Saving Private Rhino

Crouching next to the adult male black rhino is a privilege of a lifetime. At the same time I feel burdened by the threat my own species poses to this animal and its close cousin, the white rhino. I am mindful of the dart protruding from the rhino’s rump. The concoction inside that projectile has rendered the rhino unconscious, within three minutes of piercing its thick hide.

“A needle scratch or a drop of the opioid used is sufficient to kill a human, usually by causing respiratory arrest,” wildlife veterinarian Dr Mike Toft warns. It is reassuring to know that he carries an antidote suitable for humans. Still, I am taking no chances.

But let’s start at the beginning. It’s sunrise in the 30 000-hectare Munyawana Conservancy in Zululand. The day begins with