Latest news with #SaraOrchardson


The Citizen
2 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Owl Project SA captivates audience with conservation message
Sara Orchardson and Itumeleng Maroga from The Owl Project South Africa captivated members of the University of the Third Age (U3A) during a talk held in Benoni on recently. Their presentation focused on various owl species and their natural habitats. They also raised awareness about the dangers owls face due to the use of rodenticides and other poisons targeting mice and rats, which are a primary food source for many owl species. In response to this threat, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has banned the import, sale and use of highly toxic rodenticides. 'The is often called to assist in communities where owls are viewed with fear or suspicion,' said Orchardson. 'We offer humane solutions and use these moments as opportunities to change perceptions and spark curiosity.' Maroga added that their work includes outreach to schools. 'We're committed to inspiring young South Africans by introducing them to the fascinating world of owls. At the same time, we create allies in the fight against rats, which remain a serious problem in many under-resourced areas.' The organisation's mission is to replace negative stigmas about owls in Southern Africa with wonder and understanding. To continue their conservation and education efforts, they rely on public donations and support from companies and individuals. U3A Benoni hosts its monthly meetings every second Tuesday at Northfield Methodist Church. For more information, contact Colleen Russel on 084 652 8415 or Cheryl Paterson on 082 346 4756.


The Citizen
7 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Owl conservation highlighted at U3A meeting
Sara Orchardson and Itumeleng Maroga from The Owl Project South Africa captivated members of the University of the Third Age (U3A) during a talk held in Benoni on July 8. Their presentation focused on various owl species and their natural habitats. They also raised awareness about the dangers owls face due to the use of rodenticides and other poisons targeting mice and rats, which are a primary food source for many owl species. In response to this threat, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has banned the import, sale and use of highly toxic rodenticides. 'The is often called to assist in communities where owls are viewed with fear or suspicion,' said Orchardson. 'We offer humane solutions and use these moments as opportunities to change perceptions and spark curiosity.' Maroga added that their work includes outreach to schools. 'We're committed to inspiring young South Africans by introducing them to the fascinating world of owls. At the same time, we create allies in the fight against rats, which remain a serious problem in many under-resourced areas.' The organisation's mission is to replace negative stigmas about owls in Southern Africa with wonder and understanding. To continue their conservation and education efforts, they rely on public donations and support from companies and individuals. U3A is for retired and senior people and the Benoni group hosts its monthly meetings every second Tuesday at Northfield Methodist Church. For more information, contact Colleen Russel on 084 652 8415 or Cheryl Paterson on 082 346 4756. ALSO READ: Zebra Finch Society invites you to see some of the country's best birds ALSO READ: Edenvale bird rehabilitation centre desperate to keep its doors open


The Citizen
7 days ago
- General
- The Citizen
Owl project SA raises awareness at U3A meeting
Sara Orchardson and Itumeleng Maroga from The Owl Project South Africa captivated members of the University of the Third Age (U3A) during a talk held in Benoni on recently. Their presentation focused on various owl species and their natural habitats. They also raised awareness about the dangers owls face due to the use of rodenticides and other poisons targeting mice and rats, which are a primary food source for many owl species. In response to this threat, the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development has banned the import, sale and use of highly toxic rodenticides. 'The is often called to assist in communities where owls are viewed with fear or suspicion,' said Orchardson. 'We offer humane solutions and use these moments as opportunities to change perceptions and spark curiosity.' Maroga added that their work includes outreach to schools. 'We're committed to inspiring young South Africans by introducing them to the fascinating world of owls. At the same time, we create allies in the fight against rats, which remain a serious problem in many under-resourced areas.' The organisation's mission is to replace negative stigmas about owls in Southern Africa with wonder and understanding. To continue their conservation and education efforts, they rely on public donations and support from companies and individuals. U3A Benoni hosts its monthly meetings every second Tuesday at Northfield Methodist Church. For more information, contact Colleen Russel on 084 652 8415 or Cheryl Paterson on 082 346 4756. ALSO READ: SAPS, CPF, Gauteng Traffic Department hold high visibility operation ALSO READ: Aviation icons gather to honour the legendary Junkers Ju52