Secrets of the Forests

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SECRET E - Forests and People

People have been using the forest for their survival for thousands of years. In the past the Khoi and San, who lived as “hunter - gatherers”, relied entirely on the forest for sustenance. They collected berries and certain bulbs and hunted for bushback and bushpig.

The Xhosa people use blue lilybulbs to treat swollen legs and wild garlic leaves, with its typical strong garlic smell, are rubbed on the head to treat sinus headaches.

By the late 20th century, woodcutters had chopped down most of the big trees and only the most inaccessible forests remained intact. Most of the indigenous forests today are under conservation protection. Although some forests are still harvested for food, medicine and timber, these activities are closely monitored.

SECRET F - Myths

In most cultures it is widely believed that there is a spiritual connection between the forest and themselves. Many myths and folklore are attached to forests. Stories are told about zombies that hide in forests during the day and huge white lions that live in the middle of the forest. Witches are also believed to use the forest as a place for their gatherings.

These stories made people respect the forest and kids never entered the forest without the guidance of an adult. This ensured that the forest was kept in a good state as a sacred place.

SECRET G - The Houdinis of the Forest

Most of the forest animals are difficult to spot, but their droppings and tracks can very often be found close to water, where they come to drink.

Caracals are not often seen in the forest. They are solitary animals and predominantly nocturnal. During daylight hours their remarkable ability to conceal themselves in the most meagre cover, leads to them being completely overlooked. Normally terrestrial, they can be adept tree climbers.

The blue duiker is the smallest antelope found in the Southern African Sub-region. they approach open areas with great caution and because they are shy and timid they run for cover at the least sign of danger. They are usually found singly and are active in the early morning and after dark.

The Cape clawless otter is widely distributed on the continent, where there is suitable aquatic habitat. They are as much at home in salt as in freshwater. Main period of activity is early morning and late afternoon.