When a rhino orphanage was attacked by poachers, killing two rhinos, a new secure facility had to be found. The Zululand Rhino Orphanage was opened but is now in need of expansion to save the increasing number of tragic victims of the continuing rhino poaching epidemic in South Africa.
In the last decade incidents of rhino poaching in S. Africa have risen by 7800%, from 13 rhinos in 2007 to 1,028 in 2017. More than 7,100 rhinos killed. This is unsustainable. The Zululand district of S. Africa is increasingly being targeted by poachers. Traumatised infants, if found in time, are rescued by the Zululand Rhino Orphanage, given critical veterinary support, milk every two hours, 24 hours a day, and constant love and care without which they would not survive.
The expansion of the orphanage will provide new facilities to take in and care for a greater number of rhino calves. The project will involve the provision of milk and medication, the creation of a new boma with vital security fencing, enrichment for the orphans and essential items such as shaded areas and water holes. The completion of this project will ensure that rhinos receive the best quality care possible and will be ready to return to the wild.