Anysberg Nature Reserve

Anysberg Nature Reserve
Anysberg Nature Reserve
	Gemsbok Oryx gazella, Anysberg Nature Reserve
Type	Nature reserve
Location	Western Cape, South Africa
Nearest city	Laingsburg
Coordinates	33°31′S 20°37′E
Area	796.29 km2 (307.45 sq mi)
Established	25 May 1984
Administered by	CapeNature
Website	Anysberg Nature Reserve – Capenature

The Anysberg Nature Reserve of 62,500 ha, is situated in the western Little Karoo region^[1] of the Gouritz Cluster Biosphere Reserve in the Western Cape province, South Africa. The central mountain is named after Anise, Pimpinella anisum, which is found in the reserve.^[2] The reserve was established in 1984, to conserve succulent and fynbos flora in the Cape Fold Belt, and to reintroduce game which formerly occurred here.

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The nearest towns are Laingsburg and Ladismith, which are both about 55 km from the main reserve entrance.

History

Land for the reserve was first set aside in 1984 below the Anysberg Mountain Catchment Area (designated in 1978). This was further extended multiple times to its current area of 79,629 hectares (196,770 acres).^[3]^[4]

Biodiversity

Fed by three rivers, the diversity of life is supported here amidst mountain feathers and the characteristic Klein Karoo veil.^{[clarification needed]}

About 180 species of birds are regularly spotted in the reserve, making it a popular choice for bird watchers. In addition to the enchanting landscape and rich plant and animal life, the reserve is also home to San rock art, painted thousands of years ago. ^[5]^[6]