Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa

Eileen Mershart | Monday, April 16, 2018

“Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa”

In January 2018 I participated in this research project. Without a doubt it was one of the best volunteer experiences I have ever had and I have had quite a few. Our research leaders were great teachers and gave us all the tools we needed to participate in a most meaningful way. They were an amazing, dedicated group of people who brought the issues in this complex problem into focus for us in ways that I could never never imagined. I am indebted to them all for their dedication and passion to help save this endangered species. I felt that our work was appreciated and valued. We participated in all facets of the research project from observing the behavior of the rhinos, both at the reserve we were based at as well as the rhinos in a nearby national park. We researched the behavior of dung beetles including how to set the traps and then identify them and of course put them back in the environment. I had no idea how many dung beetles exist in this world; though I did know how important they are. All the raw data we collected in the field was transferred to data bases and then sent to the team members at the university in the UK. We set camera traps, tested ways to get the rhinos to move away from the perimeter of the reserve and learned a lot about what it takes to manage a reserve including the phenomenal cost of anti-poaching measures.

I am grateful to Earthwatch for providing us with this opportunity and supporting this important work. The work of volunteers matters. And on this project it really matters. More eyes and more hands means more good data upon which sound decisions can be made. And you will meet some remarkable people. I highly recommend this project.

Georgann Meadows | Friday, December 22, 2017

“In the Very Close Company of Rhinos”

It took me awhile to return to the private reserve where the Earthwatch Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa expedition is based, but I’m thrilled I finally made it. The first time I participated was with the January 2016 Team, and South Africa was in the midst of a heat wave and drought. Temperatures crept into the 120 degree F range. This time, in October 2017, the weather was milder and landscape much greener. It was wonderful seeing the environment in a different season. Both visits provided every volunteer ample time amongst the local fauna: giraffe, zebra, gemsbok/oryx, kudu, eland, tsessebe, impala, sable and other antelope, countless gorgeous birds, and of course, many up close and personal moments with the magnificent local rhino. These stunning animals are prehistoric, gentle, fascinating and enchanting. Watching them interact with each other as friends, rivals or loving family members is an unforgettable experience. Baby rhinos are particularly adorable!

Nancy Burton | Thursday, December 21, 2017

“Giving the Rhinos a Voice”

If you've never volunteered for an Earthwatch expedition before, or are undecided which expedition to do next, or you can only participate in one a year, then "Conserving Endangered Rhinos" is for you, hands down. Working alongside the scientists and dedicated reserve team you will know, without a doubt, your time and efforts can, and will, make a difference in saving this gentle animal. You will likely experience intense emotions and perhaps, like me, come away forever changed in the way you see your world. I can also tell you, I don't look at a full moon the same way I did before my time with the rhinos, as it puts them at even greater risk for poaching. The theme song to a movie out in the 70's implored us to "Bless the beasts and the children for in this world they have no choice. They have no voice." We are all truly indebted to those, who through their tireless dedication and unselfish efforts, are giving the white rhino a voice. You can too!

Jacob Anderson | Thursday, December 21, 2017

“Simply...FANTASTIC”

This was a trip of a lifetime. It costs a lot of money, but it was all very well organized and exciting, making it worth it. No days were the same, the friendly staff kept us busy with engaging activities and work but also left time for us to recharge. One day we're monitoring rhino behavior, another day we're learning how to track animals, or we're learning how a private reserve is run and more about the story of rhino conservation. The staff were always friendly and around, and I never felt unsafe.

It gets quite cold in the winter time, but as long as you bundle up you'll be able to deal with it. The food was very good, they served us with some of the animals of the reserve like kudu or wildebeest during dinner and it was always a different meal. It was filling, and it was nice to enjoy meals by the campfire. Breakfast and lunch were also filling and delicious.

You kind of go in not really knowing what to expect, but it's okay because it it's packed with adventure; quite an amazing trip that you wouldn't forget!

Nancy Kellogg | Monday, December 11, 2017

“Extraordinary African wildlife experience”

I’d never been to Africa before, but with this expedition I am completely enthralled. The leaders ensure that you experience wildlife on a grand scale, understand the issues and problems, and come away feeling that you have contributed to a solution.

Marlys White | Friday, November 17, 2017

“Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa”

One of the best Earthwatch programs and so timely.

Diana Davis | 10/24/2017

“AWESOME EXPERIENCE”

Just got home from the October 2017 Rhino Earthwatch - highly recommended. I really felt like I contributed to understanding rhino conservation and learned a LOT.

For the nitty-gritty: the facilities are simple, the food is good and plentiful and the walking is not that strenuous. The location is wonderful; lots of wildlife to observe, including plenty of rhinos!

Seth Nelson | Monday, July10, 2017

“"This was my fourth expedition, but none have impacted me more"”

This was my fourth expedition, but none have impacted me more. The Rhino is a magnificent animal and emblematic of African Wildlife. Imagine a world without the Rhino. This scenario is too close to reality if Scientist like Sam Penny don't work tirelessly to save the Rhino from extinction. We were able to see the Rhino in it's natural habitat and directly be involved in the capture and release of six amazing animals. Their hide is like armour plating, while their ankle and skin under the legs and the stomach is soft and supple. The contrast evades any easy description.

Kristen Everett | Monday, January30, 2017

“Fulfilling and Heartfelt Trip”

I joined this project under the advice of a friend who will be making her third trip to the reserve this month and it was the best decision! Upon arriving we were taken to see the reserve and all the beautiful animals that come with it. The next day we were briefed on the heartbreaking story of the poaching incident that occurred on the reserve a few years back and the reason behind the studies we would be doing. I got so excited to dive in and help in anyway that I could and they did such an amazing job teaching us everything and making us feel like part of their team. I can't say enough good things about the group of people who work there, they are so passionate about what they do it becomes infectious and only fueled my desire to help. They understood this was also a trip for us and would stop whenever we wanted to take a photo or learn about our surroundings. They are all so knowledgeable about the eco-system there and could tell you the name of any animal, grass, or insect.

We spent the two weeks monitoring location, behavior, and activity of the 16 rhino on the reserve as well as acted as extra set of eyes to for them, which might have been the most important contribution. I had the time of my life I look forward to going back and being involved with this organization in the future. My last recommendation to you is to bring your appetite because Hilda and Doanna's cooking is on another level!

Marcia Hanlon | Monday, July11, 2016

“Prepare to enter the rhinos' world!”

If you've only seen animals in a zoo, prepare to have your mind blown! In the rhino expedition, you enter the animals' world and spend hours watching them in their own habitat, interacting with their babies or their pals. From the first hours you're on the reserve, you are out there in a truck, looking to see what kind of animals are around every turn. You never know! Except, of course, with the giraffe. They see you coming from a long way away and wait to stare curiously at you as you approach. Your team will open your eyes to their own worlds back home and what their lives are about as you share your commitment to the rhinos in your day-to-day work during the expedition. You learn the habits and the personalities of specific rhinos. There's a shared sense of commitment, excitement, and laughs as the team gets to know each other. Most importantly, there is a kindness that happens as team members watch out for each other and for the precious animals. The reserve is quiet and vast, and at night, dark. You'll see more stars than you've seen in years if you're from an urban or suburban area. This expedition truly takes you to another world, a world that is refreshing to know still exists apart from our fast-paced human world.

Georgann Meadows | Monday, April 11, 2016

“Conserving Endangered Rhinos in South Africa: Getting to Know a Species and Their Guardians”

"Conserving Endagered Rhinos in South Africa." Little did I know I would be getting to know the white rhinos inhabiting the private reserve personally. It's been four weeks since I first saw them, two weeks since I've returned home, and I miss hopping on a truck and going out to look for rhinos every morning! These are magnificent beings...prehistoric in nature, gentle in disposition. I gained appreciation for them when I first visited South Africa on an Earthwatch expedition in 1999. They reminded of giant grey cows grazing peacefully on grassland. But my fondness for them grew on this trip as I came to know them as individuals.

Two of the females have young male calves, and it was always a special treat to observe the mothers watch over their youngsters. One day was particularly memorable when the two families met and the little ones interacted.

An expectant mother will be chasing her son off soon so she can give birth and care for her newborn, but we saw her tolerate the company of another young, lone male. Perhaps she was encouraging the relationship between the two boys so that her son won't be lonely after she has the baby? We watched a big male approach the trio and after some posturing and huffing, walk off to graze peacefully some distance away, backs turned to each other in detente. These are complex creatures with interesting social lives!

In addition to our species of interest, we shared each day with elegant giraffe, several stunning varieties of African antelope, many humorous wart hogs, stately blue wildebeest, beautifully patterned leopard tortoises, dozens of bird species and plenty of interesting invertebrates.

The reserve itself was a delight to be in, with varied terrain ranging from grassland to shrub and forest. We saw it transform from parched landscape (because of drought) to a fertile green habitat as the rains began to fall during our stay. It was magical! Drying waterholes became bullfrog courting grounds and dam began to fill, bringing the (huge!) catfish in the lake near our camp back to life.

Most impressive are the people working to protect this reserve and the animals thriving there. They live, eat and breathe the place, dedicating their lives to managing the environment for the wellbeing of the wildlife living there. They are an inspiration! I am thrilled to have met them, enjoyed working with them, and honored to know them!

Alex Kallend | Friday, March 11, 2016

“Amazing experiences with Rhinos”

This was our first Earthwatch expedition, and I was a little hesitant going in to it, but found that the experience we had was amazing. Despite record temperatures, we got out in the field every day, and spent hours observing and recording the rhino's behaviour. We were able to approach within 10 meters on-foot on one occasion!

The staff were really inspirational, and their daily involvement in the attempt to save this species is really needed. The camp food was amazing, and we had the opportunity to try several game meats while there.

Even during downtime, the camp is situated on a dam, and so there was excellent wildlife viewing, especially of water birds. We got to go to Pilanesberg national park on our rec day, and saw cheetah, lions and elephant there, as well as a black rhino!

Overall, this was an excellent trip, and I'd recommend it to anyone with an interest in saving one of our largest mammals.

Kathleen Kallend | Thursday, January 21, 2016

“Fantastic!!!”

My husband and I had never done and Eathwatch expedition before so we had no idea what to expect. My biggest fear was that we'd feel more like an accessory and less part of a team.

In reality we were very much part of a team doing valuable research. Our presence not only helped deter poachers but helped boost the spirits of those on the ground who are fighting daily for the lives of these amazing creatures.

The research itself was interesting and enjoyable. The rhinos are far more interesting and important than I realized before this experience.

One other note: The accommodations were better than expected (my spouse and I were able to have a tent to ourselves) and the food was excellent.