The 22nd September marks World Rhino Day each year.
Initiated in 2010 by the WWF (World Wildlife Fund) South Africa, World Rhino Day was meant to be away of drawing attention to the plight of South Africa’s rhinos as poaching levels began increasing exponentially, in this country as well as throughout the rest of Africa.
Although the numbers of poached rhinos continued to rise over the following years, particularly in South Africa itself, there is light at the end of the tunnel, in that 2015 saw the first decrease in the number of poached rhinos since the crisis first began in 2007. The number of animals lost was still unacceptably high, but given the number of deaths over the preceding few years, it did seem that things had turned in the right direction.
A white rhino bull marks his territory on one of his many middens. Photograph by James Tyrrell
A white rhino calf lunges for high ground to avoid being squashed by its mother in a wallow. Photograph by James Tyrrell
Currently, men and women all over Africa are risking their lives to protect the remaining black and white rhinoceroses, and indeed in the Kruger Park and surrounds, anti-poaching teams are on a 24hr vigil.
The rhino sightings we at Londolozi are privileged to enjoy on a regular basis are a direct result of the hard work of a small elect band who have chosen to dedicate their energies entirely to the protection of this species, and we salute them!
Hot conditions see many rhinos in the area frequenting mud wallows during the heat of the day. Photograph by James Tyrrell
World Rhino Day is intended to raise awareness of the plight of rhinos across Africa and indeed the world (there are 5 species of rhino worldwide). Our hope is that it does just that, and that Londolozi continues to be a safe haven in which these behemoths of the animal world can continue living the way nature always intended.
They are such wonderful animals! I am thrilled there has been a slight reduction in the number of killings! Keep up the good work and a pox on the poachers!! Victoria Auchincloss
Absolutely beautiful video and pictures James! We are so thankful to the men and women who put their lives in danger every single day in order to protect these beautiful Rhinos, as well as all animals who are being slaughtered by poachers. The world needs to stand up together to ensure that these incredible animals live on.
Great Blog James. I have incredible memories of the numerous Rhino sightings at Londos. To be a few feet from a huge Rhino and hear his deep breathing was a lifetime experience I will never forget. Hearing the Rhino calf screaming because Mom was sleeping and not paying attention to feeding times was very special. The fight between two Rhinos in a territorial dispute shocked us terribly but it was a graphic display of the might of these wonderful animals and one of the many learning experiences we have been fortunate to experience. Just writing this makes me want to hop in the car and pop up to Londos!
Thanks for the comments Trevor!
We hope you hop in that car and pop up soon!
I love the Rhinos!!!