The dedicated team at Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary on New Year’s Eve received an urgent call regarding a young female rhino calf whose mother had been tragically killed by poachers on Christmas Day. A search and rescue operation for the orphaned calf was launched and despite facing dehydration, she now has far better chances for a full life.
Mpumalanga, South Africa (04 January 2025) – Celebrations and festivities were put on hold for the capeless heroes at Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary on New Year’s Eve as they responded to an emergency call from Kruger National Park about an orphaned rhino.
The female calf, barely a year old, had been discovered by Section Ranger Greg Bond and his team after her mother had been tragically killed by poachers on Christmas Day. The team had been searching for the orphaned calf ever since.
“Without the protection and care of their mothers, every hour that passes reduces a rhino orphan’s chances of survival. Although severely dehydrated, this little calf was thankfully unharmed,” explained Care for Wild’s Petronel.
Once the lonely calf had been found, Veterinarian Dr Peter Buss and Kruger pilot Ian de Beer responded immediately to ensure a swift and successful rescue.
As an older calf and too large to fit inside the helicopter, she was carefully flown to Care for Wild by the experienced Kruger team, suspended by ropes while sedated to ensure the fastest possible arrival.
In a video shared online, Petronel and the Care for Wild team can be seen eagerly waiting at the helipad.
The calf was carefully placed on mattresses where veterinarians assessed her condition and provided the necessary medication. She was then transported to the Juvenile Intensive Care Unit for ongoing monitoring and care
As to be expected, there was no New Year party for the Care for Wild team, who attended to the little one throughout the night administering IV fluids and stabilising their newest patient.
You can help support this newest orphan by leaving a donation on Care for Wild’s website.
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