An urgent call from Mala Mala Game Reserve prompted The Wildlife Emergency’s team (WEF) to promptly tackle a critical mission: rescuing a young elephant ensnared in a dangerous trap. The operation necessitated funding for swift aerial deployment and skilled veterinary assistance.

While successfully removing the snare brought relief, it also highlighted the pervasive issue of their use. Snares, illegally placed by poachers or hunter-gatherers in conservation zones, frequently ensnare unintended targets, including endangered species. 

We encounter these situations regularly, removing an animal’s snare almost every two weeks. Each operation requires careful handling, focusing not only on removing the snare but also on the animal’s overall health, such as treating any injuries or wounds caused by the snare. We provide the essential transportation, including helicopter services, and cover the veterinary expenses for these operations. Additionally, we offer on-site logistical support to ensure that everything runs smoothly and efficiently.

Why are snares, and consequently snare emergencies, so prevalent? The use of snares in Africa, especially in rural and underdeveloped regions, is driven by several key factors:

Poverty and Subsistence

Individuals living close to wildlife habitats frequently resort to setting snares to catch wild animals for food. This form of subsistence hunting is essential for those with limited access to alternative food sources.

Commercial Poaching

Due to their low cost, simplicity in construction, and effectiveness, snares are often favored by poachers aiming to unlawfully capture wildlife for black market sales. This includes the trade of bushmeat or body parts from endangered species, which are sought after in specific markets.

Human-Wildlife Conflict

In regions where wildlife and human populations intersect, conflicts can arise, especially when wild animals threaten livestock or crops. Farmers and ranchers may use snares as a means to safeguard their livelihoods from predators like lions or leopards. However, this practice is frequently illegal and can inadvertently trap non-target species.

Lack of Alternatives

In some communities, there is little awareness regarding the ecological consequences of using snares or the legal ramifications associated with them. Moreover, in the absence of sustainable economic alternatives or effective wildlife management practices, individuals may continue to depend on snares for income or food.