Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve
The Bunga Forest Botanical Reserve conserves mist-forest along the southern slopes of the Bvumba Mountains in the Eastern Highlands, Zimbabwe. It is the largest conserved area in the Bvumba highlands,[1] and can be accessed from various points along the circuitous Burma Valley Road.[2] The forest was logged for timber up to the mid 20th century.
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Flora
Syzygium guineense predominates the primary forest, and Dracaena fragrans is common in its shaded undershrub. Pioneer plants include Aphloia theiformis, Macaranga mellifera and Maesa lanceolata.[1] Albizia gummifera and A. schimperiana dominate the lower slopes and western rain shadow. Bracken-briar on the forest verges is populated by Pteridium aquilinum, Smilax anceps, Buddleja salviifolia, besides Vangueria and Vernonia species.[1]
Fauna
Marshall's pygmy chameleon is present, as is several range-restricted birds, including Swynnerton's robin, Stripe-cheeked greenbul, Chirinda apalis and White-tailed crested-flycatcher.
Vicinity
The Vumba Botanical Gardens, Leopard Rock Hotel, White Horse Inn, Seldomseen Cottages, Genaina Guest House and coffee shop are all in its immediate vicinity.[2] Banti Forest Reserve is situated some 22 km to the south.[3]
References
- "Bvumba Highlands". Sites - Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs). BirdLife International. Retrieved 25 November 2014.
- "Eastern Higlands: The Bvumba Mountains". Zambezi Safari & Travel Company. Retrieved 25 November 2014.
- "Banti Forest Reserve". Sites - Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs). BirdLife International. Retrieved 25 November 2014.