A flat tyre while transporting a Rhino Bull!
The STS team in South Africa recently relocated a Southern White Rhino bull to transfer genetics between reserves – with rapidly reducing numbers this is an increasingly important part for the conservation of Rhino.
The bull had been immobilised and Dr. Johan and the team inserted microchips in the front and back horns as required by law.
After a head rope was secured, a partial immobilisation reversal was done so the Rhino could get up and walked into the trailer.
While the safety of the Rhino and everyone assisting is paramount, things may quickly change as we would find out during the trip.
The loading process was fairly easy, but during the trip the trailer developed a burst tyre. Unfortunately the Rhino cannot be offloaded, so the team had to quickly source a 3.5 ton jack to be able to lift the Rhino and the trailer!
At offloading the bull bent one of the cross poles and it had to be cut off to be able to reverse the bull out. However, all worked out and in the end the bull was safely offloaded and is enjoying his new home and females on the new property!
Moving males between reserves is vital in order to maintain the genetic diversity of our remaining Rhinos. This is another way in which STS supports Rhino custodians, and it is only possible with your support.