'Capture from wild' monitored. Rubber stamping? We think not.

(2006-04-26)

Six young elephants were captured “from the wild” in the Selati Game Reserve, Limpopo on 17 April 2006 and were taken by road to Elephants For Africa Forever (EFAF) near Tzaneen where they will be “domesticated” in terms of training for elephant-back safaris for the tourist industry.

The capture and transfer was witnessed by Karen Trendler and Mike Jamieson, of the National Council of SPCA’s Wildlife Unit. Their role was to monitor the process to ensure the welfare of the animals was not compromised.

The NSPCA / SPCA movement’s Statement of Policy is clear and cast in stone:

7.1 “The Council opposes the taking of wild animals.”

The NSPCA has reiterated in media statements over the years that wild animals belong in the wild. This stance has not changed and will not change. The NSPCA believes that the capture of wild elephants, “taming” them for lifelong captivity is unethical and cruel.

This is a situation to which the NSPCA, in principle and ethically, is opposed. Further examples may include the informal (roadside) sale of live animals or the discharge of fireworks in the vicinity of animals. Yet, if legal requirements are adhered to, the NSPCA accepts with reluctance that the activities can, do and will happen. The best we can do is to continue to oppose, voice our opposition and take what steps we can to make change but above all to act on behalf of the animals as per our locus standi.

This is best achieved by being present, on the scene, and observing every detail to ensure the humane treatment of the animals. Being present does not mean we condone. It means we work in a pro-active and reactive manner in support of animals around the country.

The NSPCA denies that its presence was “rubber-stamping.”