First Black Rhino Calf Born in Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve
For the first time in over a century, a black rhino calf has been born in the Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve.
Just two years after receiving six black rhino, South Africa’s Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve has welcomed its first rhino calf. Although black rhino were wiped out by widespread poaching in the area over a century ago, the recent reintroduction is off to a promising start.
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According to reports, the rhino calf was born on June 30. However, the reserve’s regional manager, Wayne Erlank, said they had been keeping the news quiet to give the new family some privacy. He added that the area was hit by a cold snap, and they were concerned the baby rhino might not survive.
The rangers have not been able to determine if the calf is a male or a female: The mother rhino and another female have been protective and are keeping the rangers at a distance.
Erlank explained that the birth of the rhino so soon after the translocation is significant.
What that shows is that the animals that were brought in have adapted well.
SANParks and Namibian authorities facilitated the reintroduction of the six black rhino to Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve in 2007.
Black rhino population
In 1970, there were 65,000 black rhino in Africa. By 1993, widespread slaughter for their horns reduced the numbers just 2,300 in the wild.
Tragically, rhino are still ruthlessly killed for their horn, due an unfortunate Chinese superstition that the horn can relieve pain and reduce fever. Reports have surfaced that indicate well-organized poaching syndicates are believed to be working with Chinese and Vietnamese nationals throughout Africa to kill rhino and smuggle the horns to Asia.
Today, there are approximately 4,240 black rhinos - thanks to conservation efforts.
Image source: bigstockphoto.com
