By Petronel Nieuwoudt | Founder & CEO
Introduction from Petronel
The past few months have been both challenging and inspiring. With an alarming rise in poaching incidents in Kruger National Park, the need for our work has never been greater. Despite these challenges, we continue to make significant strides in conservation, anti-poaching efforts, and community engagement. None of this would be possible without your support.
RHINO NEWS
New Year’s Rescues:
On New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, Care for Wild rescued two orphaned rhino calves, Nola and Cathy, both tragically losing their mothers to poaching. With immediate veterinary intervention and the support of our rhino crash, they are on their way to recovery.
Hercules’ Recovery:
Hercules, a severley injured white rhino calf, has shown promising progress after surviving a hyena attack. Thanks to innovative veterinary care, plasma transfusions, and intensive rehabilitation, he is slowly regaining strength.
New Rhino Calves Born:
Three rehabilitated and rewilded rhinos have given birth: Venus, Sibeva, and Twinkle each welcomed healthy calves. These births mark a major milestone in rewilding efforts and underscore the success of our rehabilitation program.
Reintroduction of Rhinos:
In a historic move, 11 white rhinos have been successfully relocated to Mountainlands Nature Reserve as part of Care for Wild’s mission to establish a sustainable rhino population in protected ecosystems.
Buffalo Relocation:
Buffalos were also reintroduced into Mountainlands, further enhancing biodiversity. AI-enabled tracking collars are being used to monitor their adaptation and health.
ANTI-POACHING UNIT (APU) NEWS
Expansion into Mountainlands:
Care for Wild has deployed rhino monitors and Mounted Unit rangers to protect the newly introduced rhinos in Mountainlands. Infrastructure enhancements and technological monitoring systems have been implemented to strengthen security.
Training and Development:
New rangers are undergoing rigorous training, including mentorship from veteran rangers like “Crocodile.” Additional training initiatives include 4x4 driving courses for operational efficiency and financial literacy programs to empower rangers with life skills.
COMMUNITY NEWS
Educational Initiatives:
Care for Wild continues to support education through school supply donations, fresh produce distributions, and partnerships with Wits University to provide wildlife and literacy lessons.
Good Work Foundation’s Open Learning Academy:
The launch of the Open Learning Academy at Fairview and Shiba Primary Schools is a promising step forward, though a shortage of functioning tablets poses a challenge. Efforts are underway to secure additional resources.
CONCLUSION
From rhino rescues and anti-poaching advancements to education and community empowerment, every effort we undertake is made possible by our supporters. Your contributions are saving lives and shaping a future where wildlife and communities thrive together. Thank you for being a part of this journey!
By Petronel Nieuwoudt | Founder & CEO
By Petronel Nieuwoudt | Founder & CEO
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