Durban - The rhino that “vanished into thin air” after it had escaped from the Mbuzane side of the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park (HiP) last week was captured on Sunday.
This was one of two rhinos that had initially escaped from HiP last week. One was recaptured by the Ezemvelo Game Capture Unit while the other went missing and seemed to “vanish into thin air”, said Ezemvelo KZN Wildlife spokesperson Musa Mntambo.
Mntambo said on Sunday Ezemvelo received reports from individuals who were walking along the fence about an animal and a chopper was dispatched to monitor the area.
“As it was flying above the fence not far from the Cengeni Gate a rhino was spotted just outside the fence. Ezemvelo Game Capture Unit was deployed and the rhino was recaptured and released inside the HiP without any difficulties,” said Mntambo.
He says the rhino only had bruises which might have been the result of falling.
Meanwhile, one of the lions that were reported to have escaped has not yet been found and it was last seen on Sunday feeding on cows that were knocked down by a train.
“Ezemvelo Rangers are on foot patrol outside HiP following any sighting report received.”
The escape of the four animals led to community protests that saw the Cegeni Gate to the park being closed.
Ezemvelo has advised people who want to visit HiP not to use the Cengeni Gate as a group of protesters has blocked a road.
“A group of people has blocked the road next to the nearby Sasol garage. The protest is far from the gate but as a precaution, Ezemvelo advises the public to avoid using the Cengeni Gate which is currently closed,” he said.
Mntambo says the gate may be opened later on Monday when it is safe to do so.
