We are excited to provide an update on the four rhinos rescued by The Great Rhino Rescue Mission over the past few months. All four are thriving at the SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve. As we prepare for the next mission in March, we want to share how the fabulous four have flourished in the safety of the reserve.
Volunteers successfully translocated Zula and Ugai to the sanctuary during the first rescue. The second group rescued Namela, and Aya was rescued last, completing the 2024 herd! Zula and Ugai have formed a close bond as a pair, while Namela and Aya have also become inseparable companions. Initially, the team observed them pacing along the perimeter fence, prompting concerns about their visibility and vulnerability to nearby roads.
Volunteers helped to set up food and water sources to encourage deeper exploration into the sanctuary. With patience and persistence, the rhinos have ventured further from the fence, discovering several watering points and becoming more comfortable in their new environment. They have even interacted with the other resident rhinos at SanWild! All the rhinos occasionally gather together but generally return to their trusted pairs.
Health-wise, all four are doing incredibly well. During the dry season, the SanWild staff and volunteers provided supplementary feeding daily to ensure they had enough nutrition. Fortunately, they've recently had some much-needed rain, resulting in fresh grass sprouting - a hopeful sign for the coming months!
As we enter the festive season, this time typically brings increased stress and heightened risks for wildlife. Poaching incidents tend to rise due to droughts and the desperation for money. Unfortunately, the team have already observed signs of this. The project works diligently around the clock to monitor cameras, conduct visibility patrols in the area, and assist neighbouring farms in ensuring that the reserve stays ahead of any threats. By volunteering at SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve, you can help protect these rhinos and all wildlife by participating in these activities.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has joined The Great Rhino Rescue Mission and supported these relocation efforts. If you are seeking a meaningful adventure in 2025, consider joining the group on March 17th for the fifth rescue mission - visit the project page now for more information!
