Springside Nature Reserve
Springside Nature Reserve, proclaimed in 1948 and the flagship of Hillcrest Conservancy, is 20ha of rich biodiversity: forest, grassland and wetland. The forested areas provide shelter, nesting sites and food for many bird species; the grassland nurtures a multitude of indigenous wildflowers; and the natural wetland, among the few remaining in KZN, filters the stream, conserves water in droughts and reduces flood damage, whilst sustaining a vital wildlife habitat (see Flora and Fauna Species List).