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and all the wildlife we care for

Category: Black Rhino

A Black Rhino with Other Plans

Our team recently set out on what should have been a routine mission: to fit a tracking collar on a black rhino female so that we could monitor her movements and ensure her safety. With a calf at her side, it was especially important to keep a close eye on her.

After being safely immobilized, the rhino had plans of her own. To our surprise, she wriggled herself deep into a massive bush and became completely stuck.

A Battle with Branches

What followed was no easy task. Armed with chainsaws and determination, the team worked carefully to cut her free, branch by branch. Every move had to be precise — both for the safety of the rhino and the people working around her.

Eventually, we were able to fit her collar, but her back legs remained pinned in the thicket. At this point, we faced a difficult choice.

Taking a Risk

With the rhino unable to move, the decision was made to wake her partially so she could free herself. This is always a dangerous step, especially with black rhinos, but it was the only way forward.

Holding our breath, we watched as she slowly regained her strength, steadied herself, and walked out of the bush on her own. The plan had worked.

Back Where She Belongs

Once she was safely clear, Dr Johan reversed the anesthetic fully, and the rhino soon rejoined her calf. Now fitted with her new collar, she can be closely monitored and better protected as she roams her territory.

Why We Do What We Do

Conservation work is rarely predictable. It is messy, exhausting, and often dangerous. But moments like this — watching a mother rhino return safely to her calf — remind us why we do what we do. Every collar fitted, every obstacle overcome, means another life we can help protect.

Gallery

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