Deployment: 5 Anti-Poaching Operations by BSR

Donations: Powered hang-gliders, patrol boats, off-road vehicles, night vision devices, infrared cameras, and helicopters.

In Zimbabwe, over 1,200 elephants are killed annually. Due to the collapse of the national economy, Zimbabwe's wildlife protection efforts struggle, with rangers lacking basic transportation and communication tools. Across Africa, elephants face a 6% annual death rate, pushing them toward extinction within 50 years if conditions don't improve.

Blue Sky Rescue (BSR) has taken a pivotal role in combating poaching, particularly in Mana Pools National Park. BSR’s teams sign “death waivers” before entering the forests, facing not only poachers but also dangerous wildlife like lions and wild dogs. These challenges emphasize that the land belongs to the animals, and humans are the intruders.

BSR’s collaboration with local authorities brings advanced technology, including hang-gliders for aerial patrols. As a BSR pilot noted, the hang-gliders provide near 360-degree visibility, and local rangers highly appreciated their efficiency in locating poaching activity. The patrols used to take days on foot, but now a quick flyover reveals vital information. When detecting poachers, BSR will not directly engage with them, instead notifying local rangers to handle the operations.

BSR's contribution also includes equipment like boats, night vision, and infrared devices, creating a robust land-air-water surveillance system to track and combat poaching efforts.

“Without trade, there is no killing.” Blue Sky Rescue remains committed to the fight against poaching and preserving wildlife through ongoing collaboration and advanced technology.