Monthly newsletter - May 2024
A shadow over our "Wildlife Heaven"
Devastating Loss: Three Leopards Killed on Hoedspruit Roads
I begin this newsletter with heartbreaking news. May saw a terrible toll on leopards in our study area. Three leopards lost their lives due to human-wildlife conflict on our roads, all during weekends and late at night. These fatalities included two young males, likely still searching for territories, and a young female. Losing a leopard disrupts the delicate balance within the population. The young males were most likely still dispersing from their natal ranges, and in this vulnerable phase, they often cross roads more frequently, increasing their risk. The young female's death is particularly concerning as she may have had dependent cubs who would now be orphaned with no chance of survival. Furthermore, her loss represents a missed opportunity for population growth, as leopards can have new litters every 1.5 years if the cubs reach adulthood.
Three Leopards in Three Weekends: A Preventable Tragedy
Losing three leopards in just three weekends is devastating, especially when these deaths were entirely avoidable. Hoedspruit is renowned as a "Wildlife Heaven," surrounded by reserves teeming with incredible animals. However, living alongside wildlife requires responsibility from both residents and tourists. High speeds, failing to slow down when visibility is limited by roadside vegetation, reckless overtaking, and driving under the influence all pose a significant threat to wildlife and human safety. With Hoedspruit's growing human population, these road fatalities are likely to increase unless we act now. It is our collective responsibility to raise awareness and adapt our behavior to ensure harmonious coexistence with the wildlife we cherish.
Citizen Science in Action: Tracking Leopards
Thanks to the dedication of our incredible citizen scientists participating in the Ingwe project, we can track the movements of many individual leopards. This valuable data has identified two leopards of particular concern: the Medupi female and Ntsakelo male, both under 3 years old, who have been observed crossing major roads. Will they be the next victims?
These are individuals that the Hoedspruit community has had the privilege of watching grow since they were cubs. Residents have enjoyed fantastic sightings and have come to know them on a deeper level due to their relaxed nature around people. This makes their potential loss even more heartbreaking
Moving Forward: Addressing Road Safety and Exciting Developments for Ingwe
I am actively seeking solutions. Discussions with the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) regarding the possibility of deploying speed traps on specific sections of road will be underway. Fines collected from speeding violations could be directed towards a dedicated fund to cover the costs of wildlife injuries caused by human activities, such as snares, fences, and road collisions.
On a brighter note, June promises exciting developments for Ingwe Leopard Research! I can't wait to share the news with you. In the meantime, stay tuned by subscribing to the newsletter and following the research on Instagram & Facebook (@ingweleopardresearch), and on LinkedIn (On Track Foundation).
Support Ingwe and Become a Citizen Scientist!
The INGWE code for Camera Traps CC is still active, offering a 7.5% discount on all their products! By installing a camera trap on your property, you can:
Capture amazing wildlife footage and contribute valuable data to Ingwe Leopard Research as a citizen scientist.
Benefit from a discounted purchase price.
Have a portion of your purchase directly donated to Ingwe, further supporting our vital conservation efforts.
Share This Newsletter: Spread Awareness and Save Lives!
By sharing this newsletter, you can play a crucial role in raising awareness about the dangers of roadkill in areas surrounding wildlife. Together, we can create a safer environment for leopards and all wildlife.