An increase in snares found at the Noordhoek wetland is causing the death of hundreds of animals.
Karoline Hanks, who manages the non-profit community Project Noordhoeked, said while there have been snares in the Noordhoek wetlands for many years there has been an increase in the numbers discovered recently.
“A concerned resident has been clearing them in his own time. He recently reached out to Project Noordhoeked as he knew that we were working in the wetland frequently clearing invasive port Jackson trees, which are a big problem in the wetland.
“Clearing alien plants, cleaning the beach and roadsides … the team is just adding an extra set of ears and eyes to the snare issue.”
What was most concerning, she added, was the evidence of struggle and a painful death the animals suffered.
“This is not for sensitive folk, but this is the reality out in our wetland. Many hundreds of snares have been found and removed. Some with evidence of struggle and death, some not. One actually caught a dog walker’s pup by the leg, it was that potent, and that close to the path.
“The team has only found bones and remains. No complete animals. The resident has come across the same. Grysbok, francolin and porcupine.”
Since the Project Noordhoeked team is in the Noordhoek wetlands on a regular basis they have equipped themselves with the knowledge on how to find and remove snares.
“Last week, we were taken out by an experienced tracker and shown what’s what, and my team proved themselves to be capable and competent. In the space of two hours, they removed seven snares.”
“The team were very quick learners and can now ID the very basic snares.
“We firmly believe this will add huge value to our work and offerings and have a positive effect on ecosystem integrity in our valley.”
Hanks added that Project Noordhoeked is run by donations.
“Donations mean we can keep employing our intrepid team and continue to make a massive difference to our little piece of paradise.”
Brad Bing, Noordhoek Ratepayers Association (NRPA) chair, said it was important to protect the wetland.
“Our wetland is unbelievably magnificent and diverse, and we need to do all we can to protect it. The best way to do so is to become an NRPA member, as we support projects like Project Noordhoeked and others.”
