If there ever was a symbol of resilience and strength in the African bush it would be the rhino. The battle against poaching and the tireless efforts of conservationists have been an ongoing theme for over a decade. To celebrate World Rhino Day on 22 September, we share the stories of rhinos at Silvan and the Sabi Sand.
Rhinos at Silvan Safari
Rhinos have been found in the Sabi Sand since its formal formation in 1948. While both black and white rhinos are found within the reserve, the latter is far more regularly seen. At Silvan, we are lucky to have a local crash that treats our guests to frequent sightings. As with many private lodges and reserves, we do not deny or hide the fact that we have rhinos in our vicinity but do stop short of shouting too loudly about them as a matter of caution.
Anti Poaching in Sabi Sand
Since first drawing significant attention in 2008, the rhino poaching crisis across Africa escalated on an ongoing basis and has become among the most urgent conservation issues of the 21st century. The Kruger National Park has suffered the most significant scale of poaching anywhere in South Africa and its proximity to the Sabi Sand makes for significant challenges. However, the anti-poaching units (APU) in the Sabi Sand are among the world’s elite conservation teams and have taken on the challenge. Equipped with a vast array of technology, canine teams and rapid response squads they are primed to prevent any poaching incidents within the reserve.
The Sabi Sand has taken a tiered approach to address the crisis. The long term solution is reducing the demand for rhino horn and is essential to the survival of the species. In the medium term, this involves ensuring that neighbouring communities derive real benefits from these wildlife areas through the success of ecotourism. This comes not only from monetary contributions to communities but also from inclusion in the ecotourism procurement and supply chains. Helping these communities to prosper socially and economically alongside these protected areas is critical, as they are custodians of, and dependants on these living resources. Of course, in the short term, vigilant protection on the ground of wildlife is necessary. Safeguarding the existing population and supporting growth at a time when endangered species, such as rhino, are being decimated by escalating poaching efforts.
Despite the various challenges they face, the APU based in Sabi Sand have been incredibly successful. While they are aware that their work never really ends while poaching remains a threat, there are victories to celebrate. The Sabi Sand APU has not seen a single rhino lost in the reserve in over five years. A truly remarkable feat given the scale of the poaching crisis that South Africa faces.
Silvan’s Contribution to World Rhino Day Causes
Silvan are proud to be part of Rhino Africa’s “Rhinos Saving Rhinos” fundraising competition that is running from 22 September 2021. The competition aims to raise $100 000 for rhino conservation and the grand prize winners will enjoy a 3-night stay at Silvan Safari and a rhino conservation experience in Zululand. To find out more about how to enter and what you could win click here.
Come Visit The Rhinos at Silvan Safari
The best way to truly appreciate these amazing creatures is to do so at close quarters. Our dedicated guides and rangers along with the APU teams in the Sabi Sand make that a reality. Thanks to their efforts, seeing rhinos at Silvan is something guests can look forward to long into the future.
If you’re ready to start planning your trip to Silvan Safari, contact our Travel Experts today!
