Rhino Foundation – Gertjie

On 8 May 2015, Gertjie’s mother was tragically and brutally killed for her horn on Olifants River Estate, when he was only a few weeks old

Kapama was contacted for urgent assistance were they found Gertjie next to his deceased mother. It was a devastating sight, as the tiny animal would not leave his mother’s side. He was crying inconsolably for her.The Veterinarian from Provet assisted in darting Gertjie. He was transported to ‘The Centre’, with great care. Despite his distress, he had a good night – spent in close contact with the Curator and surrogate mother “Skaap”. He was in a calmer state the next morning.The HESC has seen a number of injured and orphaned animals successfully rehabilitated over the years, and we are hopeful that this will be another happy ending.Gertjie has been off formula since September 2015. He absolutely LOVES his teff – just give him that and he’ll head straight to ‘seventh heaven’!As Kapama recently had to accommodate more orphaned rhinos, Stompie and Balu have now been moved into Gertjie and Matimba’s boma. The four boys are happily sharing their space.