In an inspiring success story for rhino conservation, three orphaned rhinos—Bindi, Vikela, and Mnene—have successfully completed their rehabilitation journey and have been rewilded. After losing their mothers to poaching, these resilient young rhinos found refuge at the ZRO, where they received the care and support needed to heal and grow strong. Now, they have been relocated to a nearby reserve, where they roam freely, as they should. While their progress will be monitored closely, we are optimistic that they will thrive in their new environment.
Mnene: A Story of Resilience
Mnene, meaning ‘Gentle’ in Zulu, was only two months old when rangers discovered her—alone and frightened—after her mother was brutally killed by poachers. Her rescue was nothing short of dramatic. In an attempt to escape, she ran into a river, forcing rescuers to use ropes and a helicopter to pull her out to safety. Despite such a traumatic start to life, Mnene settled well into the orphanage’s ‘crash’ (a group of rhinos). Now, having completed her rehabilitation, she has taken her first steps back into the wild. You can continue supporting Mnene’s journey by adopting her and contributing to her ongoing care.
Vikela: The Protector
Vikela, whose name means ‘Protector’ in Zulu, was found beside his poached mother when he was just seven months old. Rangers rescued him and transported him to the orphanage via trailer. Upon arrival, he was placed into intensive care, where he was too weak to drink milk for the first few days. However, with patience and dedicated care from our team, Vikela gradually gained strength and finally began feeding. Now, having grown into a strong and independent young rhino, he has been rewilded and is ready to embrace his natural habitat. You can support Vikela’s ongoing care by adopting him.
Bindi: A Symbol of Bravery
Bindi, meaning ‘Brave’ in Zulu, was just six months old when she was found. After her mother was killed by poachers, it took rangers over three days to locate her. When they finally did, she was in a fragile state and was rushed to the orphanage. Once in intensive care, Bindi fell ill just weeks after her arrival, and her recovery was uncertain. However, thanks to the dedication of our caretakers and Bindi’s own will to survive, she pulled through. Now, she has been given a second chance at life in the wild. By adopting Bindi, you can help ensure she continues to flourish in her new home.
A Hopeful Future
The successful rewilding of Mnene, Vikela, and Bindi marks a significant achievement in our efforts to protect and conserve rhinos. Their stories highlight both the devastating impact of poaching and the incredible resilience of these animals when given a chance to heal. We remain committed to rescuing, rehabilitating, and reintroducing orphaned rhinos into the wild, ensuring they have a future beyond the tragedies they have endured.
If you would like to support the orphanage, visit the website ZCT to donate. We would also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to our sponsors—Helping Rhino, SMG Toyota, Container Conversions, 3 Lads and a Toucan, and Cycle of Life—who support the ongoing rescue, rehabilitation, and rewilding efforts of the ZRO.