Approximately ten years ago, as a result of careful management techniques and the resulting successful breeding of viable rhino herds, Bophutatswana National Parks Board introduced a new concept called “Rhino Darting Safaris”. This was part of the capture programme of introducing surplus rhino to other parks and establishing new breeding nuclei. Despite this possibly being the ultimate form of non-consumptive wildlife utilisation, unfortunately, it was a complicated operation, especially the co-ordination of the logistics. However, this idea spawned the latter-day GREEN RHINO SAFARIS whereby a rhino trophy can be hunted in traditional fashion and the client can have field photographs taken, trophy measurements recorded and entered into the Safari Club International record book etc.

This is a truly exciting hunt because of the close quarter stalking and a slow acting drug induced “kill” as opposed to a bullet. The hunter is accompanied by a professional hunter, a tracking team and a fully qualified veterinary surgeon experienced in handling rhino capture. The anticipation and ethics of the hunt are such that the thrill of a fair chase Big Five hunt is experienced by the hunter.

Prior to the commencement of the safari, an orientation of the equipment by the veterinarian is conducted. The briefing includes the preparation of the darts, dart gun handling and the care of the rhino after darting.

Once the rhino is darted by the hunter, the rhino is tracked until immobilised. Thereafter the veterinarian tends to the animal’s immediate needs and once he is satisfied with the rhino’s stable condition, the hunter is allowed free access to the animal for photographs, measuring, etc.


For further information on the Hunters and Guides Green Rhino Safaris please contact us...