The EWT’s new Threat Reduction Team in July spent a Friday night assisting with the rescue and treatment of a male lion caught in a snare.

The lion, from one of neighbouring reserves, had been missing for about a week before reserve staff managed to locate him and noticed the severe snare around his neck. The Threat Reduction Team sprung into action and managed to locate the lion.  Once darted by a vet, the rescue became a team effort with everyone helping to move the lion to a safe area, hold drips, clean and treat the wound, and assist throughout the procedure.

The snare was extremely serious, and the intervention came just in time. Thanks to the team’s efforts, this magnificent lion will be a whole lot more comfortable and should make a full recovery.

“What makes this even more meaningful is that, after spending the last few days learning about wildlife crime and the devastating impacts of snaring, our new Threat Reduction Team witnessed firsthand why their work matters. Experiences like these leave a lasting impression and reinforce the importance of what we do every day to protect South Africa’s wildlife.

“I couldn’t be prouder of this team. They were professional, observant, eager to help, and genuinely engaged throughout the operation. This is exactly the kind of commitment and teamwork that will make a real difference in tackling wildlife crime,”  said Derek van der Merwe, manager of the EWT’s Carnivore Conservation Unit.