Stealth aerial support for anti-poaching units
Air Shepherd will provide much needed aerial support to anti-poaching units within KZN's game reserves
ANTI-POACHING forces in Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife reserves received vital aerial support when the Air Shepherd UAV project recently took flight.
The project is a partnership between the Lindbergh Foundation, Peace Parks Foundation and Ezemvelo.
It funds and co-ordinates an initial 14-month plan for the operational testing and deployment of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) to assist anti-poaching units (APU) on the ground.
Conservation agencies are continually having to step up their anti-poaching efforts as poachers become increasingly sophisticated in their methods and means.
‘Ezemvelo is excited about the recent launch of the Air Shepherd UAV project,’ said Ezemvelo CEO David Mabunda.
‘It is my belief that, to fight the scourge of rhino poaching, we need to be more innovative and never cease to investigate the potential of emerging technologies. Although there is no one method that will be the silver bullet that puts an end to poaching, UAVs usefully complement the multi-pronged counter-poaching strategies that Ezemvelo is already implementing.’
The Air Shepherd operation will see a variety of aerial platforms flown in high risk poaching areas by qualified and licensed UAV pilots.
Each UAV is fitted with cameras and sensors that deliver real time data to a central command unit where trained visual data analysts interpret the data. This provides actionable intelligence to APU members.
UAVs can silently cover vast poaching hotspots, using clear infrared and thermal imaging technology at night, when most incursions occur. However, these proactive detection systems are most valuable for their capability to reduce danger levels that rangers are exposed to.
‘While patrolling with limited visibility at night, rangers are constantly subjected to the threat of wild animals and armed poachers. Through effective UAV aerial support, rangers can be guided directly to the threat and receive advanced warning of possible armed contact situations,’ said Peace Parks Foundation CEO Werner Myburgh.
‘New technology forms an integral part of the future of conservation and we congratulate Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife for their continued pioneering spirit to address the wildlife crime crisis.’
