Poaching has cast a dark cloud over the future of our rhinos and often our thoughts are associated with despair and sadness when we consider the fragile future of these animals.
Today, however I would like to celebrate their beauty, courage and immense power. If life in the bush was the equivalent to a 12 round heavy weight boxing match, a rhino would be the perfect contender weighing in at 2.5 to 2.7 tons and speeds of up to 40-45km/h, they are definitely a force to be reckoned with.
When watching rhinos I always find myself thinking how strange, peculiar and prehistoric they look and saying that it is always a privilege to be able to spend time with these magnificent animals. It is always very special and calming watching rhinos graze the open plains in the early morning or late afternoon…
It’s not just their sheer size that is impressive but if you take time to sit and observe these animals they are fascinating whether it is simply listening to the sound of their lips as they pluck mouthfuls of grass or rolling around and coating their bodies in mud on a hot summers day which provides great entertainment. They truly are gentle giants and add great value to the African bush.
At rest. Photograph by Trevor McCall-Peat
This rhino calf has such attitude and has grown up so fast! Photograph by Andrea Campbell.
Rhino calves are scarcely as big as a medium sized warthogs for the first few months of their lives. This one, with barely a hint of a horn, was the smallest I have seen in a long time. Photograph by: James Tyrrell.
A young calf and mom. Photograph by Trevor McCall-Peat
Rhino Reflection. Photograph by Trevor McCall-Peat
Golden shadows. Photograph by Trevor McCall-Peat
A magnificent white rhino in the open areas. Photograph by James Tyrrell.
A few oxpeckers enjoy some feeding time with this young calf. Photograph by Trevor McCall-Peat.
The female rhino calf was seen chasing a wildebeest and warthog! Photograph by James Tyrrell.
From the shadows. Photograph by Simon Smit
The video below gives us hope and a good reason to keep fighting. Written by Trevor McCall-Peat Photographed by: Trevor McCall-Peat, James Tyrrell, Simon Smit and Andrea Campbell.
Beautiful rhino images. Let us hope that all our rhinos wil stay save and not be harmed.
Thank you for the wonderful pictures. I pray that they we will be celebrating them for many years to come and not mourning the passing of this amazing species. Thank you for all the efforts you do to help protect them and combat the poachers.
Thank you Trevor, the images are beautiful. What a wonderful way to celebrate World Rhino Day.
Beautiful images and a well-written blog Trevor and a great tribute to World Rhino Day. This little calf is so sweet and feisty and will hopefully go on to live a long and healthy life. Thank you for working so hard to protect these beautiful animals. I am hoping and praying for the day when there is no more poaching.
Thanks Trevor, for the photos and making everyone aware of World Rhino Day.