Scottburgh, August 2024 – There is cause for celebration as a collaborative effort by concerned citizens and the South African Police Services (SAPS) resulted in the safe return of a Harris Hawk that was stolen from Crocworld Conservation Centre on 25 July. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the break-in and theft, which also involved a breeding pair of Jackal Buzzards and a chick. Tragically, one of the Jackal Buzzards was found to have been killed, and the remaining two birds are still missing.

“We would like to extend our huge appreciation to the Amahlongwa Community Forum, the Umkomaas SAPS detectives, and the Umzinto SAPS K9 Unit for their concerted efforts in resolving this case,” said James Wittstock, Manager of Crocworld Conservation Centre. “Their tireless efforts led to not only the arrest of two suspects but also the safe recovery of our beloved Harris Hawk, who is now back at Crocworld Conservation Centre.”

The Crocworld team in Scottburgh, on the KZN South Coast, made a public appeal for any information relating to the theft of the four birds, which were taken on the evening of 25 July. The Jackal Buzzards formed part of Crocworld’s breeding programmes aimed at ensuring the survival of threatened animal species. The stolen chick was due to be released later in the year as part of this conservation initiative.

The Role of Crocworld in Conservation

Crocworld is a member of Species360, a global conservation entity that facilitates the collection and curation of information on the Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), the world’s most comprehensive database of knowledge used for the global fight against extinction. Breeding programmes, such as those involving the Jackal Buzzard, form an essential part of this research and are crucial to species survival.

How the Case Was Solved

Following the public appeal, the Amahlongwa Community Forum received information about the stolen birds, which was shared with the Umkomaas SAPS detectives. Working closely with the Umzinto K9 Unit, they managed to recover the Harris Hawk on 13 August 2024 and subsequently made two arrests. The suspects have been charged with business burglary and theft.

Wittstock shared that the Harris Hawk was found tied to a roof, and they suspect she hadn’t been given much food or water over the three weeks. She has since been cared for at Crocworld and is now “back to her normal self”.

Enhancing Security Measures

To prevent future incidents, Wittstock announced that they are enhancing security measures at the centre, including the erection of an electric game fence to safeguard the wildlife.

The Crocworld team is encouraging visitors to come to the centre and welcome home the now-famous Harris Hawk!

Press Release Submitted By:

Crocworld Conservation CentreContact Person: James WittstockContact Number: 039 976 1103Website: www.crocworld.co.zaSocial Media: Crocworld Conservation Centre on Facebook and Instagram

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