Southern Africa (1994-1995)
Animal species are being wiped out at a fast rate. The rhino, a member of the ‘Big Five,' will not be easy to forget. Rhino are huge, not very bright, and tragically for them one of their most unique features, their horns, are aggressively sought after in the East for medicinal purposes. There is a widespread Asian belief that rhino horn powder increases virility. Poaching in Africa is rampant and at the moment the only significant populations are to be found within South Africa. There is a real concern that the poaching syndicates are trying to wipe out the species in order to increase the value of their horn stockpiles.
There are a small number of conservationists, vets and farm owners who are working hard to save the species. The process is costly and at times conservationists are forced to make controversial choices, such as allowing limited rhino hunting in order to pay for the broader conservation process.
Most aspects of this project were disturbing and depressing, but it was also amazing to witness the dedication of those who are determined to save this species.