BY sensors
Notes from the Field
Blog post dated 9/17/18
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What are some of the threatened species that are being protected by Anti-Poaching Units on Amakhala Game Reserve?
The African elephant is listed by IUCN as vulnerable because conservation efforts have resulted in a slow increase in population numbers in recent years. Still, approximately 96 elephants are killed every day to meet demand for the illegal ivory trade.
“Loxidonta africana.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/12392/0
“96 Elephants.” Wildlife Conservation Society. https://www.wcs.org/96-elephants
As a species, the giraffe is listed by IUCN as vulnerable. However, nine subspecies are currently recognized, and each population is impinged upon by threats specific to its region.
“Giraffa camelopardalis.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/9194/0
The African lion is listed by IUCN as vulnerable because its population has been reduced by approximately 43% over the past three generations.
“Panthera leo.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/15951/0
The hippopotamus is listed by IUCN as vulnerable. Although its population trend is currently stable, hippos can fall victim to illegal hunting for meat and ivory.
“Hippopotamus amphibius.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/10103/0
The black rhinoceros is listed by IUCN as critically endangered after suffering a 98% population loss since 1960.
“Diceros bicornis.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/6557/0
The white rhinoceros is listed by IUCN as near threatened because, although conservation efforts have preserved populations, the poaching threat still looms large.
“Ceratotetherium simum.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/4185/0
The cheetah is listed by IUCN as vulnerable, and now exist in just 10% of their historic range.
“Acinonyx jubatus.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/219/0
Two subspecies of zebra live in South Africa, the plains zebra (near threatened) and the mountain zebra (vulnerable).
“Equus quagga.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/41013/0
“Equus zebra.” The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. http://www.iucnredlist.org/details/7960/0
How does the Remote Ranger program affect the Anti-Poaching Units (APUs)?
Why are APUs necessary?
Unfortunately, many animals are at risk in their natural habitats as they can be poached for elements such as their horns, tusks or skin, which can then be bartered at a high value on the black market. Specifically, rhino horn and elephant ivory are high in demand as they are used as a status symbol or for traditional medicine.
How do anti-poaching units help?
Anti-poaching teams are specially trained in tactical defense to locate poachers and stop them in their tracks (literally!). Anti-poaching rangers work on the frontlines to protect endangered species, such as rhino, giraffe, and elephant. They also protect a variety of lesser known threatened species who live within the same habitats. If anti-poaching units can begin to work in more remote areas where species preservation is needed the most, we can ensure that wildlife will be protected for future generations to come.
“Adopt a Ranger.” Global Conservation Force. https://globalconservationforce.org/?portfolio=adopt-a-ranger
How do these efforts impact the local community?
“Education is the key to environmental protection. [At Global Conservation Force], we work with local and international communities to help inform those who may be negatively impacting the environment.”
“Local Community.” Global Conservation Force. https://globalconservationforce.org/about/
“[At Amahkala Game Reserve], we are also dedicated to educating our youth on various methods of conservation. Many children are positively influenced by environmental education programmes that are run through the Amakhala Conservation Centre. These programmes include: World Environment Day, Water Day and Arbour Day.”
“Conservation on Amakhala.” Amakhala Game Reserve. http://www.amakhala.co.za/conservation/conservation-on-amakhala