The Mount Moreland wetland near Umdloti, known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife, is under increasing threat from poaching.

Poachers hunting with dogs and setting snares are a major problem in the conservancy, a widespread criminal activity along the North Coast.

Snare Aware, a volunteer-run conservation NPO, joined residents and wildlife advocates in October to remove snares in the area.

Aden Pontus, an Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife honorary officer and Mount Moreland resident since 1996, said the problem is worsening. He says decades of poaching show no sign of decreasing owing to “cultural” issues.

“It is a delicate subject in conservation across the country. The poachers believe the land belonged to their ancestors and they therefore have a right to poach, even on private and conservancy land.

“Some weeks we remove three to 30 snares. A few months ago, we found 198 snares during two successive Saturdays in the conservancy.”

Pontus said poachers use wire snares and trap-boxes. They hunt with packs of dogs, and many use shotguns to maim and kill animals.

The North Coast Courier has seen images of dead buck, ducks, bush pig, and even large cane rats. Many animals die before they can be rescued.

“Unfortunately, the law in South Africa protects the poachers, mainly because of cultural traditions,” added Pontus.

“We need better policing and monitoring of the surrounding areas, not only Mount Moreland, to make an impact on poaching.”

Contact Snare Aware on Facebook for help with removing snares. Donations welcome.

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