Msinsi Nature Reserve – Berea – Durban

Msinsi Nature Reserve

The Msinzi Nature Reserve borders Manor Gardens on its Southern end, and is located on the western flank of the Berea. This natural area of 7 hectares (as well as nearby Pigeon Valley) forms a valuable green lung to our suburb Manor Gardens, Durban. The reserve is still in transition from what was once a mango orchard and dongas (eroded ravines). Conservators have sought to create a mix of natural coastal grassland, bush and forest. This policy creates greater biodiversity. Maintaining the grassland has been more difficult as the terrain shows every indication of wanting to return to forest and bush. Maintaining the grasslands is achieved by the judicious burning of saplings in the winter months and slashing of brush. The reserve is home to many permanent and seasonal birds, as well as numerous species of flowers, plants and trees.
Msinsi is the Zulu name for the Erythrina tree (Coral tree) and many fine specimens can be seen in the reserve, as well as other trees.

Graham Leslie McCallum

An early morning view across the cricket oval towards the Msinsi Nature Reserve forest.

The grasslands at Msinsi nature Reserve.

A pleasant path in the grasslands.