A SOUTHERN African wildcat that was rescued in Kingsburgh in June 2024 has been released back into the wild after undergoing rehabilitation at the Centre for Rehabilitation of Wildlife (Crow).

Also read: Kingsburgh’s Zazu is ready for the wild again

Named Zazu, the cat was rescued by a member of the public from the side of the road, weak, injured, and alone, and was taken to Yellowwood Park, where it was cared for. After rehabilitation and genetic DNA testing, it was confirmed she was a Southern African wildcat, a rare species under increasing threat in the wild. Crow also ran a naming contest, and he was finally named Zazu.

After months of rehabilitation, Zazu began hunting, climbing, and developing all the skills needed to survive in the wild.
In a statement, Crow said he was released at Zingela Nature Reserve near Colenso on May 19.

“Thanks to the dedication of our wildlife team and the support of kind-hearted donors, Zazu now has a second chance at life in the wild. But there are so many more wild animals like Zazu who need our help. Please support our mission to rescue, rehabilitate, and release injured, orphaned, and displaced wildlife. Every donation, big or small, helps us continue this vital work,” it said.

Zazu’s journey is a testament to Crow’s 45-year commitment to rescuing, rehabilitating, and releasing South Africa’s wildlife.

If you find an animal, do not try to remove it yourself; call Crow on 083 212 5281 or 031 462 1127.

To donate to Crow, use the following banking details:
Crow KZN Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre
First National Bank account number: 507 702 30859
Branch code: 222126.

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