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The dogs, Stacey and Mascot have been trained to track human scent, to sniff out rhino horn and ammunition as well as protecting their human colleagues. They also possess natural instincts that are further enhanced by training and will assist greatly in the Park where cases of smuggling, poaching and border jumping are prevalent.

They are able to overcome counter-measures where poachers might try to confuse the dog and this makes them incredibly useful and important members of the counter-poaching teams.

They will be the responsibilty of David and Mahumane who have been trained as dog handlers and will assist in performing the following duties: searching vehicles entering and exiting the Park, tracking and patrolling, including fence, riverine and border areas.

“We are truly excited about the addition to our Ranger Corps which will assist us greatly in our conservation efforts, not only in Mapungubwe National Park, but also within the Greater Mapungubwe Transfrontier Area” said Conrad Strauss, Park Manager Mapungubwe National Park.

Mapungubwe Park Manager Mr Conrad Strauss( Second row centre) flanked by Louis Lemmer, Charlet and Susan Otte from the Honorary Rangers together with David and Mahumane(Rangers in Mpaungubwe) with the donated sniffer dogs.

Issued By

SANParks Northern Region

Enquiries:
Divhani Maremba
Northern Region Communications Manager
Tel: 012 426 5304, cell: 074 588 5789
E-mail: [email protected]