Protecting the Black Rhino from Extinction

Protecting the Black Rhino from Extinction Female: The sky sometimes seems huge in Kenya. The landscape is majestic a home for Africa’s most spectacular and endangered wildlife. 25 years ago there was some 70,000 black rhinos in Africa but poachers have reduced the entire population to less than 3,000 but there is hope. These young orphans are among 400 black rhinos to five relatively refuge in Kenya’s heavily guarded small reserve and private ranchos. The purpose of this rhino orphanage in Nairobi’s National Park is to provide a safe haven against predators and poachers. When they go out they’ll be moved to one of the heavily guarded reserves or private ranchos. Initiative like this are helping to bring the black rhino back from extinction. Daphne Sheldrick Orphanage is a commitment that fills her life. She has raised 10 black rhinos here. Daphne Sheldrick: It has been a lifetime. But it has been very rewarding it’s wonderful to be able to raise an animal and to understand the mind and to -- when you raise an orphan you understand that like you're in charge and you learn things about it that you would never be able to pick up. Female: With the help of people like Daphne the numbers of black rhinos are on the rise. There's now every prospect of a 50% increase by the year 2000. Her work shows the difference individuals can make in protecting endangered species. Despite the challenges wherever we can be on this week’s road show we have always found good reason for hope. The combination of inspired individuals and communities coming together to preserve the natural resources is making a crucial difference.