SNARING at Kliprivierberg Nature Reserve has come under the spotlight when news about a blue wildebeest being trapped in a snare was shared on community groups.
KNRA confirmed ongoing incidents of snaring and it also came to light that a number of smaller animals are often caught in snares in the reserve. According to Christine Loukakis, a member of the KNRA committee who commented on behalf of KNRA, the primary reason behind the ensnaring could be that people are opportunistic, and rumour has it that animals are sold to a butcher.
“Easy access to the reserve could also be the reason,” said Loukakis.
No one has been caught for snaring animals at the nature reserve. Antelope are the most targeted by snares at the reserve. The reserve has had at least two incidents where animals were snared or chased by dogs and hurt.
The KNRA is highly concerned that a Reedbuck was trapped and fortunately released by a member of the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve Association.
Loukakis further told the CHRONICLE that fencing monitoring, double fencing and active 24/7 security could help to eliminate the snares.
She added that, “If we could get funding, we could be a great help to ensure the fences are monitored and many projects could be developed to help this situation because as KNRA, we have some great projects in mind,” said Loukakis. The snaring is a huge concern and it needs to be addressed urgently, added Loukakis.
At the time of going to press, the CHRONICLE had not received a comment from the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve manager after several attempts.
READ :
Woman raped in Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve
For free daily local news in the south, visit our sister newspapers Alberton Record, Comaro Chronicle, Southern Courier and Get it Joburg South Magazine.
Remember to visit our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram pages. You can also email our offices on cvdwalt@caxton.co.za, juliem@caxton.co.za or luckyt@caxton.co.za
Get regular news updates sent directly to your inbox: Newsletter-Signup
