Latest News & Developments
poaching
Rhino poacher sentenced to 14 years after fleeing justice
A 62-year-old man has been sentenced to 14 years in prison for poaching two rhinos in the Kruger National Park, sending a strong message against wildlife crime and the importance of protecting endangered species.
Houdini the rhino: a life-saving surgery by the University of Pretoria's veterinary team
A dedicated veterinary team from the University of Pretoria has performed a remarkable five-hour surgery on Houdini, a four-year-old white rhino, to save his life after a poaching incident left him with a severe nasal obstruction. This heartwarming story showcases the commitment of veterinary professionals to wildlife conservation.
South Africa ramps up efforts to combat environmental and organised crime
Explore how South Africa is tackling the rising threat of environmental crime through enhanced law enforcement, international cooperation, and innovative strategies, as highlighted by Major-General Thokozani Mathonsi at the UN Commission on Crime Prevention.
Justin Terblanche: the rhino whisperer's fight against poaching
Meet Justin Terblanche, the 'Rhino Whisperer,' who is on a mission to save South Africa's last rhinos. Through his crowdfunding campaign, he aims to raise R176,000 for a thermal drone that could revolutionise anti-poaching efforts. Discover the deep bond he shares with these majestic creatures and the urgent need for support to protect them.
Mozambican poacher shot, arrested at Kruger National Park - second suspect at large
A 47-year-old Mozambican national was shot and arrested in the Kruger National Park after being caught illegally hunting. The suspect, found with a rifle, ammunition, and an axe, is facing charges of trespassing and illegal hunting.
Former ranger arrested for illegal hunting in Kruger National Park
Two suspects, including a former ranger, were arrested in Kruger National Park for illegal hunting and possession of wildlife products, raising concerns about former rangers' involvement in wildlife crimes.
Former ranger and accomplice caught in illegal hunting operation at Kruger Park
Two suspects, including a former ranger, were arrested in Kruger National Park for illegal hunting and possession of wildlife products, raising serious concerns about wildlife protection efforts.
Mozambican men, armed with rifle, arrested for illegal hunting in Kruger National Park
Two Mozambican men, aged 29 and 38, were arrested in Kruger National Park for illegal possession of a firearm and trespassing, following a patrol by field rangers who tracked them down.
Environment minister praises anti-poaching efforts despite 103 rhinos lost in South Africa
Despite the tragic loss of 103 rhinos to poaching in South Africa during the first quarter of 2025, Minister George highlights significant anti-poaching successes, including zero incidents in four provinces and ongoing law enforcement efforts.
Police crackdown: R1. 9 million worth of abalone seized in Northern Cape farmhouse
Five suspects, including two Malawian and three Chinese nationals, face court after police seized over R1. 9 million worth of abalone in a Northern Cape farmhouse raid.
Cape Town abalone poacher sentenced after being caught with stash
Ernst Hendrik Theunis Muller, a 67-year-old abalone poacher, faces justice in the Khayelitsha Priority Court after being convicted of multiple charges related to illegal abalone possession and trafficking, raising concerns over environmental crime in Cape Town.
Inside the Wildlife Forensic Academy where future guardians battle poaching
At South Africa's Wildlife Forensic Academy, students are stepping into hazmat suits to learn how to investigate wildlife crimes and combat the poaching crisis threatening endangered species like rhinos and giraffes.
Call for urgent action on Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife ranger vacancies
Funding cuts have been described as a threat to the province’s biodiversity and conservation efforts.
Zimbabwean fugitive sentenced to 110 years for rhino poaching and prison escape
A Zimbabwean fugitive who had previously served five life sentences has been sentenced to 110 years imprisonment after being convicted of rhino poaching and escaping from prison.
Rhino conservation success as two calves born at CARE for wild rhino sanctuary
Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary celebrates the birth of two rhino calves, highlighting the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts in rhino conservation and the remarkable stories of the mothers, Fern and Twinkle.
Rhino conservation success: Two calves born at CARE for wild rhino sanctuary
Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary celebrates the birth of two rhino calves, highlighting the sanctuary’s ongoing efforts in rhino conservation and the remarkable stories of the mothers, Fern and Twinkle.
Latest rhino poaching report reveals progress and persistent threats in South Africa
The latest report on rhino poaching in South Africa reveals a decrease in overall numbers for 2024, but ongoing challenges persist as certain areas experience heightened poaching activities.
Double victory for KZN wildlife: Rhino poaching drops as rare crane recovers
Discover how KwaZulu-Natal’s conservation initiatives have led to a significant decline in rhino poaching and the successful downlisting of the wattled crane from critically endangered to endangered.
South African stars Anele Mdoda, Avumile Qongqo and Liyabona Mroqoza shine at the 97th Academy Awards
South African stars from ‘The Last Ranger’ dazzle on the Oscars red carpet, showcasing their cultural heritage.
Anele Mdoda reflects on impact of The Last Ranger
As the film industry reflects on this year’s Oscars, the journey of "Last Ranger" serves as a reminder of the power of storytelling to inspire change and raise awareness.
Protecting rare South African plants: the urgent need for conservation
Discover the urgent need to protect South Africa's rare and indigenous plants from illegal trade and learn how homeowners can safeguard their prized greenery.
Conservation success for Cape Mountain Zebras, but threats persist
While Cape mountain zebras have made a remarkable comeback from near extinction, plainsand Grévy’s zebras continue to face habitat loss, poaching, and climate change-drivendroughts.
Illegal abalone trade nets poachers R500 000 per shipment
South African authorities reveal shocking details of sophisticated illegal abalone poaching operations, with single shipments earning criminals up to R500 000.
Full praise from Minister Gayton McKenzie as isiXhosa film ‘The Last Ranger’ bags Academy Award nomination
The isiXhosa film ‘The Last Ranger’ has made history with its Academy Award nomination, celebrating South Africa's cinematic talent