Saving Species of Conservation Concern

Apart from rhino being poached for their horn, the escalating rate of wildlife poaching, snaring, and poisoning across the Greater Kruger National Park region is an increasing cause for concern.

As a result, the area has seen a dramatic decline in populations of vultures as well as large birds of prey – while incidents affecting large carnivores, including lions, leopards, wild dogs and hyenas, have been sharply on the rise.

In the last 10 years, Southern African vulture populations have suffered rapid population declines of up to 80%.

The stats highlight the importance of taking action:

• 80% decline in SA’s vulture populations over the past 10 years
• 2,300 estimates of remaining wild lions in SA
• The wild dog is one of the worlds most endangered mammals

With seven of the eleven vulture species in Africa classified as Critically Endangered or Endangered, their populations are rapidly declining. Vultures play a crucial role in cleaning ecosystems but are highly susceptible to poisoning from carcasses treated with lethal pesticides intended for predators. The Singita Lowveld Trust supports the Endangered Wildlife Trust's Large Raptor, Wildlife Poisoning Rapid Response, and Carnivore Conservation Programmes, while Singita Field Guides assist in monitoring and responding to poisoning incidents. Additionally, the Trust contributes to the Vulture Safe Zone Alliance, establishing secure habitats in Singita Sabi Sand and Singita Kruger National Park, which help vultures breed, forage, and thrive, reducing threats such as poisoning and habitat loss.