Saving Private Rhino

I had the privilege of filming and editing this amazing initiative.
Saving Private Rhino is an Aquila Private Game Reserve Initiative.
Hunter Mitchell at 10 years old has raise over 135 000 Rands towards saving the Rhinos.

After preventing two previous poaching attempts, Aquila was hit by a horrific poaching incident that saw three of our rhinos attacked on Saturday 20 August 2011. One survived, while two succumbed to their gruesome injuries. We believe that our anti-poaching teams interrupted the poachers; we know this based on our findings early that Saturday morning. ABSA was found still alive with his front horn removed, while the smaller back horn was left half hacked off. The female rhino was found heavily tranquilised, but still alive with her horns intact.Thanks to rapid response, we managed to administer the antidote which saw her recover completely. Unfortunately, when we came across our third rhino, our worst fears were met and we found him butchered and left to bleed to death.

We were left with the massive task of providing intensive care to ABSA who showed unbelievable resilience to this horrendous attack (ABSA was the first rhino reintroduced into the Western Cape since the species was hunted out 250 years ago). The Aquila team embarked on a cutting edge operation to relocate ABSA from the veld to a temporary boma at Aquila’s Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre (ARC) situated opposite the reserve.

Appeals for assistance were issued to help with the building of a temporary boma. This call to action was met by huge support from both companies and the public and donations of funds, equipment and services began to pour in.

When considering this move, we were aware of the challenges involved in moving a 1.8 tonne rhino under a combination of stress and sedation. However, we established that this was the best chance of ABSA’s survival, due to the recovery treatment options available in a controlled environment.

Free telephonic support: 086 11 RHINO (74466)
Free expert rhino carer dispatched immediately to your reserve.
If required, free transportation of the orphaned rhino to our safe and secure rhino orphanage OR we can provide free training to your appropriate reserve personnel to care for the orphan on site.
Reconstructive surgery by leading veterinary surgeon (free of charge at our facility).
Aquila Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre

For those wishing to donate toward The Aquila Animal Rescue and Rehabilition Centre, we have set up an audited account for contributions. Funds will be used to finance the initiatives as listed on this website.
Click Here to Donate
Electronic Transfer (EFT) Donation

If you would like your donation to be used for a specific initiative kindly make the donation via eft and stipulate the initiative when making the payment.

Banking Details:
Account Holder Name: Aquila Animal Rescue and Conservation Centre
Bank Name: ABSA
Account Number: 9222048554
Branch Code: 632-005
Swift Code: ABSA ZA JJ