The Black Mambas Anti-Poaching Unit was formed in South Africa in 2013. It has 26 members and is almost fully female. In two short years, the group has managed to arrest six poachers, shut down five poacher camps, and reduce snaring – the practice of baiting and trapping animals – by 76% in the Balule Private Game Reserve. Their hard word has finally received international recognition with an award from the United Nations.
They show incredible bravery
The Mambas patrol the reserve, which holds rhinos, leopard, lions, and elephants, and protect the animals from poachers. They have carefully studied the land and know it well, so if anything is slightly off they are on alert for poachers. They patrol for three weeks at a time and walk 20 kilometers a day. Facing off with a poacher must be scary, Black Mamba ranger Leitah Mkhabela says “I am not afraid. I know what I am doing and I know why I am doing it. If you see the poachers you tell them not to try, tell them we are here and it is they who are in danger.”
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They were awarded the highest environmental prize
The Black Mambas were recognized by the United Nations Environmental Program and awarded the Champions of the Earth Award, which is the highest environmental prize that can possibly be received. “Their many successes are a result of their impressive courage and determination to make a difference in their community,” UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner said. “The Black Mambas are an inspiration not only locally, but across the world to all those working to eliminate the scourge of the illegal wildlife trade.” This sort of initiative is especially needed in South Africa; in 2014 1,215 endangered rhinos were killed.
SEE ALSO: Kenya Takes A Big Step in Protecting Elephants From Poaching.
