 Reference Base  Matusadona Rhino Project: a step towards a brighter future |
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Berentsen, A., 2001. Matusadona Rhino Project: a step towards a brighter future. Zimbabwe Wildlife 104, 2001 April-June: 13, figs. 1-3
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| Location: |
Africa - Southern Africa - Zimbabwe |
| Subject: |
Distribution - Records |
| Species: |
Black Rhino |
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Through the hard work of dedicated biologists, veterinarians, and National Parks officials, translocation, re-introduction and captive breeding programmes have been established in an effort to boost numbers. The rhino programme at Matusadona National Park is one such effort. Orphaned rhinos, as well as some born in captivity, are brought to Matusadona where they are hand raised for a period of three years before release. While under the care of National Parks officials, employees and volunteers, rhinos are bottle fed until they reach the age of eighteen months. This process takes place as close to a natural cycle as possible. The feedings are frequent and ample in the beginning, but as they age the feedings decrease in both frequency and volume until they are weaned. During this time, and until they are released permanently, the young rhinos are taken for daily walks through the bush with an armed guard, where they familiarise themselves ftirther with browse material and their wild neighbours. Frequently browsed species include Combretum zeyheri, Combretum apiculatum, Holmskioldia tettensis, and numerous others.
When the time comes for release, each rhino is fitted with a radio collar and has its ear notched for identification in the event that the collar is dropped or destroyed. Afterwards, individual rhinos are taken to independent remote enclosures where they undergo the process of isolation. Black rhinos are solitary by nature, and must become habituated to being alone before they can be fully released. Over a period of several months, only an armed guard accompanies the rhino until the day arrives when the rhino turns and finds he is alone.
Since September 1997, five rhinos have been re-introduced. Three underwent the hand-raising process at Matusadona National Park, while the other two were an adult breeding pair from captivity. In the end, only time will determine the effectiveness of the programme and controversy will always remain. Some animals habituate rapidly while others may never lose their bond with humans. Still in its infancy, and battling for financial support in a struggling economy, the Matusadona rhino programme is unique and a step in the right direction. Perhaps a new dawn is breaking for an animal that not long ago was near the sunset of its very existence.
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