Thank you for volunteering for this important endeavor! To ensure a successful and enjoyable event for everyone, please take a moment to review the following information.
Meeting time: 6:00
Date:25/01/2025
Location: Die Bosveld, Doornpoort
Strive to be punctual; considering the heat and the group’s needs. Aim to arrive 10-15 minutes early if possible.
Distance
Distance covered during the event will be determined by certain factors on the day, but anticipate walking 4-8km. There will be an opportunity to exit for those that do not wish to complete the entire distance.
Weather Outlook
Mostly sunny, with temps of 19-33’
Terrain
Rugged and dense thorny woodland.
What to wear:
* Comfortable, durable, and breathable clothing that provides adequate protection against the elements. Opt for long trousers, especially in these thorny environments.
* Mornings may be cool, but it warms up quickly. Consider bringing a backpack to stow away your jersey/jacket later.
* We usually opt for neutral colours in the bush, but wearing bright or highly visible colours are recommended to help maintain visibility.
What to bring:
Compulsory items
* Medication you may require for allergies or medical conditions
* Enough drinking water (1,5L-2L per person recommended)
* Sturdy, yet comfortable hiking shoes or boots
* Sunscreen
* Cellphone with enough battery power
Optional useful items and equipment:
* Hat
* Backpack
* Leatherman/similar tool up to small bolt-cutters works well for removing the kind of snares we will encounter
* Walking/hiking stick
* Binoculars/Camera (please note the focus should remain on snare removal, but taking photos of the event is encouraged)
* Basic first aid kit
What NOT to bring:
* Firearms, unless authorized by event organizers or you are a member of law enforcement. If you feel the need, pepper spray is usually effective against animals as well as humans
* Pets
* Alcohol/mind-altering substances
* Unnecessary items that contribute to carry weight
* Expensive or valuable items
Adhere to the principle of; Take only photographs, and leave only footprints. Ensure that anything you bring also exits.
What We Hope To Achieve
By removing snares, we send a strong message to poachers that we will not tolerate this cruel and unacceptable method of hunting.
Through active participation in these events, there is an opportunity to network, gain valuable insights, and acquire firsthand knowledge and experience in combating snare poaching.
Furthermore, the removal of snares protects vulnerable species, and gives biodiversity a chance to recover and flourish, leading to a healthier and more balanced environment. Together, we can make a significant impact on wildlife protection and conservation.
These events also serve as crucial avenues for promoting awareness. By actively participating in snare removal activities, we not only protect wildlife and the environment but also raise awareness about the devastating impacts of snare poaching.
Have any questions? Please don't hesitate to ask!
Kind regards
Jason van den Berg
076 982 0471
For more info:
https://www.facebook.com/rooikatconservation
If you are an iNaturalist user, we encourage you to share your finds and help us document the biodiversity of North Gauteng!
https://www.inaturalist.org
WhatsApp Group
This WhatsApp group is for sharing important event information and communication during the event. It will not function as a chat room and will be used solely for data gathering to assist management and mitigation. Participants will be removed after the event.
For those new to snare removals, it could be well worth your time to have a look at the following link:
https://mailjvdb.wixsite.com/rooikat/learn-more-about-poaching
Additionally, at the bottom of the page there are many informative videos as well.
Procedure:
Before removing any snare, it is important to gather as much evidence and data as possible. It is recommended to document any snare found as follows:
1. Photo:
Take a picture of the snare in its original position as you encounter it.
2. Noose Knots:
Capture a close-up photo of the noose knot, as well as any other unique or noteworthy details regarding the construction of the snare.
3. Height:
Note the height at which the snare is set (e.g., knee or chest level).
4. Surrounding Environment:
Take note of the terrain, vegetation, and any nearby water sources that might attract wildlife, as this will also help you start recognizing patterns.
5. Bait or Lures:
Document any bait, lures, or markings (e.g., disturbed ground or drag marks) near the snare that might have been used to attract animals, or even mark paths.
6. Material of Snare:
Identify the material used in constructing the snare (e.g., nylon, steel wire, cable).
7. Tracks or Signs of Activity:
Document any human activity (e.g., litter, cigarette butts, or tools) or wildlife activity (e.g., droppings, fur, or feathers) near the snare.
8. Footprints:
Document any human footprints in the vicinity of the snare. This is crucial additional evidence as it may help identify culprits.
9. Condition of the Snare:
Note whether the snare has been triggered or if it’s still intact (active), as this could indicate how recently it was set.
10. *GPS Location:* likely the most important. Record an accurate GPS location or pin drop of where the snare was found. Make sure you give your device enough time to orientate it self for better accuracy.
11. Nearby Snares:
Check the surrounding area for additional snares, as poachers often set multiple traps in one area.
Once all evidence has been collected, and this information has been sent to the WhatsApp group, the snare may be removed.