New hope in anti-poaching battle as ‘miracle’ rhino calf gets name
THE “miracle” rhino calf born to Thandi, the Kariega Game Reserve rhino left to die by poachers, has been named Thembi, meaning hope – which is exactly what she represents.
Thembi was named yesterday at an event held three years to the day after the brutal poaching of three rhinos – her mother Themba and an unnamed bull rhino – at Kariega.
The rhinos’ horns were hacked off with pangas by poachers, who left them to die.
The two males died, but Thandi fought for her life and has made an incredible recovery with the aid of numerous operations, including pioneering skin-graft surgery.
In December 2013 blood tests revealed she was pregnant and those involved in her rehabilitation kept a careful watch over her.
Thembi’s birth on January 13 this year was hailed by Investec Rhino Lifeline’s Dr William Fowlds as “a new hope in the South African rhino crisis” being born.
He fully supported the name choice, saying: “The name Thembi seemed to fit best, given that this little calf has brought fresh hope and energy to those who struggle to secure the future of our rhinos.”
Foundation patron and Kariega co-owner Graeme Rushmere thanked the many people and organisations that had helped Thandi.
“We are grateful to everyone who has supported Kariega and our rhinos during the roller-coaster journey over the past three years.
“At every turn, we have been strengthened by generous donations, messages on social media, helpful press, a committed team and a host of passionate rhino warriors.
“Thank you all. Our greatest hope is for a long and safe life for all rhinos, including little Thembi.”