Three would-be poachers were likely eaten alive after being attacked by a pride of lions in Sibuya Game Reserve in July of 2018. Set on 30 square miles, Sibuya is one of the most popular reserves in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. Authorities believe the group had broken in and was in search of the reserve’s rhino herd. Owner, Nick Fox, reports that the men came heavily armed with weaponry and tools that indicated the rhino heard was their target. A helicopter searched for any remaining poachers but found no others. Park rangers tranquilized the six lions to allow authorities to gather as much evidence as possible. Sibuya had three rhinos victimized by poachers in 2016, though no poachers were eaten alive that time. (1)
Spike In Poaching
The world has seen a concerning spike in illegal wildlife trade in recent years. Rhino poaching in South Africa alone saw a 7,700% increase between 2007 and 2013, averaging out to three rhinos lost per day. International organizations seized over 23 metric tonnes of illegal ivory in 2011, which represents the death of some 2,500 elephants. (2) Poachers killed more than 100,000 elephants between 2010 and 2012. TRAFFIC, the wildlife trading monitoring network, estimates that global illegal wildlife trafficking runs into the billions of dollars annually, though accurate figures are nearly impossible to obtain for obvious reasons. Poaching and the illegal wildlife trade is the largest direct threat to many of the world’s most endangered species. (2, 3, 4)
Of particular concern is the risk to large wild herbivores, crucial to both ecosystems and human societies, which are facing dramatic population declines. The majority of endangered animals reside in developing countries where over-hunting and poaching are significant factors in the decline of their populations. Long gestation means slow reproduction and makes these animals especially vulnerable to over-hunting. Once depleted, these populations take a long time to recover, and some of them never do. As wild populations of iconic animals dwindle, illegal hunters are increasingly turning to poaching in protected areas. Game reserves lack adequate funding and management to provide the protection needed. This is forcing species into extinction and conservationists to take drastic measures to protect remaining animals. If illegal poaching continues, the absence of these species will have a dire trickle-down effect on ecosystems and societies. (3)
Stop The Killing
Affecting positive change may seem out of reach, but there are ways for individuals can make a difference. Connect with national and international organizations and politicians, either directly or through conservation organizations. Sign petitions and encourage them to take steps to protect endangered species through legislation and policies. Donations to organizations that fund ranger training and animal reserves, and work to educate local populations can be instrumental. Several organizations also have volunteer opportunities to fight poaching, such as the Environmental Investigation Agency and the International Anti-Poaching Foundation. Locally, research and support a zoo close to you that participates in the Species Survival Program (SSP). SSP manages the sustainable breeding of endangered species with the goal of reintroducing them back into their native habitats. You can get involved to help protect these beautiful animals.