Pioneering research in South Africa

Mr Cole, with his wife and Dr Poland, took a group of 6th form scientists on a pioneering conservation trip to Kwa-Zulu Natal in South Africa during the summer holidays. Following the two successful Honduras trips last year, King’s was invited by Operation Wallacea to pilot a two week expedition starting with a three day Bush Training course in Umfolozi Game Reserve. Next summer, other schools will be able to take part in the research project pioneered by King's students this year.

Led by a local Zulu, the party were shown how to recognise the tracks and signs of the ‘Big Five’. Leaving at sunrise, the students were taken on foot with armed rangers through the bush, coming into close contact with white and black rhinos, elephants, buffalo, leopard and lions.

Staying in uMkhuze Reserve gave the students first-hand experience of conservation work aiding scientists in collecting data in the field. Surprisingly, although much is known about the large mammals and birds in the game reserves, very little is recorded about small mammals and reptiles. The students finished their stay in South Africa with a dive course at Sodwana Bay, giving them a chance to appreciate that life on coral reefs is as much threatened as life on land.