SNARE FREE

Report ● Respond ● Remove

Report
Respond
Remove

a coordinated response to the threat of snares to wildlife in the Western Cape of South Africa

EMERGENCY NUMBER

076 127 8485

SNARES

are the most commonly used method to catch wildlife for bushmeat in South Africa. A snare is an anchored noose made from wire, rope, or cable that is used to capture an animal. They are cheap and easy to make.

In the Western Cape, across agricultural and fynbos landscapes, snares are set to catch game species such as small antelope and porcupine.

This illegal hunting method is indiscriminate and cruel.

It takes a toll on the entire ecosystem and it impacts heavily on iconic species like leopards.

What should you do if you find a live animal in a snare?

If you discover a live wild animal caught in a snare in the Western Cape, call the Snare Free hotline: 076 127 8485. Keep your distance from the animal, and have the following information available for the hotline operator:



Phone and inform us:



WHERE

is the animal? (GPS coordinates/pin preferable)

Z

WHAT

animal species has been caught (if known) & more situational information

/

WHO

you are and how we can reach you

Snares in the Western Cape

Evidence indicates that the use of snares is increasing in the Western Cape. Studies suggest this is particularly affecting agricultural landscapes. A Cape Leopard Trust patrol officer achieved the following during a one year snare monitoring project in the Western Cape.

snares found during patrols over one year

209

patrols conducted on foot

1332

kms distance covered

112

properties scanned for snares

3.21

snares per patrol on average removed

#SNAREFREE

In order to address this threat, Snare Free was created. This is a collaborative network of conservation, animal welfare and volunteer organisations. We’ve adopted a multi-pronged approach to help both animals and people thrive in the ecosystems we share.