PHALABORWA – The Phalaborwa Natural Heritage Foundation (PNHF) has once again demonstrated its dedication to wildlife conservation, releasing a detailed update on its activities for June.

According to Eugene Troskie of PNHF, June was another extremely busy month for the team, marked by intensive fieldwork, wildlife rescues, and educational outreach efforts.

Troskie expressed gratitude to all those who continue to support and participate in PNHF’s mission. He confirmed that the organisation conducted 11 snare sweeps throughout the month, during which they removed a staggering total of 210 snares.

The team covered just under 76km on foot while patrolling and discovered 15 animal carcasses caught in snares.

Among the species found were elephant, waterbuck, kudu, duiker, impala, bushbuck, and lion, a stark reminder of the toll that illegal trapping continues to take on wildlife in the region.

Beyond anti-poaching operations, PNHF was also involved in rescuing several animals, including a snared spotted hyena, a South African hedgehog, and a flap-neck chameleon. The foundation also held an environmental education presentation and successfully apprehended one poacher during the month. These activities bring the total number of snares removed by PNHF in 2025 to 1 448.

Troskie encouraged the public to play a role in protecting local wildlife by reporting any knowledge of snares, poaching activity, or poachers. He emphasised that all reports can be made anonymously and urged property owners to reach out if they need assistance with snare removal. The PNHF team can be contacted directly on 082 614 3688.

Meanwhile, the foundation is preparing for its next community event. In partnership with Mopani SAJWV (South African Hunters and Game Conservation Association) PNHF will host a Conservation Evening on Wednesday, August 6, at the Coffee Lounge inside the Lifestyle Centre.

The event will feature a presentation by Martial Rappo, manager of the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. His talk, titled, Wildlife Rehabilitation: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Challenges Faced During Rehabilitation, will provide insight into the centre’s daily operations and the broader impact of its work on conservation in the Lowveld and beyond.

Rappo will also discuss the importance of promoting coexistence between people and wildlife, particularly in a time when natural habitats are increasingly under threat.

The event is open to the public and free of charge, and residents are encouraged to attend and engage with one of the most critical topics in local conservation.