A BABY Grey Duiker named ‘Delia’ is being cared for at Durban-based Wildlife Rehab Centre, CROW after she narrowly escaped being sold on the black market.
A mere 10 days-old at the time, the youngster was saved when a caring member of the public stopped to wrestle her off a man who was trying to make a quick buck by selling her to passing motorists, literally metres from one of the gates to the Umfolozi Game Reserve.
Thanks to the help of the SPCA and CROW’s local volunteer, Irene Liversage, Delia was sent down to CROW, where clinic nurse, Sue-Ann Shutte was on hand to give her some much needed care and attention.
Almost two weeks on, and little Delia has settled in well at the centre where, under Sue-Ann’s watchful eye, she will be fed and cared for until such time as she is ready to be released back into the wild.
Delia is one of three baby Duikers that are currently being cared for at CROW. As KZN’s only wildlife rehab centre registered to rescue, rehabilitate and release all indigenous wildlife, the centre works closely with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, the SPCA and other partners to give more than 3 000 animals a year a second chance at a free life back in the wild.
Wildlife in distress end up in CROW’s care for a variety of reasons, but certainly, as in the case of young Delia, the problem of animals being sold for muthi, bushmeat and as illegal pets is growing on a daily basis.
Delia’s case was reported to the local authorities who are still currently searching for the man who was trying to sell her outside the Umfolozi Game Reserve.
If you would like to help support CROW’s work in wildlife rehabilitation, their stunning 2014 African Sentiments wildlife calendars are currently selling at the discounted price of R140 or you can buy a calendar for R170 and receive a free birthday & anniversaries calendar valued at R100. If you’d like to take advantage of this special offer, please contact CROW on 031 462 1127 or at info@crowkzn.co.za
