Duiker falls prey to snare in Sheffield

Desperate cries for help from a distraught animal stopped two local cyclists dead in their tracks while riding in Sheffield this morning.8

Hidden away in the coastal vegetation towards the end of Christmas Bay they discovered a beautiful duiker caught in a snare.

Although one of the cyclists tried to help the distressed animal, it suffered a heart attack and died before it could be set free.

Specialised Rescue Unit’s Quentin Power, who was called out to assist, said if you come across an animal trapped in a snare, do not touch it.

“When in a stressful situation, a duiker will kick with its hooves, which are Edward Scissorhands sharp,” said Power.

“The best thing to do is to mark the area and contact either the Specialised Rescue Unit, Flag Animal Farm or KZN Wildlife for assistance.”

If you stumble across a snare, you can also send SRU a location pin via WhatsApp so they know where to find it.

“This will help us establish areas where snares are commonly found.”

Earlier this year a male bushbuck died after getting caught in a snare on Chapman Drive, near Wakenshaw Estate.

Emergency services and animal experts rushed to help the adult bushbuck in distress.

Despite best efforts from everyone involved the animal’s condition worsened and it died on route to the vet.

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