Lawrence Anthony Earth Organisation, which administers the Fundimvelo Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage, has decided to permanently close the rhino orphanage following ongoing security challenges.
In February the orphanage experienced a poaching attack resulting in an assault on staff and the loss of two rhino calves that were both shot and horns removed.
Security assessments highlighted critical issues that LAEO management felt could not be mitigated and these factors would have directly compromised the ongoing safety of everyone on site. Additional costs to provide extra guards 24/7 to adequately secure the facility in the long-term proved to be restrictive and impacted on the sustainability of the facility. The decision had been taken as a direct result of advice from security experts, anti-poaching professionals and senior police officers, said Fundimvelo Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage in a statement.
The remainder of the donated funds will be channelled to the facilities that have taken over the care of the rhino calves. "The animals have now all been moved together with their handlers to ensure continuity of care, and all the rhino calves, as well as Charlie, the hippo, are doing well and have settled in their new surroundings,” said Yvette Taylor from Lawrence Anthony Earth Organisation. “The Lawrence Anthony Earth Organisation wishes to thank the public for their overwhelming support during this challenging time."
