The skinned remains of a Cape Leopard found on a farm in Agter Paarl on Monday can only be described as a true wildlife tragedy.
Paarl police spokesperson Capt Louise du Plessis shared the distressing news in an official investigation report.
“The Cape Winelands Stock Theft Unit, in partnership with CapeNature, is investigating the circumstances of the [poaching] of a mountain leopard, the carcass of which was found on a farm in the Agter Paarl area on Monday (22 August) at around 12:50.”
As reported by Die Burger, the CapeNature Conservation Manager of the Limietberg Nature Reserve, Patrick Shone, alleged a worker on the farm found the leopard already dead in the snare, and slaughtered the remains with the help of another farmworker.
The incident was initially reported by a member of a farm watch who had seen photos of the scene on social media, believed to have been shared by the farmworkers.
Shone said the carcass, skin and snare were confiscated and that the workers will be fined for possession of a wildlife carcass without the necessary permits.
Attempts made by Paarl Post to confirm statements made by Shone was unsuccessful.
The newspaper then spoke to Jeannie Hayward, Communications & Media Manager of the Cape Leopard Trust (CLT). She said the trust had mobilised a first-response team to deal with the incident and participate in investigations, as required.
Hayward expressed doubt that this snare was intentionally aimed at a leopard.
“Considering where it was found, it is unlikely this snare was specifically set to catch a leopard. The illegal practice of snaring is rife in the area and all kinds of wildlife get caught, so the leopard was likely caught opportunistically and subsequently killed.”
Studies done by CLT have shown snares are set mainly to catch bushmeat. “No other leopard killings have been reported to the CLT. That does not mean it is an isolated incident. Setting snares or other traps without permits is illegal, and killing leopards is also illegal, so these things tend to happen in secrecy.”
Hayward added that three incidents of wildcats caught in snares had been reported to the CLT in the greater Winelands area this year alone.
“There has been a reported increase in snaring activity on the slopes of Paarl Mountain in recent months. Everyone who spends time out in nature can assist in curbing this destructive practice by being alert and on the lookout for illegal snares.
“Cut and disarm these snares and report them to the CLT. Also report any other suspicious activity, such as other types of traps and feral dogs, go to app.capeleopard.org.za.”
Hayward also warned no person should attempt to free any dangerous animals found alive in snares.
Du Plessis appeals to anyone with information about this incident to report it to police on 021 807 4009/4014.
