Monthly newsletter - March 2024
Monthly newsletter - March 2024
Human-wildlife coexistence, non-protected areas survey & data from 2024's first quarter!
Expanding Our Reach: Camera Trap Survey in Non-protected Areas
In collaboration with the Kruger to Canyon Biosphere Reserve, Ingwe Leopard Research embarks on a crucial new initiative. We are aiming at conducting a camera trap survey in non-protected areas, acting as potential ecological corridors linking the Greater Kruger area to the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. Two farms have already pledged their participation, and I am actively seeking additional partners.
The Importance of Your Support
This survey is vital. While 95% of South African leopard research occurs within protected areas, 63% of suitable leopard habitat lies outside these boundaries. To effectively study and conserve leopards, we need your help. By sponsoring a camera trap (approximately R5,125 = 252€ = £216)) or contributing to the rental costs (R1500 = 73€ = £63), you directly support this groundbreaking survey.
Together, we can bridge the knowledge gap and ensure a future for leopards!
Sponsor a camera trap: marine@ontrackfoundation.org and receive back footages such as below!
Video credit: Shannon Farnsworth
Sharing the Responsibility: Coexisting with Wildlife
An encounter with a leopard is a truly breathtaking experience, highlighting the importance of responsible wildlife coexistence. Residents living alongside these incredible creatures share their home with wild animals. It is a privilege to coexist, but remember, these are wild predators.
Living in Harmony with Leopards
Residents who chose this lifestyle should understand the responsibility of coexisting with top predators. Even more so for the guests visiting those areas. Simple yet vital actions play a key role in safe coexistence:
Respect all wildlife, not just carnivores.
Maintain a safe distance from all animals.
Avoid cornering or threatening any wildlife, even herbivores.
Secure pets indoors at night, especially during twilight hours.
Refrain from leaving food outdoors.
Supervise children closely when playing outdoors and avoid letting them run in open areas.
By following these guidelines, we can ensure the safety of both humans and leopards, allowing us to share this extraordinary space in harmony.
Data Growth
In March, I received an impressive 147 camera trap and sighting images from 15 different areas, excluding Kruger National Park. Additionally, exciting news from Bushveld Bivouac submitted images from both 2022 and 2023, revealing several leopards not currently in the database. I eagerly await potential future sightings to track their movements.
Data from Kruger National Park, captured in March, recently arrived via Latest Sightings and is currently undergoing a meticulous review process. Carole, who generously volunteers her time, is assisting me with this crucial task.
The map below showcases all the unique leopard sightings (581!) shared in 2024 across a remarkable 21 locations.
Thank You!
Your continued support fuels my work in leopard conservation. Please share this newsletter with your networks and follow the project on social media (@ingweleopardresearch) for regular updates. I welcome your inquiries and potential contributions – feel free to reach out via email (marine@ontrackfoundation.org)
Together, let’s make a difference for leopards!