Protecting Our Night Guardians: Earth Day 2026 at De Grendel

This Earth Day, De Grendel Wines continues its commitment to conservation, not only of our vineyards and soils, but of the remarkable wildlife that shares our landscapes. Following our previous focus on coastal and wildfire conservation, this year we turn our attention inland to a quieter, often misunderstood, yet essential part of our ecosystem: owls.

In 2026, we are proud to partner with Owl Rescue Centre, a South African non-profit organisation dedicated to the protection, rehabilitation, and release of owls and other vulnerable wildlife. Based near Hartbeespoort, the centre was founded with the mission to address the alarming decline in owl populations and to create a safer environment for these important predators. 

Owls play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance, particularly in controlling rodent populations. Yet despite their importance, they are among the most common wildlife casualties, often due to habitat loss, human conflict, and persistent misconceptions. Owl Rescue Centre works tirelessly to change this, rescuing and rehabilitating over a thousand owls each year, with the goal of releasing them back into the wild where they belong. 

Beyond rescue efforts, the organisation places a strong emphasis on education and awareness, addressing long-standing superstitions and helping communities better understand the role owls play in our shared environment. Their work extends beyond individual animals to the preservation of habitats and the long-term protection of biodiversity.

"There’s something special about hearing an owl on the estate at night. It’s a sign that nature is in balance, and that the land is alive in ways we don’t always see. Protecting that balance is something we take seriously at De Grendel,” says Sir De Villiers Graaff.

From 22 April to 22 May 2026, De Grendel Wines will donate R3 for every bottle of wine sold online to support Owl Rescue Centre and their ongoing conservation efforts. Each purchase contributes directly to the rescue, care, and rehabilitation of these birds, as well as to the broader work of protecting the environments they depend on.

Explore our wines online and be part of the initiative.

At De Grendel, sustainability is about more than what happens in the vineyard. It is about recognising that we are part of a much larger ecosystem, one that thrives only when every element is protected and respected. Owls may be elusive, often heard rather than seen, but their presence is a powerful indicator of a healthy environment.

This Earth Day, we invite you to raise a glass in support of these silent guardians of the night and to play a part in preserving the delicate balance of nature.

Together, we can help protect what cannot always be seen, but is always essential.

Learn more about Owl Rescue Centre or support their work directly at www.owlrescuecentre.org.za