Conservation News
April 2024
National baboon and vervet monkey survey
SA Hunters thanks members for completing the survey on the sightings of vervet monkeys and baboons. Over 400 questionnaires were received. CITES has identified both species for a Non-detriment Finding (NDF). An NDF is a scientific risk assessment that determines the adverse impact of exports on the survival of the species in the wild. It provides valuable information on the number of monkeys and baboons seen on farms, the extent of damage caused, and the management of the species to be used in the NDFs and policy positions.
Wildlife Sightings
Our members’ contribution on SA Hunters’ Wildlife Sightings App is an important source of information used by the South African National Biodiversity Institute to review the conservation status of mammal species on the Red Data List. Members can install the App on their mobile phones and participate in this ongoing project. Read more here under the Conservation in Action heading.
National Cheetah Census
Our members have supported the collection of data for the national leopard survey by recording sightings of these animals on various platforms. For the past two years, this information has helped scientists to determine the distribution and habitats of leopards and their impact on livestock and the environment. Read more here about how you can also contribute.
Comment on the Draft Biodiversity Economy Strategy
SA Hunters has provided feedback on the draft national biodiversity economy strategy published by the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment on March 8, 2024. While the association generally supports the objectives of the strategy, SA Hunters has identified significant shortcomings in the process of drafting this document and the potential implications of certain aspects of the strategy that have not been properly considered. Read here for a summary of the association’s feedback.
Policy position on conservation and utilisation of five prominent wildlife species
The conservation, utilisation, and trade of five wildlife species are outlined in a policy document from the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment on which SA Hunters recently commented. This policy applies to elephant, white and black rhinoceros, leopard, and lion. It particularly focuses on certain practices deemed unsustainable. Read more here about SA Hunters’ response and written comments on this policy.
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