Phalaborwa Horse Patrols
Seasoned equine athletes prove their effectiveness in poaching environment
The effectiveness of horses in anti-poaching operations is being tested by way of a pilot project in the northern part of the Kruger National Park. The Phalaborwa section of Kruger needs to be patrolled daily.
Horses are seen as a practical addition to the arsenal of tools and equipment deployed in the ongoing fight against poaching of rhino and other species in the world famous game reserve. Horses, far quieter than vehicles and able to negotiate rough terrain with ease, are well-suited for anti-poaching work.
Four retired endurance horses with impressive background records as long-distance athletes, were leased free of charge to the Phalaborwa section ranger, Karien Keet (an experienced rider), in an effort to combat poaching in the Phalaborwa Section of KNP at the end of 2016.
The horses had been stabled outside KNP and had to cover quite a distance from the stables to start patrolling the 35-kilometre-long western boundary. When permission was granted for the horses to be stabled inside KNP, predator and snake proof stables were built. When the horses were moved on 23 November 2017, the mounted patrols could be extended into the interior.
The mounted team’s consistent presence has caused poaching incidents to be reduced dramatically in the Phalaborwa section. Rangers patrol with full anti-poaching kit, rifles and .357 revolvers carried in leg holsters for quick response in case of close-up attacks as well as a horse first aid kit in case of an emergency.
The SANParks Honorary Rangers of the Highveld region are the custodians of the project and support has been given by the Bushveld region, whilst the Limpopo region provided for the electric fencing of the stables and paddocks.
If the equine patrols deliver, the honorary rangers will look to expand their support in the hope that “horses could well be a new best friend for both ranger and rhino”.
