On the 22nd September, as the world observes World Rhino Day, we at Rockfig are reminded of our profound responsibility to protect these magnificent creatures. Their survival is not a given; it’s a testament to continuous, dedicated effort.
The rhino’s future hangs in the balance, largely due to the illegal trade of their horns. These horns are made of keratin, the same protein as our hair and fingernails, yet demand for them has driven three of the five rhino species to the brink of extinction. This is a stark reality, but it’s also a powerful call to action.
At Rockfig, our commitment to conservation is an integral part of our mission. It’s not just about offering a luxury safari experience; it’s about actively participating in the preservation of this wilderness and its inhabitants. This is especially true for Madikwe’s rhino population.
We are incredibly proud of Madikwe’s anti-poaching team and the wider conservation efforts within the Madikwe Game Reserve. Their tireless work on the ground has created a secure sanctuary for these animals. Thanks to their dedication and courage, we have not lost a single rhino to poaching in Madikwe for the past two and a half years. This achievement is a direct result of their sacrifice and unwavering commitment.
Conservation is about more than just numbers; it’s about securing a future for these ancient survivors. Here are a few facts that highlight their unique nature and the importance of our work:
- Ancient Lineage: Rhinos have roamed the earth for millions of years, with ancestors dating back to the Eocene Epoch. They are a living link to a prehistoric past.
- Sensory Communication: With poor eyesight, rhinos rely heavily on their sense of smell. They communicate and mark their territory by creating scent trails with their urine and communal dung piles, known as “middens.”
- The Rhino’s Ally: African rhinos share a symbiotic relationship with Oxpecker birds, which eat ticks and parasites off their backs. These birds also act as an early warning system, alerting the rhino to danger with a distinct call.
This World Rhino Day, we invite you to recognise the critical importance of these efforts. By choosing Rockfig, you are directly contributing to the overall conservation efforts at Madikwe that make this vital conservation work possible. Together, we can ensure that future generations will continue to see these incredible animals thrive in their natural habitat.
