The Silent Killer

Niknax | Conservation Lower Zambezi, South Luangwa Conservation Society, Wildlife Threats | 19/09/2011

(Warning this post contains graphic images of snared animals that people may find disturbing.)

One of Zambia’s greatest assets is it’s beautiful wildlife, which are found in one of the many stunning National Parks that Zambia boasts.

Over the past ten years, there has been an influx of tourists flocking to enjoy Zambia’s astounding game. This has inevitably led to a greater human population residing in the game management areas bordering the National Parks. This rise in population has meant greater human animal conflict and demand for bush meat. Sadly poaching using guns, and wire snares to trap animals is now rampant across the country. Fifteen elephant carcasses have been found in the Lower Zambezi National Park this year alone, and snaring is currently wiping out thousands of animals annually. Over the  past few weeks in Luangwa National Park, nine elephant, two giraffe, a lioness and a puku have all been treated while another four elephants are still to be located and darted.

Meat-hunting in the form of snaring, is one of the most pervasive poaching activities in Zambia. Snares are typically made of a crude wire construction designed to tighten and constrict around whatever portion of an animal that encounters them. Due to their indiscriminate nature, snares inflict severe injuries on virtually all large animal species.  Although particular animals are targeted such as buffalo, elephant, hippo and small antelope, no species are spared and the majority die a painful and drawn out death.

The following photographs tell their own story of the horror and agony that is facing Zambia’s beautiful wildlife.

This giraffe is being treated from dreadful snare wounds

Wire snare on baby elephants head

The baby elephant above being treated

This lioness had a snare around her neck

The damage that a snare can do to the trunk of an elephant

These images and information are from Rachel McRobb, South Luangwa Conservation Society who is based in South Luangwa. Sarah Davies from Conservation Lower Zambezi based in Lower Zambezi also provided information. In order to try and reduce snaring and other illegal activities affecting wildlife, both these organisations work tirelessly with local communities, and in conjunction with ZAWA, immobilise and treat all snared animals reported. They face an enormous challenge and need our support. To find out how you can help save our animals, please contact either Rachel or Sarah.

Together we can make a difference.

Until next time, ciao from us all