Exciting News for Kenya's Black Rhinos!
Kenya's extraordinary success in conserving critically endangered black rhinos has marked a historic milestone. Over the past three decades, their population has multiplied, surging from 240 in 1984 to an impressive 966 today. This remarkable achievement underscores Kenya's resolute commitment to protecting these iconic species, positioning the East African nation as the third-largest rhino population in Africa, following South Africa and Namibia. Research emphasizes that a stable population of 2,000 eastern black rhinos is vital for their survival in the face of multiple threats, including climate change, disease, poaching, and habitat loss. Kenya's government is steadfast in pursuing this critical goal.
The overcrowding of existing sanctuaries has spurred the imperative to establish new sanctuaries for these solitary creatures, granting them the space to thrive and reproduce naturally. This month, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) embarks on one of Kenya's largest rhino translocations, relocating 21 black rhinos to Loisaba Conservancy. This momentous event marks the return of rhinos to Loisaba after an absence of 50 years, resulting from poaching.
Loisaba Conservancy: 57,000 Acres of Prime Rhino Habitat, Ready for the Historic Rhino Return After 50 Years. Photo by Maurice Schutgens
The rhinos being translocated come from Ol Pejeta Conservancy, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, and Nairobi National Park. Loisaba, a Kenyan conservancy dedicated to the welfare of local communities in Laikipia County, boasts 58,000 acres of pristine black rhino habitat. It has been meticulously prepared with a world-class security operation and fencing to facilitate the free movement of all wildlife species. This initiative's success is attributed to the invaluable support of partners, including San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, The Nature Conservancy, The Elewana Collection, and Space for Giants.
As WildLandscapes International, we are thrilled to witness this incredible milestone. This achievement serves as a pivotal moment in the broader conservation endeavors we champion, notably the Kenya Rhino Range Expansion Project, with the ambitious goal of doubling the black rhino population by 2037 across four crucial landscapes.
As we eagerly anticipate these magnificent creatures thriving in their new home at Loisaba Conservancy, we extend our congratulations to the dedicated supporters, rangers, veterinarians, and local communities who have played a pivotal role in this conservation success.