GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - The Wildlife Crime Information Network (WCIN) is calling on the public to join forces in the fight against one of the most cruel and widespread forms of wildlife poaching - snaring.
According to Leon Rossouw, founder of Cross-Border Investigations and Anti-Poaching Operations, an Anti-Snare Awareness Workshop will be held on Saturday 22 November from 09:00 to 13:00, at Klipkraal Farm in the Groenfontein Valley, Calitzdorp.
Rossouw will also be the facilitator of the workshop.
“The event aims to equip participants with the knowledge and practical skills needed to recognise, report, and help prevent this devastating practice.”
Snaring involves the use of wire, rope, or nylon loops to trap animals, a method that is not only illegal but also indiscriminate. Once set, these snares can remain active for months, catching and killing any animal that crosses their path. While poachers often target small antelope or porcupines for bushmeat, predators such as caracals and leopards also fall victim.
“Preliminary research suggests that bushmeat is the main motivation for setting snares in the Western Cape,” explains Rossouw.
“However, the illegal trade in animal parts also plays a role. To stop snaring, we must first understand it.”
The workshop is open to landowners, farm managers, conservancies, security companies, law enforcement officials, and interested community members who want to make a difference.
What to expect
Participants can look forward to a mix of interactive discussions and practical field demonstrations, where they will learn:
- What snaring is and why it poses such a serious threat
- How to identify different types of snares
- Where and how snares are typically set
- What to do when a snare or trapped animal is found
- The legal responsibilities involved in handling and reporting snaring incidents
- How to document findings and link multiple snares to a single suspect
- Rossouw will also share real-life examples from anti-poaching operations and explain how every wire “tells a story”.
Join the movement
By the end of the session, participants will not only understand the scale of the snaring crisis but also feel empowered to play an active role in protecting wildlife and supporting conservation efforts across the Western Cape.
Those attending should wear comfortable clothing and be prepared for both indoor and outdoor activities, including light walking through the veld.
- Cost: R120 per person (proceeds will support veterinary services) and includes light refreshments and snacks
- RSVP by: Wednesday 20 November
- Booking essential: WhatsApp 079 643 9556 or email info@wcin.org.za
- Only registered participants will receive additional workshop information.
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