From less than a 1000 springbok, the population had climbed to over 11 000 in some 20 years. The Reserve now operates at carrying capacity for most non-migratory species.
The predominant large mammals on the Reserve are oryx Oryx Gazella and springbok Antidorcas Marsupialis. Other large mammals include kudu, Hartman’s and Burchell’s zebra, giraffe, klipspringer, steenbok, hartebeest and baboon. Predators include leopard, spotted and brown hyena, black-backed jackal, aardwolf, bat-eared fox, Cape fox, African wildcat, caracal and genet. To date around 170 bird species have been identified, including Namibia’s only true endemic, the Dune Lark. The dunes harbour a rich and diverse micro-fauna and work is still in progress on the inventory of rodents, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates.
The Reserve’s environmental management approach is one of minimal interference and constant monitoring. Species-specific conservation initiatives are undertaken in partnership with relevant specialist organizations. Endangered and historically indigenous species such as cheetah have been reintroduced with the help of the Cheetah Conservation Fund (CCF) and Naankuse Foundation. A total of 21 cheetahs and 2 leopards have successfully been released on the Reserve. Giraffe and red hartebeest have also been successfully reintroduced and their numbers now constitute a healthy population. The Reserve is furthermore a safe haven for the endangered Ludwig’s bustard, a large terrestrial bird species. Their current population is estimated at 140 birds.