The Wynberg Cave System, the most important site for cave fauna in South Africa at risk

The Wynberg Cave System, located on the Cape Peninsula, represents one of the most significant sites of
cave fauna in southern Africa. However, the continuous increase in cave visitation is severely impacting
the system as evidenced by graffiti, the trampling and destruction of cave habitats and even a reduction in
the sizes of bat colonies. In October 2019, the Wynberg Cave System was visited by a group of scientist,
who discovered unregistered troglomorphic species. This, subsequently increased the number of troglo-
bites occurring in the system to 19, which likely means that this system has the potential to become the
first hotspot of subterranean biodiversity in Africa. Protecting the Wynberg Cave System is therefore of
great importance. Here, we propose short and long-term strategies that include educating local communi-
ties on the importance of conserving caves and installing gated entrances.