Conservation Matters HERITAGE EDITION - November 2016 - The Endangered Wildlife Trust
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Conservation
HERITAGE EDITION - November 2016
Matters
1 Conservation Matters - November 2016
2 LETTER FROM THE CEO
3 FEATURE STORIES
8 HERITAGE IN OUR HANDS
11 TAILS FROM THE FIELD
17 EVENTS
18 MEET THE PACK
19 LEAVING A LEGACY
21 SHOWCASING OUR SUPPORTERS
23 ONLINE STORE
25 PUPS' PLACE
New products for our
online store
www.ewtshop.co.za
SAVE OUR OCEANS
1 Conservation Matters - November 2016
Letter from the
CEO
The EWT held a very special event two weeks ago, at slickers. We love chatting to you! And we’re now taking
which we celebrated the extraordinary commitment of this to the next level with the rebirth of our online
the more than 1,100 members of the EWT who have newsletter ChitterChatter and the launch of this new
been with us for ten years or longer. In fact, many of magazine, wholly and completely produced internally,
those members have been with the EWT for more than from copy to design and layout and final production,
20 and even 30 years, and some have been with us by the EWT staff. It’s aptly named Conservation Matters
almost since the inception of the EWT in 1973. What because conservation DOES matter and the magazine
stood out for me at this event, and in the personal notes is full of all sorts of matters – all things conservation
of thanks that we have received thereafter, is the passion related. So why does it matter? Conservation is about
for Africa’s wildlife and its spectacular wild places, that our natural heritage. It’s about our natural wealth, our
has transcended generations, genders, educational culture, and for many people, it’s their livelihoods and
background and upbringing. What was more heart- their jobs. It’s about food and water and air. It’s about
warming, was the love for, and the intimate knowledge our hearts and souls and our culture and about being
of the EWT’s many projects and staff members over the African. It’s about being compassionate and passionate.
years, in these folk. As one of the attendees said to me: It’s about recognising a common good and being fair.
“it is lovely to meet the faces behind the names of the For us, conserving the planet and its natural assets is a
folk whose writings and stories we have read and enjoyed calling, a privilege and a way of life and we are simply
for years” so I know that you are all reading this and blessed to be able to share it with you wherever possible.
connecting the voices and handshakes and hugs to the Conservation should matter to everyone. And for that
words that have been written just for you in the pages reason, Conservation Matters has been designed for
that follow. everyone. We hope that you will enjoy it and share it and
talk to us about it and share with us your own stories.
You will also then all know that the EWT has a long Because as much as conservation matters – so do the
tradition of writing and we have done this through a people who make it all happen.
variety of publications and platforms from almost the
day we opened our doors. From the days of Quagga and Until the next edition, have a safe and wonderful time
Endangered Wildlife to Vision, and Environment, the with your families over the holiday season.
EWT is renowned for bringing you relevant information,
meaningful commentary, inspirational stories from the Yolan
field and spectacular natural history features that will
ignite a love for wildlife in even the toughest of city
Supporters can now donate to
the EWT quickly and safely, using
SnapScan. All you need to do is:
1. Download the SnapScan
application on your
smartphone
2. Register with your details
– this should take no more
than a few minutes
3. Scan our EWT barcode to
make your donation in the
amount of your choice (be
sure to choose donation
rather than e-shop from the
drop down menu) – you’ll be
asked to enter your PIN so
you know the transaction is
secure
Conservation Matters - November 2016 2
Feature Story
THE ENDANGERED WILDLIFE TRUST: THE HISTORY AND THE HERITAGE
Belinda Glenn, Communication and Brand Manager
BelindaG@ewt.org.za
In 1973, Clive Walker and his wife, Conita, attended a hunters’ convention and wildlife conference in San Antonio,
Texas, where Clive had been invited to exhibit his art. His experience while there of art being used to raise funds
for species facing extinction was the seed that ultimately germinated into the Endangered Wildlife Trust. Today, the
EWT is a leading, high-profile player in the conservation arena, committed to identifying the key factors threatening
biodiversity and developing innovative methodologies and best practice guidelines to reduce these and promote
harmonious co-existence and sustainable living for both people and wildlife.
Of course, this was not the original objective. Clive planned to produce a painting of a pair of Cheetah in an edition of
250, numbered and signed, with the aim of doing something to stop the illegal killing of Cheetah. These initial paintings
sold out rapidly, with the assistance of businessman, Neville Anderson, and it was clear that the public had an appetite
for supporting conservation work. After considering a variety of options, the idea of an independent organisation
concerned with ‘endangered’ wildlife began to emerge as opposed to being tied to one academic institution. After
a lunch with Neville, and journalist James Clarke of The Star, the idea was cemented. A wilderness trail colleague of
Clive’s, David Botha, undertook all the legal work at no cost and before long, the Trust was registered with Neville,
James and Clive as Trustees. And so the EWT was born.
The first three projects undertaken by the EWT were Brown
Hyena research, the Vulture Study Group, and of course,
Cheetah research. It was only fitting that the spoor of the
Cheetah would be chosen as the EWT’s logo, an emblem
that is synonymous with conservation in action around the
world today.
The head of the Vulture Study Group, Dr John Ledger, went
on to become Director of the EWT when Clive stepped
down in 1985. He is also responsible for initiating the
strategic partnership between the EWT and Eskom, which
endures to this day, and plays a key role in mitigating
energy infrastructure-related threats to wildlife. As the
organisation continued to make a vital contribution to
conservation, it grew both in size and stature. In 1992,
John oversaw the relocation of the EWT offices to a
bigger building in the grounds of the Johannesburg Zoo,
providing more space for the growing number of projects
and personnel. The Trust remained in this building until
2011, when the team moved to the current location in
Modderfontein.
An international perspective was brought to the EWT
when Dr Nicholas King took the reins in 2003. Nicholas was
a long-standing member of the Trust at the time, and was
working in the UK running an international environmental
capacity building initiative called BioNET-International. He was only too happy to relinquish the cold, wet weather in
Europe and return to South Africa to take up the post. Under his leadership, the EWT realised the need to review the
structure and competencies within the organisation to play a more meaningful role in an ever-globalising world. The
Trust became active in the global dialogues on climate change and spearheaded a number of interventions that would
drive a more environmentally sustainable approach towards developments such as mining and the construction of
dams and large scale housing projects.
Throughout the years, the EWT has lead the way on a number of conservation firsts, such as being involved in
‘Operation Rhino’ in 1980 when it sponsored the transport of eight Black Rhino from Hluhluwe Game Reserve to
3 Conservation Matters - November 2016
the Kruger National Park; the translocation by air in 1985 of 43 Yellowbilled Oxpeckers from the Caprivi to Hluhluwe
Game Reserve, where they had been extinct for 80 years; the inception of the Conservation Leadership Group in
the ‘90s, with the specific aim of mentoring young black South Africans to get nature conservation jobs; and the
implementation of a number of crucial partnerships, including the formal agreement with the national Department
of Environment Affairs in 2005 to develop a national stewardship programme, Biodiversity Stewardship South Africa
(BSSA), hosted and implemented by the EWT to develop a stewardship policy, strategy, set of guidelines and range of
implementation tools for land stewardship in South Africa.
In 2007, Yolan Friedmann became the organisation’s first female CEO. A key feature of the current leadership of the
Trust has been the initiation and ongoing development of its Conservation Strategy with measurable impact-driven
targets and a robust reporting framework that informs both donors and members of the EWT’s impact and progress,
and which furthermore guides the EWT staff and trustees to make more effective conservation planning decisions. This
process began in 2005 with looking at the (then) EWT Working Groups, their mandates and objectives and developing
some strategic streamlining. With the generous loan of Barloworld’s farm at Pilgrims Rest, the organisation undertook
a Strategic Planning Workshop to set the direction for the Trust for the next ten years. This process, involving a
number of Trustees and independent external advisors, kick-started the process that would eventually culminate in
the development of the EWT’s Conservation Strategy and its six Strategic Imperatives through which EWT’s work is
still focused today.
Yolan says: “Being a part of the EWT’s development is a privilege as it continually evolves and stamps out its place in
the conservation annals of southern Africa. The EWT IS the staff, Trustees, members, partners, donors, colleagues,
associates and most important of all, the extraordinary wildlife and this special planet for which we have all come
together.” The evolution of the EWT has taken it from focusing primarily on Endangered species in the 1970s to having
a large body of work today that focuses on creating and sustaining green jobs; freshwater conservation and catchment
management; human capacity building and training; developing initiatives that combat global wildlife crime; the
development of sustainable livelihoods in rural communities; environmental education in schools; impact mitigation
on energy infrastructure and road networks; and a patchwork of projects across 13 African countries.
The EWT continues to grow and evolve, as all associated with it remain committed to safeguarding our natural heritage.
Today, the EWT is active throughout southern Africa, working tirelessly to conserve a variety of wildlife, such as rhinos,
Cheetahs, Wild Dogs, Dugongs, Blue Cranes, Riverine Rabbits, Pickersgill’s Reed Frogs, and many more, as well as the
habitats they live in. The EWT also offers training and skills development programmes, working towards creating a
community where conservation in action comes alive.
SHOWCASING OUR
SUPPORTERS
DOPPIO ZERO
Doppio Zero prides themselves on being an integral part of the communities in
and around their restaurants. They’re also passionate about the environment,
and work diligently to help both their restaurants and partner schools “go green”
by focusing on recycling and rewarding those who do.
They’ve translated their concern for the environment
into a tasty campaign that will tantalise your tastebuds
and contribute towards rhino conservation at the same
time. So pop into your nearest branch, buy a delicious
rhino biscuit, and Doppio Zero will donate R4 to the
EWT for every biscuit sold!
Contact 011 486 4119 or visit www.doppio.co.za for
more information.
Conservation Matters - November 2016 4
A LIFELONG COMMITMENT TO
CONSERVATION
Belinda Glenn, Communication and Brand Manager
BelindaG@ewt.org.za
WESSA (the Wildlife and Environment Society of South Africa) recently presented their Annual Awards in recognition
of a wide range of outstanding environmental achievements. In celebration of the organisation’s 90th anniversary,
they presented awards in a number of new categories, including the 90 Lifetime Conservation Achiever Awards
category, which provided a unique opportunity to acknowledge 90 living individuals who have dedicated their lives to
conservation in South Africa. The Endangered Wildlife Trust is extremely proud of Yolan Friedmann, CEO, and Samson
Phakati, Senior Field Officer with the Threatened Grassland Species Programme, who were recipients of this award.
Samson has been passionate about the environment for as long as he can remember, and as a youngster spent
much of his time with his late grandfather, who was a well-known herder and animal story-teller in a rural part of
Wakkerstroom in Mpumalanga. He says: “Just like any young person growing up in Wakkerstroom in the ‘80s, I was
told of a sacred wetland bull which was rarely seen but mostly heard calling in the Wakkerstroom wetland. We were
made to fear passing by the wetland, especially when it got dark. When we moved to Esizameleni Township, which is
next to the Wakkerstroom wetland, I was fascinated by the number of visitors who were often seen with binoculars
in the area. One day, my older brother told me that the so called wetland bull was in an actual fact a small bird called
the White Winged Flufftail. It took some time for the new information to sink into my mind! It was at that moment
that I saw a need to share this newly acquired information about birds in general and why Wakkerstroom was such
an important area for conservation with my fellow community members. The next challenge was how to engage
the elders, especially in a society where there was a communication gap between the youth and elders. In short, at
the time, a young person wouldn’t dare engage the elders particularly on matters where they hold strong views. My
interest in conservation was the reason I approached the then EWT/ South African Crane Working Group project in
Wakkerstroom for a voluntary position, and to cut the story short, Glenn Ramke and Kerryn Morrison from the EWT
played a major role in grooming me to become an environmental educator.”
This passion for the environment also led Samson to study further in the field, and he has certificates in Environmental
Education, Community Conservation, and Environmental Education Training and Development Practice, and is currently
working towards his BA in Environmental Management.
Samson was thrilled to have been recognised by WESSA with this special award, saying: “I am very fortunate to have
received many awards for my conservation efforts, but must admit that it took time for the message to sink in as never
in my wildest dreams had I ever imagined myself being honoured with such an accolade, especially at the young age
of 36. The fact that the public had a role to play in me being given such an accolade is indeed icing on the cake! I am
therefore truly humbled by the important role that the society has played in my conservation journey.”
In his spare time, Samson enjoys spending time with his young
family, fishing and going to remote areas with his beautiful sons,
both human and canine.
Vist our website: https://www.ewt.org.za/TGSP/tgsp.html
5 Conservation Matters - November 2016
SAVING A SOUTH AFRICAN ICON
Kirsty Brebner, Rhino Project Manager
KirstyB@ewt.org.za
Heritage Day was celebrated in September in South Africa – the same month in which World Rhino Day is recognised
internationally. While Heritage Day commemorates the cultural diversity and living heritage in South Africa, including
cultural traditions, indigenous knowledge systems and a holistic approach to nature, society and social relationships 1,
World Rhino Day provides an opportunity to celebrate one of the most ancient and iconic animals which is part of that
living heritage, and to raise awareness of these magnificent creatures through events organised by governments, civil
society, NGOs, schools and individuals throughout the world.
As part of the Big Five, and as the second largest
land mammal after the African Elephant, rhinos are
a major drawcard for tourism. But our association
with them is much deeper than that, and probably
goes back thousands of years. A testimony to the long
association with rhinos and the reverence with which
they were regarded is the Golden Rhinoceros of
Mapungubwe, a small rhino figurine made of gold foil
from the ancient Kingdom of Mapungubwe, which has
come to symbolise the wealth and the existence of a
flourishing precolonial civilisation in South Africa. This
Kingdom was the centre of trade in southern Africa,
with traders coming from as far as Arabia and the Far
East. The area is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The people of Mapungubwe were the ancestors of
the Shona people in Zimbabwe, for whom the rhino
is a symbol of leadership.
Other tribes in southern Africa also imbue the rhino
with cultural and symbolic traditional beliefs, many
to do with leadership. In Sotho – Tswana society
for example, rhinos are referred to as leaders in
praise poems, and in these poems, the horn is used
to characterise the “danger, aggression, authority,
protection and military success of a leader.”2 In
addition, rhino figurines are used as educational
tools in initiation schools, and rhino horns and
bones were also used in rainmaking rituals2. There
is evidence of the symbolic link between the rhino
and political power through architecture in early
southern African communities, reflected through
horn-like monoliths which adorned buildings of
political significance, such as the Shona and Venda
palaces.
This strong heritage value and the sheer stature and majesty of rhinos are but two reasons why the EWT Wildlife in Trade
Programme has rhinos as one of its main focus areas. Rhinos are under serious threat due to the dramatic escalation in
poaching that has been ongoing since 2008. In the last decade, Africa has lost more than 6,000 rhinos, and the current
off-take from poaching is not sustainable. However, there is no single solution to the poaching epidemic, which is a
complicated, multinational problem involving sophisticated organised crime syndicates. For this reason, we have taken
a multi-faceted approach with multiple interventions along the poaching chain. One of our flagship projects is the use
of dogs – both detection and tracking - in the fight against poaching. Currently, we have two detection dogs, Rico and
Hitch, at OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) where they have worked in the terminals and in cargo warehouses.
In his first month of deployment, Rico located two separate consignments of wildlife contraband – containing rhino
horns, and elephant ivory and skin. The dogs have also moved to the terminals, and are now searching baggage. We
have also deployed seven dogs to reserves that have rhinos.
We have a strong community focus to the project as well – in fact, we celebrated World Rhino Day with our annual
speech competition between learners from ten schools in the Waterberg area on 24 September. We have continued
with our groundbreaking Hayi Laa! project, which addressed both social and wildlife crimes through a series of
Conservation Matters - November 2016 6
integrated workshops. Data analysis from the project, which was funded by the British High Commission Prosperity Fund,
showed it to be effective in raising awareness on the importance of reducing wildlife and social crimes, and we would like
to take lessons learned from this project, and implement them in a new village.
We also continue to work with the local South African Chinese community in efforts to discourage members of the
community from getting involved in illegal wildlife crime, and highlighting the penalties if they do. Some exciting new
project areas, particularly around scent detection methodology, are being developed as additional efforts to keep this
iconic animal and our natural heritage safe.
Work on these projects is made possible by the support of Royal Canin; Relate; Netflorist; Platinum Life; Synovate
Ipsos; Hans Hoheisen Charitable Trust; GivenGain; My Planet Rhino Fund; A. Gilbert; Anne Rimbault; Gavin Tait; Miguel
van Schalkwyk; Neil Ginsberg; Sue Bellinger; Sharon Boonzaier; Tomaz Florindo; Tony van Ryneveld; Victoria Reuvers;
donations in memory of Helmut Redtenbachern; donations in memory of Warwick Wragg and donations in kind from Afri
Guard; Hollard Pet Insurance (Petsure); and Reshebile Aviation and Protection Services.
Bakers South Africa showed their support for this iconic species and the Endangered Wildlife Trust by donating R50,000
to the EWT in celebration of World Rhino Day!
SHOWCASING OUR
SUPPORTERS
NATIONAL LOTTERIES COMMISSION
The EWT is pleased to announce that four of its programmes recently received short-term funding from the
National Lotteries Commission (NLC). These are the Birds of Prey Programme, the Carnivore Conservation
Programme, the Threatened Grasslands Species Programme and the National Biodiversity and Business
Network. This provides a welcome boost to funding for their vital work.
The NLC relies on funds from the proceeds of the National Lottery. The
Lotteries Act guides the way in which NLC funding may be allocated.
The intention of NLC funding is to make a difference to the lives of all
South Africans, especially those more vulnerable and to improve the
sustainability of the beneficiary organisations. Available funds are
distributed to registered and qualifying non-profit organisations in
the fields of charities; arts, culture and national heritage; and sport
and recreation. By placing its emphasis on areas of greatest need and
potential, the NLC contributes to South Africa’s development. Visit
www.nlcsa.org.za for more information.
7 Conservation Matters - November 2016
HERITAGE IN OUR
HANDS
The Endangered Wildlife Trust was established with the aim
of protecting species and habitats – essentially preserving
our natural heritage. But what does this mean to the people
who are involved with the EWT either as staff or supporters?
We got some insight from Oscar Mohale, EWT Source to
Sea Programme Intern, and Albert Belovay, a long-standing
supporter and member of the Trust.
CONSERVING OUR NATURAL HERITAGE THROUGH PUBLIC
PARTICIPATION
Oscar Mohale, Source to Sea Programme Intern
OscarM@ewt.org.za
I believe that one of the biggest threats to biodiversity and our natural
heritage is pressure from several factors that relate directly and/or
indirectly to humans. This means that conservation organisations
need to find solutions that get local communities involved, because
existing efforts such as fencing people out of parks and publishing
articles that aren’t reader-friendly are not helping the situation. It has
been a wonderful learning curve for me to come to this conclusion,
and the realisation that community conservation work is my true
calling.
I became aware of the problems faced by our natural heritage after
my undergraduate studies. I subsequently enrolled for a course
in applied ecology, hoping to one day contribute towards the
conservation of our natural heritage, and have a paying career at a
research institution.
Over time, before the completion of my studies, I realised that my
family did not value biodiversity as much as I did. Not only that, but when using public transport and visiting public
places it became apparent that most people I conversed with were clueless about biodiversity, let alone valuing and
caring for it.
At this point, the need to interact with people grew in me, but the type of university training I received was not
intended for communication per se or for work at the interface between people and biodiversity. To influence the
public, I chose to take up an entry-level position at an organisation that had visions similar to mine.
I had known about the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) for a few years and when the intern position in the Source to
Sea Programme became vacant, I did not think twice. The emphasis of the EWT on ‘action’ and the inclusion of people
that live in the ecosystems of focus attracted me to apply and to this day it makes working for the EWT all the more
enjoyable.
At the EWT, I support the implementation of conservation projects in the fields of marine and freshwater conservation.
My day-to-day roles include fundraising and administration for projects as well as research in thematic areas such as
climate change resilience and adaptation, conservation agriculture and green economy.
Through the EWT’s support and involvement in interesting projects, I am now able to help my family, the people I meet,
and the communities we are involved in value our natural heritage enough to care for it and/or support interventions
that help to protect it.
Conservation Matters - November 2016 8
TAKING ON THE ROLE OF CUSTODIANS
Albert Belovay, member of the EWT since 2003
I have lived and worked my entire life in Johannesburg but have taken every opportunity where possible to go out into
the countryside.
Thirteen years ago we bought timeshare bordering the Kruger National Park and a year’s membership of the EWT
was part of the package. As a family, we were most impressed with the informative quarterly EWT magazines that
were mailed to us and have renewed our membership every year since then. More recently we have had the pleasure
of attending some of the EWT’s monthly talks at the Johannesburg Country Club in Auckland Park and have found it
uplifting to mix with people who are passionate about preserving our wildlife.
In a small way we have also responded to requests from the EWT to support some of their projects. We also recycle
paper, plastics and glass using the municipal facilities in Sandringham who are actively involved in recycling. Recently
we have set up a system to recycle water backwashed from the swimming pool. The final two rinses of each cycle
from our washing machine are also used to water the garden. All the above comes from a sense of trying one’s best to
conserve our fragile environment. The example set by the EWT is a major motivator.
As custodians of our nation’s resources we have a duty to preserve what we have inherited from our forefathers,
not only for ourselves but also for all our children and future generations to come. Not everyone has accepted this
responsibility but instead have sadly taken it as their right to destroy that which belongs to all in the short-sighted
pursuit of riches. In view of this irresponsible attitude it is therefore extremely important that we take seriously the
threat to our natural heritage and support those organisations and people who are doing their best to counteract this
ongoing threat.
Daily we hear of yet more species being added
to the Endangered list and worse still, being
totally wiped out. The killing of our magnificent
elephants for their ivory and rhinos for their horns
by poaching syndicates is distressing. However,
there are dedicated people who, despite the odds,
are doing everything in their power to curtail the
terrible trade in wildlife.
The EWT should be proud of the dedicated
people that they have who are directly involved in
preserving our natural resources and they are to be
complimented for their sterling efforts.
The EWT has been proudly associated with the Relate Trust since 2013, and
the original range of EWT bracelets produced by Relate .To show your support
for EWT projects, head over to our e-shop at www.ewtshop.co.za to purchase
a bracelet of your very own.
9 Conservation Matters - November 2016SHOWCASING OUR
SUPPORTERS
N3TC
N3TC has a thirty year (1999 to 2029) Concession Contract mandate from SANRAL to finance, design, construct,
operate and maintain the N3 Toll Route from Cedara to Heidelberg.
Enormous pride is taken by the N3TC team in ensuring that the Route lives up to world-class technical
specifications, and that motorists’ safety, convenience and mobility is optimised across all operations.
Moreover, all environmental management is carried out in terms of an Environmental Management Plan
and ISO 14000-linked Environmental Management System. Beyond the outward, visible elements of N3TC’s
operations, lies the “soul” of the company, its Touching Lives Programme. The programme, geographically
linked to the N3 Corridor, currently has some 90 projects spread across four provinces, generating 2,190 work
opportunities and 74,382 beneficiaries. The sustainability of projects, as well as their ability to create jobs, is
considered to be of key importance.
The Touching Lives Programme, aims to leave a lasting legacy
of socio-economic, skills and entrepreneurial development
along the N3 Corridor. Conservation, including custodianship,
biodiversity stewardship, environmental education and
community conservation, plays a central role in the programme.
The partnership between the EWT and N3TC has grown steadily
over the years and N3TC participates significantly in three of
the EWT’s 13 thematic conservation programmes: African Crane
Conservation; Threatened Grassland Species; and Wildlife and
Roads. Each has its own unique importance.
Yolan Friedmann, Chief Executive Officer of the Endangered
Wildlife Trust, says in the 2015-2016 EWT Integrated Report:
“Perhaps the single greatest strength of the EWT has always
been, and remains, the passionate, driven people who make it all
happen”.
It is precisely for this reason that N3TC
is so proud of its association with the
EWT. There is indeed hope for the
threatened habitats and species of the
N3 Corridor. Visit www.n3tc.co.za for
more information.
Conservation Matters - November 2016 10Tails from the
Field
BLACK CROWNED CRANES: A SPECIES AT THE CROSSROADS
Kerryn Morrison, Senior Manager: Africa
KerrynM@ewt.org.za
Black Crowned Cranes (Balearica pavonina) are residents of the Sahel regions of Africa from Mauratania on the Atlantic
coast in West Africa to the Western Ethiopian Highlands and Rift Valley in Ethiopia in the east. This crane is the least well
known of the world’s 15 crane species. Although currently classified as Vulnerable, it is highly likely that this crane is in
a far worse situation. Affected significantly by droughts in the semi-arid environments it is often found in, this species
is also threatened by habitat loss, human related disturbance which results in reduced breeding productivity, and the
illegal removal of chicks and adults from the wild for domestic and international captive trade markets. Sadly, its range
too has reduced significantly from a once almost continuous distribution to a highly fragmented one.
Since the status survey and action plan for Black Crowned
Cranes was compiled in 2003 under the International Crane
Foundation (ICF) and Wetlands International collaboration,
several projects have been undertaken in West Africa for
the species. These have largely focused on broad scale
distribution and status and the development of action plans
across the region’s countries.
In October 2016, Richard Beilfuss (ICF CEO) and I visited
Senegal for the 14th Pan African Ornithological Congress. We
used this opportunity to then visit the two key Black Crowned
Crane sites in Senegal with Idrissa Ndiaye, a bird researcher
in the country. We first visited the Senegal River Delta in the
Djoudj National Park in the north and then the Casamance region in the south. My ideas around both Senegal and Black
Crowned Cranes were completely wrong on all accounts, and I am thrilled that we have made the move now towards
strengthening our efforts for Black Crowned Cranes.
Senegal is a vibrant, peaceful, colourful country, with food that strongly draws on its French background. Unfortunately,
the beaches and towns in Senegal are probably the most polluted I have ever experienced, but this is contrasted with
far cleaner situations in the more rural locations.
11 Conservation Matters - November 2016I always had the idea that Black
Crowned Cranes were very similar
to Grey Crowned Cranes. However,
this is definitely not the case. Idrissa
has studied cranes for several years
and has a wealth of knowledge on
their behaviour and nesting habits.
Although both cranes perch in
trees, almost everything else they
do is different. The nests we saw
were large mounds of vegetation
either on islands or in large wetland
systems where the nests were
floating platforms surrounded by
water. Interestingly, the parents
seem also to hide young chicks on
islands as they head off together to
forage in neighbouring rice fields a
distance away. I do not know of any crane species that will do this as a matter of habit. The cranes were all extremely
wary of people and we battled to come within several 100 m of any birds – we really battled to understand the cause
of this considering the fact that local communities supposedly do not hunt, eat, trade in or harm the species.
Despite foraging in rice fields around these large floodplain and
wetland systems, there appears to be very limited to no crop damage
allegations. It probably helps that it is only adult pairs of cranes that
forage in rice fields close to harvesting – at a time when they have left
their chicks hidden whilst they forage. Flocks of cranes appear to only
forage in rice fields following harvest in the dry season, and hence are
then eating waste grain in these fields.
The communities we interacted with all held the cranes in high esteem.
I had the fortune of meeting three community groups of the Jola people
during our visit to Casamance. Of particular interest is the Diedhou
people within the Jola group – the Black Crowned Crane is their totem
and is extremely highly regarded. They have little understanding of the
crane, but protect it vociferously. The cranes are deeply embedded in
their culture and stories. They believe strongly that some of the women
in the rice fields can understand and speak to the cranes, that cranes
never damage rice crops of the Diedhou people and that a crane flying
and calling over a village is announcing the death of someone.
Sadly, many of the Black Crowned Crane strongholds are now no longer
easily accessed by researchers and conservationists due to political
instability, warfare and the fact that they are centred within extremist
group strongholds, such as those of Boko Haram. As a result, we are
really only able now to focus attention on the species strongholds
in Ethiopia and those along the West African coast extending from
Mauratania to Guinea Bissau. WithIn smaller populations in these areas,
it is going to be critical that
partnership the opportunity now to better
we use
understand the breeding ecology with of this species and to ensure that
they are secured in these sites. Already assisting research in Ethiopia,
we will shortly start projects in Senegal and this West African region in
collaboration with local NGOs and researchers.
This work is made possible by the Dohmen Family Foundation.
In
partnership
with
Conservation Matters - November 2016 12FIGHTING PREVENTABLE DISEASES
Grant Beverley, Carnivore Conservation Programme Lowveld Regional Co-ordinator, and David Marneweck,
Carnivore Conservation Programme KZN Regional Co-ordinator
GrantB@ewt.org.za and DavidM@ewt.org.za
Canine Distemper Virus (CDV), a highly contagious canine disease often carried by domestic dogs, is closely related to
measles in humans. It causes respiratory and central nervous system malfunctions, and also affects the gastrointestinal
system. The CDV infection can spread quickly, affecting entire populations, and animals are more likely to get the
disease during times of stress, such as the drought we are currently experiencing. Following recent outbreaks of CDV
in the Kruger National Park (KNP) and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP), where the “Lower Sabie” (KNP) and “Crossroads”
(HiP) packs were lost, the EWT and our partners are hard at work vaccinating our precious Wild Dogs against both
CDV and rabies. Rabies is also highly contagious, fatal, and can be transmitted from animals to humans. The disease
can pass through a pack of Wild Dogs quickly, resulting in neurological symptoms, disorientation and aggression.
Death typically occurs between one and six days after the first signs are noticed.
The first four individuals from the “Toulon Pack” which was denning in close proximity to the “Lower Sabie Pack”
were initially vaccinated in July and an adult male was fitted with a GPS collar. A second pack was also subsequently
darted, vaccinated and fitted with a GPS tracking collar. This is a new pack which formed after females from the
“Orpen Pack” dispersed and joined a dispersal group of males from the “Berg n Dal Pack”. The pack is doing well and
is raising a litter of five new pups which is a welcome boost to the Wild Dog population in the KNP! During October,
the EWT assisted SANParks and the State Veterinary Department with vaccinating another pack of Wild Dogs in KNP
as part of this ongoing disease survey and targeted vaccination project. An adult male from the pack was fitted with
a GPS tracking collar which will allow us to monitor the pack’s movements and administer the vaccination boosters
for both CDV and rabies.
Thanks to the ongoing efforts of the EWT, Ezemvelo KZN
Wildlife (EKZNW) and WildlifeACT, one member of the
“Dela’s Pack” in HiP was fitted with a GPS tracking collar.
This enabled the team to initially vaccinate four of the
six members of this pack over a two-week period. Blood
samples were also taken to determine baseline levels
of exposure to CDV and for genetics and TB research
purposes. In October, the pack was successfully located
again and the EWT, EKZNW and Dr Jacques Flammand, a
vet from the WWF Black Rhino Range Expansion Project,
darted and administered the booster vaccines to two
of the young females from this pack, known as Ntombi
and Sfundo. This took place over a two-day period, with
additional assistance being provided by Stacey Klein-
Snakenborg from the research station in HiP and Geoff Clinning (EKZNW GIS and Database technician) on the second
day.
We are extremely grateful to those individuals and organisations
who have already heeded our call for assistance, and donated
towards enabling the EWT to undertake this work. Your support
has made a real difference to our efforts to protect these animals
against preventable diseases.
Should you wish to support our ongoing work in this regard, you
can make a donation, using the reference “Wild Dogs”.
Our banking details are:
Endangered Wildlife Trust
First National Bank
Branch: Rosebank
Branch code: 253-305
Account number: 50371564219
Your generous donation will help to ensure that our staff remain active in the field, monitoring and protecting our
precious Wild Dogs by vaccinating them against preventable diseases like rabies and Canine Distemper Virus, and
making sure we don’t lose any more of these incredible Endangered animals.
13 Conservation Matters - November 201614
Conservation Matters - November 2016
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ALPACAS ON GUARD
Derek van der Merwe, Carnivore Conservation Programme Limpopo Regional Co-ordinator
DerekV@ewt.org.za
The Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Programme recently placed Alpacas in the Northern Cape
to function as livestock guarding animals, with the aim of protecting livestock from carnivores predating on them.
This exciting first forms part of the broader project which sees the EWT working with farmers to eradicate lethal,
and often unselective, methods such as poison and gin traps, while still alleviating conflict between these farmers
and predators.
One of the reasons Alpacas are being trialled in the Northern Cape is because we have struggled to successfully
place livestock guarding dogs with Dorper sheep in the Upington area. As these sheep don’t have a herding
instinct, it was extremely difficult for the dogs to bond with the flock. These sheep also seem to find the dogs,
who have grown rather large, intimidating. As a result, and after hearing of the success of a local farmer who was
using Alpacas to guard his sheep, we decided to trial Alpacas in this area. Four male Alpacas were sourced from a
farm in the Western Cape and relocated to the Northern Cape. Once we were happy with their condition, as the
veld in the Northern Cape is quite different from the lush, green Western Cape, we split them up. They have been
placed on farms to protect the sheep from predators such as Caracals, jackals, and Brown Hyenas. The feedback
thus far has been extremely positive and the Alpacas appear to be a huge hit with the farmers. They have already
started displaying guarding behaviour, and the team is collecting data with the hopes of publishing a study on the
effectiveness of Alpacas as livestock guarding animals in the future.
This work is made possible through the support of the Elizabeth
Wakeman Henderson Foundation, Cleveland Zoological Society,
Pittsburgh Zoo and PGG Aquarium, Sean Williams Living Creatures
Trust, Woolworths, Eukanuba and the IQ Business Group.
15 Conservation Matters - November 2016TRANSFORMING RISK INTO OPPORTUNITY
Michael Adams, National Biodiversity and Business Network Coordinator
MichaelA@ewt.org.za
The second annual National Biodiversity and Business Indaba was a resounding success with over a hundred people
attending this sold-out event. Building on the remarkable success of the first Indaba held in 2015, the 2016 event
attracted a diverse range of people from corporate South Africa, government, industry and various NGOs. The Indaba
was held over two days in Johannesburg and through a range of presentations, case studies, roundtable discussion
and key-note addresses the attendees learned how biodiversity loss is coming to the fore in the business world, where
businesses are impacting and indeed where they are dependent on this declining resource.
Natural capital, including water, soil and biodiversity, is essential for the country’s development and businesses success.
Therefore, the management of biodiversity has to become an essential component of the formal risk management and
governance of businesses. With this in mind, the theme for this year’s Indaba was ‘Transforming risk into opportunity’
which provided delegates with practical insights into how their business can identify and act on risks and opportunities
in this rapidly evolving field.
Seeking to not only provide information and content, but
also to search for solutions, prominent representatives of
business, government and the NGO sector were present
at the Indaba and through various round-table discussion
sessions, tackled the difficult questions and brainstormed
the necessary solutions to one of our world’s most pressing
problems – biodiversity loss.
Eskom’s Head of Climate Change and Sustainability,
Mandy Rhambaros and the CEO of Vedanta’s Zinc
International, Deshnee Naidoo presented the
keynote addresses. Other prominent speakers
included the CEO of Hatch Africa, Pierre Oliver,
the National Business Initiative’s Lead on Climate
Change and Water, Steve Nicholls, PriceWaterhouse Coopers’ Senior Manager in Sustainability and Integrated
Reporting, Chantal van der Watt, Rio Tinto’s Principal Advisor for Environment, Dr Theresia Ott, the IUCN’s Regional
Technical Coordinator on Business, Economics and Biodiversity, Dr Marie Parramon-Gurney and the Department of
Environmental Affairs’ Chief Policy Advisor on Strategic Environmental Intelligence, Peter Lukey, amongst others.
“Large, medium and small businesses attended the Indaba as a proactive step towards furthering their understanding
of the risks and opportunities that biodiversity presents to their bottom line and learning about how best to respond
to them so as to remain competitive in our fast-changing world.” said Shelley Lizzio, Manager of the NBBN.
“At the 2016 NBBN Indaba we were focusing on the true business case for biodiversity and hard-nosed economics.
Through the Indaba, we linked scientific evidence with business priorities and opportunities,” added Shelley. On both
days of the event, break-away sessions were held which focused on the most pertinent issues facing business with
regard to biodiversity. Each session was facilitated by a subject-matter expert and attendees brought their own case
studies for discussion and analysis.
Detailed proceedings and solutions from the event, as well as the various presentations, will be distributed to members
of the NBBN network in the coming weeks and a limited selection will be provided for download on the National
Biodiversity and Business Network website.
The NBBN was established by the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT), in collaboration with founding partners, including
the Department of Environmental Affairs (DEA), Nedbank Limited, Hatch Goba, De Beers, Transnet, Pam Golding
Properties and Pick n Pay. Woolworths and Eskom have since also come on board as partners.
Conservation Matters - November 2016 16Events
Visit our website for more information at
WORLD ENVIROMENTAL DAYS www.ewt.org.za or scan the QR code
• 5 December 2016 - World Soil Day
• 2 February 2017 - World Wetlands Day
• 28 February 2017 - Leap Day for Frogs
COUNTRY CLUB JOHANNESBURG TALKS
• 7 February 2017 - World of Wild Dogs
• 7 March 2017 - Celebrating National Water Month
17 Conservation Matters - November 2016Meet the Pack
DR IAN LITTLE - SENIOR MANAGER: HABITATS
We caught up with Dr Ian Little, who has recently been promoted to Senior Manager: Habitats. Ian grew up with a
passion for wildlife and conservation fuelled by his love for animals and direction from his conservationist father Dr
Rob Little, who worked for WWF South Africa for over ten years and is now at the Percy FitzPatrick Institute of African
Ornithology. As a teenager, Ian busied himself with rehabilitating, training and releasing birds of prey as his primary
hobby. After high school, he completed a BSc in Zoology and Botany, Honours in Zoology followed by an MSc and
PhD in conservation biology at the University of Cape Town. With a PhD focused on grassland ecology, he took on the
management of the EWT’s Threatened Grassland Species Programme where he was working for the past six years
and successfully expanded what was a two species programme into a biome-based approach to securing half a dozen
strategically selected species, their habitats and the ecosystem services for which they act as flagships (especially
freshwater catchments).
The new Senior Manager: Habitats position oversees the EWT’s
habitat-focused programmes including the Drylands Conservation,
Threatened Amphibians, Source to Sea and Threatened Grassland
Species Programmes. Ian will strategically address large scale
habitat conservation efforts nationally and establish key high level
partnerships to expand the EWT’s footprint in the region.
What excites you about this new position?
“This new position allows the EWT to more effectively and
strategically address major conservation concerns across the
region and across our various programmes. Among other things I
will assist in developing an organisational strategy and determine
measurable targets for the habitat-focused programmes, as well as
how these feed into the EWT Conservation Strategy as a whole. I
will take on strategic fundraising, priority large scale conservation
projects, targeted research, building strategic partnerships,
contributing to updating and developing national, regional and
global policies, represent the EWT on relevant conservation
committees and engage in strategic horizon scanning for further
catalytic habitat conservation work in the region.
It will also allow me to work with my enthusiastic and dedicated colleagues in all of the various habitat programmes
and thus expand my knowledge and experience across the board. After having focused on the grassland biome for the
better part of a decade it is particularly exciting to be able to branch out into various other habitat types.”
What are you passionate about?
“My personal passion is for conserving threatened species and places. When not actively working towards protecting
these special animals and their natural habitats, I enjoy visiting remote and beautiful places to see animals and plants
that I have not yet seen. I love the peace, tranquillity and balance of the natural world, and especially the feeling of
vulnerability that a human in the wilderness invariably feels in the presence of wild animals. As hobbies I enjoy fishing
(more for the places visited than the actual fish), birding and various ball sports.”
If you had to get stuck in a lift with anyone, who would it be and why?
“This is a tough question but I’d probably choose Leonardo DiCaprio. Those that know me will know that I’m not a
particularly big fan of Leo as an actor but his dedication to conservation and genuine efforts to take a leadership stance
in his conservation efforts combined with his being one of the world’s more influential people makes him not only an
interesting person to speak to but a potentially powerful ally in all conservation efforts.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and who did it come from?
“’Worry only about those things that you can control and not about those beyond your control.’ This pearler, of which
I regularly remind myself, was from my dad.”
Conservation Matters - November 2016 18CATHERINE HUGHES – THREATENED GRASSLAND SPECIES
PROGRAMME MANAGER
We also chatted to Catherine Hughes, who joined the EWT as the Threatened Grassland Species Programme Manager in July.
Catherine grew up in Pietermaritzburg, but loves to travel and since then has lived in many different places. She completed
her undergrad degree in Molecular Biology at the former University of Natal, and went on to do her Masters in Conservation
Biology at the Percy Fitzpatrick Institute at UCT. Since then she has lived in Pretoria, Johannesburg and London, with short stays
in Sweden, Australia, Ghana and the Kalahari. Her first permanent job was at the EWT, collecting biological samples. She then
worked as an environmental consultant for 12 years, mainly in the mining industry,
as a specialist in climate change and surface water studies. At the moment she is
working towards my PhD in Hydrology at UKZN. Her project explores how healthy
ecological infrastructure can improve water-related ecosystem service delivery.
What does your new role at the EWT involve?
“I am thrilled to have been appointed as the Manager of the EWT’s Threatened
Grasslands Species Programme. Our team is involved in the conservation of
threatened species, including (amongst others) Oribi, Sungazer lizards, Blue
Swallows and two species of Lark. Conserving these flagship species and their
habitat is vitally important for the country’s ecosystems – grasslands are essential
habitats for water production and other key ecosystem services in South Africa.”
What excites you about this new position?
“I am extremely excited about working for a conservation organisation after many
years in a corporate environment where I was focused mainly on development
projects which alter the natural environment irreversibly. I feel that I might finally
be able to make a difference, particularly with regard to awareness raising in
terms of the importance of grassland habitats and how they are such vital water
factories.”
What are you passionate about?
“I’m passionate about natural beauty – particularly mountains and forests. I’m also
passionate about linking people together and creating partnerships which are successful. On a personal level I love playing and
watching team sports – I am an avid rugby fan – as well as music, yoga and dance.”
If you had to get stuck in a lift with anyone, who would it be and why?
“I would love to spend some time with the evolutionary biologist Professor Richard Dawkins. I admire his scientific mind and
bravery in a world of conventional thinking.”
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
“The best piece of advice I’ve received is that you should never look back and regret something that has happened or that you
could have done differently. You can’t go back and change the past, but should always keep moving forward to improve your
situation or fix a problem to the best of your ability.”
LEAVING A LEGACY
Tammy Baker, Business Development Officer
TammyB@ewt.org.za
It’s the kind of subject we don’t always like to dwell on, but none of us can avoid the need to have an up-to-date will,
ensuring that our last wishes are carried out and our legacy is continued in the way that we would choose.
Including a bequest to an organisation that you have supported in your lifetime, or that you would have liked to
support, had you been able to, is a way to bring dignity, meaning and purpose to a life well-lived. You, and your values,
beliefs and generous philanthropic role modelling, will live on in the memories of those you support.
Should you choose to remember the EWT in your will, you are not only ensuring that the vital work that the
organisation does carries on and benefits generations for years to come, you could also be providing tax benefits to
your loved ones.
Section 4(h) of the Estate Duty Act determines that bequests made to public benefit organisations such as the
EWT should first be deducted from the nett value of your estate before estate duty is determined. This means that
remembering the EWT in your will could exempt your estate from estate duty. A deduction for estate duty purposes
is allowed in respect of the value of property bequeathed to a public benefit organisation.
19 Conservation Matters - November 2016The EWT relies on bequests both large and small to ensure that we continue fulfilling our vision of a healthy planet
and an equitable world that values and sustains the diversity of all life.
We would like to thank you if you have already decided
There are different types of bequests that you can select
to leave a bequest and invite you to consider doing so
from, namely:
if you have not. We assure you that your legacy will
• Residue of your estate
make a lasting impact for the benefit of all people who
• A percentage of your estate
inhabit our beautiful land.
• A specific sum of money
• A life insurance policy
We recommend that you use the below wording:
• Property
“I bequeath to the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT)
registered NPO number 015-502 of K2 Pinelands Office
Park, Ardeer Road, Modderfontein, Gauteng, (insert bequest details of your choice), and I express the that such estate
be used for the purpose of conserving threatened species and habitats for future generations”.
MAX ‘SNOWY’ HALBEKATH
“The world would be a nicer place if everyone had the ability to love as unconditionally as a dog.” - M.K. Clinton, author.
The world is certainly being made a nicer place by people like Max ‘Snowy’ Halbekath, who loved animals enough to
make their protection his legacy. Snowy, as he was known to most because of his snow-white hair, would have liked to
be remembered as a protector of animals both domestic and wild, and so he generously divided his estate between
the EWT and the SPCA.
Snowy was born in 1931 and was an
excellent target shooter at school,
faring well in competitions. His
sister-in-law, Kathleen, tells us that
although he was a brilliant shot, he
was fiercely opposed to shooting
anything alive and only shot targets
and clay pigeons. His love of animals
was obvious from an early age.
He married Kathleen’s sister, Sheila,
in 1979, after losing his first wife,
Desiré, early on in their marriage.
Sheila and Snowy, the perfect match,
were true dog lovers, and always
had at least two around. They had
no children but treated their dogs as
if they were their babies. Kathleen
jokes fondly that perhaps Snowy
preferred animals to humans. He
came to run an informal shelter for
anyone who found abandoned dogs,
housing up to five at a time, and
would treat each dog to a home-
cooked meal every night.
Snowy was well-known for his sense
of humour and this came out in the naming of his favourite dog. Kathleen says: “He had a tradition of always naming
his dogs with names starting with an S and that is how the name Satan came about for an absolutely special German
Shepard that he owned. Satan excelled at dog training and no other dog could ever compare or compete with Satan.
I’m pretty sure that Satan was actually the love of his life!”
Not only did Snowy love his dogs, but he also loved wildlife and the bush. He and Sheila travelled to the Kruger
National Park once a year. It was this affinity for wild animals and spaces that inspired this humble, kind man to leave
his bequest to the EWT when he sadly passed away in 2016. His generosity will ensure that we are able to continue
the work we do to protect the animals and habitats he loved so much.
Thank you Snowy. Your memory will live on forever in the work you made possible.
Conservation Matters - November 2016 20You can also read
