Texan game wardens will soon be deployed in the Kruger National Park to help combat poaching and wildlife trafficking.
According to Lowvelder, members of the unit visited the Kruger recently to kick off the annual professional exchange program with SANParks rangers.
In a statement, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) clarified that the initiative aims to create professional growth and leadership development opportunities between the two ranger groups. The initiative also aims to further educate and create awareness of international wildlife trafficking.
‘The illegal sale and exploitation of wildlife resources is a global problem that has a direct negative effect on the State of Texas and could lead to the loss of Texas native species, either through the harvest of native species or introduction of non-indigenous invasive species,’ said Col. Grahame Jones, Law Enforcement Director with the TPWD.
Texas game wardens have increased their focus on wildlife trafficking operations over the last decade, which includes navigating through internet forums and online marketplaces where trade in both live wildlife and wildlife parts frequently occurs. Game wardens work to identify suspect sales and negotiate undercover transactions with willing sellers to purchase a wide variety of native and non-native wildlife species from around the world.
This collaboration is meant to strengthen efforts at protecting wildlife internationally.
Image: Supplied
