6th January 2024
Dear Friends and Supporters,
Urgent Appeal: African Raptor Centre Relocation
The African Raptor Centre, a highly respected institution dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of birds of prey, is facing a crisis of unprecedented magnitude. Our Bird of Prey Sanctuary is under threat, as ongoing land invasions have forced us to relocate urgently. Due to the sensitive nature of the situation, it has not received the media coverage that it deserves, and what has been reported is inaccurate. The situation is complex, and time is of the essence.
The African Raptor Centre has been a safe haven to one of the largest and most diverse selection of indigenous African raptors for over 20 years. We have rehabilitated countless injured, poisoned, or otherwise compromised birds of prey over the years, and we currently house over 100 non-releasable birds. Our Yellow-billed Kite, YBK, has been flying as an ambassador for her species for an impressive 23 years!
Relocating the sanctuary will require substantial financial and practical assistance. The absolute minimum needed to ensure the safety and well-being of these extraordinary birds of prey is 850 000 ZAR ($46 000). This amount will provide new species-specific flight enclosures, which are suitable for the long-term housing of non-releasable, often critically endangered, raptors.
The African Raptor Centre has a reputation as one of the best birds of prey facilities in South Africa, attracting local and international birding enthusiasts. Our educational programmes have enlightened and inspired countless scholars over the years. Through our ongoing research projects, we have developed strong partnerships with universities and conservation organizations around the globe. Most importantly, we have saved hundreds of raptors and given them a second chance at life.
We have secured a site within Tala Collection Game Reserve, which will ensure the safety and security of the Sanctuary, as well as Raptor Rescue, our specialist rescue and rehabilitation facility.
We urgently request your help. Should you wish to donate time, skills and effort, please contact our volunteer co-ordinator, Jacqui Gray, on +27 82 857 3121, to join us at Tala and help construct the enclosures. If you would prefer to donate building materials or supplies, please contact us directly for our wish list.
Your financial contributions will make a significant difference for our specially protected raptors. Every cent counts and is appreciated. Regular progress reports will be posted.
Banking Details:
Bank: First National Bank
Universal Code: 250655
Account Name: African Bird of Prey Sanctuary
Cheque Account No: 620 2900 9786
REF: Relocation and ‘your name’
Alternatively, if you require a Section 18A tax certificate, please make use of:
African Raptor Trust (IT1467/2005-PMB)
NPO Reg: 053-515NPO, PBO Reg No: 930027967
Banking Details:
African Raptor Trust
Investec Bank
Current Account: 50014176685
Branch: 100 Grayston Drive, Sandton
REF: Relocation and ‘your name’
Contact us with your details to receive a Section 18A tax certificate.
Please share this appeal with friends, family and across your networks, tagging influential individuals, organizations, and nature enthusiasts who share our unwavering passion for avian conservation. Together, let us ignite a global movement to ensure the survival of our eagles, owls, hawks and vultures.
Thank you for your support during this difficult time. We look forward to welcoming visitors, old and new to our home at Tala Collection Game Reserve.
With deep gratitude,
Ben Hoffman
CEO, African Raptor Centre
Website: https://africanraptor.co.za
Telephone No: 031 785 4382
Email: office@africanraptor.co.za
Instagram: @africanraptorcentre
Facebook: African Raptor Centre
Tala Collection Game Reserve: http://www.tala.co.za/
#raptorsofinstagram #africanraptorcentre #EmergencyFundraising #vultureconservation
