By Janet Cuthbertson | Project leader
Protecting Zululand’s Rare Sand Forest – August Update
Dear Friends,
This past month brought two attempted intrusions into our sanctuary. We are profoundly grateful to our dedicated nature guards, whose vigilance prevented poachers from succeeding. The intruders had prepared to set cruel snares—fastened to branches and trees along animal trails—but were disturbed before they could act. In their flight, they dropped a large bundle of snares. We later learned that poachers often abandon snares when cornered, as possession is required for conviction. This highlights the daily challenges we face in protecting wildlife.
Poachers frequently operate in syndicates supplying commercial outlets. One popular destination for bushmeat is the Shisa Nyama stalls, where barbecued wild meat is sold. Every animal is at risk, but especially dear to us are the zebra who have befriended us, together with two orphaned wildebeest—now grown, yet inseparable from their zebra companions.
It is not only the larger animals that suffer. Birds—over 350 species, many rare—are vulnerable, as are unique red data species such as the fourtoed elephant shrew, Tonga red squirrel, and suni antelope, and many others.
Our Ongoing Response
Patrols & Guards: Day and night patrols continue, removing snares and monitoring wildlife.
Surveillance: We are seeking expert advice regarding more advanced surveillance equipment to strengthen protection.
Urgent Need: To keep pace with these threats, we urgently need to employ another wildlife guard.
Your Support Matters - poachers can continue to be stopped, and precious lives saved. Yet the danger is constant, and we cannot relax. Every gift helps us expand patrols, improve surveillance, and safeguard the rare sand forest and its wildlife.
Together, we can ensure that zebra, wildebeest, birds, and all the rare biodiversity and species of this fragile ecosystem continue to thrive.
Thank you for caring!
SuniRidge Sand Forest Park Team
By Janet Anne Cuthbertson | Project leader
By Janet Anne Cuthbertson | Project leader
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