Snare sweep conducted at Alverstone reserve
A snare sweep was conducted by Snare Aware in Alverstone Wildlife Park in November.
SNARE Aware’s mission is the removal of snares from reserves and conservancies and the provision of training and knowledge to the public and the conservation sector.
Alverstone Wildlife Park is a privately owned reserve that offers hiking and picnicking on more than 100 hectares, by appointment only. Opened by former mayor Dr Meshack Radebe in 1997, the reserve is home to a wide range of birds and animals and offers sweeping views of the Upper Highway from its elevated position on Alverstone Road, near Hillcrest.
The volunteer Snare Aware group, whose members maintain anonymity, led 20 residents and interested parties across the reserve, neighbouring and nearby properties, in a thorough search for urban poachers’ snares. A total of 27 snares were removed over the course of the morning, although none were found in the reserve itself. Snare Aware noted that there was evidence of prolonged and active snaring activity on the properties near the reserve. The participants were encouraged to conduct regular sweeps in the conservancy and the adjacent areas, to keep pressure on the urban poachers.
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Reserve manager Ros Galway was happy no snares were found within the boundary of the reserve and felt it was an indication that she and her staff were managing the reserve effectively. Galway says the park provides a home to more than 175 bird species. Some of her most memorable sightings have included a pelican, ground hornbills and woolly-necked storks. In addition, the conservancy is populated with zebra, impala, wildebeest and blesbok.
Alverstone resident Richard Pringle thanked the Snare Aware members and the sweep participants.
He said, “I’ve lived in Alverstone for 35 years, and my parents have been here for 44. Over that time, we noticed a reduction in the duiker population. We have seen the population recover as regular snare searches are conducted. I’ve seen fresh duiker droppings in my garden again, and caracal, as well. This is a special place, and it’s up to us to conserve it as much as possible.”
The Snare Aware founder said that the successful sweep was a collective effort and noted that the organisation has removed a total of 1 182 snares to date.
For Alverstone Wildlife Park bookings, call 083 777 1804. An entrance fee applies.
