Zuko Komisa
A swift and coordinated response by SANParks rangers and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) has resulted in the rescue of 84 vultures following a devastating poisoning incident in the Mahlangeni Section of the Kruger National Park.
The system triggered an alert at 06:05, flagging suspicious activity in a remote area. Within two hours, a joint SANParks and EWT team reached the scene, uncovering a grim sight: hundreds of vultures had been poisoned, a consequence of poachers attempting to eliminate the birds to avoid detection of their illegal activities, believed to be the harvesting of elephant body parts.
Tragically, 116 vultures were found dead upon the team’s arrival, making this one of the largest single poisoning events recorded in the park. The deceased included 102 White-backed Vultures, 20 Cape Vultures, and one Lappet-faced Vulture – all species classified as either endangered or critically endangered.
The ensuing hours saw a high-intensity rescue effort unfold:
- 84 live vultures were rescued, comprising White-backed, Cape, and Hooded Vultures.
- 45 vultures were transported via the EWT’s specialised “vulture ambulance,” a mobile unit equipped for stabilising poisoned birds during transit.
- 39 more vultures were airlifted by helicopter to the SANParks K9 facility in Phalaborwa for immediate monitoring.
- A final group was transported later that night to Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre for continued intensive care.
As of today, Thursday, 8 May 2025, 83 vultures are alive and showing signs of recovery.
🛡️ 84 vultures rescued after poisoning in Kruger.
— Endangered Wildlife Trust (@TheEWT) May 8, 2025
Thanks to @SANParks, @SANParksKNP, Moholoholo, Briner Vets, Wildscapes Vets & Hope for Wildlife.
🔗 https://t.co/HsXL9TjLbp pic.twitter.com/NOq1f6e6dk
Poachers are increasingly using highly toxic agricultural chemicals to target not only vultures but also other high-value species like lions, whose body parts are sought after for traditional medicine.
SANParks has emphasised its commitment to collaborating with various agencies and institutions to combat this escalating crisis.
“We commend every individual who responded to this tragedy,”
“Their courage, skill, and relentless commitment transformed a potential extinction-level event into one of the most successful vulture rescues ever recorded.” a joint statement from SANParks and EWT read.
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