Breakthrough in rhino conservation
http://www.thezimbabwean.co.uk/
Written by Farirayi Kahwemba
Wednesday, 17 November 2010 09:08
RUSTENBURG – In a development that might have far reaching benefits for
Zimbabwe’s fight against rhino poachers, scientists and conservationists in
neighbouring South Africa have developed a first of its kind GPS device that
will enable game rangers to be made aware of poachers when they strike, The
Zimbabwean has learnt. (Pictured: Rhino – hunted for their horns)
Five rhinos in South Africa’s North West province have already been fitted
with these gadgets as part of a study before the tracking system is
implemented in wildlife and conservation areas throughout the country. Rusty
Huslter, head of Counter Poaching in the North West province, said the
technology would go a long way in aiding the fight against rhino poaching
not only in South Africa but in other regional countries such as Zimbabwe
and Zambia, who face similar challenges.
He said: “This is the first time that the device is going to be used and we
are very happy that we will be able to help other countries such as
Zimbabwe, Zambia and others who face numerous challenges when it comes to
dealing with rhino poaching.
“The GPS gadget is fitted into the rhino’s horn by drilling a hole in the
inert part of the horn. The animals’ movements are then tracked twenty four
hours a day and if they are attacked, game rangers will be alerted via the
alarms.” The device is battery-operated and connected to a computer and
cellular phone. The lifespan of the batteries in the device is two and a
half years after which they will be exchanged for new ones.
The GPS can be programmed to emit a signal every 60 seconds and can be
adjusted from an operating room. It is programmed to set off the alarm if
the rhino remains motionless for more than six hours or if there is
excessive movement. In South Africa, more than 240 rhinos have been killed
since the beginning of the year and of these, 40 were from the North West
Province.