Our Philosophy

WCT supports and promotes research related to endangered species. It encourages research that will benefit the conservation of species, and particularly those in captivity, with the intention to serve as gene pools for supplementing genetic heterogeneity in free-ranging species under threat.

Since its inception, The Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre has had a history of supporting research in the fields of nutrition, breeding, and management. Researchers from various academic institutions published more than 30 scientific papers in scientific journals or as the proceedings of congresses, symposia, or workshops.

Researchers at HESC are typically affiliated with an academic or research institution and include postgraduate students in those institutions.   They are subject to their institutional rules regulating research, and to those of HESC. Study leaders are normally employed by the respective institution.

WCT aligns itself with the philosophy that underpins research internationally and within the context of the rules directing the ethics of using animals for research and with attention to their welfare. To regulate these matters, WCT and HESC has a Research Committee (RC) to assess the quality of the science conducted and to approve protocols before commencement of any research, and an independent Animal Use and Care Committee (AUCC) to oversee the ethics of all activities at the Centre, including research and management of animals at the Centre

Requests for research opportunities can send an email to animalcare@cheetahcentre.co.za.

Science has the power to change the world. Through the funding of research projects, the WCT supports and invests in scientific research that advances wildlife conservation. Several studies has been overseen and a study database can be found via the following links:

• Research Literature – 14 July
• Scholar Google – Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre

Research students can apply for a grant or assistance, however progress reports are a critical tool for ongoing evaluation, as well as a means of feedback to donors and stakeholders about the success of WCT-funded research.