Quiver trees on a hill

Nominally this Namaqualand forest of quiver trees is an item in the forest category, although general forest experiences are quite different and many might argue that it does not qualify. The scant tree presence in a slightly eerie place carrying on far beyond the photo is still a presence, impacting on the minds of all that come here.

If San or Bushman, the earliest known human inhabitants of these parts had to hide here or stalk prey, it would be done effectively, as if the vegetation was dense. The fieldcraft of those hunters was legendary across the open, semi-desert plains of Kalahari, Namaqualand and Namib.

One cannot imagine that the Quiver Tree Forest ever failed or would ever fail to impact strongly upon the visitor with a feel for nature and its magnificent diversity. Long may this forest live in the dry country where survival skills of plants, animals and people will be tested in nature’s expected next cycle of changes.

Have a look at the Quiver Tree Forest Album under Parks and Gardens as well.