I'm writing an article for our italian big game hunting magazine "CACCIARE A PALLA" about the benefit of the trophy hunting around the world. I mentioned the Bontempok as an example of the success of the conservation made from the landowner in RSA. But is difficult find a picture. Someone can help me?

Mario,

sent some pics via PM,

ciao,

John

quote:

Originally posted by Mario:
I'm writing an article for our italian big game hunting magazine "CACCIARE A PALLA" about the benefit of the trophy hunting around the world. I mentioned the Bontempok as an example of the success of the conservation made from the landowner in RSA. But is difficult find a picture. Someone can help me?

While you are at it, do not forget to let the rest of the world know that DEAT and this bright government with its TOPS Regulations and its Bio-diversity Act are reversing all the good work done by landowners.

Mario,

I do hope that you have also mentioned to resounding success in the saving from the brink of extinction, mostly by landowners, of the black wildebeest?


I wish to also suggest some corrections to this quote:

quote:

.........................
While you are at it, do not forget to let the rest of the world know that Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (DEAT) and this bright, but mostly non-reflecting and unable to think clearly about anything other than "How to steal de maney!", government with its TOPS Regulations and its Bio-diversity Act are reversing all the good work done P-E-R-I-O-D!.

Scriptus, sorry for adding to your thunder, but we have to be scientifically correct, even if politically not widely acceptable!

In good hunting.

Andrew McLaren

Andrew,
very interesting. tell me something more about the story of the Black Wildebeest.

Scriptus,
I think all the world know that your president has so many womans. But even here in Italy we have a president with the same passion. The difference is that Mr. Berlusconi use his money for to pay for the womans.

quote:

Originally posted by Mario:
Andrew,
very interesting. tell me something more about the story of the Black Wildebeest.


Scriptus,
I think all the world know that your president has so many womans. But even here in Italy we have a president with the same passion. The difference is that Mr. Berlusconi use his money for to pay for the womans.

Our wonder of wonders costs the taxpayer more than R22,000,000, per annum, just to support his extended "family."
Andrew, thanks, some folk think I am a little overboard, but I do not lie!
Do not forget the cape mountain zebra, amongst others.

These are true (genetically verified) Bontebok from the Overberg.
Owned by June and Michael D''Alton.

These pictures were taken by myself when visiting them on the farm whilst hunting with Mick.

They are very much involved in the Aghullas Biodiversity Initiative and Mick is Chairman of the Overberg Crane group, very much concerned with the peservation and conservation of South Africa's National Bird the Blue Crane

Mario,

Other than saying again that the saving from the brink of extinction of tha black wilkdebeest by landowners a good starting point to getting to know more is here: [URL]www.wildliferanching.com/.../status-and-general-aspects-ecology-black- wildebeest-and-present-day-threats-survival-species]Savvas Vrahimis of Free State Nature Conservation Department's Article on the Status and Ecology of the Black Wildebeest.[/URL]

Scriptus, Thanks, yes the mountain zebra is another good example of what ground owners can accomplish. Unfortunately we - or our forefathers - have failed with the blaauwbok!

In good hunting.

Andrew McLaren

Andrew,

Here ya go.

~ Alan


Status and general aspects of the ecology of black wildebeest and present-day threats to the survival of the species

Status and general aspects of the ecology of black wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou) and present-day threats to the survival of the species

Savvas Vrahimis
Free State Department of Tourism, Environment & Economic Affairs
Scientific Support Services
Private Bag X 20801
Bloemfontein
9300

“A more whimsical compound than the Gnoo could scarcely have been thrown together, or a monster imagined of more fantastical and anomalous exterior” – W. Cornwallis Harris, 1840

Introduction

The Black Wildebeest found today are only remnants of the large herds which were known to have roamed the plains of South Africa in the past. These remaining animals are at present all confined to nature reserves and private game farms where the large-scale migrations, as historically described, are no longer possible. Their confinement to relatively small areas has led to management problems in most regions. In order to address some of these problems and to obtain more insight into the functioning of the species, a project investigating various aspects of the ecology of Black Wildebeest was initiated in 1980. The information presented in this article is based on the research done by the author in the Free State. However, these findings are probably applicable to Black Wildebeest populations in other parts of South Africa.

Historical background and distribution

The Black Wildebeest or White-tailed Gnu is endemic to South Africa, historically occupying the central open plains of the country. Essentially, the species was found in the Grassveld and Karoo regions of the central and northern Cape, the whole of the Free State and the southern highveld regions of the former Transvaal (Von Richter, 1971a). It was also recorded in western Lesotho and the Grassveld areas of western Swaziland. In KwaZulu-Natal, there are reports of Black Wildebeest having occurred in the open Grassveld areas below the Drakensberg range.

This species attracted much attention from most early explorers in South Africa. Vivid descriptions of vast herds with animals performing curious prancing movements can be read in the diaries of these travelers. This peculiar behaviour resulted in Black Wildebeest often being called the "clowns of the veld". The strange appearance of the animal was apparently a cause of embarrassment for early naturalists who were confused with the classification of an animal which has "the mane and tail of the horse; the form of the head and the horns resemble the ox; and in the legs and delicate make of the body it appears of the antelope species" (Lichtenstein, 1930).

Millais (1895) referred to this extraordinary-looking creature as being the most interesting animal in the world and expressed his concern, fearing the extinction of the species. He stated that formerly, "tens of thousands of these Wildebeest had been scattered in troops of from twenty to fifty over the whole face of the southern Transvaal and the Free State Highveld - and then after careful inquiries there were hardly more than 550 in existence (in the early 1890s)".

This drastic decline in Black Wildebeest numbers can be attributed to various factors. The senseless slaughtering of the animals, which initially started off as hunting for provisions, and then later escalated to the wanton killing of the animals for their skins only, can probably be listed as being the primary reason. Trade in game skins had become a flourishing business and it was reported that a single firm in Kroonstad exported 157 000 Black Wildebeest and Blesbok skins in 1866 alone (Garson-Steyn, 1964). In 1870 and 1871 nearly half-a-million Blesbok, Wildebeest and Zebra skins were shipped from Durban.

The eastern Free State, where most of the slaughtering took place, still bears the grim name "riemland" (Von Richter, 1971a). In addition, descriptions by explorers and hunters, such as Cornwallis Harris (1840), of heaps of as many as two or three hundred rotting skulls, are evidence of the periodic outbreaks of diseases which ravaged Wildebeest herds.

Finally, the increasing human settlements and their subsequent expansion, restricted the movements of Wildebeest herds, and rendered large areas unsuitable for them (Von Richter, 1971a).

The status of Black Wildebeest

After being a rare and endangered species for many years the Black Wildebeest is now relatively safe from extinction, thanks to a few conservation-minded farmers in especially the Free State and former southern Transvaal. This achievement can probably be considered as being one of the few conservation related success stories that can be boasted of in South Africa.

The first comprehensive census was carried out during 1945 which showed a total of 1 048 Black Wildebeest in South Africa (Bigalke, 1947). He however, suspected that a number of herds had not been located. Twenty years later results of a national survey were published by Brand (1965), in which 1 808 animals were traced. In a third survey conducted in 1970 (Von Richter, 1971), the numbers had increased to 3 120 Black Wildebeest. Results of a total game census conducted by Terblanche (1988) in the Free State only, showed 6 500 and 7 680 Black Wildebeest in 1980 and 1985 respectively.

According to the 1991 figures obtained from Wildebeest registration certificate statistics (Department of Agricultural Economics and Marketing) there were approximately 17 493 Black Wildebeest in South Africa at the time. These animals were distributed as follows:

Province Numbers:
Free State 9478
Former Cape Province (Western, Eastern and Northern) 4048
Former Transvaal (Gauteng, Northwest, Limpopo & Mpumalanga) 3308
KwaZulu-Natal 659

These figures are probably overestimates, with some landowners having indicated the number of animals they would like to have, and not the actual number on their properties.

Presently, the total Black Wildebeest population is estimated at more than 18 000 animals, of which 80% occur on private land and 20% in protected areas. The species has been widely reintroduced within its former distribution range, however, it has also been established extra-limitally within South Africa and on private farmland in Namibia, where importations from South Africa has led to a dramatic rise in the estimated total numbers, from 150 in 1982 to more than 7 000 in 1992 (East, 1998). The population size is increasing, especially on private land. Recently, Black Wildebeest have also been introduced to private farms in Botswana.

Social organization

Von Richter (1971a) identified three social groupings for the Black Wildebeest:

Female herd

These herds consist of adult and sub-adult females as well as calves. A number of young bulls may also be present in female herds. In most cases a territorial bull is in attendance throughout the year. The average size of a female herd in the study areas was 28,4 animals.

Members of female herds show strong attachment to their concentration areas and seldom move away. When disturbed they move off their concentration areas but return shortly afterwards.

Bachelor herd

Bachelor herds contain only adult and sub-adult bulls, with a few yearlings. These animals move about more freely showing less attachment to a specific concentration area. Von Richter (1917a) mentions that a notable feature of these herds is the extreme tolerance of the bulls towards one another. In most cases adult bulls eventually leave these herds and attempt to become territorial bulls. Von Richter (op. cit.) correctly refers to these herds as reservoirs from which replacements for territorial males are drawn, and not as mere aggregations of excess bulls. The average size of a bachelor herd was found to be 20,6 animals.

Territorial bulls

Von Richter (1971a) identified territorial bulls as being the backbone of the population as only these bulls partake in mating. They remain on their territories throughout the year. As described for Blesbok by Lynch (1974), two types of territorial males can be recognized in Black Wildebeest, viz.:

(a) Territorial bulls occupying a relatively small area, with each bull within sight of his neighbour, forming a territorial network. Lynch (1974) states that this network is comparable with the lek or arena system of Blesbok, Lechwe and Uganda Kob, which consists of a tight cluster of 10 - 20 small central territories, each occupied by one adult male. In the case of Black Wildebeest, a definite dominance exists amongst bulls in a territorial network. This was established by observing marked animals in such a network over a period of time.

(b) Isolated or solitary territorial bulls which do not belong to a territorial network. These animals are normally out of sight of all other Black Wildebeest. It appears that these males are the older territorial bulls.

Territorial bulls are usually aggressive and perform vigorous territorial displays in their concentration areas. However, should territorial bulls meet in "neutral" or common ground e.g. at a drinking site, no true aggression is shown.

Habitat selection and feeding preferences

The Wildebeest is predominantly a grazer and prefers short grassveld (Von Richter, 1971a). Areas with tall grass are normally avoided. Should animals be forced into parts with tall grass, they quickly transform sections to suit their needs. Also, there is evidence that Black Wildebeest choose certain concentration areas not primarily for the grazing quality offered, but for the safety aspect with regard to overall visibility, making it virtually impossible to approach these animals without being seen. This is especially noticeable in areas where Black Wildebeest are often hunted.

The feeding preferences of a tame Black Wildebeest cow was investigated over a two year period in the Rustfontein Dam Nature Reserve. This animal was hand-reared but subsequently integrated into a free-ranging herd. Results obtained from the feeding study showed that this animal utilized grass (93,7%), Karroid shrubs (3%) and herbs (3,3%). While mainly a non-selective grazer there was evidence of some preference for certain grass species.

Activity patterns

The effective management of wild animal populations depends on a thorough knowledge of how each species interacts with its environment. One of the most useful methods for describing this relationship is to quantify the activity patterns shown in different areas and seasons (Norton, 1981).

The diurnal activity patterns of Black Wildebeest were investigated on a monthly basis over a period of two years. Generally these animals were found to spend the largest part of the day lying down (45,6%) This feature can partly be attributed to high temperatures recorded in the study areas, which lead to an overall decrease in activity, and also due to the fact that ruminating animals ate forced by the nature of their digestive physiology to alternate periods of feeding with periods of rumination, which usually take place while lying down. Well defined high intensity feeding periods were recorded during early morning and late afternoon.

When comparing the different social groups it was found that female herds spend the most time lying down (47,5%). The fact that these herds are exempt from such activities as territorial behaviour, experience limited harassment by territorial bulls and also occupy areas with good grazing (which requires a shorter grazing period), affords them more time to rest. Both male social classes spend more time grazing than do the female herds. For territorial bulls this is largely the result of energy expended through territorial activity, requiring an increased food intake, while bachelor herds usually occupy marginal areas with poor grazing and therefore feed for longer periods in order to reach the required nutritional levels. During the dry season an increase in the time spent grazing is evident for all social groups. This tendency is an attempt to compensate for the reduced forage quality normally found during dry periods.

It was established that in areas where hunting often takes place, Wildebeest are more wary and spend less time resting than do animals in non-hunting areas. Evidence also exists that due to hunting, the animals may react to the increased disturbance level by adjusting their activity patterns to become more nocturnal.

Reproduction and related behaviour

Black Wildebeest are strictly seasonal breeders (Von Richter, 1971a). However, there is variation in the peaks of mating and calving seasons; in general the mating season is from mid-March to the end of April, while the calving season is from mid-November to early January (in the Free State). The gestation period is approximately eight months (average 253 days).

Although thought to have been the exception in the past (Von Richter, 1971a), most females conceive at the age of 16 months and calve when they are two years old. This was established by examining young cows culled on various Provincial nature reserves in the Free State. Similarly, Talbot and Talbot (1963) found that 83% of Blue Wildebeest in Masailand conceive when they are 16 months old. The fact that a large percentage of females calve when they are two years old (i.e. while they are fairly young) makes a considerable difference to the reproductive potential of a Black Wildebeest population. For example, at Tussen-die-Riviere Nature Reserve in the southern Free State, out of a population of 680 animals, 19,2% were sub-adult females (16 months old).

Bulls also reach sexual maturity at. the age of 16 months, but usually first have to secure a territory before being able to mate (bulls become territorial when they are approximately three years old). However, young males were occasionally seen to mate with cows in the presence of a territorial bull. In an experiment conducted at the Erfenis Dam Nature Reserve in the central Free State, all adult bulls were removed leaving only young bulls present during the mating season. These bulls mated successfully, but the calving percentage was not as high as normally expected.

Mating behaviour

Territoriality is closely linked to reproductive behaviour and, as mentioned above, possessing a territory is one of the prerequisites for taking part in mating activities. Territorial behaviour, such as the advertising of territories and the performing of challenge rituals (between individual bulls) therefore reach a peak during this period. Besides territorial duties, bulls have to also continuously assess the estrus status of cows.

Female herds move from one territorial bull to another. The time spent with a bull varies considerably and can be from a few hours to a number of days (even weeks). This time depends on the attention afforded them by the bull. Should a bull not pay continual attention to the cows, they move off to another bull. When trying to leave a territory, females are herded by the bull, trying to stop them from leaving. If, however, the females are determined to leave, the bull seldom manages to stop them. Herding varies in intensity depending on the receptiveness of the females in the herd. If there is a female or females in estrus, vigorous herding takes place.

Mating occurs mainly outside the herd or on the periphery of the herd. The reason for this is that the bull usually stands slightly separate from the female herd. A female in estrus normally approaches the bull and mating takes place. Most mating appears to take place during the late afternoon and at night. It is suspected that cows are in estrus for a few hours only, but that they are bi estrus, a mechanism which ensures that all females are fertilized.

From investigations conducted during the mating season it was evident that the higher the number of bulls in an area, the greater the interaction amongst these bulls. This resulted in less attention being paid to the cows. Consequently, the general outcome was a reduced calving percentage. To ensure a higher calving percentage it is therefore advisable to limit the number of bulls in a specific area.

Calving

The majority of Black Wildebeest calves are born within a three week period (Von Richter, 1971b). An identical situation was reported for Blue Wildebeest in East Africa (Estes 1976). Parturition takes place within the herd and this is similar to the findings of Lynch (1974) for Blesbok. Black Wildebeest births witnessed were all between 08:00 and 12:00, which is contrary to the findings of Von Richter (op. cit.) who stated that calves were born during early morning, late afternoon and at night. This however, corresponds with the observations of Du Plessis (1968), who reported that for Blesbok, most births occurred in the forenoon. It is perhaps significant that late morning coincides with the time of day that most predators are inactive. Although large predators are almost non-existent in areas where Black Wildebeest are found today, this could be a vestige of behaviour important for the survival of these animals in the past.

Unlike most ungulates whose offspring remain concealed for some time after birth, e.g. Red Hartebeest, Gemsbok and Steenbok, Black Wildebeest calves accompany their mothers directly after birth (referred to as the follow-up type). In terms of the time needed by a newly-born calf to gain its feet and run, Wildebeest can be considered the most precocious of all known ungulates, a phenomenon associated with their open habitat and relatively large size and mobility (Lent, 1974: in Estes, 1976).

The early development of the calves is rapid. The first three months are briefly described:

Up to the age of about one month, calves spend the largest part of the day resting (circa 85%). They are suckled regularly by their mothers and the limited grazing observed at this stage takes the form of exploring potential food sources. Calves remain very close to their mothers and are able, if necessary, to keep up with the herd at high speed.

Although a significant reduction in time spent resting is evident during the second month, this activity still accounts for the largest part of the day (circa 55%). A definite weakening of the mother-calf bond and the forming of creche groups is noticeable. However, when danger threatens, calves remain inseparable from their mothers. An increase in grazing activity can also be seen, although the calves still suckle regularly.

During the third month resting still occupies the largest part of the day (circa 54%), but there is a significant increase in the time spent grazing, as the calves progress towards weaning. Creche behaviour is more pronounced during this period, with calves spending most of the day together.

Recommended sex ratios

Von Richter (1971b) recommended that a desirable sex ratio for stocking should be one adult male to 13 adult females. However, suggesting a specific sex ratio and predicting certain results is difficult, as various factors can play a role, e.g. the ages of the animals, the condition of the veld, the size of the game farm, etc.

The numbers and sex ratios of Black Wildebeest that were re-introduced into one of the smaller nature reserves in the central Free State can be used as a practical example and as a possible guideline. In 1971, twelve Black Wildebeest (2 bulls and 10 cows - ages unknown) were released in the Erfenis Dam Nature Reserve, which has approximately 500 ha of typical grassveld. By 1979 there were 101 Black Wildebeest in the area, this after removing 26 animals (11 in 1976 and 15 in 1978). Since 1980, Black Wildebeest have been taken off annually and by the end of 1990 a total of 365 animals had been removed. At the beginning of 1991 there were 40 Black Wildebeest on the reserve. No signs of inbreeding have been evident and trophy quality Black Wildebeest are common in this reserve.

Hybridization (Cross-breeding)

According to the “Species Listing” process, within the framework of the National Environmental Management Act 2004, it has been proposed that the Black Wildebeest be listed as a “Protected” species, this is mainly because of the threat posed by hybridization with the closely related Blue Wildebeest (Connochaetes taurinus); although the natural distribution range of these two species is known to have overlapped in historical times, there is no recorded evidence that there was hybridization during this period. However, the confinement of the two species together in protected areas and on private farmland in recent times, has, in some cases, resulted in hybridization.

The occurrence of Black x Blue Wildebeest hybrids (cross-breeds) was first reported in KwaZulu-Natal in the early sixties. Of major concern is the fact that hybrids are fertile. First generation hybrids are easily identified, but the offspring of hybrids that have interbred with pure stock Black Wildebeest are difficult to recognize on appearance alone. The external appearance of hybrids varies, with the most obvious feature being the shape of the horns.

Previously it was believed that hybridization only occurs under artificial conditions, where males of the one species and females of the other species are forced together in a confined area. However, it was later established that crossbreeding can occur wherever Black and Blue Wildebeest are kept together, irrespective of the area involved. During the year 2000, in a 6 000 ha nature reserve housing large herds of both species, hybridization did occur and all of the animals had to be destroyed. Hybridization is primarily due to the similar behaviour and the synchronized breeding seasons of the two species. As most recorded instances of hybridization have been of Blue Wildebeest males crossbreeding with Black Wildebeest females, it is thought that this could be due to the larger sized Blue Wildebeest bulls displacing the Black Wildebeest bulls.

Implications

Presently, with the large-scale increase in the number of game ranches being developed throughout South Africa, landowners are keeping a wider range of species on their properties, primarily to cater for local and overseas hunters, and resulting in more and more farms housing both Wildebeest species together. This has led to several confirmed cases of hybridization in some provinces, and the genetic integrity of especially the Black Wildebeest is being threatened by this activity.

While the extensive distribution that the Blue Wildebeest has in Africa means that this species is not similarly threatened, the genetic integrity of the South African populations are at risk, a threat that could seriously impact on the credibility of the local hunting industry.

The extent of the crossbreeding throughout South Africa is not presently known, however, the hunting fraternity is reporting more and more cases of hybridization in different parts of the country. Black Wildebeest numbers are still relatively low in South Africa and therefore the risk of extinction remains very real. It goes without saying that this would also have serious economic implications on the value of both these species. In order to remedy this unacceptable situation, it is of utmost importance to impose drastic measures, on a national level, to address this serious problem.

National Initiative

A national project, involving all provinces and other role-players, aimed at investigating the extent of hybridization and the development of a national policy and strategy to ensure the genetic integrity of both these species, has been initiated. This project will include genetic and osteological testing of samples from both species, the former being required to assist with the identification of backcrosses of hybrids with Black Wildebeest. Funding for this project still needs to be sourced.

References

Bigalke, R. 1947. The status of the Black Wildebeest Connochaetes gnou (Zimm.) in the Union of South Africa. S Afr.J.Sci. 43: 213-220.

Brand, D.J. 1965. Present numeral status of the White-tailed Gnu. Zoon. 5: 1-5.

Cornwallis Harris, W. 1840. Portraits of game and wild animals of Southern Africa. Balkema, Cape Town.

Du Plessis, S.S. 1968. Ecology of Blesbok (Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi) on the Van Riebeek Nature Reserve, Pretoria, with special reference to productivity. D.Sc. Thesis, Univ. of Pretoria.

East, R. 1998. IUCN African Antelope Database. IUCN / SCC Antelope Specialist Group Report.

Estes, R.D. 1976. The significance of breeding synchrony in the Wildebeest. E.Afr.Wildl.J. 14: 135-152.

Garson-Steyn, F. & H. Garson-Steyn. 1964. The Black Wildebeest. Afr.Wildl. 18: 103-104.

Lichtenstein, H. 1930. Travels in Southern Africa in the years 1803 – 1806. London 1812 – 1815. Van Riebeeck Society Numbers 10 and 11. Cape Town. 1928 – 1930. Two Volumes.

Lynch, C.D. 1974. A behavioural study of Blesbok, Damaliscus dorcas phillipsi, with special reference to territoriality. Mem.Nas.Mus. No. 8.

Millais, J.E. 1895. A breath from the veldt. Facsimile of the first edition. Galago Publ. Johannesburg.

Norton, P.M. 1981. Activity patterns of Klipspringers in two areas of the Cape Province. S.Afr. J.Wildl. Res. 11: 126-134.

Talbot, L.M. & M.H. Talbot, 1963. The Wildebeest in Western Masailand. E.Afr.Wildl.Monog. No. 12.

Terblanche, H.J. 1990. Die status en verspreiding van groter wildsoorte in die Oranje-Vrystaat. Int. Report. O.F.S. Prov. Admin.

Von Richter, W. 1971a. Observations on the biology and ecology of the Black Wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou). J. sth. Afr. Wildl. Mgmt Ass. 1: 3-16.

Von Richter, W. 1971b. The Black Wildebeest (Connochaetes gnou). Misc. Publ. No.2 O.F.S. Prov. Admin.

That was prior to the TOPS Regs. As the implementation of the TOPS Regs came into being, a number of landowners shot or had their Black wildebeest herds culled for the biltong trade. A number of bontebok went the same way as well as common reedbuck. The TOPS Regs came about as a compromise between "kortbroek" and the bunny huggers. Organised hunting in South Africa instead of telling "kortbroek" to piss off, kow-towed to him. Only the Predator Breeders had the guts to stand up and challenge him.
I have an Animal Rights Africa report in my possession. Anyone who would like to see just how close to the wind we are sailing is welcome.
Send me a PM with your e-mail address and I will forward it. Read it and read Ron Thomson's articles in the African Outfitter to obtain a broad picture of dimwits in action.
["kortbroek," short pants, as worn by a small boy. A derogatory name for the previous Minister of Environmental Affairs]

quote:

Originally posted by Scriptus:
That was prior to the TOPS Regs. As the implementation of the TOPS Regs came into being, a number of landowners shot or had their Black wildebeest herds culled for the biltong trade. A number of bontebok went the same way as well as common reedbuck. The TOPS Regs came about as a compromise between "kortbroek" and the bunny huggers. Organised hunting in South Africa instead of telling "kortbroek" to piss off, kow-towed to him. Only the Predator Breeders had the guts to stand up and challenge him.
I have an Animal Rights Africa report in my possession. Anyone who would like to see just how close to the wind we are sailing is welcome.
Send me a PM with your e-mail address and I will forward it. Read it and read Ron Thomson's articles in the African Outfitter to obtain a broad picture of dimwits in action.
["kortbroek," short pants, as worn by a small boy. A derogatory name for the previous Minister of Environmental Affairs]

I keep on having to disagree with the degree to which Scriptus say things. IMHO "kortbroek" is a name van Schalkwyk can aspire to. Judging by his actions to curb canned lion hunting, and the collateral damage via the ill-conceived TOPS Regulations, he should properly be called "Diaper van Schalkwyk"! "Nappy van Schalkwyk" is an apt name for the idiot that brought the TOPS regulations into being. Let us see if we can find an apt name for the idiot who now required a sheep farmer to get a permit to shoot a jackal. Maybe....??? How about Pre-natal van Schalkwyk? Incubater van Schalkwyk?

Please send me a copy of the Animal Rights Africa report to andrew@mclarensafaris.com.

Thanks.

Andrew McLaren

Thanks Guys. Now I now have material for antoher article.

like this

Some of the finest venison Africa has to offer. No question why the early pioneers/farmers nearly wiped them out. They are a fine example of conservation and hunters money going toward their comeback. Frank Bowker can give you tons of information. I've hunted their personal herd.
LDK