Living alongside wildlife

Together, we can protect Cape Town's wild animals and live safely and responsibly alongside them.

#KeepWildlifeWild

Wild animals are safest and healthiest when they stay wild. By letting them behave naturally and not making them rely on humans for food or help, we protect the animals and the unique nature of Cape Town.

About the programme

Cape Town is one of the most nature-rich cities in the world. It is home to about 566 types of wild animals that live on land and in fresh water. These include Cape Clawless Otters, Chacma Baboons, Cape Porcupine, Cape Grysbok, Cape Fox, Small-spotted Genet, caracal, various mongooses and others, as well as many birds, reptiles, and amphibians. More than 50 of these animals are listed as Species of Conservation Concernand need special protection.

As the city grows, animals are losing their natural homes. Many now live close to us, and some have learned to live in our neighbourhoods, industrial areas, and parks. Because of this, people and animals will often cross paths.

Different animals need different actions. Some can use safe spaces to live within neighbourhoods, while others need us to take steps to keep people and property safe.

The programme strives to:

Promote understanding and appreciation of Cape Town's indigenous wildlife.
Encourage responsible behaviour that keeps wildlife wild.
Support practical solutions that benefit both people and biodiversity.

Why protect our wildlife?

Wild animals are a big part of Cape Town's history and nature. Every animal and plant has a job to do in the environment. If one type of animal disappears, it can hurt other animals and the environment. On the other hand, if animal populations grow too big because people feed them, it can also cause problems for nature and for us. Protecting nature keeps our city healthy and strong. Here is why this is important:

Conservation value

Cape Town's nature is very important for South Africa and the whole world. We have many rare animals and special natural areas that we must protect.

Environmental health

Healthy nature means healthy people and animals. When nature is balanced, it helps keep everyone safe from diseases and environmental problems. This is the One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of people, animals and the environment.

Ecological importance

Animals help nature work properly. They spread seeds, pollinate flowers, recycle nutrients, and keep other animal populations in check. This also helps our environment handle climate change better.

Social and recreational value

Wildlife and nature give Cape Town its special feel. They give us places to play, learn, and visit, which makes life better for everyone who lives here or visits.

Economic value

Nature and biodiversity helps our economy. It supports farming, tourism, and recreation. It also gives us clean air, water, and food.

Threats to our wildlife

Many things put our wild animals in danger:

Building more houses and roads can destroy their homes and bring them closer to people and more likely to have contact with them.
Invasive plants and animals that can take over and harm local wildlife and nature.
City dangers like traffic, pollution, poisons, and pets can hurt wild animals.
People behave in ways that can risk harming animals by feeding them, disturbing them, or trying to move them.
Animals can get sick or injured because of the dangers of city life and people’s pets.

Living alongside wildlife responsibly

By practicing living alongside wildlife principles, you can reduce many threats to our wildlife

Follow these simple rules to keep both people and animals safe.

Stay alert: Pay attention and follow warning signs in areas where animals live.
Keep wildlife wild: Never feed wild animals or leave food where they can find it.
Manage waste responsibly: Keep your food, trash, and compost covered so animals are not attracted to your property.
Respect wildlife: Watch animals from far away and give them enough space to leave.
Keep pets under control: Make sure your dogs and cats do not chase or hurt wild animals.
Do not move wildlife: Never pick up, move, or relocate a wild animal unless an official tells you to.
Drive cautiously: Drive slowly and carefully, especially near nature reserves.
Share accurate information: Tell others about wildlife and encourage safe behaviour.

Additional tips

Never bother wildlife: If you see a wild animal, stay calm, back away slowly, and let it leave.
Keep a safe distance: Stand far enough away so that if you hold your arm out, your thumb can completely cover the animal.
Photograph safely: Take pictures from far away and do not use flash, as it can scare the animals.

Get help if needed:

If you find an injured or sick animal, look at the Urban Wildlife Contact List for help.

fast fact

Wild animals usually try to stay away from people. Attacks are rare and usually only happen when an animal feels trapped, threatened, or is being touched. For example, people usually get bitten by snakes only when they try to catch or kill them.

Programme objectives

The goals of this programme are to:

Find practical and sustainable ways for people and animals to live safely together.
Encourage wildlife-friendly planning and development of new buildings and roads.
Teach people how to behave responsibly around animals.
Work with government organisations, animal welfare groups, rehabilitation centres, research institutions, and experts to protect wildlife.
Help people understand the laws, policies and guidelines.

Useful links

Wildlife Assistance

Get involved

Contact us

Environmental Management Department

Telephone:
021 487 2284 / 021 487 2315 / 021 487 2319

Email:
biodiversity@capetown.gov.za

General enquiries:

Living Alongside Wildlife Programme:

Email :
wildct@capetown.gov.za