Invasive Species Programme
Non-native species are often introduced to new areas or habitats - intentionally or unintentionally - through the globalisation of trade and transport. Once introduced, alien species can quickly establish and become invasive, consequently posing a threat to biodiversity, ecosystem services and human wellbeing. The City of Cape Town, like many other large and expanding cities globally, is vulnerable to the introduction of new invasive species.
About
invasive wasp removal
Our reporting tool is not for requesting the removal of invasive species, please only use this form to submit a sighting. If you have wasps on your property, contact your nearest/local registered pest control agency to assist with the safe removal and disposal of the wasps and their nests. As the property owner, you are responsible for the cost of removing wasps on your property.
In response to the threat posed by invasive species and efforts to protect the City’s unique biodiversity and to promote ecosystem service delivery, the City runs various invasive species projects that are aimed at:
We encourage members of the public to contribute to our
Invasive Species Programme and help us locate where these invasive species occur.
Submit an invasive species sighting.
Top tip
If you are having trouble identifying a species, simply submit your photos and observations to
iNaturalist or
iSpot; experts on these platforms can assist in identifying species.
Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) Beetle threat
A
PSHB beetle infestation was first discovered in Somerset West in March 2019. The beetle has now spread to the southern suburbs of Cape Town. This pest poses a serious threat to our urban forests as infested trees need to be chipped when they become diseased and pose a danger to people and property.
You can help us by spreading awareness and reporting sightings.
Find out more about the Polyphagous Shot Hole Borer (PSHB) Beetle threat.
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