Every month, Rotary volunteers conduct snare eradication walks through areas of bush around Kenton-on-Sea. The purpose is to identify and remove snares and snaring wire that can cause horrific injuries or death to wildlife.

The July operation covered five areas of bush around Kenton, together with an additional area above The Sandbar. Although no active snares were found, the team discovered and removed snaring wire from the bush above The Sandbar. Removing this wire is an important preventative measure, ensuring that wildlife is not inadvertently caught in abandoned or concealed snares.

The project relies on collaboration between Rotary and members of the wider community. Walter Currie assists by supplying Game Guard Knowledge, while Rotary volunteers Kenny Rogers, Jeremy Pickering and Hazel Crampton often participate in the walks and search the bush.

Snaring is a serious threat to wildlife because snares can remain hidden in dense vegetation and may indiscriminately trap animals. Regular patrols therefore serve two purposes:

• Removing existing snares and wire
• Preventing future harm to wildlife
• Monitoring vulnerable areas of bush
• Creating greater awareness of wildlife protection
• Encouraging community involvement in environmental stewardship
• Building cooperation between Rotary, landowners, game guards and residents

This is not a once-off initiative. Rotary’s snare eradication walks take place every month, providing a continuing presence in vulnerable areas and ensuring that previously cleared areas are revisited.

The project demonstrates the value of small groups of committed volunteers making a practical difference on the ground. Every snare or piece of snaring wire removed represents a potential animal saved from injury or death.

Through this project, Rotary is helping to ensure that Kenton-on-Sea remains a safe and environmentally responsible community where people and wildlife can coexist.