WILD HEARTS’ DEVASTATING STORM DAMAGE – HELP US REBUILD

Our Wildlife Rehab Centre has been severely damaged by a storm and we are in urgent need of your support. 🐾❤🐾
A severe storm has struck our facility, causing a massive tree to fall dangerously close to our ICU section. The other half of the tree crashed into our rehab enclosure area, forcing us to evacuate all the animals from the outdoor rehab space. Every cage had to be manually relocated, putting immense strain on both our staff and the animals.

   

One of our truly wild animals, an adult Caracal, had to be caught by hand as there was no time to arrange sedation, and she was moved to a temporary enclosure. All the rehab animals are safe, but sadly, a wild Pearl-spotted Owlet died when her nest was destroyed by a falling tree.
The tree damaged our main water supply and the water point to the Rehab area, cutting off water to all the animals and disrupting the power supply. It also caused further damage to the concrete slab, bamboo screen fencing, and exterior fencing in the rehab area.
It completely wrecked our food garden for the animals. We had to call in an emergency tree felling company to handle the dangerously unstable part of the tree, which turned out to be very expensive due to the high risk involved, and there's still a lot more to do. Other trees also pose a threat and need to be taken care of.
This situation has pushed our resources to the limit, leaving us exhausted and overwhelmed. We were gearing up to launch a fundraiser for baby season, but this emergency has become our top priority.
We urgently need support to:
- Repair the boundary and screen fences
- Restore water access
- Rebuild damaged rehab infrastructure
- Make the area safe again for animals and staff
- Prepare for incoming wildlife during baby season
- Replant the food garden
- Relocate the cages back once the slab is safe
- Get emergency shade cover for the enclosures now exposed in full sun
Join us in rebuilding the safe haven these creatures rely on. We appreciate any support.
We estimate the total cost of restoration to be between $5,000 and $10,000. (Although we are based in Limpopo Province, South Africa, amounts are in Dollars because a lot of our supporters are from the USA, and frankly, in Rands the totals are just too overwhelming). So far, we've paid $500 to the tree fellers but had to halt their work due to insufficient funds.

Please help by donating here:

PayPal

OR

Electronic Transfer (EFT)/Direct Deposit:

First National Bank
Cheque Account
Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation
Account number - 6251 855 4101
Branch Code - 250-655

International Swift Code - FIRNZAJJ

National Clearing Code - ZANCC250655
Bank Address - Merchant Place 4,
Cnr Fredman Drive and Rivonia Road,
Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa
OR

Our BackaBuddy Campaign is here: Wild Heart's Storm Damage Repair

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Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation is a registered NPO and Section 18A(1)(a) PBO and runs a fully permitted Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center, accredited by the NSPCA, near Naboomspruit in Limpopo Province, South Africa.
----------🐾❤🐾-----------
We take in injured and orphaned indigenous wildlife with the goal of rehabilitating them for release back into the wild. Please support our work to help wildlife. We cannot do it without you.
Paul Roy Oxton 072 478 1808 wildheartwildlife@gmail.com
Carina Crayton whatsapp 083 588 3550 wildheartwf.info@gmail.com

PLEASE HELP US REBUILD SO WE CAN REHABILITATE, REWILD AND RELEASE MANY MORE ANIMALS LIKE THESE:

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Adopt An Animal

UPCOMING ADOPTION PROGRAMMES - COMING SOON

Wildlife Guardians, stay connected with us to learn more about our upcoming animal adoption programs. By virtually adopting animals identified for the program, you can make a difference! Show your support for the animals at the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation Rehabilitation Centre and be part of something truly special - their journey to Freedom!

This list will be updated as soon as an animal has been identified as suitable for virtual adoption 🙂

For more information, whatsapp Carina Crayton at +27835883550 or email wildheartwf.info@gmail.com

ADOPT A BUSHBABY - No adoptions available at the moment 🙁

Adopt a Bushbaby – Become a Wildlife Guardian

Adopt a Bushbaby – Become a Wild Heart Wildlife Guardian

UPDATE: All Bushbabies ready for adoption have been kindly adopted by Gerhard & Vera Eastes - THANK YOU!

Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation is offering a unique and heartwarming opportunity for wildlife lovers to become Wildlife Guardians to four remarkable Bushbabies (Galago moholi) currently in our care.

Each of these special little primates — Mickey, Minnie, AJ, and Baby — has their own story of survival. Rescued from the illegal pet trade or found orphaned and alone, they are now undergoing rehabilitation with the hope of returning to their wild home where they belong.

We are seeking four dedicated Guardians to help sponsor their ongoing care, rehabilitation, and eventual release back into the wild.

 

Meet the Bushbabies:

🐾 Mickey – Once an illegal pet with a broken tail and a weathered soul. Though small and scruffy, he is deeply affectionate once he trusts you. Lives for crickets.

🐾 Minnie – Another victim of the illegal pet trade. Big-boned, cautious, and fiercely protective of the younger ones. She has a soft spot for Superworms (but not humans… which is perfect).

🐾 AJ – Wild at heart, AJ was surrendered after being kept rescued from danger and then kept as a pet. Fiercely independent and curious, bonded to Mickey. Crickets are not on the menu — worms only, please.

🐾 Baby – A wild orphan with a sharp mind and zero tolerance for humans. Bonded with Minnie. Adventurous, always the first to explore. Eats just about anything (even odd plants).

 

What Does Adoption Mean?

By adopting one of our bushbabies, you’ll be directly supporting:

• Specialised diet (including insects like crickets, superworms, native plant forage, supplements and acacia gum)

• Natural enclosure enrichment and habitat simulation

• Veterinary care, health monitoring, and all injury management

• Social bonding and behaviour preparation for wild reintegration

Your sponsorship gives them the strength, confidence, and wild instincts they need to survive in their natural environment. They deserve to be wild and free.

 

Adoption Details:

• Adoption Duration: +- 8 weeks (until release readiness)

• Adoption Fee: R1500 per bushbaby

• Recognition: Wildlife Guardians receive:

• A personalised digital adoption certificate, and a detailed fact sheet in a later email.

• Updates throughout the rehabilitation journey via emails, photos etc.

• Optional shoutout on our social media platforms

You may adopt as an individual, family, business, or school group - and yes, you’re welcome to adopt more than one!

 

Why Your Support Matters

Bushbabies are sensitive, intelligent, and highly social nocturnal animals. Those raised in captivity often become frustrated and start biting, lose their natural instincts and suffer trauma. With your help, these four survivors are getting a second chance -  not just at life, but at freedom.

Every adoption makes a real difference in ethical, compassionate wildlife rehabilitation.

Ready to Adopt?

To become a Wildlife Guardian or for more information, please contact:

Paul Roy Oxton: 072 478 1808

Carina Crayton (WhatsApp): 083 588 3550

Website: www.wildheartwildlifefoundation.org

Email: wildheartwf.info@gmail.com

Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation is a registered NPO and Section 18A(1)(a) PBO, operating a fully permitted Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre near Crecy, Naboomspruit, Limpopo Province, South Africa.

Let’s give Mickey, Minnie, AJ, and Baby the wild heart and free future they were born for.

#WHWF #WildHeart #BushbabyAdoption #RescueRehabRelease #NoMoreWildPets #WildAndFree #EthicalConservation #wildheartwildlifefoundation

ADOPT AN OWL - No adoptions available at the moment 🙁

Adopt a Barn Owl Chick – Become a Wildlife Guardian

Adopt a Barn Owl Chick – Become a Wildlife Guardian

Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation is offering a unique opportunity for compassionate individuals to become Wildlife Guardians to eight very special Barn Owl chicks currently in our care.

Rescued after being found abandoned or compromised, these eight chicks — named Sleepy, Angel, Snowflake, CJ, Heart, Pegasus, Blossom and Spirit — ranged in age from just 2 to 5 weeks old when they came in. They are healthy, growing rapidly, and showing a strong appetite. They are already transitioned to a diet of mice, chicks and other yummy, natural foods.

Angel & Pegasus are still available for adoption!

While they will remain under the professional care of our team at the Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation Rehabilitation Clinic, we are still seeking two dedicated Wildlife Guardians to sponsor their care during their entire rehabilitation journey.

What Does Adoption Mean?

By adopting one of our 2 remaining Barn Owl chicks, you’ll be directly supporting:
• Species-appropriate food and dietary enrichment
• Safe, quiet housing and enclosure development
• Regular health checks and veterinary care when needed.
• Flight training and natural behaviour development in preparation for release

Each adoption helps give these orphaned Owls a second chance at life in the wild where they belong.

Adoption Details
• Adoption Duration: Until they are ready for release
• Adoption Fee: $150(US) (+-ZAR 2500) per owl chick

Recognition: Wildlife Guardians will receive:
• A personalised digital adoption certificate
• Updates and photos during the rehabilitation process
• A special mention on our social media platforms (optional)

We are currently looking for two more Guardians – we already have one for each of six adopted chicks. You may also adopt as a family, school group, or business.

Why Your Support Matters:
Without their parents, these young Owls depend entirely on us. Your support ensures they grow strong, confident, and wild — ready to reclaim their rightful place in nature. Ethical conservation starts with compassion, and through adoption, you become a part of their journey from vulnerable fluff balls to independent nocturnal hunters.

Ready to Adopt?
To become a Wildlife Guardian or learn more, please contact:

Paul Roy Oxton: 072 478 1808
Carina Crayton (WhatsApp): 083 588 3550

Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation is a registered NPO and Section 18A(1)(a) PBO, operating a fully permitted Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre near Crecy, Naboomspruit, Limpopo Province, South Africa. We take in injured and orphaned indigenous wild animals with the goal to rehabilitate them for eventual release back into the wild.

Together, we can give Sleepy, Angel, Snowflake, CJ, Heart, Pegasus, Blossom and Spirit the wild and free future they deserve.
#WHWF #WildHeart #EthicalConservation #RescueRehabRelease #WildAndFree #wildheartwildlifefoundation

Heart – The Soft Explorer

Heart is sweet and steady, with a quiet spirit and a gaze that always seems to be searching the horizon. Not the first to the food bowl, and doesn’t compete yet simply waits for the moment to arrive, then gently steps forward. What sets this little one apart is the curiosity of the outside world, often found slightly away from the group, peeking at the trees and sky. There’s a dreamer inside this little owl, with a soft presence like a breeze through feathers. Heart is the heartbeat of calm in the chaos of the nest.

Spirit – The Feathered Whisper

Spirit is quiet, shy. Just two weeks old, Spirit prefers to hide near the older owlets, where one can disappear into softness and silence. This little one eats gently, listens carefully, and keeps distance, not out of fear, but caution. Spirit is still learning that this world, this place, and the Wild Hearts that are around create a safe haven. But every day, is a day a little closer to freedom. We believe that within this soft little fluffy feathery being is a bold owl waiting to emerge. Spirit may be small and arrived here all alone yet has a bright light glowing from within.

Sleepy – The Dreamer That’s Now Wide Awake

Sleepy got the name for a reason – in the beginning, this little one could hardly keep its eyes open between feeds. But those days are long gone! Now, one of the most alert little owlets in the group, with a healthy appetite and a newfound confidence. Sleepy doesn’t hesitate to step forward at mealtime. This fiercely protective owl is small but spirited, with a heart that’s learning how to be bold. Watching this little one wake up to the world has been pure magic.

 

Angel – The Soft-Spoken Sidekick

Angel is gentle, loyal, and always just a wing-length away from Pegasus. The bond they share is something special, and Angel seems to take on the role of keeping things tidy, especially when there’s food involved. With a calm presence and a thoughtful nature, often seen making sure no snack goes uneaten. There’s something angelic in the way this little one moves, soft and steady, with eyes full of wonder. Angel may be small, but is already showing signs of a wise soul, the kind of owl who makes the Owl world feel a little safer.

CJ – The Wonder-Wiggler

CJ is the little one who listens with the whole fluffy body. When a new sound stirs the air, CJ tilts the head, wiggles the downy belly, and steps closer with wide-eyed curiosity. Polite and patient, never pushy and always seems to be trying to understand the world around. CJ’s tiny movements are full of wonder, and the gentle approach has quickly made this little one a favourite among the carers. CJ reminds us of the quiet joy found in learning, and the bravery it takes to step forward even on the tiniest feet.

Pegasus – The Watchful

Pegasus is the eldest owlet in our care, and carries that title with quiet pride. Calm and reserved, this little one prefers to hang back, keeping a gentle watch over the younger ones like a feathery guardian. Not rushed to eat and takes time, choosing patience over fuss. Trust doesn’t come quickly for Pegasus, but when it does, it’s a gift. There’s wisdom already in these wide eyes, and a deep sense of protection in such a small, soft body. Pegasus reminds us that strength can be silent, and love can be shown simply by being near.

Snowflake – The Tiny Thunderclap

Snowflake is the smallest from the one nest, but you’d never guess that from this little ones attitude. This pint-sized powerhouse has a voice that could wake the whole bush and is not afraid to use it when food is on the line. Bold, cheeky, and absolutely unstoppable, Snowflake will chirp, pounce, and even swipe a snack right out from under a bigger owl’s beak. But behind all that sass is a wildly healthy, thriving baby owl with a huge appetite for life. Snowflake may be tiny, but this little one is all owl and a whole lot of noise!

Blossom – The Little Miracle

Blossom came to us as a tiny, ball of fluff – barely more than a whisper of feathers and hope. Too young to regulate her own warmth, she still snuggles into the backs of the bigger owlets, finding safety in their softness. But don’t be fooled this little one has a huge appetite and a will to grow that’s written into every little chirp. Watching Blossom feed is like watching a flame flicker to life. Blossom is from a different nest, but found a place here, a tiny miracle in motion and a future that will blossom.

ADOPTED OWLS

Sleepy and Blossom have been adopted by Lee and Bernice Nicholson - Thank you!

Heart has been adopted by Debbie Pahl - Thank You!

Spirit has been adopted by A E Roodt - Thank You!

CJ and Snowflake have been adopted by Rob Melville - Thank You!

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Takealot Details

Takealot Step-by-Step Details for Ordering

If you're the kind of person who would like to see what your money does, this is a great option for you! We've set up several Wish Lists on the Takealot platform, so you can see what appeals to you and have it sent to our door.

If you'd like to support us by directly purchasing something from our Takealot Wish List for delivery to our Rehab Gate, please follow these instructions. We've also tested this method with several of our supporters abroad, and it works extremely well! (Keep in mind that the exchange rate is around ZAR18 to USD1 at the moment, or ZAR22 = GBP1).

STEP 1. Click on the relevant wish list link, and 'heart' the items you are interested in.
Step 2. Create takealot account.
Step 3. Select item(s) from Wishlist(s), and place in shopping cart.
Step 4. Proceed to check-out.
Step 5. Click on Deliver my Order:

Step 6. Fill out the next screen as follows:
Step 7. It will ask for additional address details. Copy and paste this text into the search bar: 7R88+WF Kalfontein, South Africa

Step 8. You can now pay for your order via your chosen method. Remember that USD 1 = +- ZAR 18, so an item of ZAR 5000 will cost approximately USD 275. and so on.
Step 9. Please forward email with order confirmation to wildheartwf.info@gmail.com.
THANK YOU!

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Vanishing Giants – KNP Rhinos headed for Extinction

For years, Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation has been working to raise the awareness about the merciless slaughter of these Vanishing Giants, strengthening their protection, and caring for the survivors. Has it all been in vain? It certainly seems like it's over for the Rhinos in the Kruger National Park.
We are customizing an expensive hydraulic operating table for rescued Rhino Babies and you can help! Make a difference by supporting our 8th Annual Xmas Fundraiser for The Rhino Orphanage here:

 

Kruger National Park, the world’s greatest refuge for rhinos, is losing them to poaching faster than they’re being born. The park’s last Rhino may already be alive. It’s time to declare an emergency.

Under the heading Progress, the 2022 SANParks Annual Report has a deeply disturbing and immensely sad target claimed as a success: only 195 rhinos were killed by poachers during 2021 – an average of one every two days. The success, it seems, is that the previous year it was one rhino every 36 hours. 

In its reports and pronouncements, SANParks acknowledges poaching problems, but the overall tone is “don’t panic, we’ve got it under control”. They haven’t. Kruger is bleeding rhinos and is in need of sutures – fast. 

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) has disclosed that in the first six months of this year, 82 rhinos were killed in the park. If the trend continues, the year will end up with a kill rate equal to 2021.

The truth is that unless Kruger does something fast, Rhinos could go extinct in the park within four years. That’s far shorter than the lifespan of most rhinos in Kruger. 

Since 2009 – just 13 years – rhino numbers have dropped from 11,420 to 2,458 and this year they will continue to drop. During that time, the number of rhinos poached was double the existing population. 

The cumulative numbers are shocking. There’s a good chance that Kruger rhinos are on the way to becoming functionally extinct, as these graphs clearly show.

Where do the problems lie?

What will it take to bend the curve upwards away from zero? The answer can only come from understanding the reasons for the decline. 

SANParks will point to forces beyond their control – and they are considerable. 

Like a snake eating its own tail, the problem begins and ends with a seemingly insatiable appetite in Asia for rhino horn, which is seen as both a status symbol and cure for various ailments (it isn’t).

This has led to a situation where highly organised international crime syndicates supply weapons and logistics to local middlemen who induce impoverished young men in communities on both sides of the park to poach rhinos. 

The park is sandwiched between millions of mostly poor people – Mozambican and South African – with few prospects for employment. It’s fertile ground for poacher recruitment. 

Kruger Park also has unfenced borders with a parallel park in Mozambique, but rangers following poachers cannot cross the line.

In his book, Rhino War, written with Tony Park, General Johan Jooste – who was Kruger’s head ranger from 2013 to 2016 – was told by a ranger: “They laughed at us, General. As soon as they crossed the border they stopped and started waving at us, yelling insults. They know we cannot chase after them.”

These issues alone, however, cannot be the sole reason for the precipitous decline of rhinos. There are serious internal problems as well, mostly, says Jooste, to do with ability, capacity, integrity and vision.

Buffet’s cancellation

A retired military officer, Jooste was brought in as head ranger in 2013 as rhino poaching began escalating. Donations formed the backbone of his development strategy and with them he created a highly trained paramilitary force out of the ranger corps. He also brought in high-tech surveillance equipment. 

Jooste negotiated a R225-million anti-poaching grant from billionaire Howard Buffett, using it to create an efficient joint command centre to gather and coordinate intelligence against poachers. 

Then, in 2016, Buffett cancelled more than half of the grant, citing the absence of a reporting structure with clearly defined roles and lack of internal capacity for project management. Millions were wasted on internal inquiries into this loss.

The collapse of Intensive Protection Zones for rhinos – set up by Jooste during his tenure and funded by Buffett – started coming apart after his departure. They did so, he says, because Kruger and ranger leadership failed “to carry them through and find a way to make them work or come up with workable alternatives”.

It was an “abdication of duty and lack of courage”.

Buffett’s bequest had been received with great fanfare, but evidently not universally within SANParks’ executive ranks. 

A rhino after it is sedated on October 16, 2014 in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Photo by Gallo Images / Foto24 / Cornel van Heerden)

Buffett’s generosity was based on his personal regard for Jooste and, according to the book, Rhino War, this rankled with those who didn’t appreciate being beholden to a rich American who had made it clear that his largesse would only be in place as long as Jooste – the white ex-apartheid general – remained at the helm.


Integrity testing

Jooste resigned under circumstances he is not willing to discuss; details of which are largely absent from his book. He alludes to “problems”. The park clearly not only lost necessary funding, but a key strategist in the rhino war. One of the problems, it seems, was integrity testing.

“Members of Exco feel you’re acting outside your mandate in pursuit of corruption after integrity testing,” he was told. Integrity testing was the euphemism for the polygraph testing of Kruger staff. From the outset, Jooste had insisted on this intervention and was the first to subject himself to the process. 

Integrity testing was not popular, but Jooste felt it was necessary. 

Poachers were paying some rangers to locate rhinos and a few were even involved in actual poaching. These included Rodney Landela, who Jooste had promoted to regional ranger.

Unions were also opposed to polygraph testing and it was suspended during the Covid pandemic. SANParks has undertaken to renew it, but has as yet failed to do so. It is not known whether a proposal for integrity testing was finally submitted to the SANParks board in November.

In his book, Jooste says testing without steps being taken on the results is useless. While Kruger management knows that leaks on rhino locations are coming from staff, they seem to be dragging their heels on making integrity testing happen.

Ranger shortage

Kruger also has a ranger shortage. More than 80 posts were not filled this year despite a commitment to do so obtained by DA shadow minister David Bryant. 

They had not been filled for several years. SANParks explained the problem as a budget issue, despite millions being spent of anti-poaching initiatives. 

It is unclear and counterintuitive that these posts are not budgeted for and filled as a fundamental step in the poaching war. 

Strongholds

Beyond Kruger Park, rhino conservation is another story and is in an intensive planning stage. Although the park has the largest single population of black and white rhinos, around 60% of the national species are in private hands and many others are in national and provincial parks other than Kruger. 

According to SANParks’ Annual Report, strongholds beyond Kruger are being constructed, though it doesn’t say how advanced this is or quite how this programme will work. It’s clearly not in the interests of rhino safety to say where they are or will be. 

There will be pushback from conservationists. They point out that placing rhinos in private hands has led to the crisis of rhino farming for their horns, which keep “leaking” on to the black market. This fuels both Asian demand and poaching. There’s a fine line between conservation and commercialisation.

In Rhino War, Jooste writes of Kruger: “A decade into the rhino campaign, my overwhelming realisation is that we cannot afford another 10 years like this, even with our successes. We must avoid another ‘runaway train’ situation at all costs.”

If the statistics are anything to go by, that train without brakes has already left the Kruger Park station. DM/OBP

Republished with permission from Daily Maverick.

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Draft Policy on Lion, Leopard, Rhino and Elephant Released

BREAKING NEWS - Draft Policy on Iconic Species Management Released

The South African Government (Minister Barbara Creecy of the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment - DFFE) has released the Draft Policy Document for the Conservation and Management of Lion, Leopard, Rhino and Elephant. (Full PDF document available for Download here:  Iconic Species Management)
This Draft addresses the Government's critically important position on ending the Captive Breeding of Lions in South Africa, but also includes blanket proposals with regards to Wildlife Welfare, the hunting of Wild Leopards, the Captive breeding of Rhinos for Profit, as well as the export of the iconic (Big) 5 species for the purposes of captive displays.
The entire policy document has been compiled upon the recommendations of the recent findings of the HLP (High Level Panel) enquiry into these practices.
As an Organization, Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation supports, among others, the following aspects of the Policy:
1. The immediate ban on captive lion breeding, and the closure of these facilities.
2. The ban on the export of iconic species into a life of captivity.
3. Increased awareness and practical improvement of the welfare of all wildlife.
4. Focus on decreasing captive and unnatural breeding of all iconic species, including Rhino.
5. Measures to increasingly re-wild and naturalize areas to the benefit of all people living with wildlife, all citizens of South Africa, and all Wildlife contained within our borders.
6. The One Welfare approach (as encompassed in point 5).
Included in our formal response to this draft policy, #WHWF will include our concerns over the fate of the thousands of lions currently held in captive breeding facilities.
This document is open for public comment, and it is critically important that we submit as many comments as possible. Please comment by emailing your support or concerns through to:
Contact person: Dr Kiruben Naicker
Email: knaicker@environment.gov.za
Deadline: Tuesday 27th July 2021

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Duiker Rescue

Freedom for a Rescued Duiker

Illegal Wildlife Trade and Keeping - an injustice to our Wildlife:

The Illegal Wildlife Trade is carrying on right under our noses. In South Africa it is illegal to keep a wild animal without a permit. Especially in semi-urban areas (such as on small-holdings) it is becoming a real problem, because only a handful of these animals ever get the chance at freedom. Many plot (smallholding) owners think it is normal to have a wild animal like a Duiker, Tortoise or Meerkat as a pet. It normally results in tragedy for the animals, and is doing the greatest injustice to the Wild animals we are supposed to respect and protect. Dezzi was lucky. He got out.

Freedom is just beyond the crate!

*Dezzi was rescued from the illegal #WildlifeTrade on Social Media. He doesn't realize it yet, but his life is about to become magical - just like Nature intended. Read on for the story!
This is the unforgettable moment when we set #DezziTheDuiker free into his new #Wild #ForeverHome.

Releasing Dezzi The Duiker into his new forever free home ©Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation

#DezziTheDuiker, Rescued & Released back to the Wild.

Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation was called in to confiscate a 2-year old Duiker Ram that was illegally kept and advertised for sale on Social Media.
The Duiker had become aggressive - as so often happens when wild animals outgrow their 'cuteness'.
Two site visits later, and many hundreds of kilometers driven, we finally arrived at the site to complete the rescue. Dezzi was darted (sedated) before loading. Dr. Van Niekerk, our vet, also administered antibiotics and a booster shot.
A couple of health stops later, we arrived at his new home.
He was released in the first camp; to be released into the rest of the 1500ha reserve once he could find adequate food. At first, he was uncomfortable with the long veld grass against his flanks - he had only ever walked on mowed lawn. He seemed entranced by the smell of shrubs and dust, and the rocky outcrop underneath his tiny, perfect hooves. It was fascinating to watch him explore the veld inside the holding camp. We hope he'll choose his new lady love soon, from two female Duikers here.
Instinct is a strong force, though, and it was activated only a few minutes after he left the crate. He surveyed his new domain carefully, taking in the smells and the feelings, checking out the boundaries of his camp. Then he bounded over the long grass, testing out his little hooves and legs built for just that.
Two weeks after the release, we have the following update: "Dezzi has been released into the main Reserve. Dezzi is truly at home. No longer needing the supplementary feed left out for him, he only returns like a phantom, to patrol his domain. He only leaves spoor (tracks) now, and is loving his new life."

Watch the Video here:

Dezzi is free, finally.
Go well, Dezzi, live your life free and wild.
Thank you to our kind donors who made this rescue possible.
*In South Africa it is illegal to keep a wild animal without a permit. Don't be that person.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
If anyone is in a position to donate towards our continued mission to help wildlife in need, we would be sincerely grateful. We love to help animals whenever possible, but in order to continue our life-saving work, we need the support of the public.
There are several options for you to support us below:
❤ South Africans can also EFT here:
FNB / Cheque Account
Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation
Account number - 62518554101
Branch Code - 250-655
❤ All donations, no matter the amount, are desperately needed and will be greatly appreciated ❤
WHWF is a registered NPO Reg:147-339 and
Public Beneficiary Organisation Reg: 930051372

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Current Projects

CURRENT PROJECTS

CURRENT PROJECTS IN NEED OF YOUR SUPPORT

At Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation we keep our followers updated with the projects we are currently involved in. You can click on any of the projects below to read more. This section normally comprises of targeted projects for a specific purpose, but also ongoing Rescues and whatever else is needed to assist the Wildlife Most in Need. This is where you can help Wildlife, Right Now.
"There may be days when we can't help a Wild Animal in need, but the day will never come that we won't at least try to" ~#WHWF

Emergency Wildlife Rescue Fund

Emergency Wildlife Rescue Fund needs a Boost!   Our WHWF Emergency Wildlife Rescue Fund needs a Boost! The ability to be able to act quickly when confronted with a Wildlife Emergency, is invaluable. At Wild Heart Wildlife Foundation we have, over the past few years, successfully completed numerous Wildlife Rescues, often without having adequate resources. […]

SUPPORT & DONATE

Department of Social Development/Republic of South Africa. Registration No.: 147-339 NPO
SARS Public Beneficiary Organization Registration No : 930051372 PBO

Through BackaBuddy you can easily donate to our Project #Life4Lions to help #WHWF rescue and re-home lions. Payment methods for the BackaBuddy platform include Credit and certain Debit Cards, PayPal and Instant EFT.

"The Future of Wildlife is in our Hands"

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