By Arnold Tutu
The Ministry of Tourism has directed the relocation of a white rhino bull from Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park in Livingstone following escalating territorial conflicts that have raised safety and conservation concerns.
In a statement issued in Lusaka today, the Ministry of Tourism Public Relations Unit said the park currently hosts ten white rhinoceroses, comprising two adult males and eight females.
The statement said the presence of two mature bulls within the small population has led to frequent aggressive encounters as the animals compete for dominance.
According to the Public Relations Unit, one of the bulls has repeatedly been displaced during these clashes and has, on several occasions, moved beyond the park boundaries, posing a risk to both the animal and surrounding communities.
The statement explained that accepted wildlife management practice for white rhinos requires a ratio of one adult bull to about fourteen cows. With only eight females at the park, the presence of two breeding bulls has contributed to increased aggression and instability within the herd.
The Ministry said the affected bull will be transferred to a secure, rhino-proof holding facility to reduce the risk of serious injury or death resulting from continued fighting. The move is also intended to protect communities living near the park.
The rhino will be temporarily housed at a private wildlife estate under strict security provided by armed Department of National Parks and Wildlife officers, while a suitable permanent location is identified.
The statement added that the animal will be dehorned at the time of capture and fitted with a radio collar to allow close monitoring and rapid response should it attempt to escape from its new enclosure.
The Ministry of Tourism Public Relations Unit said the move forms part of ongoing efforts to ensure responsible wildlife management, protect public safety and support sustainable breeding of the species within the park.
