How thermal imaging reveals social dynamics of rewilded orphan rhinos Thermal optics have become an essential advancement in both the protection and monitoring of rhinos after dark. By detecting heat rather than light, these tools enable rangers to operate with complete discretion, ensuring security while also providing unprecedented insight into rhino behaviour that would otherwise go unseen. This is of particular value and importance within the context of this group of rehabilitated and released orphans. A recent thermal recording captured Storm, the territorial bull, trying to assert his dominance over a young female. An older rhino cow rushed in twice to ward him off before leading the group away. Storm paused to smell the urine of the younger cow, picking up important pheromones and cues. He then sprayed his own urine, dragging his feet through the ground, before following the group. It’s likely she is on heat. This rare and powerful footage offers a glimpse into complex social dynamics. It also provides a deeper understanding of rhino interactions and territorial patterns, while helping assess the measurable impact of rewilding success for a group of orphaned rhinos. Thank you again to Prof. dr. Freek Vonk and Bresser Benelux for their donation of eight thermal optic devices! Game changer! (fb)

New Rescue Update: A Healthy Appetite Our newest rescue has quickly discovered her favourite part of the day, milk time! Rhino calves naturally nurse from their mothers until around 17 to 20 months of age, sometimes even longer if they can. Just like newborn humans, very young rhino calves drink milk every two hours, day and night. As they grow, the gap between feeds gradually increases to every three or four hours, and eventually, the night feeds stop. Our caregivers follow this natural feeding rhythm to mirror what they would experience in the wild. Our specialised milk formula is carefully developed to provide the precise nutritional support needed for the healthy growth and development of a young calf. Our newest arrival, being a little older, is currently fed every three to four hours as she settles into her new routine and she certainly doesn’t miss a feed! you can help support our newest orphan by donating towards milk, food and ongoing care and protection through the link below. https://www.globalgiving.org/donate/55222/care-for-wild-rhino-sanctuary-npc/ (fb)