A stark reminder of what is at stake as political and provincial discussions resurface regarding the potential mass culling of over 2,000 elephants in South Africa.
A herd of giant, life-size puppets trod solemnly through the shrublands of Cape Point, embodying the spirit of elephants against a backdrop of impending doom.
This evocative scene features two adult elephant puppets and a calf, a poignant representation crafted by the Handspring Puppet Company, to raise awareness about the potential culling of over 2,000 elephants in South Africa.
The puppets were created for a short film The Seed Bearers last Walk, funded by Humane World for Animals South Africa, and hopes not only to raise awareness but to inspire action as the charity’s approach challenges the notion that lethal options should be at the forefront of wildlife management.
A recent report indicates that about 44,000 elephants roam South Africa, with figures suggesting that as many as 35,000 live within the borders of Kruger National Park alone. Yet, the spectre of culling looms over these gentle giants, harkening back to a dark chapter in the nation’s conservation history.
