Rhino conservation project, South Africa
Description of Rhino conservation project, South Africa
The SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve, in partnership with The Great Projects, are spearheading a critical rhino rescue mission, as an intensive breeding farm in the Limpopo province in South Africa has come under increasing poaching attacks due to its small size and insufficient security.
Be at the heart of the action, and help relocate a rhino from a high-risk, high-density environment to the safety of the expansive SanWild reserve, complete with cutting-edge security and counter-poaching procedures. With the poaching incidents becoming more frequent and severe, the translocations will significantly enhance the rhino's chance of survival, and increasing genetic diversity in the SanWild reserve, encouraging natural breeding, will increase healthy rhino populations, boosting the species' chance of survival as a whole.
During your time at SanWild, you'll stay in the stunning lodge and also participate in the many incredible conservation activities that happen daily, from feeding rescued lions and hyenas to tracking cheetahs and elephants in the reserve and more; you'll contribute to so much more than rhino conservation, aiding initiatives to protect other fascinating and endangered African wildlife, including all members of the 'Big 5'.
This is your chance to go behind the scenes of a rhino rescue mission, where you'll be involved every step of the way - assisting the ground team in health checks after the rhino has been darted, helping with the collaring, dehorning and loading into the translocation trailer, and finally releasing the rhino into the safety of a 3,000-hectare reserve. You'll also take to the skies in a helicopter flip for a birds-eye view and run down of the mission from the aerial team, and as a thank you for making the whole operation possible, your group will have the honour of naming the rhino!
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Planet
CARBON REDUCTIONThe SanWild Sanctuary & Reserve is situated in a wilderness area with Savannah Forests that are actively protected from deforestation. Over the years, the project has engaged in legal battles against mining groups that wanted to mine the area and destroy the natural environment. These efforts reflect SanWild's commitment to preserving the natural carbon sink of the Savannah, comprised of trees, shrubs, and grasslands. The sanctuary serves as a carbon sink, storing more carbon than it emits. The reserve has switched to solar pumps for water supply, reducing reliance on traditional energy sources. Fewer vehicles are used than in previous years, and the goal is to transition the lodges and staff buildings to solar power within the next few years.
ENVIRONMENT AND WILDLIFE
Volunteer fees directly support the sanctuary's operational costs and the protection of the carbon-rich natural environment. Engaging in the program provides participants with knowledge about conservation and the interconnectedness of all life, making them ambassadors for spreading awareness globally from first-hand experience.
The project also plays a crucial role in animal rescue missions that help to mitigate human-wildlife conflicts. By responding to and resolving conflicts, they ensure the safety of both wildlife and local residents. This proactive approach not only safeguards the diverse fauna but also fosters harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife, contributing to a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem.
People
LOCAL ECONOMYSanWild actively employs staff from local communities and plays a vital role in community safety and crime prevention through our counter-poaching initiatives. As a very new project, the aim is to develop community projects that can supply lodges with locally grown produce and create income opportunities through assisted entrepreneurial ventures in tourism activities in our immediate area. The current outreach programs for local community children foster a love for nature and conservation, ensuring a new generation of conservationists.
EMPLOYMENT, INCLUSIVITY AND DIVERSITY
SanWild embraces diversity and is an equal-opportunity organisation. We welcome individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, sexual orientations, and races. SanWild's management team represents a diverse mix, including members of the LGBTQ+ community, and a higher percentage of women work in leading roles, from veterinarians to helicopter pilots and other key management roles. SanWild believes in offering equal opportunities and treating every person with love and respect. From staff to volunteers and the wider community, there's a place for everyone at SanWild.
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