Large swarms of brown locusts were last seen in the Karoo, in the Northern Cape. It is suspected that these swarms are possibly migrating to the Free State, adds Leputla. According to entomologists, egg hatching among brown locusts begins in September after the first rains, and continues in October, with flying commencing in December, mentions Leputla.

She says the most vulnerable and susceptible areas that are likely the first to be infested in the province, are the Xhariep district and the western side of the Lejweleputswa district. The swarms of brown locusts will migrate in search for food. Leputla says the locusts are currently in stage one and two of development, which is a good time for spraying to be done. The country is now left with an estimated time of less than 14 days, then the locusts will be flying, which then will make it very difficult to control, adds Leputla.  

Rhino poaching is becoming increasingly concerning and a detriment to rhino owners and game reserves. Speaking to OFM News, group marketing and trade manager at Aquila, Johan van Schalkwyk, says just last night the Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve just outside of Cape Town in the Western Cape, experienced a massacre. Van Schalkwyk says that four rhino were killed, including a pregnant female. He says a fifth rhino survived but was severely injured. He adds at approximately 11pm Thursday evening, the anti-poaching unit raised the alarm upon the discovery of these rhinos while on their regular patrols. Around 2am the team discovered the injured rhino, Van Schalkwyk adds.

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The North West Department of Agriculture has availed hatchery training at the Kgora Farmers' Training Centre. Departmental spokesperson , Emelda Setlhako, says following the recent addition of basic hatchery management training to a list of skills development courses offered at the Mahikeng-Kgora Farmer Training Centre for beginners and experienced farmers, it has been going exceptionally well with interest from many. She says this follows the completion of a mini-hatchery project at this centre. Setlhako adds aspiring farmers who attend this training, will learn practical aspects of hatchery management. She encouraged members of the public to contact the local agricultural offices and enquire about skills development courses offered at Kgora, as the centre can only accept a limited number of people.

OFM News