.The excursion was a great experience which I personally enjoyed. It enriched our studies regarding plant and animal life and allowed for us to grasp the practical side of life science. The excursion allowed us to experience Cape Point in all its aspects. We also gained greater insight into Cape Towns nature reserves and biodiversity conservation.

Experiencing the Cape Flats Nature Reserve

The Cape Flats Nature Reserve located on the UWC premises is an area of land which protects the natural biodiversity of the area. It is home to many flora and fauna species. For the practical we were allowed to experience the reserve and its animal and plant life. We were required to explore the area and complete a task which tested our knowledge on the flora and fauna. The task was relatively simple to complete as we were given identification sheets which aided us greatly. The practical was fun as we worked in groups and were allowed the opportunity to explore. It was enjoyable to be outdoors; although it was relatively hot and tiring. My team worked well as a unit as we were determined to complete the task in good time. It was interesting to see the various plant species as well as animal life. Previously, I had only seen the picture located on the gate of the reserve and was not aware of the size of the area or the diversity it housed. As a class we had all come prepared and were determined to beat the previous record. The downfall of the practical was that initially no one was certain regarding the location of our meting spot, but as we eventually found our way to the meeting spot the rest of the afternoon was thoroughly enjoyable.