Conservation News

1/25/2023

Kenya's Elsas Kopje Rhino Sanctuary

Rhinos are still a critically endangered species but there is reason to be hopeful for their future in East Africa. Due to tireless conservation efforts there are some positive figures that shine a beacon of light for the preservation of these majestic animals. Lewa Wildlife Conservancy is home to a flourishing population of both black and white rhinos. The population now stands at 252 rhinos in the Lewa-Borana Landscape, one of the highest rhino populations in Africa, representing a 38% growth in the last five years.

Thanks to Kenya Wildlife Services and charitable partners including Born Free, Meru National Park's rhino population also continues to build from near extinction back in the 1980's. The successful rehabilitation program established in the year 2000 has resulted in a rhino population of over 100 today. Guests at Elsa's Kopje have the privilege of visiting the Rhino Sanctuary during their stay.

The success of these and many other conservation projects means that rhinos can be reintroduced to other regions to help the populations grow and thrive. Loisaba Conservancy will shortly be welcoming rhinos to roam again, almost 50 years to the date that the last rhino was seen. This initiative is welcomed by the local community, particularly the elders who are eager for their grandchildren to experience these magnificent creatures that they had the privilege to grow up with.

Caught on Film

Enjoy an "armchair safari" as two Netflix documentaries bring the African wilderness right into your living room. In Shamwari Untamed, the A-Team of conservation puts viewers in the middle of the dust and danger of hands-on conservation work in South Africa, while Surviving Paradise reveals unrivalled camera footage of animal families in Botswana's Okavango Delta.