In a groundbreaking move, a leading conservation NGO has secured the world’s largest privately-owned rhino herd, unveiling plans for a visionary rewilding journey in undisclosed locations over the next decade.
Originally part of the Platinum Rhino project, a mission to flood the East Asian rhino horn market with sustainably harvested horns, the fate of over 2,000 white rhinos took an unexpected turn when financial constraints prompted breeder John Hume to auction the entire herd in April.
Enter African Parks, Africa’s premier wildlife organization, which, on August 4th, revealed its triumphant acquisition of the complete Platinum herd. This transformative endeavor not only marks a colossal rewilding initiative but also encompasses funding for an intricate international, intra-Africa relocation of the rhinos.
Comprising approximately 15% of the dwindling wild southern white rhino population, these 2,000 individuals, nurtured on Hume’s ranch, include rescues with diverse backgrounds. With a track record of managing 22 protected areas across 12 countries, African Parks is poised for this audacious undertaking.
“African Parks has conducted multiple wildlife translocations and reintroductions, moving over 8,000 animals from 32 species to repopulate parks and re-establish populations across Africa,” stated the organization.
While acknowledging the challenges inherent in rewilding, experts, such as Dr. Richard Emslie, express optimism. Describing the Platinum rhinos as ‘semi-wild’ under Hume’s care, Dr. Emslie notes their potential to adapt seamlessly to new environments, offering a beacon of hope for conservation endeavors on the horizon.