Down To The Wire is a South African initiative dedicated to combating the pervasive issue of wildlife snaring through innovative means. Founded by siblings in Hoedspruit, Limpopo, this project seeks to raise awareness about the devastating effects of snaring on wildlife and transform this destructive practice into a force for good.

 

Origins and Mission

 

Snaring, a method involving wire nooses set by poachers, indiscriminately traps and often kills a wide range of wildlife. Recognizing the lack of public awareness surrounding this issue,  as Down To The Wire, we were inspired to take action. We collect confiscated snares from anti-poaching units and private reserve teams, repurposing the wire into handcrafted jewelry. This transformation symbolizes hope and resilience, turning instruments of harm into wearable art that sparks conversation and education about wildlife conservation. 

 

Activities and Offerings

 

The core activity of Down To The Wire involves crafting unique jewelry pieces—such as bracelets, necklaces, earrings, bookmarks, and keychains—from reclaimed snare wire. Each item is meticulously handcrafted. The sales of these creations directly support wildlife rescue efforts and fund treatments for animals injured by snares. Additionally, the project offers workshops where participants can learn about the impacts of snaring and engage in jewelry-making. These immersive experiences foster a deeper connection to nature and a firsthand understanding of conservation challenges. 

 

Impact on Wildlife

 

The indiscriminate nature of snaring affects a diverse array of animals, from large mammals like elephants and antelopes to smaller species such as pangolins and wild dogs. Our efforts not only remove these lethal traps from the environment but also provide financial support for the rehabilitation of snared animals. By collaborating with wildlife veterinarians and conservationists, the project ensures that affected animals receive the necessary medical care. Through our unique approach, we transforms symbols of destruction into emblems of hope, contributing to the broader fight against snare poaching. 

 

In essence, Down To The Wire exemplifies how creativity and compassion can intersect to address critical conservation issues, turning tools of harm into instruments of awareness and change.