Conservation Groups Shocked at Poisoning of Raptors. (12 November, 1996)

Conservation groups have expressed their shock at the great number of raptors that have been poisoned recently. Tawny eagles died near Dealesville after feeding on a carcass containing sodium monofluorine acetate meant for jackals. Shortly afterwards Cape vultures died in the Foden Gate area, presumably after feeding on a sheep carcass. A hundred raptors, owls, guinea-fowl and cattle-egrets were poisoned by corn treated with pesticides near Potgietersrus in the Northern Province.

According to Dr Gerhard Verdoorn of the Trust for Endangered Wildlife, these incidents of poisoning are totally uncalled for. The particular farmer at Potgietersrus attended a workshop on pesticides and received all the information on how to combat rodents. People ignore directions for use and apply pesticides indiscriminately. Not only is such behaviour unethical, it also does not comply with the Fertilizers, Farm Feeds, Agricultural Remedies and Stock Remedies Act (Act No 36 of 1947). 'We are fighting a tough battle against poisoning. While thousands of farmers are concerned about the harmful effect of pesticides on the environment, there are also those who apparently do not care. It is time to take drastic steps against such individuals,' says Dr Verdoorn. Own correspondent.