The wildlife conservation community mourns the loss of Bongi, a six-month-old baby rhino who, despite valiant efforts by The Rhino Orphanage (TRO), succumbed to a severe illness. Remaining constantly by his side, the rehabilitation team offered sweet Bongi warmth, compassion, and care – probably the most he’d ever experienced in his short life.
Limpopo, South Africa (03 August 2025) – Earlier this week, we shared the touching story of a baby rhino, found just six months old and in severe condition by dedicated members of The Rhino Orphanage (TRO).
Volunteer rescuers and veterinary experts endured hours on the road to find him, dedicated tiresome days to treat what they believed to be a viral infection and remained by his side constantly. Yet despite their greatest and most heartfelt efforts, this poor baby didn’t make it.
With heavy hearts, the wildlife conservation organisation announced the sad news early on Friday morning, the 1st of August.
“During his week at the orphanage, our team decided to name him Bongi. Bongi’s list of health problems was very long, and although he fought very hard, his body was just not strong enough to cope. He passed away in the early hours of the morning.”
Bongi fought a good fight with remarkable strength, and while difficult, his life, like all others, is worth honouring. It brings some sense of comfort to know that in his final days, this calf experienced profound warmth, compassion and care.
Bongi’s journey highlights the challenging and often painful reality of conservation work.
We commend the conservation efforts of the TRO, who put heart, dedication and skill into every case brought their way, even when it takes a toll on them too.
“We did not want this to be the final chapter of your life, sweet Bongi, but like each little rhino that comes through our gates, you have taught us a lot in a very short time. You are now pain-free and breathing easily. Rest in peace, little one,” TRO said.
We honour this beautiful soul and all the others lost too soon. Rest easy, Bongi.
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Sources: The Rhino Orphanage
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