
South Africa’s Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary recently announced the birth of their first critically endangered black rhino calf. The newborn calf represents an marking a significant milestone in rhino conservation efforts as it is the progeny of two orphaned poaching survivors.
Phoebe, the calf’s mother, was rescued in 2017 after poachers killed her mother and sister in the Kruger National Park and was brought to Care for Wild for extensive rehabilitation and care. She was later joined by another black rhino orphan, Ratu, the calf’s father, in early 2018 under similar circumstances. Both underwent extensive rehabilitation and a rewilding programme before successfully mating. Both of the rhinos underwent rehabilitation, entered a complex rewilding and reintroduction program, and have now welcomed their first calf.
Phoebe is said to be coping admirably with her new role, despite being a first-time mother. The calf is feeding well, though there are initial concerns about a slight limp, which is being closely monitored.
As a matter of urgent appeal, Care for Wild is seeking donations to fund the essential veterinary care, equipment, and treatment needed for the critically endangered black rhino calf. For more information, https://careforwild.co.za/get-involved/donate/
“As an orphan herself and a first-time mom, we were unsure how Phoebe would handle the transition to motherhood, but she is coping beautifully, and her calf is drinking well and regularly. She is an excellent mom, and even Dad Ratu is keeping a close eye on his son.” Care for Wild team indicated
The birth of the critically endangered black rhino calf represents a beacon of hope for the black rhino population and showcases the success of Care for Wild’s rehabilitation programmes.
This year, Care for Wild celebrates 10 years of dedicated rhino conservation—10 years of immense effort, passion, resilience, hard work and determination.