CapeNature investigates tragic death of young leopard caught in traps

CapeNature is investigating the death of a young leopard that was caught in gin traps near Heidelberg. 

CapeNature said a case has been registered with Saps after the conservation authority was called to assist in a rescue operation on July 2 in the Heidelberg area, near the World Heritage Site of Boosmansbos.

Officials discovered a young 13kg male leopard, estimated to be around six months old, ensnared in two gin traps set adjacent to each other. One front paw and one hind leg were caught. 

“Despite the best efforts of the rescue team, the leopard did not survive,” CapeNature said. “The incident is a reminder of the legal implications and ethical responsibilities surrounding wildlife.” 

Leopards are a listed Protected Species in terms of the Western Cape Nature Conservation Ordinance 19 of 1974. The species is also listed under CITES Appendix I. It is illegal to hunt a leopard without a permit. The use of any trap to hunt a leopard, including cage traps, gin traps, or leg-hold traps, remains illegal in the absence of a permit and constitutes a criminal offence. Any form of cruelty or suffering inflicted on an animal is also a criminal offence in terms of the Animals Protection Act 71 of 1962. 

“CapeNature understands the challenges faced by landowners and farmers, particularly concerning livestock management and is working together with the agricultural community and partners to implement effective, non-lethal solutions for preventing livestock loss. Solutions are always possible through dialogue,” said CapeNature CEO Dr Ashley Naidoo.

“The tragic death of this young leopard highlights the importance of adhering to the laws protecting our wildlife, and we urge the public to report any illegal activities.”

Leopards are a cornerstone species of the Western Cape’s ecosystem, playing an important role in maintaining biodiversity and ecological balance. As apex predators, they contribute to the health and resilience of the environment. Despite their critical importance, leopards have already lost 75% of their historical distribution area, CapeNature said. They are currently classified as Vulnerable on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

In the Langeberg Area, leopards are known to have very large home ranges, indicative of their need for expansive, undisturbed habitats. Contrary to common misconceptions, less than 1% of their diet consists of livestock, indicating that most of their food comes from wild prey, CapeNature said.

In a separate event in April this year, a leopard attacked livestock on a farm close to Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve, resulting in one calf being killed and another injured.

The area has a history of leopard presence due to its proximity to mountainous terrain.

The adult male, estimated to be around seven years old and in good condition, was successfully captured. Later, under the supervision of CapeNature and a veterinarian, the leopard was released back onto the same property and fitted with a tracking collar to monitor its movements. The leopard has not attacked any livestock again since being collared. 

CapeNature encourages continued engagement from affected landowners, farmers, and the public to promote preventative mitigation, ethical and coordinated wildlife management practices.

Cape Times