New life at Vergelegen: the birth of a rare dwarf Nguni calf

Vergelegen, a stunning 3000-hectare wine estate nestled in Somerset West, is abuzz with the joys of new life this season. Home to both a flourishing vineyard and a remarkable animal sanctuary, the estate has welcomed an array of adorable newcomers, striking a perfect balance between agriculture and conservation.

Among the most notable additions is a dwarf Nguni calf, born on December 26. With his short, stocky legs and unique brown-and-white spotted hide, this little creature is anticipated to reach a maximum height of only knee to waist height upon maturity. “Dwarf Nguni cattle have a much shorter lifespan than standard Nguni, usually around four years, compared to up to 20 years for a normal Nguni,” said Vergelegen’s environmental manager, Eben Olderwagen.

“His mother is very protective and closely monitors anyone who approaches.” While the calf remains unnamed, he joins another young Nguni, Henry, who has become something of a celebrity on the estate. Bottle-fed and affectionate, Henry enjoys spending time with Sue Steenkamp, the estate's hospitality and events manager, in her garden.

In the last quarter of 2025, Vergelegen experienced a remarkable baby boom, registering a total of 133 Nguni calves between July and September, which increased the herd to approximately 450 animals. The good vibes continue with the birth of two eland calves in mid-December, bringing the estate’s eland population to 11. Originally introduced in July 2020 as part of a long-term ecological study, these gentle giants are monitored for their grazing impact on the surrounding fynbos species and grasses.

Vergelegen's remarkable wildlife efforts are exemplified by its bontebok population, which has seen seven new lambs born in October, bringing their total numbers to around 90.While this is slightly fewer than the average of 12 to 15 lambs born annually, Olderwagen notef that such fluctuations were  expected as young females reach breeding age and new social groups emerge.

The estate is also home to several spotted eagle owls, with a pair nesting annually in the oak trees near the management offices. In November, two owlets were discovered safely beneath the watchful eye of their diligent parents, showcasing Vergelegen's commitment to wildlife conservation.

Excitement continues to build with the anticipated arrival of two heavily pregnant Rau quagga mares. Currently, Vergelegen hosts 10 Rau quagga, part of a dedicated conservation initiative to selectively breed southern plains zebra that resemble the extinct quagga, which once thrived in vast herds across South Africa before their decline in the late 19th century.

Weekend Argus.

Vergelegen welcomes the public daily from 08h30 to 17h00, with the last entry at 16h00. Entrance costs R30 per person, with discounted rates for pensioners and scholars. Pensioners can enjoy free entry on Mondays, presenting a perfect opportunity to explore this breathtaking estate and its diverse fauna and flora.