Agri Kultuur Julie / July 2014 | Page 59

learn more about. Each plant, animal and object, although seemingly insignificant, is a treasure chest of secrets and stories which wait to be explored. Some aspects are clear and easily explained. Discovering other secrets and unravelling many mysteries may require an expert and trained “eye”. Talking about eyes, of course to really experience nature requires more than the use of eyes and ears. To make an excursion an adventure all five senses should be used. True nature lovers are keen observers, wonder about everything, accept nothing as obvious and never stop asking questions. They discover and learn for life, in other words, they are lifelong students. As is true of every area it is worth doing a proper interpretative nature tour with a knowledgeable nature guide. (And I am not referring to big-five-lots-offlowers guides!) Such a tour will broaden the understanding and appreciation of the natural environment in any area. Keep in mind though: Even so-called experts scratch the surface. The more one knows about the Klein Karoo, the more one realises how much more one has yet to learn, because the field is as wide as nature! Top: Sugar Bush (Suikerbos) Centre: Horse’s Teeth (Perdetande) Bottom: Cat’s Nails (Katnaels)