Terra Nova Wildlife Conservation Projects

Lion Interaction

VIP Guests have the once in a lifetime opportunity to participate in certain Lion interaction programmes, arranged by Terra Nova in conjunction with the National Parks Boards. In the past, one of our groups assignment was to assist in locating a pride of four Lion’s and then to separate the two almost fully grown younger ones and remove the radio collar on the male. Guests first met with the professionals in charge who demonstrated the equipment which would be used. After sunset, using four open safari vehicles and spotlights, the search was on for the pride in fairly thick bush. Once the lion was spotted, the Head Ranger darted the animal who needed to be worked on. The lion was asleep within seconds. The group helped to lift the drugged Lion onto a canvas stretcher and then boards a pick-up truck. The group then transported the Lion a couple of kilometers away where he could be worked on without interference from the rest of the pride.. The radio collar on the Lion will be removed with the help of the…

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Rhino Immobiliation Project

Rhino populations worldwide have dropped drastically due to poaching and habitat loss. Due to a lack of funds it has been almost impossible to monitor Rhino populations as each Rhino needs to be identified individually in order to be tracked and monitored. A numbering system is used by cutting small V-notches into their ears and planting microchips into their horns. This allows for the monitoring of movement and breeding of individual animals. Guests who wish to fund Rhino Immobilization to prevent poaching can participate hands-on in this project. By participating in a Rhino immobilization not only do you get to experience a once in a lifetime event but also contribute to conservation and the furthered protection of these amazing creatures. The operation is carried out with a Helicopter to aid in the location of a suitable animal, once darted the Helicopter also herds the selected animal closer to the road. Guests are transferred in safari vehicles and have a grandstand view of this part of the procedure. Once the Rhino is sedated completely guests then have the opportunity to get…

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