PATROL - VOLUME 11

Why Is This Not Center Stage?

Discussions on conservation in Africa generally center around iconic game species.

But conservation is not about "Cecil the lion".

The Spanish Gamekeepers' Story (7-minute Video)

At the end of the 19th century, no more than 20 Spanish ibex were left in the Gredos mountain range. The population experienced a significant decline due to several factors, including habitat loss, poaching, and disease.

Through habitat restoration, anti-poaching measures, and controlled hunting, the species rebounded and began to thrive once again.

Dande Anti-Poaching Unit (DAPU), Zambezi Valley Report

We only picked up 63 snares (compared to 109 in 2022). Poaching is at a low/normal level. And most importantly, the low snare yield has been backed up by our own observations in the field.

The Use of Bees in an Informant Network (6-minute Video)

Guides Against Poaching (GAP) are innovative in creating informant networks across Zimbabwe. Honey production provides an income source to rural communities, and a good relationship can be established by providing them with active hives, bee-keeping training, and access to markets. Once trust has been secured, these beekeepers become valuable intelligence sources.