South African National Biodiversity Institute

28/07/2026

📢Call for Young Wildlife Professionals internship, please view details online:

September 2026 – August 2027 The South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) is responsible for Component 1 of the Global Environment Facility (GEF-6) funded project, implemented by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) through the United Nations Environment Pr...

28/07/2026

27/07/2026

We are a rich storehouse of valuable information on plant life, climate, ecosystems and biodiversity of South Africa

23/07/2026

Because grasslands can be environments of extremes, this limits the growth of trees, which means lifestyles must adjust to open landscapes. Here’s an example of how some animals that inhabit grasslands have adapted:

21/07/2026

It’s a common misconception that bats are "flying rodents". Biologically speaking, bats are actually much closer cousins to dogs, cats, horses, and whales than they are to rodents!
Beyond being evolutionary marvels, these nocturnal creatures do wonders for our environment. They act as vital ecosystems support by pollinating plants and controlling insect populations.
Sadly, they need our protection now more than ever. The 2025 Mammal Red List shows that several of our local bat species, like the Lesueur's hairy bat and the African straw-coloured fruit bat, are edging closer to extinction due to habitat loss and climate pressures. 🦇

18/07/2026

Yesterday, Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts and our CEO, Shonisani Munzhedzi, led the celebration event at our Pretoria National Botanical Garden under the theme 'Planting hope, growing resilience: 67 minutes for people, nature and climate action'.
Nelson Mandela’s legacy was built on the principles of service, responsibility, community empowerment, and long-term societal transformation.
A tree planting ceremony was held to mark the day. It represented a practical and symbolic way of honouring the values Nelson Mandela lived by while also contributing to climate resilience and environmental sustainability.