You might also like:
Founder’s Lodge by Mantis has adopted Munu, one of only around 250 severely endangered Southwestern Black rhino.
Munu was blinded in a territorial battle. Since the incident, SANParks has kept Munu in an enclosure, with The White Lion Foundation helping to create a replica of the enclosure at Founder’s Lodge by Mantis. Munu was moved to his new enclosure on August 5.
“Founders Lodge by Mantis thanks The White Lion Foundation for financing the enclosure for Munu the Rhino. We are very proud to adopt Munu, and thank SANParks for the support they have provided during the move and transportation. Munu will have round-the-clock security and care at Founder’s Lodge. We hope to introduce a mate soon so that we can see offspring of this endangered species,” said Adrian Gardiner, Executive Chairman of Mantis Collection, and owner of Founder’s Lodge by Mantis.
According to a statement from Mantis, the care taken to create a replica enclosure paid off. When Munu arrived at Founder’s he went directly to the water source, showing that he knew where everything was. Munu’s private security team also let him out to explore the natural bush around his enclosure, his first natural forage in eight months. According to the statement, when Munu realised that the bushes were alive, he ate for 13 straight hours.
“Munu’s contribution to the preservation of his species, research, and conservation education will be an important part of the Eco-Innovation Hub that Mantis will launch at Founder’s Lodge in 2020. The quality of life Munu has now will ensure that he will live for many more years,” the statement says.
Rhino expert and TWLF Director Brett Barlow, describes Munu’s friendly character: “Munu communicates with his carers by a series of high-pitched squeaks. His favourite food is called Noorsdoring (Euphorbia Coerulescens), a thorny succulent that is poisonous to most animals. This is the Black rhino equivalent of chocolate.”
Source: tourismupdate.co.za