Zululand Rhino Orphanage

Dear GlobalGiving Family,

We are pleased to provide an update on the Zululand Rhino Orphanage (ZRO) for the last quarter. The past three months have seen a significant increase in the number of rhino orphans requiring our care due to heightened poaching activity in the region. This unfortunate surge has compelled us to rapidly expand our capacity to continue providing the best possible care for these vulnerable animals.

Influx of Rhino Orphans:
Since our last report, the poaching crisis has intensified, leading to an influx of new rhino orphans. Among these, Lazula, a blind rhino calf, has presented one of our most unique and challenging cases. Lazula’s special needs have required us to invest in an ICU boma designed to provide a secure and controlled environment for her rehabilitation. This facility, constructed with large, sturdy poles, ensures her safety while receiving the specialized care she needs.

Expansion of Facilities and Staff:
To accommodate this influx, we’ve had to significantly expand both our facilities and workforce. New bomas have been constructed, and we have increased our security measures to safeguard the orphans and the orphanage from poaching threats. We have also brought in additional staff to ensure that all rhinos continue receiving the round-the-clock care they require. This expansion has placed a considerable strain on our resources, but we remain committed to providing the highest standard of care.

Security Enhancements:
In light of the increased poaching activity, we have also heightened security efforts. This includes additional personnel and enhanced surveillance to protect the rhinos and our team. The situation remains tense, but with your continued support, we can maintain the necessary level of security to ensure the safety of the rhinos in our care.

Challenges and Ongoing Needs:
While we have made substantial progress in expanding our capacity, the financial burden of these improvements has been considerable. We are still actively seeking additional funding to support the daily operations and maintenance of the newly constructed bomas, the ICU facility, and the necessary security measures. Without this support, it will be challenging to sustain these critical operations in the long term.

Thank you once again for your ongoing commitment to ZRO and the rhinos under our care. Your generosity makes it possible for us to face these challenges head-on and continue our mission of saving and rehabilitating orphaned rhinos.

We look forward to providing further updates as we continue this important work.

Links:

• http://www.zululandconservationtrust.org

Dear GlobalGiving Family,

 We are delighted to present the progress report for the Zululand Rhino Orphanage (ZRO) for the year 2023. With your generous support, we have achieved significant milestones in our mission to care for and rehabilitate orphaned rhinos.

 Expansion Efforts:

In response to the increasing number of rhino orphans, we expanded our facilities in 2023. With your support, we constructed a new ICU area featuring two pole bomas, enhancing our capacity to provide round-the-clock care. This expansion has been crucial in accommodating the growing number of rhinos in need of our assistance.

 New Arrivals:

Throughout the year, we welcomed several new rhino orphans into our care, each with their own unique journey of rescue and rehabilitation. From Msasaneni (Msasa) to Griffin, each rhino has made remarkable progress under our care. Their stories highlight the resilience and adaptability of these magnificent creatures in the face of adversity.

 Medical Procedures:

Our commitment to the well-being of the rhinos extends to conducting essential medical procedures, including horn trimming and general check-ups. These procedures are crucial in safeguarding the rhinos against the persistent threat of poaching, ensuring their safety and well-being as they prepare for eventual release back into the wild.

 Weaning and Rehabilitation:

One of the significant milestones we celebrated in 2023 was the successful weaning of several rhinos off milk. This marks a crucial step forward in their rehabilitation journey, signaling their readiness for increased independence and eventual release back into their natural habitat. The progress made by these rhinos reflects the dedication and expertise of our team in providing the care and support they need.

 Research and Monitoring:

Our commitment to the ongoing monitoring and research of the rhinos' growth and health status remains unwavering. Weekly weigh-ins and data collection enable us to track their progress closely and make informed decisions about their care. This research also contributes valuable insights into the impact of early maternal separation on their development, furthering our understanding of rhino conservation.

 Orphan Updates:

In addition to our work with rhinos, we are proud to share updates on orphaned hippos, Charlie and Moomin, who embarked on their journey back to the wild in December 2022. Their successful release underscores our commitment to various wildlife conservation efforts and the importance of providing a nurturing environment for vulnerable animals.

 Partners and Donors:

Finally, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our partners and donors for their continued support, which is instrumental in enabling us to carry out our vital work in rhino conservation. Your generosity allows us to make a real difference in the lives of these incredible animals, and we are immensely grateful for your ongoing commitment to our cause.

 In conclusion, 2023 has been a year of progress, growth, and resilience at the Zululand Rhino Orphanage, made possible by your unwavering support. As we look forward to the future, we remain dedicated to our mission of saving and rehabilitating orphaned rhinos, and we invite you to continue this journey with us.