How WWA UK has contributed to combatting illegal snares and poaching
WWA UK recently raised $2,000 for Sabi Game Reserve purchasing field equipment including antenna thanks to our wonderful donors who kindly gave and also generously supported our recent wine-tasting fundraiser. The funds were spent on equipment which included an antenna, as well as camera trap cases and accessories to track and monitor wild dogs and hyena in the Reserve.
Along the way we learnt some fascinating facts about these two species, including that hyena in Sabie Game Reserve love to chew anything new (including camera traps - hence the need for VERY robust cases!)
Sabie Game Reserve explains just why the Reserve so appreciated the timely donation of WWA UK equipment:
"The areas surrounding Sabie Game Reserve have been heavily impacted by snaring, largely
driven by the bushmeat trade. This illegal activity has posed a significant threat to wildlife, and
as a result, continuous routine patrols are necessary to sweep these regions and remove
snares. One of the key tools in this ongoing effort is the use of GPS collaring, which helps to
monitor the movements of Wild Dogs and Hyenas—two species that are particularly vulnerable
to snaring.
The GPS collars provide vital data that allows conservation teams to track the animals’
locations and movements in real time. Recently, Wild Dogs wearing snares were spotted within
Sabie Game Reserve—one with a snare around its neck and the other around its waist. The
snares were immediately removed, but the situation highlighted the pressing issue of snaring in
the surrounding areas.
Using GPS collar data, the team was able to track the movements of these Wild Dogs over a
period of three days. The "clock-in" points, as shown in the data, revealed that the animals
remained in the same area for an extended period, suggesting they were likely caught in the
snares during that time. This information prompted an immediate search of the surrounding
area outside Sabie Game Reserve, where it was confirmed that over 100 snares had been set
and were subsequently removed.
The use of GPS collars and telemetry devices has proven to be incredibly effective in addressing
the snaring issue. Not only do these technologies assist with real-time tracking, but they also
provide historical data that is invaluable for management decisions and planning. By being able
to pinpoint exact locations where animals are most at risk, conservation teams can take swift
action to protect them and remove snares before they cause further harm.
Both Wild Dogs and Hyenas are highly impacted by snaring, and collaring these animals is
helping to mitigate the dangers they face. With the ongoing use of GPS tracking, teams are
better equipped to respond to incidents and monitor the health of these species, significantly
contributing to their long-term conservation.
In the end, the combination of technology, data, and dedicated efforts on the ground is making
a real difference in the fight against snaring and poaching around Sabie Game Reserve, ensuring
a safer environment for the wildlife that call it home."
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