GEORGE NEWS - Did you know that the mountains near George are home to a thriving leopard population?
A recent camera trap survey conducted in the Witfontein Nature Reserve and surrounding areas - including privately owned land - revealed some exciting findings. In collaboration with CapeNature, the Landmark Foundation recorded 20 mammal species.
Among these were the elusive leopard, the African wildcat, and the Cape clawless otter, alongside more common animals like the Cape grysbok, chacma baboon, and small grey mongoose.
Leopards, often misunderstood, are not a threat to humans. These solitary and secretive creatures go out of their way to avoid people, making sightings in the southern provinces of South Africa - especially in the natural habitat adjacent to bustling towns like George - remarkably rare.
Despite their elusive nature, leopards play a vital role in the environment. They regulate disease spread among prey and help balance populations of smaller predators like caracal.
However, leopards face mounting threats worldwide, including habitat loss, prey depletion, and human-wildlife conflicts, and in South Africa populations are in decline.
Scan the QR code to watch a video of some of the animals caught on camera.
A Bushpig caught on camera
Financial compensation scheme for farmers
Since 2004, the Landmark Foundation has been at the forefront of leopard conservation.
Through ecological research, rewilding initiatives and conflict mitigation, the organisation has helped foster coexistence between humans and carnivores.
A standout effort includes the financial compensation scheme - the only one of its kind in South Africa - which promotes and supports farmers in adopting non-lethal predator management methods, making their land wildlife-friendly. This programme has spared the lives of more than 74 leopards while protecting farmers' livelihoods.
Caracal
The Landmark Foundation also champions environmental education. Schools and crèches in George participate in programmes that emphasise waste reduction, recycling and tree planting.
These initiatives inspire young people to respect and value nature while addressing critical issues such as climate change and biodiversity loss.
To learn more about the Landmark Foundation's incredible work, visit www.landmarkfoundation.org.za or follow them on social media: Facebook and Instagram.
Cape grey mongoose
A honey badger.
Cape grysbok.
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