In a mission critical to the conservation efforts at Addo Elephant National Park, The Bateleurs, a non-profit volunteer pilot organisation, played a pivotal role in ensuring the successful translocation of two young lionesses from Khamab Kalahari Reserve to their new home in Addo.
Addo Elephant National Park, South Africa’s third-largest national park, is home to a population of lions with Kalahari genetics. However, as the resident lions aged, the need for fresh genetic diversity became crucial. The park was fortunate to secure two young lionesses from Khamab Kalahari Reserve, but with over 1,000 km separating the two reserves, road transport was simply not a viable option. The physical and logistical challenges of such a journey posed a significant threat to the health and well-being of the animals.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, The Bateleurs were called upon. Under the leadership of Steve McCurrach, GM of The Bateleurs, the organisation swiftly coordinated a flight, and with just days to spare before Christmas, Bateleurs volunteer pilot Lloyd Rogers took on the challenging mission.
Flying a Cessna 210, Rogers transported the two big cats in a 3.5-hour flight, ensuring a safe and stress-free journey to Addo Elephant National Park. The young lionesses arrived in excellent condition, marking a significant milestone for Addo’s biodiversity and future tourism potential.
“We are immensely grateful to The Bateleurs for making this relocation possible,” said Nick de Goede, Park Manager at Addo Elephant National Park. “Without their assistance, this vital translocation would have been incredibly difficult, if not impossible.
The effort and dedication of Steve, Lloyd, and the entire Bateleurs team just before the holiday season demonstrate an unwavering commitment to conservation. From myself and my team at Addo, we extend our heartfelt thanks.”
This mission underscores the critical role of conservation partnerships and the incredible impact of organisations like The Bateleurs. By providing aerial support for wildlife conservation, The Bateleurs continue to be an essential ‘Environmental Airforce’ in protecting South Africa’s natural heritage.
For more information about The Bateleurs, their conservation efforts supporting numerous conservation organisations across southern Africa, and ways you can support them (private or corporate), visit www.bateleurs.org
