“One day, only the stories of these iconic horses will be left for the next generation.”
This worrying statement by a member of the Kaapsehoop Concerned Residents follows after at least 10 horses of the renowned Kaapsehoop wild horse herd were killed as a result of the recent wild fires in the area.
Six of the horses had such severe burn wounds that they had to be euthanised, but others could not escape the blaze.
Fears are mounting that as the search continues, more horses with injuries or even fatalities may be discovered, which could be detrimental to the already uncertain future of the species.
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These fires swept across the Lowveld, destroying large tracts of land. Kaapsehoop and surrounds were one of at least 12 areas that fell victim, along with, among others, parts of Bushbuckridge, White River, Mbombela, Barberton, Lydenburg, Sabie, eManzana and Machadodorp, in what is deemed to be some of the worst blazes the region has ever experienced.
While the exact magnitude is still being calculated, André Scheepers, the manager of the Lowveld and Escarpment Fire Protection Association (Lefpa), believes that nearly 15 000ha of land was destroyed in these fires.
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The Kaapsehoop Concerned Residents suspects that the horses became disorientated by the smoke and the tumult brought on by the fires. “It is unusual for horses to be burnt in a fire, considering they are not fenced in. Naturally, their instinct would warn them long before they were in real danger and they would leave the proximity,” the residents said, and added that it is devastating to the already endangered herd.
“There has been a significant decline in the number of horses in the past few years. African horse sickness is a yearly concern, as well as the speed of vehicles on the roads.”
While all fires have now been contained, Lefpa remains on high alert as the South African Weather Services indicate a dry season until the end of October this year.
“We are calling on members of the public and landowners not to start any open or uncontrolled fires,” Scheepers urged.
Landowners are advised to implement the following in order to prevent fires:
• Ensure airstrips are operational and grade or slash all roads.
• Ensure all fire-related training is complete and medical check-ups are done.
• Remind all staff of the dangers of warming fires and braai fires that are still smouldering, and emphasise that these should not be left unattended.
Fires and emergencies can be reported on 0860 663 473.
*The residents of the area are passionate about the survival and welfare of the Kaapsehoop wild horses. The wild horses have become synonymous with Kaapsehoop. Many visitors to the village come here specifically to see these beautiful animals running free.
Expensive to track, monitor and treat, any contribution to this end would be enormously appreciated. Contributions can be made by contacting 066 230 3383.
