This rare black rhino may have a chance to survive

This black rhino will form part of the gene pool that will spearhead the repopulation of a Samburu community-run conservancy. Photos: AFP

Nasha was first to go down, a red-feathered dart sticking out of his thick-skinned rump. Next it was Syrah’s turn as Matthew Mutinda, a vet, fired his tranquilliser gun from a low-hovering helicopter. Minutes later the one-tonne rhinoceros crashed headfirst into the ground in a cloud of dust.

Frantic activity followed. Batian Craig, a conservationist specialising in wildlife security, revved up a chainsaw and sliced off the rhino’s horn. Then he drilled into the remaining stump and stuck a radio transmitter in the hole. An oxygen tube was inserted up the rhino’s snout, blood samples were taken and cooling water poured over his back. Nasha’s breaths were deep and steady. His skin felt like a hot, damp carpet.