The Black Eagles of Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden have been a magnificent part of the West Rand skies for decades, with the earliest sightings dating back to the 1940s.
In 1988 the Black Eagle Project was established to conserve, protect and maintain the Black Eagles in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden for future generations to enjoy, to educate the public about the raptors; and to obtain and share vital information on their breeding cycle.
Silverstar has been a supporter of these long-time raptor residents for several years, and this year, in celebration of World Environment Day on 5 June, a donation of R30 000 made up from coins collected from the Silverstar fountain and topped up by the property.
The Black Eagle Project team consists of about 30 volunteers with eight committee members who monitor the eagles and take steps to conserve, protect and maintain the raptors.
Gerald Draper, chairperson of the Black Eagle Project Roodekrans for the past 14 years, said the Project is delighted to once again thank Silverstar Casino for their continued support over the years, and in particular for the generous donation in 2019.
The money will be used to possibly upgrade and relocate our existing web camera, to ensure vital breeding information is recorded from the new nesting site, which was built by the eagles in the last couple of years.
“Alternatively, we will investigate purchasing a new web camera to replace the existing one. Whatever the final decision, Silverstar’s donation will be instrumental in assisting with information, as well as improving our supporters’ visual experience. Watching the Black Eagles and getting to know them better is a wonderful way to pass time.”
Adele Wilson, Silverstar’s CSI Manager added, “The Black Eagles of Roodekrans are an important part of the natural heritage of the West Rand – and the work being done by the Black Eagle Project is invaluable in raising awareness about them, monitoring, and preserving them for all of us. We’re a proud supporter of our beautiful Black Eagles.”
For more information, visit www.silverstarcasino.co.za or contact 011 662 7300.