Poaching threatens Masai Mara
Elephants are under threat from poachers
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Friday, 25, Jan 2008 11:31
Increased poaching in the wake of the collapse of tourism following Kenya's post-election crisis is threatening the Masai Mara, conservationists say.
The wildlife reserve was recently voted the seventh wonder of the world and is home to numerous mammals including leopards, lions, buffalo, giraffe and elephants.
Wildlife Direct says the riots following Kenya's recent elections have resulted in a 90 per cent reduction in visitor numbers to parks and reserves.
Damage to the local economy has led to an increase in poaching wildlife for the bushmeat trade, causing irreparable damage to the ecosystem, the organisation claims.
The Masai Mara is said to be especially vulnerable and in the last year nearly 500 wire snares were collected, 15 animals rescued and 46 animals were found either dead in snares or recently butchered.
The Masai Mara Triangle is managed by the Mara Conservancy Trust (MCT) and completely financed by the entrance fees of the 70,000 visitors it attracts each year.
Commenting on the recent tourism loss, MCT chief executive Brian Heath said: "Wildlife security is going to be hit hard. We expect a sharp increase in poaching.
"The Mara's wildlife not only attracts thousands of tourists but poachers too, primarily for bushmeat."
The Wildlife Trust is calling for a consistent source of income to protect the reserve and has urged people to donate money to save African wildlife.
"Africa's parks cannot survive on tourism revenues alone, especially during times of political instability," said Wildlife Direct chairman Dr Richard Leakey.
“We have a responsibility to protect this extraordinary wilderness, not just for Kenyans, but as custodians on behalf of the entire world. If we do nothing, we are in danger of losing it forever."