Award-winning wildlife expert Gareth Patterson (62) dies

No funeral arrangements have been made at this stage.

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - Award-winning wildlife expert, author and conservationist Gareth Patterson (62), whose life’s work was devoted to protecting South Africa’s wild places and creatures, has died at his home near the Knysna Forest.

His brother, Stewart Patterson, confirmed his sudden passing during a telephone conversation.

Concern was raised after friends were unable to reach Patterson for several days.

Friends and family reached out to locals who arranged a welfare check at his home on Thursday evening, 5 February. Patterson was found deceased.

Patterson lived and worked on the edge of the Knysna Forest and was associated with Blaricum Heights Farm on the Old Cape Road in Knysna. He was widely respected for his lifelong commitment to wildlife conservation and environmental awareness.

He is survived by his brother, Stewart Patterson, and sister, Ailie Patterson-Urquhart.

Stewart, who lives in England, said the family is still in shock. Although his death is believed to have been due to natural causes, no further information is available at this stage. The family is making arrangements to return to South Africa as soon as possible.

They believe he died peacefully and described his passing as a huge loss, not only to those who knew him, but to the wildlife he cared for so deeply.

No funeral arrangements have been made at this stage.