In July 2022, ACTIF launched a successful rhino dehorning and tagging operation in Mokala National Park.

The primary objectives were to:

• Dehorn all eligible black and white rhinos to reduce the risk of poaching

• Ear-notch white rhinos for individual identification

• Collect biological samples for health monitoring

• Update demographic data for both rhino populations

Veterinarians from SANParks’ Veterinary Wildlife Services (VWS) led the darting, notching, and data collection, with operational support from ACTIF.

By the end of the campaign, 91% of Mokala’s rhino population had been safely dehorned and sampled. Cows with very young calves were intentionally excluded to avoid unnecessary risk.

These coordinated efforts not only enhance the safety of Mokala’s rhinos, but also ensure accurate population assessments and long-term conservation planning.