8 Rhinos dehorned in emergency operation  

Today was one of those days that reminds us exactly why conservation matters.

The Zululand Conservation Trust (ZCT) was urgently seeking funding to support helicopter fees for an emergency bulk dehorning operation on Manyoni Private Game Reserve. This intervention follows a devastating poaching incident in which one of their black rhino females was killed on the evening of 23 November. Her horns were brutally removed, and her 18-month-old calf was left alone and vulnerable.

Cycle of Life Charity Funds were approached to assist with funding (read funding request here).

The operation included a  a helicopter, an experienced wildlife vet, and an entire team working with purpose to protect these endangered. rhinos. Cycle of Life Charity funded the helicopter that made this mission possible, ensuring these animals could be safely darted and dehorned in time.

Dehorning is never done lightly. It’s a difficult but necessary step to protect rhinos from becoming targets for poachers. And watching a team move with such precision and care makes it clear how much passion and dedication stands behind every decision.

We are deeply grateful to Dr Mike Toft for his calm skill in the field, to the incredible Manyoni Conservation team, and to our partners at Zululand Conservation Trust, whose collaboration strengthens every effort we make together. Conservation is never the work of one organisation it’s collective, heartfelt, and unfortunately, it is often urgent.

Today, eight more rhinos have a better chance at survival – and that is a victory we share with everyone who supports our mission.

Thank you letter from the Zululand Conservation Trust – READ HERE