Close to 6000 animals with an estimated economic value of R100 million have been saved from being trapped in snares in the Phalaborwa area since 2021 as part of SA Hunters’ Snare Buster programme.

SA Hunters attended a Snare Symposium in Pretoria on 10 and 11 September 2024, where conservation manager, Lizanne Nel took part in a panel discussion on the economic, conservation, and social consequences of illegal harvesting by using snares. It was clear that the extent of snaring was far worse than initially anticipated. The state’s capacity for law enforcement is severely compromised. Therefore, an integrated plan is required where the private sector will play an important role.

Since 2021, SA Hunters’ Mopani Branch has been collaborating with the Phalaborwa Natural Heritage Foundation to remove snares and rescue animals captured in snares in the greater Phalaborwa area. Through its Snare Buster programme, the Association’s members conducted 195 snare removals and wildlife rescue operations. With the assistance of local veterinarians, 385 animals received treatment before being released back into the wild. During the past four years, 2068 people patrolled 1142 km in Snare Buster operations.

Snaring is an indiscriminate and cruel activity that disregards the welfare of animals. Regulated legal hunting practices in an inclusive wildlife economy in the rural areas of Mpumalanga can make a significant contribution to the rural economy and to food security in general.