Overcoming fear and embracing the unknown have defined my journey with the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Birds of Prey Program, where I work alone in remote areas to protect South Africa’s wildlife and promote conservation.
A wildlife field officer’s first mission to rescue poisoned vultures in Kruger National Park ends in hope as two rehabilitated birds are released back into the wild.
In December 2023, I fetched an injured White-backed Vulture from Kimberley Veterinary Clinic. The bird was found somewhere in town and had a broken leg. The bird was in an excellent condition and was eating well. Its leg was pinned by Dr Burger. From the start this vulture was very feisty so we decided to call her “Kwaaitjie” (bad girl).
The EWT Vulture Safe Zone project objectives include reducing and ultimately eliminating the threats to vultures within project areas. Among many other dangers is lead poisoning; a serious threat to vulture populations and other species across the globe.
Cliantha is a Conservation Canine Assistant with the EWT’s Conservation Canine Unit. Here is a little bit about Cliantha