Anti-poacher and rhino whisperer Justin Terblanche is on a mission to protect the four remaining rhinos on a game farm in the Eastern Cape. But he isn’t doing it alone, thanks to an army of wildlife lovers near and far, all of whom are banding together for the final four.
Eastern Cape, South Africa (07 May 2025) — In the Eastern Cape, Justin Terblanche is known for his love of rhinos. The anti-poacher shares that he’s known as the ‘Rhino Whisperer’ in the area and that his life’s mission lies in protecting the gentle giants who once roamed the Earth with far more freedom and in far greater numbers.
“Losing [rhinos] would leave an irreplaceable void in the natural world,” says Justin. “If we don’t act now, future generations may never see a rhino roaming wild.”
Working at Lombardini Game Farm, Justin has seen first-hand the impact of poaching. The land was once home to 19 rhinos. Now, there are only four.
Justin’s NPC, Rhino Whisperers, is one of the many groups in South Africa fighting to keep rhinos from being reduced to text in history books. For him, like many other anti-poachers and conservationists, every single rhino counts more than ever.
As such, Justin is on a mission to protect the final four. They are Amanda, Brittany, Tiffany and little Herbie.
“Poaching and illness have devastated our population, but I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to keep these three safe” Justin says.
A member of the anti-poaching unit there, Justin shares that he trained tirelessly to become a protector, gaining the animals’ trust.
“I know their personalities, their habits, their quirks. They respond to my voice and know my scent. This bond is sacred, and I dedicate every moment to their protection.”
In his latest bid to up the ante on protecting the little crash, Justin has launched a campaign to raise funds for a thermal drone. Justin says that the tech will help the team improve their nighttime surveillance dramatically, allowing for fast responses and a better layer of protection thanks to the eyes in the sky.
The campaign has already rallied wildlife lovers near and far, who have offered their support to the tune of just under R30,000. ‘Eyes in the Sky for Our Last Rhinos’ hopes to raise R176,000.
Those interested in contributing what they can to Justin’s mission can find out more here.
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