Rhino calf healing well after axe attack
2013-02-08 22:03
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Johannesburg
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Johannesburg - An injured, 2-month-old white rhino orphan
has healed far beyond expectations, the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s (EWT) rhino
orphan response project said on Friday.
"The calf was found in a terrible condition. She had
obviously tried to return to her mother while the poachers were removing her
horn and they slashed at her face with a panga and an axe repeatedly in order
to chase her away," EWT said in a statement.
"The calf survived the brutal attack, but was left
with 18 very deep lacerations across her face, one which cut right through her
horn and sinuses and another which penetrated her skull."
The calf, named Ntombi, was rescued on 8 January, in an
area which could not be disclosed for security reasons, EWT said.
Rhino rehabilitation specialist Karen Trendler said
Ntombi still had moments of panic, but was content most of the time.
"Ntombi’s recovery is undoubtedly a symbol of hope
for the rhino poaching crisis in South Africa. With concerted, collaborative
effort we can and will turn the tide," she said.
- SAPA
