Focusing on what’s hidden

When visitors join a 1.5 hour guided tour of Melville Koppies, they will focus on something that will take them away from the everyday stresses that we all bear.

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Mole-rats flourish on Melville Koppies. With upper and lower Bugs Bunny teeth and without eyes, they are more suited to lives underground than on the surface.

Their teeth easily munch through roots, bulbs and tubers but what makes obstacles for them on the Koppies are numerous white quartz pebbles that can be found just below the surface.

While hikers are unlikely to see a mole-rat, they will spot their little mounds of white pebbles, as if a child has been manufacturing fairy gardens.

Hidden in the burrows are a pair of mole rats who reign over a colony of about 14. Unlike humans, the old female is the one that reproduces for the entire colony.

The young ones are expected to babysit the very young and to help find food for the elders.

Melville Koppies Central is open every Sunday between 08:00 and 11:30.

Choose from a 5km self-guided hike, a guided tour which can be booked by calling 079 532 0083 or be there by 08:30, a 3km self-guided heritage trail or just take a map and guide yourself along the extensive network of paths.

On the first Sunday of the month join a guided 8km hike starting at 08:00 sharp.

Entry costs R80 for adults and R40 for children.

All income from the sale of tickets is used for maintenance of the Koppies which amounts to R22 000 per month.

Security on the Koppies is provided and visitors can park in secure parking opposite the entrance at Marks Park in Judith Road, Emmarentia.

For more information contact wendavid@mweb.co.za or call 079 532 0083.

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