White Rhinos Stage a Comeback in the Democratic Republic of Congo

White Rhinos Stage a Comeback in the Democratic Republic of Congo By Kevin Wells / June 21, 2023 In a thrilling development for wildlife conservation, white rhinos have made a long-awaited return to the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) after an absence of 17 years. The white rhinos were transported to Garamba National Park, situated in the northeastern part of the country, from a private reserve in South Africa.
The white rhino, also referred to as the square-lipped rhinoceros, is one of the two species of rhinoceros found in Africa, the other being the black rhino. Despite their name, white rhinos are not actually white; their name is believed to be a misinterpretation of the Dutch word “weit,” which means wide, referring to their wide, square-shaped mouths. These majestic creatures are characterized by their large size, with adults weighing up to 2.5 tons and measuring around 12 to 13 feet in length. They have two horns made of keratin, the same material as our hair and nails.
Garamba National Park, where the white rhinos have been reintroduced, is a vast protected area spanning over 5,000 square kilometers. It is renowned for its diverse ecosystem, which includes savannas, woodlands, and grasslands. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and various species of antelope. Garamba National Park has faced numerous challenges in recent years, including poaching and armed conflict, which have significantly affected the rhino population.
“This reintroduction marks the beginning of a process whereby southern white rhino, as the closest genetic alternative, can fulfill the role of the northern white rhino in the landscape,” stated Peter Fearnhead, the CEO of African Parks, an organization dedicated to the conservation of national parks in Africa. Unfortunately, efforts to save the park’s northern white rhinos had come too late, leading to their decline. However, the introduction of southern white rhinos is a hopeful step towards restoring balance to the ecosystem.
To ensure the well-being and monitoring of the new rhino residents, they have been equipped with ear tags and GPS collars. These tracking devices will allow park staff and veterinarians to closely monitor their health and movements. This valuable information will aid in their acclimatization and provide insights into their behavior and habitat preferences.
The transportation of the white rhinos was a meticulous process, involving their transfer by aircraft from South Africa to Garamba National Park. Upon arrival, professional staff and qualified veterinarians have been diligently overseeing their adaptation to their new environment. Regular monitoring will continue to ensure the successful integration of these magnificent creatures into their new home.
“The return of white rhinos to the Democratic Republic of the Congo is a testament to our country’s commitment to biodiversity conservation,” expressed Yves Milan Ngangay, the director general of the Congolese Institute for the Conservation of Nature (ICCN). This initiative demonstrates the DRC’s dedication to protecting endangered species and restoring their natural habitats.
The reintroduction of white rhinos to Garamba National Park is an important milestone in the ongoing efforts to preserve these magnificent creatures and the biodiversity of the region.

Back