Image credit: Richard Vigne
Deep in the African veld, there is a desperate struggle to end rampant poaching. Several anti-poaching programs have been implemented to protect and conserve the continent’s precious wildlife. These initiatives involve tracking and apprehending poachers and providing education and awareness campaigns in local communities.
In coordination with local governments and other conservation groups, many anti-poaching efforts have made a real difference. Such programs have positively impacted decreasing poaching incidents, and raising awareness have also helped reduce demand for illegally-sourced animal products. In addition, anti-poaching initiatives are helping to reintegrate former poachers into local communities through job training and employment opportunities.
Image credit: Richard Vigne
Sniffer Dogs
More than 1000 rhinos were illegally massacred in South Africa in 2014. ‘Triple-role’ sniffer dogs trained as anti-poaching dogs, together with their handlers, who are often wildlife conservationists, are trying to save some of the world’s most endangered species at Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya. The increasing demand in Asia for rhino horns and elephant tusks is responsible for these massacres.
Kenya-White Paw LTD
Image credit: Richard Vigne
In Kenya, thanks to White Paw Limited and the deployment of wildlife sniffer dogs, approximately 35 animals were lost last year, or 3% of the population. “We have done quite well to curb poaching, but it has come at a considerable cost in terms of manpower and resources.
Kenya has also been successful at curbing poaching of elephants and is leading the way in Africa on this,” explains Richard Vigne, Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Kenya. Today Ol Pejeta Conservancy strives to protect all endangered species in Kenya.
Situated between the foothills of the Aberdares and the magnificent snow-capped Mount Kenya, this non-profit wildlife conservancy supports endangered species, tourism, and community outreach. It is now the most prominent Black Rhino sanctuary in East Africa and is also home to southern white rhinos and the critically endangered northern white rhino.
To find out more about how you can help support wildlife, reach out to Ol Pejeta Escapes.
First published in Fido Friendly magazine.
Woofs & Wags