Month: March 2017

Boy dies as trio of cheetah attacks surface

This unfortunate case, follows an incident in which a New Zealand father managed to save his teen son after the youngster was reportedly attacked by a cheetah at a safari park in Hluhluwe, KwaZulu-Natal last week – See News24’s coverage here.

According to Radio New Zealand, Dave Driver and his family were touring the Emdoneni Safari Park on Wednesday 15 March and a group of around 20 other people to pet two cheetahs while guides supervised.

However information has since surfaced, as yet unconfirmed, alleging a similar incident happened at the same safari park, just a day before Driver’s son was attacked – once again igniting the call for wildlife interactions and petting to be stopped.

Cheetah attacks cause uproar over ‘petting’

South Africa has been rocked by several incidences of cheetah attacks over the past week, leading to an outcry for an end to wild animal petting.

According to Algoa FM, a 3-year-old boy was attacked by a cheetah on a farm in the Free State on Sunday.

Sadly, the boy succumbed to his injuries en-route to a Bloemfontein hospital via helicopter.

The owner of the farm, wildlife filmmaker Joh Varty, says on Facebook that while he takes full responsibility for the child’s death, the attack was the result of his workers’ carelessness.

“On the Friday night a large amount of booze was smuggled into the compound,” he says, seemingly shifting blame to his employees. “The gate that blocks the cheetah from entering the compound was carelessly left open.”

 

Cheetah attacks NZ boy in South Africa

A Christchurch father took on a cheetah as it mauled his teenage son during a holiday in South Africa.

Isaac Driver, 14, and his family were touring the Emdoneni Safari Park in Zululand on Wednesday morning (local time).

The group of about 20 people were allowed to pat two cheetahs, supervised by tour guides.

As the group left the enclosure, Mandy Driver said one of the cheetahs – which seemed restless – walked through the group before pushing her son to the ground with “full force”.

“[It] pushed through a few different people, caught my daughter’s top, ripped all her top, and then landed on my son as he was facing it … and pushed him to the ground,” she said.

“[The cheetah] landed him on the ground as though it was eating him. It was horrible, it was really scary,”

“My husband just seemed to appear from nowhere – he just grabbed the cheetah, pulled it off him, and just held it to the ground.”

Mrs Driver said Isaac was OK, although he had injuries to his back and shoulder.

“I think he just wants to go home, really. He’s doing OK – he’s not complaining about it. He bought himself a cheetah T-shirt. He’s coped with it amazingly well considering he was attacked by a big cat.”

She said the safari park refunded the price of their tour.

“I wouldn’t like to see it get shut down, if it’s doing good things for the animals, but I also wouldn’t like to see anybody else get hurt.”

“And on the photos [which the park uses on its website] there are a lot of young children in these cages with these wild cats.”

The Emdoneni website promised all visitors could get close to the hand-reared cheetahs, but interaction depended on the cats’ moods.

“Bear in mind these animals are still wild animals with a mind of [their] own,” it says.

The Drivers will return home on Wednesday.

Somkhanda Community Game Reserve welcomes a new herd of Elephant

Today saw a historical moment unfold for two community game reserves in KwaZulu-Natal, as the Somkhanda Community Game Reserve welcomed the last 2 animals of a herd of 13 elephants. The elephants were donated by Nambiti Private Game Reserve, another KZN community owned game reserve, and this is the first time that 2 rural communities have worked together to extend elephant range.

Somkhanda Community Game Reserve, owned by the Emvokweni Community Trust (ECT) and co-managed with the Wildlands Conservation Trust was established in 2005 and formerly declared a protected area in 2011.

Wildlands and the ECT worked with Elephant, Rhinos and People (ERP) over the past year to identify a suitable herd for Somkhanda. Their support has been phenomenal. ERP, supported by Groupelephant.com, actively identify elephant herds that are under threat due to population pressures and find them new homes.

“ERP are thrilled to have been able to partner with ECT and Wildlands, in securing a new home for 13 elephant,” said Dereck Milburn, Director of Operations at ERP. “We need space for elephants and communities very often have large tracts of land which could be secured for elephant protection. Through this translocation we are alleviating pressure on the elephant population and it is funding well spent. The beauty of this process is undeniable and creating a herd where there has not been elephant for the past 70 years, is history in the making. This community reserve partnership is a model we hope to show other communities – highlighting the value of it and implementing it elsewhere.”

The introduction of the elephants will underwrite the financial and ecological sustainability of Somkhanda. It represents a key step towards establishing the reserve as a Big 5 reserve, essential from an eco-tourism investment and development perspective, whilst re-establishing the ecological processes that are so important in savannah systems, allowing them to be healthy and functional systems.

Under suitable conditions, elephant can breed very rapidly, with populations in fenced reserves often becoming larger than is ecologically sustainable. Such was the case at Nambiti, who recognised the need to reduce their population size. This became an opportunity for Wildlands and ERP to assist in the translocation of a small herd from Nambiti to Somkhanda.

The process of obtaining the elephant has been one that has been carefully considered and planned by the Emvokweni Community Trust, the Wildlands team and its partners, ensuring that all necessary infrastructure and approvals were in place. Wildlands has worked closely with Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife to finalise the Somkhanda Elephant Management Plan, secure an Adequate Enclosure Certificate and secure the permits for the capture and relocation. When introducing elephants, it is important to introduce an entire breeding herd, as they have a very strong social and family structure, that needs to be maintained at all times. Conservation Solutions, recognised globally for their expertise in elephant capture and translocation, were contracted to manage the capture and relocation process.

“The introduction of these elephant represents a key milestone for the Emvokweni Community Trust, underwriting their ability to harness and benefit from South Africa’s flourishing wildlife and eco-tourism economies,” commented Wildlands’ CEO Dr Andrew Venter. “Africa’s elephants are under threat, with over 100 being poached every day. Across the continent, communities and conservation organisations are fighting to stop this poaching and save this iconic species from extinction. The Somkhanda introduction represents a small, but incredibly important step in this fight. We look forward to seeing this herd flourish in their new safe haven.”

“We at Nambiti are very positive about the move of some of our elephant to Somkhanda. It is a bitter sweet moment because we love our elephant; but they have bred to a level where they can potentially negatively impact the environment, so it is best that a part of the population is moved to a new home that we are happy with,” said Clarke Smith Chairman of Nambiti Private Game Reserve.

Mrs Muhle Khanya, Chairperson of the Senzo’Kuhle Communal Property Trust also came to witness the translocation process and said: “I’m happy because some of our animals are moving to a good home. Nambiti and the community are partners and they tell us everything that happens here – they do very good things for conservation.”

Ryan Sobey, Head of Operations for Different.org, has a longstanding partnership with Wildlands and has been strategic in the development of Somkhanda. “Through this initiative a community will be uplifted permanently and a sustainable tourism entity will be created,” said Sobey. “We love working with Wildlands, they are helping communities thrive in a sustainable way and boosting our country’s tourism at the same time.”

Jumbo Cash & Carry have recently offered to “adopt” the herd and are providing funding towards the translocation, monitoring the elephants and making sure their collars are maintained, plus keeping the herd safe and healthy. “Jumbo Cash & Carry partners with independent retailers so that their businesses can prosper and communities can live better.  Just like these majestic creatures, Jumbo is the Giant of Africa and we are proud to contribute to the conservation of this species,” said Marketing Manager of Masscash Wholesale – Leigh Murphy.

“A big thank you to Jumbo Cash & Carry, ERP, Different.org and Nambiti Private Game Reserve for their support in enabling this project. Thanks to the Gumbi Community for supporting the introduction of the elephant and acknowledging this as a key development for their game reserve,” concluded Dr Venter.

YouthForLions screens Blood Lions at Weston

Weston Agricultural College recently hosted YouthForLions for a screening of the award winning South African documentary, Blood Lions™. The film sheds light on the realities of cub petting, walking with lions and the un-regulated predator volunteering industry in South Africa, all of which contribute the captive breeding, canned hunting and lion bone trade industries.

The YouthForLions campaign aims to bring awareness of these industries to youth in South Africa. The boarders at Weston engaged in a lively question and answer session with Amy Webster, YouthForLions Campaign Driver.

YouthForLions is made possible by support from Marching Animal Welfare Trust. If you would like a screening of the award-winning documentary, Blood Lions™, at your school or a presentation and Q&A session or debate on the canned hunting and predator breading industries, please contact campaign driver Amy Webster on youth@bloodlion.org.

Don’t do what I did… Travel Responsibly

One of the easiest things to do is to throw a blind eye to all the go-green initiatives, animal rights’ petitions and other sustainability campaigns. We shrug our shoulders, shake our heads and proclaim we had no idea. We ask for yet another plastic bag, leave recycling for next time and brainwash ourselves to think that that animal in a cage is happy and not abused.

That’s exactly what I did up until a few years ago. 

I’ve touched and interacted with an elephant and thought, “it’s okay, at least I’m not riding one”. I’ve touched a cheetah and listened to the conservation efforts through breeding and thought, “well, it’s a sanctuary right?”. I’ve visited a coffee farm in Bali where a civet was in a small cage, and he looked really unhappy, yet I did not speak up. I saw videos, shared by people fighting for everything from animals to plants to ocean creatures, and I scrolled through it because it was either “too sad” or “too much” to watch.

But then something changed.

I started reading blog posts and articles written by those fighting for everything from animals to plants to ocean creatures. I watched those awful videos and ugly cried when I saw how elephants are abused into submission, I realised the impact of one single plastic bag, one single straw, I got a rude awakening of cultural exploitation and learned the truth about petting lion cubs.

I was shocked by the things I saw and humbled by those doing everything in their power to stop it. I decided to open my eyes instead of throwing an easier blind eye, but the journey is never-ending.

My eyes are often still shut; I’m still learning, I’m still getting shocked.

Travel and tourism can often have a very negative impact on the environment due to human interference, lack of knowledge and the desire to follow in the footsteps of the travellers who came before us. But as travellers we have a responsibility resting on our shoulders and whether we are travelling around in South Africa or abroad we have a responsibility to respect, care and leave a positive impact on our environment. We have a responsibility to not shrug our shoulders and say next time, but to take action, stand up and speak out because if not now, when?

Travel with a Conscience: 9 Things to Keep in Mind

There are 9 simple things you can do to be a more responsible traveller in South Africa and abroad…

Do not waste water

Water is a precious resource which is not abundantly available and crystal clear in many parts of the world. Whether you are visiting a place with or without water restrictions and/or shortages, always close faucets, do not take your royal time in the bathroom and drink your glass of water at a restaurant because chances are that a glass half full will be emptied down the drain.

Say no to plastic

Every single piece of plastic that has ever been made still exists and even though this fact is shocking, more and more plastic is being produced every day and our oceans and marine life suffer the consequences. Before you use any plastic ask yourself if you really need it, because I can assure you that you are quite capable to drink without a straw. Use glass bottles (it is much healthier any way), have a shopping bag ready and remember to reduce, reuse and recycle.

Do not litter

Clean up after yourself and throw your trash in a trash can or better, a recycling bin. If you see someone else’s trash lying around, be a grown up, be responsible and pick it up. Ever heard about the initiative, Take 3 for the Sea? Making a difference is as easy as picking up three pieces of trash.

Keep your rhinos off social media

Rhinos on social media is a topic I feel very strongly about (read here), some might say even too strong. If you spot a rhino in the wild keep your rhino photos off social media, even if your geotag is off. Rhino poachers are unfortunately smarter than your smart phone.

Support local tourism initiatives

Shop and support local businesses as much as you can; eat local, travel local, buy local and explore with a local guide to discover more about the people, their culture and their traditions.

Do not go on trips that involve animal interactions or captive animals

To live in captivity is no way for any animal to live, no matter how small or how big. Animals in captivity are unhealthy, they get ripped away from their mothers at an early unstable age, they suffer through pain, neglect and abuse, they are bored, they don’t have any freedom and they are under severe stress.

Animals are not here to entertain us and it is of utmost importance to avoid and raise awareness around the following animal activities often offered to travellers:

  • Elephant riding – elephants are beaten and chained up for human entertainment. There is NO such thing as ethical elephant riding.
  • Swimming with dolphins in captivity – dolphins swim vast distances in the wild but in captivity they are confined to small pools with chemically treated water.
  • Petting cheetah, tiger or lion cubs (or grown felines). Please visit www.localhost/blog-post-datato understand the dangers behind cub petting and how something which might seem innocent to you will probably end in a canned lion hunting situation.
  • Walking with lions or cheetahs – a lion or cheetah is not a dog. Walk your dog. And again, visit Blood Lionsto understand why you should not interact with lions and cheetahs in such a way.
  • Circus performances or dolphin shows – A circus performance of an animal dressed in clothes and doing funny things is not a result of monkey see, monkey do but rather a result of monkey obeys or monkey gets beaten.

Do your research before you volunteer

Volunteering can be life-changing but unfortunately it can also have the complete opposite impact than what you have imagined. Do your research and do your research again to ensure that you will volunteer ethically and that your financial and physical support will have a positive impact on the people or animals you volunteer with.

Respect cultures, traditions, beliefs and other religions

Adhere to the customs of the place that you are visiting and respect their culture. One of the things you can do to show respect is to dress respectfully (especially at religious sites) and also to treat people with respect when it comes to photography – think before you click. Do your research before your visit; know what is considered taboo, know the meaning of hand signals and know what is perceived as respectful. Remember, “a foreign country is not designed to make you comfortable. It is designed to make its own people comfortable” – Clifton Fadiman.

Teach, share and speak up but don’t attack

If something is obvious to you, don’t think it is obvious to someone else. When a friend, a family member or a travel buddy wants to participate in something and you know that the activity has a negative impact on the environment, on an animal or on a person, speak up but don’t attack. There is nothing as powerless as a condescending tone, a verbal or character attack and hurtful words when you are trying to inform someone of the dangers and impact of their actions.  I often struggle with keeping myself (and my words) together when I see shocking things…

We have a responsibility to not shrug our shoulders and say next time, but to take act, stand up and speak out because if not now, when?

2017 African Responsible Tourism Awards longlist revealed

The competition for the 2017 African Responsible Tourism Awards has moved into the second round, with over 30 tourism organisations competing for top spots at the awards ceremony at WTM Africa in April.

Sponsored by WESGRO and organised by Better Tourism Africa, the awards recognise African organisations that offer a shining example of how tourism can benefit the local people, the environment, and destinations. The awards are part of a family of regional Responsible Tourism Awards which culminate each year with World Responsible Tourism Day at WTM in London. This year, the longlist names tourism organisations from Mozambique, Kenya, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. Longlisted organisations compete in seven categories, among them habitat and species conservation, engaging people and culture, poverty reduction and a new category in 2017 – the best responsible event.

“The quality of entries which have made it through to the longlist this year confirms the power of responsible tourism as a force for good in Africa. Each and every one of these organisations is playing an important role in championing responsible tourism. We’ve reviewed the information from the first round entry forms, and are excited about the possibilities,” says Heidi van der Watt, founder of the African awards and director of Better Tourism Africa. The longlisted organisations will now be rigorously questioned and their submissions reviewed by the judging team. Chair of Judges, Professor Harold Goodwin says:

“The field for the 2017 African Responsible Tourism Awards (ARTA) is even stronger than previous years – and that takes some doing! Those longlisted have been invited to complete a detailed questionnaire, we’ll take up references and make some inquiries. On judging day we’ll identify those that demonstrate the difference that taking responsibility can make, and have the capacity to educate and inspire others to be more responsible.” The general public can also offer support or otherwise for longlisted organisations by emailing talktous@africanresponsibletourismawards.com. Based on all the evidence, the independent judging team, made up of industry experts, will debate the entries and select the shortlist and winners. The shortlist will be announced on 7 April 2017.

The 2017 African Responsible Tourism Awards winners will be announced at a ceremony that will be held on Thursday 20 April 2017 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The ceremony is part of the responsible tourism programme at WTM Africa, which takes place from 19 to 21 April 2017. Carol Weaving, Managing Director for Reed Exhibitions, organiser of WTM Africa, says:

“WTM Africa is now firmly established on the African travel and tourism event calendar. Responsible Tourism is a cornerstone of WTM Africa and integral to the success of tourism on the continent. All stakeholders have a duty to ensure education, sustainability, and authenticity when promoting the unique experiences that Africa has to offer. We look forward to an exciting third edition of the African Responsible Tourism Awards, here in Cape Town at the CTICC at WTM Africa.”

The 2017 ARTA longlist

@BushCampsAfrica African Bush Camps
@African_Impact African Impact
@alloutafrica All Out Africa
@basecampexplore Basecamp Explorer
@Blood_Lions Blood Lions™
@bushfirefest Bushfire
@CoffeeShackBP Coffee Shack Backpackers
@WeAreWilderness Damaraland Camp & the Torra Conservancy
@porinisafaris Gamewatchers Safaris
@GreatPlainsCons Great Plains Conservation
@GreenGirlAfrica Green Girls in Africa
@ilhablue.islandsafaris Ilha Blue Island Safaris
@influencetours Influence Tours
@IsibindiAfrica Isibindi Africa Lodges
@Khayavolunteers Khaya Volunteer Projects
@KwandweReserve Kwandwe Private Game Reserve
@LEO.Africa LEO Africa
@MaasaiOlympic Maasai Olympics
@MabonengArts Maboneng Township Arts Experience
@MabonengArts Maboneng Township Arts Experience Festival
Mashujaa Peace Walk
@PantheraAfrica Panthera Africa
@SaltyCrax_SAVE Save Foundation
@serenahotels Serena Hotels
@simiens.lodgeSimien Lodge
Sterkspruit Community Art Centre Tele Bridge Race
@Thanda_ Thanda Safari
@thebackpackcpt The Backpack
@WeAreWilderness Tour de Tuli
@TzaneenLodge Tzaneen Country Lodge
@LetsGoTravelKE Uniglobe Lets Go Travel
@UthandoSouthAfr Uthando
@WarriorOnWheels Warrior On Wheels Foundation
@WeAreWilderness Wilderness Safaris
@wildlifeact Wildlife ACT

Rotary Youth Camp for Grade 10 and 11 learners

The Rotary Club of Parys will be hosting the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp at Life Adventures outside Parys from 16 to 19 March (Thursday to Sunday). This four-day adventure is a time for personal development, leadership training and a whole lot of fun.

The Rotary Club of Parys will be hosting the Rotary Youth Leadership Awards (RYLA) camp at Life Adventures outside Parys from 16 to 19 March (Thursday to Sunday). This four-day adventure is a time for personal development, leadership training and a whole lot of fun.

This year, there are two blockbuster additions to the programme. Internationally acclaimed Annette Jahnel will open the programme on Thursday night with an inspirational video and talk: Energy, Environment, Economy, Evolution, Equality and Education. On Friday night, representatives from Youth for Lions will answer questions following a private screening of the full-feature documentary Blood Lions that sheds light on South African predator breeding, canned hunting and lion bone trade.

Other activities include swimming, hiking, leadership training, an educational game drive, finance management, orientation, fly-fishing clinic, potjiekos competition and survival adventures. The cost will be R 1 500 which includes all presentations, accommodation, bedding, food and activities.

The Rotary Club of Parys is donating limited scholarships to Ngwathe learners with good references. Download applications from http://domerunners.vdome.co.za/ryla-camp/or contact Renee.RotaryParys@gmail.com for further details.