The project was first initiated in the region by the reserve in 2019, and was undertaken by a qualified and experienced multi-disciplinary team of professionals. “Two aircraft, a helicopter, and a fixed-wing Savanna spotter plane were used as the aerial platforms from which the mammoth project was executed and directed,” said Colin Rowles, the reserve warden.

These aircraft were supported by two vehicle based ground teams which consisted of four qualified wildlife veterinarians, veterinary nurses, team leaders, and support staff. “The ground teams were constantly in radio communication with the aircraft overhead and transported through the rugged terrain in four, 4×4 vehicles,” Rowles explained.

Also read: Zero rhinos poached in two years in Balule

“With every rhino dehorned, and their attractiveness to ruthless rhino poaching syndicates eliminated, rhinos will continue to contribute as a species towards the notorious
Big 5 of Africa, which attracts thousands of visitors from across the globe to the eco-tourism destination within the KPNR.

The KPNR will continue to strive towards the conservation and protection of both black and white rhinos which inhabit the protected area, for the benefit of the landowners and
visitors alike.  “A sincere thanks to the pilots and capture teams who made the operation the success that it was, and this, without any veterinary or other complications,” Rowles concluded