Zululand Rhino Orphanage

The Zululand Rhino Orphanage recently received a very young orphaned rhino calf named Reinhold. He was found alone and calling for his mother, who had abandoned him. At the time of rescue, Reinhold was extremely young and vulnerable, with his umbilical cord still partially attached.

Following his rescue, Reinhold was safely transported to the Zululand Rhino Orphanage, where he was placed under intensive care. Due to his very young age, he required immediate and specialised support from the orphanage care team. Young calves at this stage are highly vulnerable and require careful monitoring, controlled feeding, and consistent care to ensure that they remain stable.

Reinhold initially took some time to adjust to the new environment, which is expected for a calf of his age and condition. However, he is now settling in well under the care of the team. The Zululand Rhino Orphanage continues to provide round-the-clock support, monitoring his health, feeding, behaviour, and general condition closely during this critical early stage.

Reinhold’s arrival is another reminder of the important role played by the Zululand Rhino Orphanage in responding to orphaned and vulnerable rhino calves. Through dedicated care, specialist knowledge, and ongoing support, the orphanage provides young calves like Reinhold with the best possible chance of survival and recovery.

The Zululand Rhino Orphanage (ZRO) was notified of a black rhino calf requiring urgent rescue from a nearby national park. At the time of reporting, the calf was still at an age where maternal care was essential for survival. Despite monitoring efforts, the mother could not be located, and it was determined that the calf would not be able to survive independently in the wild.

Following the necessary coordination and approvals, the calf was safely transported to the orphanage for specialist care. Upon arrival, he was introduced into a boma with Behji, the orphanage’s only resident black rhino at the time. Behji had arrived at the ZRO in early 2024 and had not had a black rhino companion since his admission. The introduction was successful, and the two rhinos bonded quickly. Behji has since assumed a protective and stabilising role, effectively acting as a guardian to the newly arrived orphan.

They are now consistently observed together within the boma, providing companionship and social structure that is considered beneficial to the orphan’s emotional wellbeing and rehabilitation process. This pairing has contributed positively to the calf’s adjustment to the orphanage environment and supports his ongoing care and development.