Vulture species across the African continent are declining at a rapid rate, mainly due to human activities. The Vulture Programme, established in January 2007 in Magaliesberg, is attempting to address this threat with a conservation programme together with extensive educational programmes.
The mission statement of the Vulture Programme is to advance knowledge, awareness and innovation in the conservation of African vulture populations, with emphasis placed on the Cape Vultures in Magaliesberg.
The project recently faced uncertain times and its future in a precarious position when it was forced off its premises. The programme was, however, able to purchase a property along the Magaliesberg mountains and close to the tourist hub of Hartbeespoort Dam with the help of donors. Volunteers, donors, friends and family members have been working around the clock to re-build, re-erect and move the facilities, which comprise a large vulture flight enclosure, two rehabilitation and six hospital enclosures together with the vultures, bataleurs, brown snake-eagles, jackal-buzzard and a yellow-billed kite resident in the previous rescue and rehabilitation facilities.
Work is now under way to establish the necessary security measures with the help and support of Gallagher Security Management, Centurion Systems, Stafix Electrical Fencing Suppliers and Cactus Security. Plans are now afoot to open the rehab centre to the public and to re-establish the research and educational aspects of the programme as soon as possible.
The Vulture Programme has expressed its thanks to its supporters and well-wishers, and especially the generous donations from Gallagher Security Management, Centurion Systems, Stafix Electrical Fencing Suppliers and Cactus Security.
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