In this PeaceParks.TV film, we take you behind the scenes of a landmark conservation achievement: the return of a Black rhino founder population to Mozambique after more than five decades of local extinction.
This historic translocation saw 10 critically endangered black rhinos (five male and five female) safely moved from South Africa to Zinave National Park, where an ideal habitat and strong protection await them.
The animals were generously donated by Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife, and the operation was made possible through close collaboration with Mozambique’s National Administration for Conservation Areas (ANAC) and Peace Parks Foundation, with support from players of the UK People’s Postcode Lottery.
The rhinos were carefully captured in South Africa under Ezemvelo’s Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, then moved to specially prepared holding facilities in Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park. There, they were closely monitored and cared for in a calm environment while acclimating for their journey north.
Each rhino was transported in a sturdy, specially designed crate and received regular veterinary attention to ensure it travelled securely and arrived on site in good health. Throughout the 36-hour road journey to Zinave, the animals were handled with great care, with food and water provided to keep them well-nourished and calm.
Zinave’s vast landscapes and strong conservation infrastructure offer ideal conditions to rebuild a viable black rhino population. This founder group marks a critical first step in restoring the species to its historic range.
Watch now to see how Peace Parks and its dedicated partners made this important conservation project a success.
Read more: https://www.peaceparks.org/black-rhino-founder-population-return-to-mozambique/
