What began as a fragile life in a rehabilitator’s arms has transformed into a story of strength, as Faf, a blesbuck buck, prepares for the vast, open wild.
Johannesburg, South Africa (20 January 2026) – For Elaine, one of Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital‘s wildlife rehabilitators, there is no better feeling than knowing that an animal she helped raise is successfully on their journey back into the wild.
“But there’s an added layer of achievement when it’s not an animal you would normally rear,” she says.
As a self-proclaimed ‘bird nerd’, Elaine finds comfort and confidence in caring and nurturing feathered critters. So when a tiny male blesbuck lamb arrived at the hospital and was presented to her, she felt a little out of her depth.
“I was equal parts overjoyed and terrified at the privilege of being trusted to help hand-rear him,” Elaine admits.
But with patient, expert guidance from Wendy and Dr K, this little blesbuck quickly went from strength to strength!
“He was a bokkie, he was blond, and he was fast — so who better to name him after than one of the greats? Faf de Klerk.”
Faf initially had a female blesbuck companion named Mini, who arrived at the hospital around the same time, but sadly, due to being kept in an improper environment and combined with severe medical issues, she never had the chance she deserved.
Faf, however, continued to thrive and once he was big enough, was transferred to Umoya Khulula Wildlife Centre, to be with more of his own – a herd of other blesbuck. It wasn’t long before this handsome boy found a new female blesbuck companion, Honey.
From the little guy who first arrived at JWVH, Faf has grown into a gorgeous, confident young lad, and Elaine confirms that he is currently in the final stage before release, living in a large pre-release camp.
“Weather permitting, he will soon be free. I am incredibly grateful to have been part of Faf’s journey. One that has challenged me, taught me, and reminded me why this work matters so deeply.”
And what an incredible job you’ve done, Elaine. Faf’s growth and progress speak for themselves, and we’re so excited to see this blesbuck run wild!
Sources: Johannesburg Wildlife Veterinary Hospital
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