SanWild is in desperate need of funds in aid of an emergency wildlife rescue operation. Two giraffes were spotted close to Tzaneen in an area made up of pine and eucalyptus plantations late yesterday (21 April 2009).

The animals seemed disorientated and the one has been injured. Both run a serious risk of starving to death as there is no food for them in the area. It is possible that the animals were introduced into a area from which they escaped and now they find themselves in serious trouble. Reports have also been received about a third giraffe in the area that is also lost. We have not yet managed to establish its exact whereabouts.

The local conservation departments normally have only one solution to the problem on hand and that is to shoot the animals to spare them a death from starvation. SanWild can offer an alternative solution and that is to dart, capture and relocate the animals to the safety of the SanWild Wildlife Sanctuary.

While our local SPCA is trying to persuade the conservation department to give us the relevant capture and relocation permits, SanWild is desperately seeking urgent financial assistance to mount this rescue. Today, 22 January 2009, is a public holiday in South Africa and it is also our national elections and all the necessary arrangements for this rescue will unfortunately have to wait until tomorrow.

The approximate capture, relocation and veterinary charges, inclusive of helicopter and transport costs will be very expensive. SanWild will appreciate your urgent response; even if you could consider funding only a small part of the costs by making a donations, no matter how large or small.

SanWild is intending to mount the rescue asap; weather and funds permitting by Friday 24 April 2009. The giraffes lives will be depend on the successful conclusion of such a rescue. They cannot possibly survive in the area in which they are now lost.

If you would like to make an on-line donation please visit our website www.sanwild.com. Go to the Sponsor/Donate Page and use the drop down box to find “Emergency Rescue – Giraffes”. Alternatively a direct banking transfer can be made into our trust account. Details are on our website.

Please do not hesitate to e-mail SanWild should you have any questions or need clarification on the matter. You may contact them on +27 (21) 987 6171 or +27 (15) 318 7900. SanWild is a non-profit organisation and we are dependent on your support.

Thank you kindly.

SanWild Wildlife Sanctuary