“Can you believe this was once a bustling racecourse?” I ask. Now, it’s the Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve. This amazing place is east of Royal Ascot in Milnerton.
The Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve is split into two parts. The old horse racing track and later residential areas divide it. But long ago this land connected to the Rietvlei wetland.
Back in the 1980s scientists realized something special. The Milnerton Racecourse was incredibly important for its plants. Developments and invasive plants had wiped out much of the fynbos in this area. But inside the Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve, it remained relatively untouched.
What makes it so unique? The ground has neutral to slightly acidic sand on ferricrete. This creates a special type of Cape Flats Sand Fynbos. You’ll also find West Coast Strandveld here. For its size, the Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve has incredible diversity. It is one of the last natural habitats on ferricretes. This substrate is localized around Ysterplaat. Much of it has been built over.
The Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve boasts 232 recorded plant species. Twelve of these are on the Red Data list. That includes rare plants like Cliffortia ericifolia and Hermannia procumbens. You can also spot Leucadendron levisanus and Acrolophia bolusii. The largest known population of Lampranthus stenus is right here.
There are also two small wetlands. One sits south of Sandown Crescent. The other is next to The Met. During winter, even more temporary wetlands appear. This creates a perfect home for birds. Over 70 bird species have been spotted here. Butterflies and moths also thrive. At least 10 species have been recorded.
Steenbok used to live here. Sadly, they disappeared. But you might see grysbok in both the northern and southern areas of the Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve.
To protect the special plants, the southern part of the reserve is closed to the public. The northern part has a footpath. Originally, dogs on leashes were allowed. Too many people let their dogs run free. Now, no dogs are allowed.
An Environmental Management Committee manages the Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve. Representatives come from the City, Royal Ascot, Gold Circle, and other groups. They work to protect this precious space.
Once upon a time, this area had too many grysbok. In 2006, there were 24. But this small area can only support about six. So, some were captured and moved to new homes. One male and one female went to Intaka Island. They adapted well to their new home.
Fires are also important for the fynbos here. A portion of the southern area was burned in 2008. The northern half of the southern portion got burned. This helps the fynbos seed and grow again.
The Milnerton Racecourse Nature Reserve is a reminder of what this area used to be. It’s a vital place for plants and animals. It is a place where conservation efforts help nature thrive amidst urban development.