South Africa: KwaZulu-Natal released new rhino poaching figures!

update (14 Sept 2017): According to MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Sihle Zikalala, the number of rhinos poached in KwaZulu-Natal  now stands at 172 animals (Jan - Sept 2017).

Ezemvelo KZN Wildlfe* spokesman Musa Mntambo confirmed on 28 August 2017 that poaching gangs have slaughtered (at least) 166 rhinos in KwaZulu-Natal in the first eight months of 2017. Although Ezemvelo KZN Wildlfe does no longer provide a breakdown per protected area, conservation sources assume that the vast majority of rhino killings are taking place in KwaZulu-Natal's flagship Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. KwaZulu-Natal lost 162 rhinos to illegal poaching in 2016‚ 116 animals during 2015 and just 18 in 2008. 

*Ezemvelo KZN Wildlfe is the governmental organisation responsible for maintaining wildlife conservation areas and biodiversity in KwaZulu-Natal.

South Africa: New rhino and elephant poaching figures! (July 2017) >>