“Without drastic action, some rhinos could be extinct in the wild within the next 10-20 years.”
We’re willing to call our brave anti-poaching rangers and K9’s an emergency service. Without them, what would happen to our wildlife?
That’s why we are calling on you for your support at this crucial time.
3 Quick Actions that you can take today to support rangers;
- PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT – DONATE TODAY
- Visit the PitTrack K9 Conservation Facebook page for updates from the team
- Watch the documentary STROOP Journey Into The Rhino Horn War
Right this moment, thousands of men, women, dogs and horses are on patrol, security national parks, reserves and wildlife concessions across Africa. Risking their lives is not out of the ordinary for them, but as we speak due to the currently outbreak of Covid-19, countries around the world are closing their borders, restricting movement and in cases such as South Africa, complete lockdown from Friday 27 March 2020.
In recent weeks, a leading rhino poaching detective was shot and killed on his way to work. A constant danger anti-poaching and conservation leaders face.
We’ve also seen promising news (and very hopeful sign) that endangered African Black Rhino numbers are increasing thanks to ‘immense’ conservation efforts. A small token of joy amidst the daily routine of anti-poaching rangers.
Captured In Africa Foundation Founder Drew Abrahamson, said: “When we hear of any positive news concerning wildlife and particularly endangered wildlife, we do allow ourselves a little smile of encouragement, knowing that the efforts from our rangers and conservation professionals is showing signs of paying off.”
But Drew added: “It’s in these times, that we must ensure we do not give up, that we do not lessen our efforts or lose hope or allow these very good successes to take our mind from the larger picture. There is still much work to be done, which is why we will continue working hard with our colleagues in the industry, partners and anti-poaching units to ensure such good news is repeated time and again.”
We cannot allow our efforts to slow down.
PitTrack Rangers and K9’s are still on active duty
During the current South African lockdown, the public are advised to stay home to safeguard themselves and others from risk of infection of Coronavirus (Covid-19). Our brave heroes, the doctors, nurses and emergency services are not so fortunate.
The same goes for anti-poaching rangers who right now, are in the field, doing what they do, protecting our wildlife. Captured In Africa Foundation’s partner PitTrack K9 Conservation Unit, are in that exact position.
PitTrack Founder Carl Thornton describes a tough situation;
“The threat to wildlife is greater than ever before (during Covid-19). We have almost a full compliment of rangers and K9’s posted across several key areas, including Greater Kruger National Park and other wildlife facilities (undisclosed for security purposes). Of course it’s a very difficult time for everyone, least of all for our rangers, some of whom are self-isolating and with South Africa now on a 21-day lockdown, the pressure on our operations and our guys is immense.”
“Our costs have increased ten-fold, as we have needed to bring in new operators to replace those who couldn’t work due to recent Government isolation requirements. This also includes additional uniforms and equipment.”
“We had to also stock pile on commodities and relevant operational goods like dog food , f10 veterinarian disinfectant, K9 medications, tick & flea prevention, hand cleanser, gloves, masks, cleaning spirits, toiletries etc. We have also had to help our K9 Kennel workers, as they get payed weekly and can’t travel, we are most concerned on how they will be able to survive. So we’re helping them as much as we possibly can.”
3 Quick Actions that you can take today to support rangers;
- PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT – DONATE TODAY
- Visit the PitTrack K9 Conservation Facebook page for updates from the team
- Watch the documentary STROOP Journey Into The Rhino Horn War
A ranger and his trusted K9
The current rhino poaching crisis really began in 2008, with rhinos increasingly being killed for their horn throughout Africa. The belief in certain Asian countries that rhino horn can treat ailments has never been scientifically proven, yet this cultural misnomer has led to a devastating loss of life, both animal and human.
Whilst poaching of rhinos has decreased since its peak of 1,349 in 2015 (South Africa), many debate as to why this decrease may be – conservation efforts have certainly helped a great deal – yet sadly fewer rhinos exist in the world today, particularly in the poaching “hotspot” of Kruger National Park, South Africa. Less rhinos = fewer rhinos poached. And the poaching is spreading to other parks, reserves and countries.
A rhino is still killed every 10 hours.
South Africa holds approximately 80% of the world’s rhinos and has been the country hardest hit by poaching syndicates.
PitTrack K9 Conservation Unit need your help.
Free and safe, just how we like them.
Minimising your risk to infection during Covid-19 (stay safe)
Please take the advice of both your local government and health professionals, such as the World Health Organisation.
• Wash your hands frequently
• Maintain social and physical distancing
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Practice respiratory hygiene (ie cover mouth & nose when sneezing or use gloves and masks)
• Seek medical help should you develop a cough, fever and/or have difficulty breathing
• Keep up to date with medical advice and government restrictions
You can learn more information and keep up to date on COVID-19 via the official World Health Organisation (WHO) website or your government website and social media.
We all hope that this current situation passes as swiftly and with as minimal impact as possible to people’s health and animals safety.
Thank you and stay safe!!
The Captured In Africa Foundation Team
3 Quick Actions that you can take today to support rangers;
