TRAC’s big ‘babies’ growing by the day | Save the Rhino
Trans African Concessions’ adopted ‘babies’ – the rhino trio Wyntir, Tana and Mabush – continue to flourish at Care For Wild Rehabilitation Centre near Mbombela (Nelspruit) in Mpumalanga.
These magnificent creatures have been part of the TRAC family for almost three years during which time we, together with the public, have been mesmerized by their relentless courage, willpower and determination not only to survive, but to thrive.
When looking at these incredible animals it is hard to imagine their sordid, painful past. They all stared death in the eyes due to the brutality and cruelty of the heartless poaching of their mothers. All three arrived at Care For Wild in a dismal state – barely clutching to life – but today, thanks to the dedicated and knowledgeable care by the centre’s employees, they are the picture of rhino health and tranquility.
Being babies on their arrival at the centre Wyntir, Tana and Mabush were initially fed a special liquid diet. However, as they grew their dietary requirements changed to eventually include solids. These days they merrily eat field grass and supplemented dry feed all day long which has ensured steady, healthy weight gain over the last six months.
At a recent weigh-in the ‘man’ of the group, Mabush, tipped the scale at an impressive 815kg followed by Tana at 776kg and Wyntir who now weighs a hefty 770kg.
According to their caregivers at Care For Wild the rhinos are literally “fat and happy” which is evidence that they have fully recovered. This in itself is a miracle as orphaned baby rhinos don’t easily survive in captivity and those that do are often not as healthy as the TRAC trio.
As their sponsor it delights TRAC to see them doing so well for which we salute their caregivers who are passionate about, and completely devoted to, the animals in the centre
If you would like to show your support and help sponsor these magnificent animals, please e-mail your query through to: ssoares@tracn4.co.za