How do you re-home a rhino by helicopter? Upside down

In South Africa, conservationists are using helicopters to help save endangered rhinos. This method has become crucial in the fight against poaching and habitat loss, which have severely threatened the black rhino population. Recently, a helicopter was seen lifting a 1,300-kilogram black rhino into the air, dangling upside down. While this sight may seem shocking, it is a part of a carefully planned strategy to ensure the safety and survival of these magnificent creatures. Over the past decade, the use of helicopters in rhino conservation has increased significantly in South Africa, Namibia, and Botswana. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) reports that black rhinos are making a comeback, with their population rising from a low of about 2,400 in the 1990s to approximately 5,500 today. This increase is largely due to the efforts of conservationists who are dedicated to protecting these animals. According to Ursina Rusch, a population manager for the WWF South Africa Black Rhino Range Expansion Project, rhinos are moved for three main reasons. First, to protect them from poaching, which is a significant threat to their survival. Second, to monitor their health and behavior by inserting satellite GPS devices into their horns. Third, to maintain genetic diversity within the population, which is essential for their long-term survival. The black rhino population is primarily concentrated in specific areas, making translocation a necessary method to expand their range and ensure their survival. Transporting rhinos by helicopter is not only faster but also less stressful for the animals compared to traditional ground transport methods. In the past, rhinos would be transported in crates on trucks, which could be dangerous and uncomfortable for them. The helicopter method allows for a quicker and safer transfer to new habitats. Rusch explains that if rhinos are not translocated, they may face overcrowding, leading to longer periods between births and fewer calves being produced. This is a natural response to resource management, as the rhinos adapt to their environment. The use of helicopters in rhino conservation is a relatively new practice that has revolutionized the way these animals are protected. Since the 2010s, helicopters have been used regularly to airlift rhinos, with Rusch's team successfully translocating around 270 rhinos, of which about 160 were airlifted. The process begins with a veterinarian darting the rhino with immobilizing drugs from the helicopter. This method is much more efficient than tracking a partially sedated rhino on foot, as the helicopter team can locate the animal quickly and safely. Once the rhino is unconscious, the ground team moves in to take biological samples, measurements, and insert microchips for monitoring. The rhino is then secured with soft straps around its legs, which are connected to a rope that the helicopter lifts. The helicopter then transports the rhino to a designated area, where ground crews are waiting to receive it. Historically, rhinos would be woken up from sedation and transported in crates, which could be stressful and dangerous. The use of helicopters has changed this process, allowing for a more efficient and safer method of transport. Conservationists have found that helicopters are particularly useful in regions with difficult terrain, where ground transport is not feasible. Robin Radcliffe, an associate professor of wildlife and conservation medicine at Cornell University, explains that helicopters are often the only option when the capture or release site is inaccessible by road. The helicopters used for this purpose include the Airbus AS350 Astar and the UH1-H Huey, both of which have proven effective in transporting rhinos. The Huey, originally designed for military use, has become a valuable tool in rhino conservation efforts. Despite the challenges of using helicopters, conservationists believe that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The health and safety of the rhinos are always the top priority, and experienced veterinarians monitor them closely during the flight. While helicopter use does create some environmental impact, conservationists are committed to finding ways to protect rhinos and ensure their survival for future generations. The innovative use of helicopters in rhino conservation is a testament to the dedication and creativity of those working to save these incredible animals.