Kenya has just taken a new step in the protection of black rhinos, an emblematic species but critically endangeredSince Saturday, 21 individuals, 11 females and 10 males, are being transferred to a new reserve in Segera, in Laikipia County (central), announced the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS).
This relocation operation, which will last 18 days, aims to stimulate population growth of the species while ensuring maximum genetic diversityIt is part of a broader project of creation of a “megasanctuary” for eastern black rhinos.
A fragile population, concentrated in Kenya
Kenya is now home to 80% of the world's population of the subspecies of eastern black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis michaeli). Their number has increased considerably, from 384 individuals in 1989 à 1 by the end of 059, according to KWS data. A success attributed to constant protection efforts, but which now requires a active population management.
"This transfer is a strong statement of Kenya's commitment to ensuring the future of this iconic species.", said Rebecca Miano, Kenyan Minister of Tourism, at the launch of the project in Ol Pejeta reserve.
A new sanctuary to prevent overpopulation
The reserve of Quick, which extends over 90 km², will welcome the 21 rhinos from several sites: the Ol Pejeta and Lewa reserves, as well as Lake Nakuru National Park. The objective is to relieve congestion in existing sanctuaries, where overpopulation favors violent territorial conflicts, Responsable of 30% of deaths in these animals, according to Erustus Kanga, director general of KWS.
"This new breeding nucleus will significantly contribute to our objective: to achieve 2 black rhinos in Kenya by 000 », he said.
A project supported by international partners
Each transferred rhinoceros is equipped with a GPS tracking device to enable precise monitoring in its new environment. The project is funded by the Kenyan government and the Zeitz Foundation, based in Germany, which manages the Segera reserve.
Le The total cost of the operation is estimated at 14 million Kenyan shillings., or a little more than 95 000 euros.
An ongoing fight against poaching and habitat destruction
The black rhino has been decimated in recent decades by poaching, motivated by the illegal horn trade – and the gradual loss of its natural habitats. Even today, despite the progress, human pressure and climate change continue to threaten its survival.
The launch of this new sanctuary constitutes a glimmer of hope for this emblematic species, the preservation of which has become a national and global priority.
