Illegal hunters target Ilanda Wilds
We have had reports from residents who live above the park.
Illegal hunting has once again reared its ugly head in Ilanda Wilds and the riverine bush at the Amanzimtoti Sports Centre (ASC).
“It is difficult to prove, but it’s definitely happening at night-time,” said ASC chairman, Craig Chamier. “We see these packs of hunting dogs that are used to flush out game on both sides of the river. We suspect two packs of dogs are used.
We have had reports from residents who live above the park. They hear the commotion at night with the birds and wildlife screeching in alarm when these dogs are in the bush.
We know it is happening, but it is difficult to prove who is responsible.”
In 2013 the Sun reported on poachers that decimated the wildlife in the bush adjacent to Bernadotte Road in the area known as Red Sands. Lee Lewis, who resides close to Red Sands, said the poachers were teenage boys who hunted with a pack of starved dogs that struck in the early hours of the morning.
Red Sands used to boast amazing wildlife, including blue duiker, which are protected, and otters.
Otters have also been spotted in Ilanda Wilds and Toti Conservancy fears for their safety should these packs of hunting dogs continue to be allowed to hunt there.
