Wise Owl Lifestyle
Founded by environmental educators in Gqeberha – over 100 articles published
Our region is home to some of the world’s most unique biodiversity — from the fynbos of the Eastern Cape to the seas around Algoa Bay. But many of these ecosystems are under pressure: habitat loss, pollution, invasive species and changing climate patterns all reduce nature’s resilience.
At Wise Owl Lifestyle, we believe that understanding these pressures is the first step toward meaningful change.
By learning how our natural world works and what it faces, you become part of the solution — even if you work from your home. Because conservation begins with knowledge, respect and action in thought and deed.
Why Nature Conservation Matters?
Our Focus Areas
Raising awareness of local conservation issues and the groups doing the frontline work.
Sharing educational articles and stories that make complex topics (like alien-species control, water-pollution and habitat restoration) accessible and understandable.
Highlighting organisations that are actively working on the ground, such as:
• Outstanding environmentalists and activists in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, the World
• Private groups that advocate for sustainability and nature conservation
• WESSA, wildlife and environment society in South Africa
Though we are based in Gqeberha and live with physical limitations, we believe our efforts in education, insight, and connection help amplify the work of those on the ground.
Every article you read and share helps build awareness, shape policy and support conservation in its many forms.
Get Involved
You don’t have to join a beach clean-up to make a difference.
Here are three ways you can engage from your own space:
1. Stay informed – Download our free “Eco-Conscious Daily Checklist” and add small actions to live sustainably, like turning off the tap when you brush your teeth, or tracking your water use.
2. Share awareness – Use our educational guides to spark conversations with friends, family or in your online community. Awareness is the seed of action.
3. Support local heroes – Follow and highlight the efforts of our featured environmentalists and WESSA’s alien-clearing team. Share their work. Donate if you can. Encourage your network to support them too.
A Beginner's Guide to Nature Conservation terminology:
Welcome to our guide on nature conservation terminology! Here, you'll find a list of key terms and concepts that are used when talking about nature conservation. It is not an exhaustive list; it is just a collection of the most commonly used terms. Whether you're a student, a professional, or simply concerned about the environment, this resource will help you navigate the language of and enhance your knowledge.
Biodiversity:
The rich variety of plants and animals in their environment (e.g. the endemic African penguin, the vast array of succulent plants in the Succulent Karoo, and the Proteaceae and Ericas of the Fynbos biome).
Ecosystem
A community of living organisms interacting with their environment. South Africa's ecosystem is characterised by its extraordinary biodiversity and diverse range of biomes.
Sustainability/
Sustainable Use
Using biological resources at a rate within their capacity for renewal, for the benefit of present and future generations. The core philosophy is that human well-being and economic growth are dependent on healthy ecosystems and the sustainable use of natural resources.
In-situ conservation
The conservation of ecosystems and natural habitats in their natural surroundings. (e.g. protected areas like the Kruger National Park and the Maloti-Drakensberg Park)
Restoration/
Rehabilitation
Restoring degraded ecosystems or natural processes of renewal. Ecosystem restoration and rehabilitation in South Africa are vital for providing essential ecosystem services, supporting livelihoods and the economy, enhancing climate change resilience, and conserving unique biodiversity.
Alien invasive species
Organisms introduced from elsewhere that threaten local biodiversity and ecosystems. Some of the most common and worst invasive species in South Africa include the Black Wattle, Indian Mynah, and Water Hyacinth, which cause significant environmental damage.
SANParks
South African National Parks, managing the country's national park system. They protect a vast network of national parks, manages diverse ecosystems including freshwater and marine environments, safeguards wildlife through anti-poaching efforts and monitoring, and promotes sustainable ecotourism that funds its conservation efforts. It also plays a key role in environmental education, scientific research, and partnering with local communities to ensure conservation benefits society.
Deforestation
n South Africa deforestation is a significant problem driven by the demand for charcoal and firewood, especially in dense rural areas, leading to a substantial loss of tree cover and contributing to climate change.
Biome
A major environmental community classified by predominant vegetation and environmental conditions (e.g., Fynbos, Savanna, Karoo Desert, Grasslands and Forests)
Habitat
The area that provides a species with adequate food, water, cover, and living space. South Africa has an incredibly diverse habitat, ranging from desert to subtropical swamp and grassland, which contributes to it being the 3rd most biologically diverse country globally.
Protected Areas
Geographical areas formally protected by legislation for biodiversity conservation (e.g. Kruger National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Table Mountain National Park)
Ex-situ conservation
Conservation of components of biodiversity outside their natural habitats. (e.g. in botanical gardens and zoos).
Poaching:
The illegal hunting or killing of wildlife. It is a major concern for species like rhinos and elephants.
Endangered/
Vulnerable/Critically Endangered
Geographical areas formally protected by legislation for biodiversity conservation (e.g. Kruger National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and the Table Mountain National Park)
DFFE
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment is the government body responsible for national environmental policy and management. The current Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment of South Africa is Dr Dion George.
Rewilding
It is a conservation strategy focused on restoring and reconnecting large, core wilderness areas to create self-sustaining, biodiverse ecosystems. Four animals being reintroduced or actively rewilded in South Africa are African wild dogs, cheetahs, zebras, and rhinos.
