From a vulnerable orphan rescued in 2016 to a proud first-time mother today, Jemu has come full circle, welcoming the 29th calf born to a rewilded rhino orphan at Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary.
Mpumalanga, South Africa (14 January 2026) – Jemu has given birth to her first calf – the 29th calf born to a released orphan by Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary!
Jemu was found wandering alone in the Jock Concession back in November 2016 by the Jock Environmental Monitoring Unit (JEMU) – owing to her catchy name.
She was about four months old at the time, and a ranger team had later discovered a rhino carcass, believed to be her mother’s. The rhino cow had been killed by poachers.
Jemu was darted and airlifted to Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary by Pilot Grant Knight, Ranger Don English, and Veterinarian Dr Markus Hofmeyr, landing safely, where Petronel was waiting to receive her.
“Jemu was placed on drips as she was severely dehydrated. Within five hours of her arrival, she began to drink milk. Jemu woke a few times throughout her first night, but caregivers were able to settle her quickly and she went back to sleep,” recalls Care for Wild.
During the early months, while Jemu was bottle-fed and received vital care that was generously funded by Carmen Elvira Ellinger, Founder of the CALEO Foundation. This helping hand was instrumental in supporting Jemu’s rehabilitation.
Jemu grew from strength to strength and was introduced to four other orphan calves. Together, they progressed through rehabilitation before entering the rewilding and release programme in January 2019.
And now, almost 10 years later, Jemu is a mommy!
Care for Wild was overjoyed to announce the safe arrival of her first calf on 8 January. Her little one is the 29th rhino to be born in Care for Wild’s Intensive Protection Zone, where successfully rehabilitated rhino orphans are able to live freely in their natural habitats while remaining under 24/7 protection.
Having grown up without her own mother, Jemu never had the chance to learn motherhood through example. Recognising her unique challenges, the Care for Wild team has swooped into provide the new mommy with vital support during the delicate time.
“Although much comes naturally, and some learn by observing other released orphans who have already had calves, we keep a close eye on new moms. This may include bringing food and water when they are far from natural resources, allowing them time to recover, hydrate, bond with their calf, and adjust to motherhood without needing to move far.”
Rangers have been maintaining a respectful distance and Petronal and Ryno recently drove the rhino ambulance into the Intensive Protection Zone to deliver food and water.
For these dedicated rhino protectors, witnessing these early moments of bonding between Jemu and her calf is a true privilege.
“As she remains close to where she gave birth, this extra support is vital for her recovery and the wellbeing of her precious little one.”
What a special full circle moment and victory for conservation!
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