The City of Cape Town started reopening nature reserves to the public last week after they were closed at the start of lockdown in March. Bothasig Fynbos Nature Reserve in Bosmansdam Road was opened on Wednesday July 15 much to the delight of resident Stanley Whittikom, 71, who was one of the first visitors to the reserve for an early morning walk on Thursday. Mr Whittikom said he had walked at the reserve four times a week before lockdown. “I’m happy it’s open again. It’s been dry in there for very long, but the water’s back. I can actually hear frogs in there.” The City urges the public to keep their masks on and wash their hands before visiting the reserves. No group activities are allowed.