First KZN private reserve poisons its rhinos’ horns

Thula Thula Private Game Reserve is the first private reserve in KZN to apply poison and dye to its rhinos as a deterrent to poachers.

The procedure, now widely used by reserves in the Limpopo province and the Thembe and Ndumo Game Reserves of Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, infuses dye and poison into the rhino’s horn at pressures of up to 15 bars.

Veterinary surgeon Dr Mike Toft, who administered the infusion, says the procedure is being improved to make the process quicker and more effective. The principle is however the same.

The poison will not harm the rhino, even if it comes into contact on its skin, while the dye is bright making it immediately visible to the poacher and can be detected by x-ray machines, as used at customs transit points.

Warnings of the dangers of treated rhino horn are displayed on all access points to the reserves.