Ingwe Leopard Research strengthens partnerships
Over 30 meetings were held with both current and potential partners and through a series of six presentations, efforts were made to secure buy-in, leading to an increased flow of invaluable data submissions
Marine Servonnat, Ingwe Leopard Research project manager and conservation ecologist of On Track Foundation, recently undertook a 25-day journey spanning 6000km from Cape Town to Hoedspruit and back. “One of the primary objectives of this expedition was to solidify Ingwe Leopard Research as a leading force in conservation and research within Hoedspruit. With an emphasis on strengthening existing partnerships and forging new connections, this excursion proved invaluable.
As a direct result, the project has witnessed escalating interest, attracting diverse entities eager to engage and contribute,” Servonnat said. She said that an integral discussion was held with a major partner concerning the spectrum of internship opportunities available for students, primarily focussing on aiding data analysis. “Additionally, through On Track Safaris, owner of Ingwe, a collaborative effort is underway to curate conservation safaris.
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These immersive experiences aim to educate guests about wildlife conservation by participating in various activities, including interacting with anti-poaching units, understanding the snaring issues and creating craft for awareness, fostering orphaned animals, among others,” added Servonnat. New reserves and partners joining Ingwe Leopard Research “I am thrilled to announce the inclusion of new partners into the Ingwe Leopard Research initiative. Siyafunda Conservation, operating in Makalali Game Reserve, is now part of our collaboration, combining data from this expansive 23 000ha reserve.
Similarly, Selati Game Reserve’s research team has joined, enhancing our database with their longstanding leopard data. An integral addition to our collaborative efforts, BushWise, the preeminent guiding school in South Africa, has embraced the mantle of nurturing the next generation of conservation stewards. Covering Manyeleti Game Reserve and the South African Wildlife College, BushWise is poised to unleash a cohort of 28 passionate students in January 2024,” she said.
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In a recent masterclass session that she delivered, these aspiring guides exhibited an exceptional eagerness to contribute to leopard conservation. “Their active participation and thought-provoking inquiries indicate a promising future for their engagement with our project. Notably, as these students undertake placements in various lodges and reserves, they are poised to become impactful ambassadors for the Ingwe Leopard Research initiative.
“This collaboration marks a significant stride towards fostering a new breed of conservationists who will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in safeguarding leopard populations. Additionally, BushVeld Bivouac and Kataza, two smaller properties, have joined our endeavour, generously sharing their leopard footage. Collectively, these additions have expanded our coverage area to 174 584ha in the Hoedspruit region, marking a substantial increase of 56 089 ha compared to September,” she said.
