Injured nyala rescued near Daktari Camp

HOEDSPRUIT – In a heartwarming display of collaboration and compassion, Daktari Bush School and Wildlife Orphanage and Down 2 the Wire have successfully rescued a young nyala that was found severely injured near the Daktari camp.

The drama unfolded when two Daktari volunteers spotted the limping antelope calf with a metal wire tightly wrapped around its leg, just above the hoof. Despite several days of monitoring and attempts to help the animal, it became evident that professional intervention would be required to safely remove the wire.

Daktari operations director Camilla Brotons reached out to Down 2 the Wire, a local organisation known for rescuing snared animals and turning harmful wire traps into handcrafted jewellery.

Down 2 the Wire founder Lilly Otto responded without hesitation, joining the mission to save the young nyala.

The search for the injured animal, however, was not easy. The nyala retreated deep into the bush, making it difficult to track. After days of searching, the team finally located the calf near a riverbed close to the camp.

With the assistance of wildlife veterinarian Dr JP van der Merwe from Aardvark Vet, the animal was safely sedated and the wire carefully removed.

Thanks to the swift and skilled intervention, the nyala made a remarkable recovery. Within days, the swelling had reduced, and the calf was once again walking freely in the wild.

In a symbolic conclusion, the piece of wire that once threatened the nyala’s life was transformed into a beautiful pair of earrings by Down 2 the Wire, a lasting reminder of the rescue and the impact of conservation partnerships.

Daktari expressed sincere gratitude to both Down 2 the Wire and Aardvark Vet for their quick response and dedicated support.

“This rescue shows what’s possible when passionate people and organisations come together,” said Brotons.

“It is not just about saving one animal; it is about inspiring a greater commitment to protecting our wildlife.”