Skip to main content

Nestled across 1200 hectares of predominantly mountainous terrain, Potkook Mountain Experience is a haven for the Fynbos ecosystem. Here, minimal human interference and dedicated conservation efforts have transformed our farm into a sanctuary for numerous Fynbos biome animals.

The klipspringer, a small antelope with a remarkable rock-jumping ability, thrives on Potkook’s many rocky outcrops and cliffs. They have dense, coarse coats with hollow hairs which help to regulate body temperature and provide some cushioning from abrasions when navigating

the rocky terrains with their amazing leaps.

(Klipspringer – Photo credit: Gabriel Sandu)

Within the same Fynbos biome, you may encounter another small antelope known as the Cape grysbok. Keep an eye out for a distinctive male grysbok with one notably shorter horn. The Cape Grysbok tend to prefer the denser areas of the farm.

(Cape grysbok – Trail cam)

During your stay at Potkook Lodge, the Jameson’s red rock hare may cross your path. Recognisable by its reddish-brown coat, short tail, and compact ears, it starkly contrasts the Cape hare, which is also a common sight near the Lodge. The Cape hare is characterised by its grey-brown fur, well-proportioned legs, elongated ears, and longer body.

Potkook Lodge’s surrounding rocky slopes are the perfect habitat for Dassies. They are squat and heavily built, with four short legs and padded feet. Their feet are equipped with glands that continuously secrete a fluid which serves to keep their feet damp. This moisture plays a pivotal role in facilitating their agile ascent on steep rocks, tree trunks, and branches with remarkable swiftness. They seldom move more than 50 m from their sleeping place. As mentioned in our ‘Birds of Fynbos Paradise’ blog (link here), Potkook has a healthy Dassie population, and they are an important member of the food chain in the area.

We are fortunate to also provide a healthy habitat for the elusive and shy Cape leopard, the apex predator of the fynbos biome. The Cape leopard has been spotted often at Potkook, and on the access road leading to Potkook past the Potkook Gate. Its distinctive sound can also be heard at night.

We have set up several trail cameras on Potkook which provide us with truly amazing footage and valuable information about the animals we share Potkook with. Guests who have an interest in Fynbos wildlife will have the opportunity to enjoy this remarkable footage in Skuur. 

Leave a Reply