City of Cape Town staff at the Table Bay Nature Reserve made a grim discovery this week, finding 19 empty angulate tortoise shells scattered along footpaths leading to the reserve’s Environmental Education Centre.
According to a report, the finding has shocked conservation staff and the local environmental community, pointing to a brutal poaching incident involving one of the Cape’s most familiar and ecologically valuable species.
Evidence of poaching and cruelty
The City of Cape Town confirmed that the tortoises had been removed from their shells, suggesting they were killed for meat or traditional medicine (muthi).
“This is a serious case of animal cruelty and a violation of environmental protection laws,” said Alderman Eddie Andrews, the City’s Mayoral Committee Member for Spatial Planning and Environment.
“The discovery of internal organs removed and shells discarded in this manner is deeply distressing.”
Photographic and video evidence has been shared with the South African Police Service (SAPS), CapeNature, and the SPCA, and the City has opened a formal case with law enforcement.
Investigation underway
Preliminary investigations indicate that two men may have entered the reserve early that morning after paying an entrance fee.
Witnesses reported seeing them carrying a fishing rod.
Reserve managers have also submitted footage of a vehicle believed to be linked to the incident. Authorities are now analysing the material as part of their investigation.
The angulate tortoise (Chersina angulata) is endemic to southern Africa and a protected species, playing a key role in maintaining local fynbos and coastal ecosystems.
Conservationists warn that such poaching incidents threaten fragile urban biodiversity and have long-term ecological consequences.
Community response and call for vigilance
Community volunteers and birdwatchers described the scene as “distressing,” pledging to assist the City with increased patrols and neighbourhood watch efforts around the reserve’s borders.
Authorities have urged the public to report any suspicious activity or signs of wildlife poaching.
“We appeal to all visitors to remain alert and help protect our natural heritage,” the City said.
How to report information
Anyone with information about the incident is urged to contact:
- Table Bay Nature Reserve Office
- Cape Town SAPS
- Or reach out anonymously via CapeNature’s biodiversity crime hotline
The City has said it will continue to update the public as the police investigation progresses, reaffirming its commitment to protecting Cape Town’s wildlife and natural spaces.
