Monthly newsletter - July 2024
A sad news and a positive one - read below!
Human-leopard conflict
This month, an unknown female leopard attacked, perhaps as a defensive behaviour, two persons, who were probably too close to the female’s cubs, hidden in an urban area. The female was captured and relocated safely but the cubs have not been found yet although everything is done to try save them. Although it is emotionnally difficult, it is more important for the female to be captured as she will be able to have cubs again and contribute to the leopard population. It was not advisable to let this female roam freely for longer and risk another attack that could have desastrous consequences for her and the people.
It is a very unfortunate situation but we need to remember that this is extremely rare and is an unsual behaviour that should not question our ability to live peaceful amongst leopards and other wildlife.
The leopards in the area are traversing from one reserve to another, cross roads and enter the most urban parts of town sporadically at night when they know they can move safely without encountering humans. It is our responsibility to avoid walking alone at dusk, dawn and night.
As residents and/or wildlife lovers, we can reassure those who aren't as used to us in living with wildlife that they are still safe and that Hoedspruit is a Wildlife Heaven where we all can coexist.
I will consider launching a fundraiser to have GPS collars available for this type of event so we can also ensure that the female settles in again properly before taking back the collar. The whole operation is very costly though but I would happily look at trying to get funds solely dedicated to that purpose. If you want to participate in establishing this fund, please reach out.
Ingwe Research Program NPC
Ingwe Leopard Research has been a cornerstone project of the On Track Foundation, itself belonging to On Track Safaris. The owners, Will & Carol Fox, driven by a passion for wildlife conservation, have dedicated over 15 years to protecting leopards. Their remarkable safaris across the globe have served as a vital source of funding for this critical work.
When I was still based in the Okavango Delta, I reached out to Will & Carol with a vision for Ingwe. True to their commitment to nurturing people, they entrusted me with the responsibility of managing and developing the project since November 2022.
Recently, in perfect alignment with their values and desire to establish a lasting legacy, Will & Carol encouraged me to take the next step: establishing Ingwe as a Non-Profit Company in South Africa. Their invaluable guidance, advice, and knowledge sharing proved instrumental in making this a reality, and their support will continue as they remain invested in Ingwe's ongoing development.
With immense pride, I announce the official registration of Ingwe as Ingwe Research Program with a dedicated board of directors. This new board brings a wealth of diverse expertise, further propelling Ingwe's mission forward.
Furthermore, we are actively building our website, which will introduce our board members, provide updates on all the current projects, share the latest research findings, and feature a dedicated partner page with all the logos proudly displayed.
Finally, we are actively looking for funding and sponsorship opportunities to ensure the financial sustainability of the research and continue to grow. I am already working on about 10 different ways to bring funds for the NPC but I am open to more suggestions about organizing fundraising events, best companies to approach for sponsorship etc… Any help would be greatly appreciated.
I am deeply grateful for the collaborative spirit that binds everyone - reserves, lodges, wildlife estates, all the valued partners and all the supporters following our work.
Thank you.
Get in touch: marine@ontrackfoundation.org