The Cape of Good Hope Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) has stepped in to rescue animals after two separate wildfires ravaged parts of Cape Town.
A fire on the Helderberg mountain range outside of Somerset West has been subdued after days of tireless firefighting thanks to rain that started falling on Sunday, 12 June. Another fire in Rietvlei Nature Reserve in Table View has been contained, reports Cape Town Etc.
The SPCA has sent out teams to both locations to inspect the areas, looking for wildlife that might be in need of attention.
‘Although not that many animals have been found as yet, we know they normally crawl out a few days after the fires to try and get food and water, many of them badly burnt on their feet and face,’ the organisation said.
‘We also saw the Lourensford baboon troop. They all appeared to be okay but were evidently in distress. Between 20 to 30 baboons were seen.’
The SPCA did however find a badly burnt porcupine in the Helderberg. ‘Sadly this porcupine had to be humanely euthanased due to the severity of the injuries sustained. At least this poor creature is no longer suffering. All that would have happened is this poor porcupine would have died a slow and agonizing death as he was unable to eat or move to drink water,’ the SPCA said.
The SPCA is appealing to the public to keep an eye out and immediately contact them on (021) 700-4158/9 if any lost or injured animals are found. Animals should not be handled as they will be in severe pain if burnt and can still be dangerous.
Those who want to make a contribution can donate to the SPCA’s Wildlife Facility.
Pictures: Cape of Good Hope SPCA
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