Rhino Conservation
We are proud to be playing our part in conserving and protecting this keystone species.
Rhinos have been around for millions of years and they play a crucial role in the ecosystem. They are essential grazers and browsers, consuming large amounts of vegetation, which helps shape the African landscape. This benefits other animals and keeps a healthy balance within an ecosystem.
INTRODUCING
Rhino
In 2009 we introduced our first 2 white rhino. Since then the habitat at Buffalo Kloof has proved to be extremely successful and we have started a healthy population of white rhino. We look forward to welcoming many more white rhino calves in the near future, this new life makes all the work that we do worthwhile.
In August 2019 we were privileged to be part of – the Black Rhino Range Expansion Project (BRREP) Range Expansion Programme. The relocation of black rhino to Buffalo Kloof in partnership with community and state owned land ensures that these critically endangered animals are given a chance to fight back and develop new breeding populations. We are honoured to be custodians of these animals and since having them here, Buffalo Kloof has been a different place. The initial population of 20 founder animals is now established and thriving.
Anti-Poaching
Protecting rhino comes with great risk and dedication. We are proud and thankful to our Anti-poaching unit (APU) who work tirelessly to protect our rhino. Our APU team participates in various ways of patrol, including vehicular, helicopter, on-foot, motorbike and watch towers. These patrols are done in what are seen as high and low risk areas on the conservancy and include monitoring the perimeter to ensure no intrusions. The conservancy is under 24/7 camera surveillance and the vehicle recognition system notifies us of any suspicious cars in the area.
How you can contribute
The management of rhino is an intensive and costly process only because of the pressure that the illegal wildlife trade has put them under. We offer guests an exciting opportunity to contribute and help in the conservation of these endangered species. When rhino calves reach a certain age they need to be “notched” for identification purposes, this enables the monitoring team on the ground to identify individuals. This procedure is crucial for their protection.
We offer guests this rare opportunity to join and help Dr Willaim Fowlds and the team on the ground. During this experience you will be given the opportunity to administer medication, take measurements for scientific and medical purposes, and monitor the animal while it is under anaesthetic. These essential tasks will ensure the safety of the rhino. This is an incredible and rare opportunity to be up close and personal with an incredible animal. This experience is subject to availability, for more information please contact us.