Mont-Aux-Sources LTSER - Lesotho, South Africa

The area is considered especially important from a wetland perspective because rivers such as the Tugela, Vemvane, Khubelu, Motete, Matseng and Malibamatso all have their origins in these alpine wetland systems. Notable mammals that inhabit these wetlands are domesticated sheep and horses, as well as ice rats. Within and close to the area of the MaS-LTSER are the Tšehlanyane National Park, Lucapa Diamond Mine, Letseng Diamond Mine, Matsoku Mine, Kao Mine, and Liqhobong Mine. Some of the alpine wetlands in the area are experiencing degradation, and there are some that can be considered severely degraded. Wetland degradation in this alpine region can lead to loss of ecosystem services as well as livelihood of the locals.