Tiny Rhino Calf Stands Its Ground As Mom Is Dehorned

Photo Credit: Ryan van Deventer

Watch out! This little rhino means serious business.

South Africa (19 December 2025) – During a recent routine dehorning, wildlife vet Ryan van Deventer caught an adorable moment on camera. As he and his team worked on a sedated adult rhino, her little calf refused to budge. Protecting mom was the only important thing.

“This tiny rhino calf refused to leave its mom’s side – doing everything it could to ‘protect’ her, even though she was in safe veterinary care. Their bond is unreal,” shared Ryan. “A little warrior standing guard.”

The little squeaks are so priceless. And of course, very threatening. This fierce warrior is not to be messed with.

The mother was under full veterinary care and completely safe, but the calf didn’t know that. All it knew was that its mom was down, and that was reason enough to stay put. It gives us a glimpse at just how strong the bond between rhino mothers and their calves really is.

Dehorning is unfortunate but it’s a vital aspect of keeping rhinos protected.

It’s a reflection of the lengths that vets and conservationists must go through to ensure that poaching doesn’t render the endangered species extinct.

“Dehorning doesn’t hurt the rhino — the horn is made of keratin (like our hair & nails). Under anaesthetic, vets safely remove it above the growth plate to make the rhino a far less attractive target to poachers. It’s one of the most effective tools we have to keep them alive.” shares Ryan.

A rhino without a horn is far less attractive to poachers, which dramatically reduces its risk of being targeted. Every horn removed is carefully handled.

“Every horn is microchipped, measured, photographed and then locked away in secure storage. Nothing is sold. Nothing enters the illegal trade. It’s purely for protection and legal safeguarding.” shares Ryan.