Saving Private Rhino 3.61

In August 2011 the Aquila Private Game Reserve was hit by a horrific poaching incident that saw three rhinos attacked. It is believed that Aquila’s anti-poaching teams interrupted the poachers; as one of the three rhino darted, one was left unharmed, and after rapid response from lodge staff, an antidote to tranquilizers was administered and she recovered fully. Another rhino was butchered and left to bleed to death in the veld while the third Rhino, Absa, was left fighting for his life after having his main horn cut off (an attempt was made by the poachers to remove the second horn). Absa was given the best treatment available but after a 6 day ordeal he sadly succumbed to his gruesome injuries.

This shocking tragedy has led to the establishment of the ‘Saving Private Rhino’ campaign, to ensure this doesn't happen again.