Rehabilitation & Rewilding of Rhino Orphans
The Greater Kruger National Park region in South Africa is currently at the epicentre of the rampant and relentless scourge of poaching. as organised crime syndicates keep changing and intensifying their tactics. Singita and various conservation partners have been actively involved in rhino conservation and protection for the past 30 years, and in supporting the Singita Lowveld Trust (SLT), we remain steadfast to ensure the survival of the species.
Regional efforts include re-introductions, translocations, rewilding across the region, and more.
The remarkable rescue operation of Mavic – a rhino calf orphaned in a tragic poaching incident in August 2022 – put a renewed spotlight on the urgency to ensure their future; and his journey of rehabilitation and rewilding is a testimony to the dedication of those who work tirelessly to achieve that goal.
As part of its ongoing commitment to conservation and Annual Sponsorship Agreement with the Care for Wild – the world’s largest rhino orphan sanctuary, which is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of rhinos orphaned by poaching – the SLT is covering the cost of care to support Mavic’s first year of rehabilitation. This includes everything from milk/feed, veterinary costs, as well as staffing expenses.
The aim is to grow the sponsorship and not only see Mavic’s rehabilitation through to his eventual release into the wild, but also support the rehabilitation and rewilding of other rhino orphans as they become part of the survival of the species. Mavic’s recovery illustrates how change is possible when those at the forefront of conservation are empowered to dedicate their passion and energy to taking care of Africa’s vulnerable species.
It’s therefore crucial to keep supporting them in their work, and you too can become part of the positive wave of change.
Key Successes
- Remarkable rescue effort by Sabi Sand anti-poaching team using DJI Mavic drones to keep a watchful eye on the calf from 20m above through the night
- Immediate action to rescue and rehabilitate orphans at Care for the Wild, saves their life. With every rhino able to produce eight calves, each animal counts
- Mavic is now well settled in the bomas and integrating beautifully with his fellow crush of rhino orphans
- After 3 years of rehabilitation, these rhino orphans have an excellent chance of being released into the wild - representing hope for the survival of the species
How can I support this project?
Please consider supporting the Singita Lowveld Trust as they strive to increase their contribution to the rehabilitation and rewilding of Mavic and other rhino orphans at Care for Wild. Your donation could make a meaningful difference and help to save this species. Comprising three years, the process to rehabilitate and rewild each rhino orphan consists of:
YEAR 1
Total cost of one rhino orphan’s ICU & bottle-feeding phase. USD 13,605.00
YEAR 2
Total cost of one rhino orphan’s weaning phase. USD 8,760.00
YEAR 3
Total cost of one rhino orphan’s rewilding phase. USD 5,610.00
