Anatolian sheep dogs to halt Africa’s wildlife decline

Fabulous video that illustrates the real benefits of intriguing conservation measures.

Won’t say a word, just watch it. Enjoy! 😉

Broadcaster: NationalGeographic

Problems

• Rapid decline of big cats in Africa. Only 50 000 leopards left, 20 000 lions and 12 000 cheetahs.
• Conflict between humans (farmers) and cats (i.e. especially cheetahs).
• Farmers kill the felines or poison them for stocking their cattle.

Solution

• Anatolian shepherd dogs.
• Cheetah Conservation Fund Initiative.

About Anatolian Shepherd Dogs

• Ancestors bred in Turkey to guard sheep and fight wolves.
• 6000 years of instincts. In other words, they know exactly what to do when they have to.
• Can weigh up to 70 kg: they have a very powerful neck and shoulders, and can run as fast as 75 km/h.
• Extremely independent.
• Raised with livestock as puppies (with very little human contact).
• Stay with the herd 24/7.

Results

• The dogs protect the flocks without hurting the cheetahs.
• Cheetah mortality is dropping (and so is livestock losses to other predators).
• Farmers stop using bait to poison the animals.

Farmer Advantages

• Dog training and vet care are FREE.
• By taking good care of their dogs, farmers know the sheep dogs will look after the livestock.

Testimonials

“We’ve had zero losses where we use the dogs,” Mr. Knipe says. “They’re amazing protectors. Since we’ve gotten the dogs, everyone here has become cheetah-friendly.”

Peter Knipe – South Africa.

Anatolian shepherd dogs reduce livestock losses by 95 to 100 per cent.

Cheetah Outreach – Charity.