Last year we partnered with Conservation South Luangwa (CSL) to support anti-snaring and wildlife rescue operations across the South Luangwa Valley, Zambia.
Anti-snaring
In 2023, an impressive 57% of all recovered snares were found during regular community anti-snaring clean sweeps.
There was a 131% increase in clean sweeps conducted, compared to the previous year, with a total 236 sweeps. 1,409 community members participated. 412 snares were successfully recovered.
Initiated three years ago, the community clean sweep programme aims to bolster anti-snaring patrols and support the household incomes of participating community members. Each sweep, led by a CSL Scout and a DNPW Wildlife Police Officer, includes five to six community members and targets known snaring hotspots.
Beyond removing snares and boosting household incomes, these clean sweeps engage communities in conservation efforts. Their consistent presence in South Luangwa acts as a deterrent to potential poachers, contributing to the overall protection of the area’s wildlife.
Wildlife Rescue Operations
Snares pose a significant threat to wildlife, indiscriminately injuring and killing a variety of species. Although anti-snaring activities remove many snares, unfortunately some remain.
In 2023, CSL’s veterinary team successfully de-snared 11 animals.
The seasonal trend of increased snaring during Zambia’s driest months persisted, with the highest numbers recorded in June and September. The bush dries out and recedes at this time making it more accessible.
Unfortunately, 2023 marked the first reports of snared lions in South Luangwa since July 2021. Two were treated by the rescue team.
The veterinary team led by Dr Mwamba Sichande also de-snared four elephants (including two calves), two giraffes, two wild dogs, and one baboon. Sadly, one of the wild dogs succumbed to its terrible injuries.
In addition to de-snaring, four animals were rescued including two elephants trapped in soakaways, one orphaned elephant calf (successfully relocated to the Game Rangers International elephant orphanage in Lusaka), and one giraffe with a stillborn fetus.
These crucial de-snaring and rescue operations were conducted in collaboration with DNPW, conservation partners, and local safari operators.
Statistics taken from CSL 2023 Annual Report
Images: CSL
One of the elephants rescued in 2023.
