Moving game: The science behind Namibia’s wildlife translocations

Moving wild animals across Namibia is a complex operation that requires far more than loading animals onto a truck and transporting them to a new location.

According to Wildlife Vets Namibia, successful game translocation depends on careful planning, specialised equipment, experienced teams and, above all, the welfare of the animals.

Unlike cattle or goods, wild animals are highly sensitive to stress, temperature and human handling. Poorly planned relocations can put both animals and people at risk, while excessive stress can have serious consequences for an animal’s health and survival.

“Moving wild animals is not the same as moving cattle or goods. It is all about care, expertise and safety,” Wildlife Vets Namibia said.

Whether a relocation covers a short distance or involves a multi-day journey to another country, every aspect of the operation must be considered before the animals are loaded.

Age and body condition are among the first factors considered when planning a translocation. Older animals are generally more vulnerable to stress. They may struggle to cope with long journeys, while younger animals tend to adapt more readily to new environments and are therefore often selected for long-distance movements.

Critical considerations

An animal’s physical condition is equally important. Those in poor condition have fewer energy reserves and less natural insulation, making them more vulnerable to stress and cold during transportation.

Temperature is another critical consideration. Namibia’s game-capture season is largely dictated by environmental conditions, with summer temperatures often too high for the safe transportation of wildlife.

Different species also have varying tolerances to heat. Sable, for example, generally cope well with warmer conditions, while impala are more susceptible to heat stress, according to Wildlife Vets Namibia.

Wild animals can also become distressed by unfamiliar sights, sounds and smells. For this reason, specialised game-transport vehicles are designed to limit their exposure to the outside environment.

The vehicles are generally shielded, with ventilation slits allowing fresh air to circulate while reducing visual stimulation. This helps to keep animals calmer throughout the journey.

Human behaviour around the vehicles is also important. Wildlife Vets Namibia advises that loud talking, shouting and smoking near transport vehicles should be avoided to minimise unnecessary disturbance.

In some cases, long-acting tranquilising medication is administered under veterinary supervision to reduce stress and minimise fighting between animals. According to Wildlife Vets Namibia, it can also stimulate appetite during transport and assist animals in adjusting to their new environment.

Logistics

Feeding and watering requirements vary depending on the length of the journey. For short relocations, animals may not require food or water during transport, but on journeys lasting several days, maintaining adequate nutrition and hydration can make a significant difference to their welfare and body condition.

Wildlife Vets Namibia therefore carries feed and water supplies on extended journeys, including lucerne, good-quality teff and camel-thorn pods, to ensure animals have access to appropriate food throughout the trip.

The logistics of a wildlife translocation begin well before the animals are loaded. Permits, documentation, transport arrangements and other logistical requirements must be finalised in advance to prevent unnecessary delays.

Delays can expose animals to prolonged stress and unfavourable environmental conditions, making careful preparation essential.

Overcrowding is another major risk. Too many animals in a confined space can increase stress and cause a dangerous build-up of body heat. Adequate space is therefore particularly important during long-distance journeys.

For Wildlife Vets Namibia, the success of a translocation is measured not simply by whether animals reach their destination, but by whether they arrive safely, in good condition and ready to adapt to their new surroundings.

As Namibia continues to play an important role in regional wildlife conservation and translocation programmes, the message from wildlife veterinarians is clear: moving game is a highly specialised operation in which animal welfare, expertise and careful planning must come first.