Orphaned White Rhino
THE orphaned white rhino tenderly nuzzles his giant head into the shoulder of his conservationist carer Natasha Nienaber as the faithful friends prepare to say their goodbyes.
It is a bitter-sweet moment for South African animal expert Natasha, who has tended to her young charge every day since his arrival at the Entabeni Safari Conservancy in the Waterberg area of Limpopo in May this year.
But while breaking the unique bond she has built with the little orphan isn't easy, the devoted member of the reserve's Game Management Team is also determined that this rhino's story will be a success and that he will be rehabilitated back into the wild, where he belongs.
The little male was orphaned after his mother was shot by cruel poachers on 15th July last year on Nwanedi Game Reserve. He was then taken in by Wild Care Africa, before taking up residence at Entabeni, home of the multi award-winning Legend Golf & Safari Resort.
Since that time his every need has been met by the caring Game Management team at the 22,000 hectare, malaria-free reserve where the Big 5 roam wild and free. But now it's time to break the bonds this adorable orphan has built with the humans who have fed, exercised and cared for him every day to prepare him for his eventual return to the wild, where he belongs.
Crucial to the success of his story is the purchase of a female companion who will “teach” the little male how to survive in the wild by developing his natural instincts. A vital fundraising campaign has, therefore, been launched to raise R130,000 to help save our orphan's life.
To support him, make your donations now by calling Vicky Richardson, Legend Golf & Safari Resort, on 00 27 (0)14 743 6270/1.