KWS relocates endangered Rhinos to new sanctuary
The translocation will ease pressure on overcrowded sanctuaries and create safer, more spacious habitats for rhino breeding and growth.
The Kenya Wildlife Service began the process of relocating 21 critically endangered Rhinos to a new sanctuary on Saturday.
The move is meant to help support the species’ long-term survival, says Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano.
"By moving rhinos from Ol Pejeta, Lewa, and Nakuru, all sanctuaries currently operating at over 100% of their carrying capacity, we are reducing deadly territorial fights that account for over 30% of rhino mortalities," said Miano.
"This milestone marks a significant step in implementing our National Black Rhino Action Plan, a bold and visionary roadmap to grow the population to 2,000 by the year 2037."
According to KWS, the translocation will ease pressure on overcrowded sanctuaries and create safer, more spacious habitats for rhino breeding and growth.
The newly prepared Segera Conservancy is Kenya’s 18th black rhino sanctuary.
The area was assessed to ensure sufficient water, forage, and security for the animals.
As part of the process, rangers and veterinarians sedated each rhino for safe transport and monitored vital signs during the procedure.
Kenya is home to just over 1,000 black rhinos, up from 350 in 1989, according to the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife.
"Kenya is proud to be home to 80% of Africa’s eastern black rhino population, a responsibility we embrace with utmost seriousness," remarked Miano.
