TZANEEN – For Azelle Grobler, owner of Beyond Borders Animal Sanctuary, rescuing and providing a haven for injured animals has been a lifelong calling.

Growing up on a farm in Gravelotte, Grobler developed a deep passion for caring for vulnerable wildlife, domestic pets, and farm animals. Over the years, she has provided sanctuary for a diverse range of creatures, including lions, hyenas, baboons, parrots, fish, dogs, cats, chickens, ducks, geese, bush babies, wild birds, rabbits, bats, porcupines, owls, eagles, and hawks.

However, she holds a special place in her heart for snakes and reptiles. “I used to catch them so people wouldn’t kill them. They are just misunderstood and deserve a space, just like everyone else,” she said.

Grobler first ventured into animal rehabilitation when she established the Tzaneen Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, primarily focusing on indigenous birds, birds of prey, small mammals, and reptiles.

“Over the years, more and more unwanted exotic pets were dropped off at our centre. Since then, we have evolved into what is known today as Beyond Borders Animal Sanctuary,” she explained.

Today, the sanctuary mainly works with birds of prey, various reptiles, and snake relocation. However, one of their biggest concerns is the plight of cockatoos.

“Cockatoos are among the most neglected and abused parrot species today,” Grobler said. “We also care for many other parrot species and exotic pets, most of whom have been abandoned, neglected, abused, malnourished, or have suffered neurological trauma due to past mistreatment.”

Grobler expressed concern over the exotic pet trade, saying that more species are being brought into South Africa, where they are kept as pets.

“Many of these animals end up in horrific conditions, with very few facilities available to assist them. People often buy exotic pets based on appearance, as a novelty, or as a status symbol, without researching how to properly care for them,” she explained.

“These animals have very specific needs, which can be costly to meet. Some owners release them into the wild when they grow tired of the responsibility, which is often a death sentence for the animal and can create serious ecological problems. Others are sold repeatedly or simply abandoned.”

Beyond Borders operates independently and relies on public donations. Grobler said they have downscaled to focus on a limited number of permitted species, ensuring they can provide proper care and attention.

Birds of prey, for example, are rehabilitated and released back into the wild in their original territories. “Even if they are hand-raised, they are taught to hunt. We conduct soft releases, where food is still provided while they transition to full independence. Depending on the species, we use safe release sites with the correct habitat. We also assist with other species, ensuring they are transported to the appropriate permitted facilities,” she added.

However, birds of prey, especially owls, face constant threats. “They are often shot or poisoned. We need to protect them and educate the public about their crucial role in natural rodent control and species population balance,” she said.

“People must learn to respect wildlife and understand that we can coexist peacefully. Unfortunately, many would rather kill animals than make an effort to conserve them. The more species we endanger, the more fragile our ecosystem becomes.” To support Beyond Borders Animal Sanctuary, contact 083 273 6793.