Rocco's Challenge
The birth of Rocco, our critically endangered Eastern Black Rhino calf has inspired Yorkshire Wildlife Park and the WildLife Foundation to fundraise £10,000 to help protect the species!
Rocco, the boisterous Black Rhino calf who was born on Tuesday 16th January marks a significant milestone in the European breeding programme for this critically endangered species, whose wild population have dwindled to fewer than 1,000 individuals.
Rocco’s arrival has heightened awareness about the plight of Rhinos, inspiring us to launch an appeal in his honour. In collaboration with our charity, the Wildlife Foundation, and Save The Rhino International, we aim to support vital conservation projects across at the Ol Jogi Conservancy in Africa.
What is the Ol Jogi Conservancy?
The Ol Jogi Conservancy, established in 1980 in Kenya's Laikipia region, is one of the oldest and most successful conservancies in the area. Starting with just four Black Rhinos and six White Rhinos, Ol Jogi's population has grown substantially, making it a stronghold for the Eastern Black Rhino subspecies. This success is attributed to effective law enforcement, anti-poaching measures, monitoring, biological management, and a passionate commitment to preserving this iconic species.
Remarkably, no Rhinos were killed at Ol Jogi in 2023!
Image credit - Will Roberts
What is Rocco’s Challenge?
Rocco's challenge is an ambitious and inspiring mission to raise £10,000 to aid in the protection of wild Rhinos. This critical endeavour aims to support Ol Jogi’s conservation efforts that safeguard these majestic animals from the looming threats of poaching and habitat loss. The contributions made will significantly help us in our aim to preserve the Rhino population, ensuring that these magnificent animals can thrive in their natural habitats for generations to come! Ol Jogi has achieved significant successes over the years, including the rescue and recovery of an abandoned and predator-attacked calf named Bella thanks to fundraising campaigns like Rocco's challenge.
Ol Jogi will need raise 2.3 million KSh (Kenyan Shilling) which is around £14,000 per year for the ongoing care of Bella.
Why is Bella so important?
On November 13th 2013, poachers tragically killed a Black Rhino named Winnie at the Ol Jogi Conservancy. Her calf, Namunyak, was wounded but recovered after treatment. Although Black Rhinos typically have their first calf between 6.5 and 7.5 years old, Namunyak did not have her first calf until she was 11, likely due to the trauma she experienced.
On February 8th 2023, Namunyak’s calf was found abandoned, likely due to stress. The calf had been attacked by a predator. Suffering from infected wounds, dehydration, and inability to walk, the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) authorized her rescue, and Ol Jogi’s team provided intensive care. Despite a compromised gastrointestinal flora, the female calf, named Bella, made a full recovery. Now a healthy 226 kg and 1.2 years old, Bella is expected to be integrated into the wild population at 3.5 years old.
Image credit - Will Roberts
How you can help?
Consider making a donation
The funds raised will support the Ol Jogi Conservancy, which operates across 58,000 acres to provide a safe habitat for indigenous and critically endangered species. The conservancy is home to a healthy population of 100 Rhinos and runs an influential breeding program, that is crucial as the species continues to face severe poaching threats.
Fundraise for us
Every penny you raise will make a huge difference! We can’t do what we do without you!
Fundraise for us over on JustGiving, It’s a great way to raise funds quickly and easily, and you’ll get a handy link to share with friends and family.
Did you know?
On average, a Rhino is killed every 16 hours by poachers.
In the last decade, 9,396 Rhinos have been poached in Africa.
Charity Information
WildLife Foundation - Charity Number 1152642
Save The Rhino - Charity Number 1035072
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