Comments on: Tanzania Expecting a Boost in Black Rhino Population

By: JJ

JJ — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 12:41:36 +0000

Rhishja,
Is there a risk that poachers will also kill these. What protection will they be getting. Will they be wearing tracking devices, collars, etc.

By: Michael

Michael — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 06:39:13 +0000

I was just about to ask which subspecies they were… thanks Jelle for those details. Most Rhinos in South Africa are Diceros bicornis minor. Those in Tanzania are Diceros bicornis michaeli. Are there going to be any Eastern Black rhinos left in the private reserve in South Africa or are all of them being moved?

By: Rhishja Larson

Rhishja Larson — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 20:25:46 +0000

From the author:

Thank you very much for your comment. I am hopeful that the project will be a success – black rhino (like all rhino) certainly need all they help they can get!

By: Jelle Boef

Jelle Boef — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 10:09:17 +0000

It is to be applauded that South Africa is finally prepared to send a substantial number of the Eastern African black rhino maintained ex situ on a private reserve back to Tanzania and help restore the Serengeti black rhino numbers.

Both the Ngorongoro and Serengeti black rhinos will benefit no end from the introduction of new genetic material into both populations that require active genetic management and allow for a substantial number of founders to contribute to the in situ populations.

We should also be thankful to the Grumeti Fund and Mr. Tudor for providing funding for the transfer and ZGF who will provide for technical expertise and backing to the reintroduction project.

I expect the first black rhinos have already safely landed and are quietly getting used to the hot/arid climate of the Serengeti plains by now!