Klaserie Chronicle/Kroniek no. 18 | 15
Successful rhino microchip insertions Zena Baxter Fleischer
O
n 3 September 2011 BAOBAB RIDGE had the pleasure of hosting a conservation event in the KPNR. The guests were accommodated at BAOBAB RIDGE, which lies within the Klaserie, and the event was arranged by WILDCON SAFARIS and EVENTS, Colin Rowles of the KPNR and Dr Peter Rogers of Provet Wildlife Services. Three additional white rhino females’ horns and humps have successful microchip insertions to deter poaching, and ear notches had been made for visual identification purposes. Within a few minutes the three rhino were all safely up and about again. Now over 80 rhino have had microchips inserted. This will enable the KPNR to determine when a rhino horn is confiscated, whether it came from the KPNR and from which animal. WILDCON arranges unique group
events to assist in wildlife research and conservation by facilitating these unique group events. This gives clients an exclusive bush experience, while also facilitating their involvement, financially and physically, in a necessary wildlife research and conservation exercise. Companies and groups have the opportunity to understand and see exactly where their money is going, and what good it is doing, while offering them the humbling opportunity to physically partake in the work required. They do not interfere with wildlife in any way other than for ethical and justifiable research and conservation purposes. Emphasis is placed on both animal and guest safety, and all of the events are conducted with professional wildlife veterinarians and specialised helicopter pilots. They carefully encourage and supervise the clients’ involvement. The
event was unique and rewarding for all parties involved. With all such events, environmental education of group members about wildlife conservation and its needs for research are explained. All groups are briefed prior to each event, and specific tasks are assigned to individuals within the group for the duration of the event. While conducting these tasks, the group and the individuals concerned are always under the watchful supervision of qualified veterinarians and guides for safety reasons. BAOBAB RIDGE looks forward to continue working with WILDCON to enable the rest of the KPNR rhino population to be micro-chipped, and hopefully to work on other conservation projects within the reserve. A huge thank you to all parties involved, not only was this an incredible experience, it was handled with great professionalism.