Sameera Casmod | sameerac@radioislam.co.za
24 January 2024 | 10:08 a.m. SAST
1-min read

Image credits: Siyabona Africa

In a move towards vulture conservation, VulPro has successfully executed Africa’s largest vulture relocation, spanning over a thousand kilometres.

The recent relocation involved the transportation of 160 vultures from Hartbeespoort to Shamwari Game Reserve. It involved over 50 people and took 18 hours to complete.

“[The relocation] this week to VulPro at Shamwari will be focusing very specifically on our captive breeding efforts and then monitoring the release of those individual birds,” says Wolter.

In an interview on Radio Islam International, Kerri Wolter, CEO of VulPro, discusses the urgent need to address the threats facing vultures globally.

VulPro, originally a rehabilitation facility, has evolved to employ in-situ and ex-situ conservation strategies. Recognising the significance of each individual bird for species continuation, VulPro combines rehabilitation, captive breeding for release, and comprehensive conservation initiatives.

“Our strategies are really to save each and every single individual. So that to me is pertinent,” Wolter says.

Vultures are endangered both in Africa and globally, with some species experiencing a 97% decline over the last three decades.

“In Africa, we are facing an African vulture crisis, where some species have declined by up to 97% over the last 30 years,” the CEO notes.

They confront threats like power line collisions, electrocutions, poisoning, and vulture harvesting for multi-trade and belief-based purposes.

While rehabilitation and extensive captive breeding contribute significantly, Wolter emphasises identifying and mitigating threats.

Wolter highlights the importance of public appreciation for vultures, urging people to connect emotionally with these vital species. She emphasises the need for authorities to play a decisive role, calling for stronger penalties and law enforcement to combat the illegal trade of vultures, akin to efforts against rhino poaching.

“Learn to appreciate and understand why we need to conserve them, because they are important,” Wolter says.

Listen to the full interview on Sabaahul Muslim with Moulana Sulaimaan Ravat.