Local Government, Environmental Affairs and Development Planning
With regard to the recent death of a young leopard in Heidelberg after being caught in illegal gin traps:
- What is the latest update on CapeNature’s investigation into the incident and
- what further steps are being taken to prevent similar incidents?
(a) CapeNature has concluded its investigation, and the case has been registered with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). It is expected to proceed to court shortly. Please note that the name of the accused cannot be made public until a formal plea has been entered.
(b) CapeNature continues to work proactively to prevent similar incidents through the following approach:
- Community Engagement & Awareness:
CapeNature works with partners in the landscape to engage the farming community through awareness workshops focused on predator management. As part of these efforts, staff distribute informational booklets titled “Guide to Damage Causing Animal Management” to support knowledge sharing and awareness.
- Extension Services:
Off-reserve extension services regularly interact with farmers regarding the control of damage-causing animals (DCAs), including protocols to follow as per CapeNature policies, legislation, and hunting proclamation requirements. Communication with farmers around the specific challenges and management of leopard damage causing incidents is ongoing. CapeNature regional offices and personnel in the landscape are known to the neighboring farming and general community and capacitated to advise on how to deal with these issues ethically.
- Stakeholder Collaboration:
CapeNature partners with Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) who play a vital role in raising awareness through various platforms, including social media, helping to reinforce legal and ethical wildlife management practices.
