The Travel Corporation’s TreadRight Foundation has joined efforts to protect South African communities and their livestock from leopards, while at the same time aiming to protect the endangered predator.
The philanthropic initiative involves a partnership with the Cheetah Outreach conservation group and the Cape Leopard Trust, targeting the Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Retreat and surrounding areas.
Located in South Africa’s Cederberg Mountains, the area has seen an increase in attacks on livestock. In response, there has been an increase in incidents of farmers killing cape leopards. Three Anatolian shepherd dogs have been introduced at Bushmans Kloof as livestock guardian dogs, with more to follow. The dogs are being offered as a natural solution that aims to both protect livestock and conserve leopards.
“Not only will these canine caretakers keep indigenous wildlife alive, they keep alive the spirit of living in balance,” said Bushmans Kloof general manager Rory du Plessis.
