Large spotted Genet

Описание: Leanne Hezlett received a call to assist with a Large Spotted Genet which had unfortunately decided pet bunnies and some chickens were easy meals.
Leanne roped Dirk Engelbrecht of Wild Serve in to assist with a trap, as Dirk was near Elarduspark in Pretoria helping with a few Dassies.

The trap was set, and the second night yielded success.
Alex Weyers (a FAGASA student) assisted Leanne with the release for some experience, and went off with her to relocate the genet to Rietvlei Nature Reserve within the same morning, where it was safely released.

Just a note on trapping:
There are many factors we consider before trapping and relocating what is deemed to be, “a problem animal”.
This is almost always discouraged as, most often, removal is the worst possible action for the animal(s).

We consider many factors, some of which are:

BREEDING SEASON where a
female may be nursing (or have
young which are relying on adults
to catch and bring food)

Some animals have a very strong
homing sense and they will
travel many many Kms to return
home, being subject to traffic,
predators, dogs, humans and
unfamiliar territory

Removing one animal opens up the
site for another to take its place

Location.. sometimes it is in the
best interest of an animal due to
use of poisons / pesticides used,
dangerous / hazardous areas

Will the trapped animal fare okay
in a new environment and be able
to catch sufficient food

Will relocating the animal to a new
area cause territory disputes
which may end in unnecessary
death

PLEASE..
Do NOT just trap and relocate “problem” animals!
We may make it look easy and straightforward, but every situation is dynamic and needs experience and expertise to be evaluated and an informed decision then made.
It is also illegal for public to trap or transport wildlife without the necessary permits, so please please.. just call a permitted centre for advice first!