NATIONAL PROJECTS - Game Capturing

The Black Rhino Saga

"Game capturing and translocation" form part of one of the most vital elements of conservation.

Black Rhino were re-introduced into the Addo Elephant National Park shortly after being proclaimed a National Park in 1931.

White Rhino, (Ceratotherium simum), never occurred in the Eastern Cape.

The Black Rhino, (Diceros bicornis), were captured and transported from East Africa to Addo.

It was only in 1975, after some DNA tests, that scientists discovered that there are four species of Black Rhino that exist in Africa: Diceros bicornis bicornis, Diceros bicornis maceali, Diceros bicornis minor and Diceros bicornis longipensi.

It was then when conservationists realised that the East African Black Rhino, Diceros bicornis maceali, was introduced in err to Addo, as the Black Rhino that originally occurred in the Eastern Cape, was  Diceros bicornis bicornis or, as we like to have it known, the "true" Black Rhino.

A global search began for this black tempered beast to once again roam its rightful land.

However, before releasing the Black Rhino into the Addo Valley Bushveld, the Diceros bicornis maceali  had to be removed first and transported to game farms and buyers around the globe.

Since those early days, game capturing and transportation has become a way of life for the rangers at Addo and, recently, the Honorary Rangers.

... Photographs to follow soon ...

Elephant Collaring:

For research, 18 Elephants had to be darted and fitted with radio collars for tracking.

This was a process that took place over 3 days and the presence of the Honorary Rangers was greatly called upon.

...activation of links to follow...