Rhino De-horning with Siya Kolisi

On 2nd October 2024, Captivating Africa Legacy successfully carried out our final rhino de-horning operation of the year, this was the last one for the year due to the rising temperatures associated with the summer months. This critical conservation effort was executed with precision and utmost care, thanks to the collaboration of various partners, including helicopter support for locating and darting the rhinos, veterinary teams for medical treatment and horn trimming and anti-poaching teams to ensure the safekeeping of the removed horns, preventing the horns from landing up in wrong hands.

The day began early at 5:00 AM, with two of the Captivating Africa Legacy  team members meeting at the helicopter hanger for final preparations and a briefing as to what our goals were for the day. After we took off, we proceeded to the game reserve, where the operation was to take place. We began searching for rhinos immediately to maximize efficiency and not waste helicopter fuel. Upon locating our first crash of rhino, the team gathered for a briefing to reinforce the purpose of the operation, protecting rhinos from the threat of poaching and as to how the day would take place.

Over the course of the morning, we successfully de-horned six rhinos. This required careful coordination, with the ground team moving swiftly across the reserve to ensure the operation's success and rhinos well-being. While the process of de-horning, which involves using a chainsaw, can be distressing, it is essential for the rhinos’ protection and the survival of this iconic species. To minimize stress, we used earplugs made from cotton and socks to dampen the noise, as well as blindfolds to keep the animals calm. The horns were carefully shaped with an angle grinder to ensure minimal discomfort and maximum safety for the rhinos. As temperatures rose, the operation was paused to prevent any distress caused by the tranquilizers in the heat.

This operation was particularly significant for the CAL team, as all members were present and actively involved. In line with our ongoing efforts to raise awareness for conservation, we were pleased to welcome Siya Kolisi, the captain of the Springbok rugby team and labelled as the greatest rugby captain of all time, and his family to join us. Siya, a strong advocate for conservation, helped amplify our message to a broader audience, furthering our mission to protect wildlife and preserve our wilderness areas.

While the process of de-horning is always difficult to witness, it is a proven strategy in the fight against rhino poaching. We are deeply grateful to our donors, partners, and dedicated team members whose contributions make this important work possible. Through our collective efforts, we continue to make meaningful strides in conservation and the protection of rhinos as well as multiple other species. We love what we do and are determined to leave behind a legacy that will last for generations to come!