Conservation

In 1997, the decision was made to reintroduce buffalo, sable and roan antelope to roam freely on the reserve. The reason for reintroducing these species on the reserve, was to begin the process of restoring balance and ecology to what once were agricultural lands. At a later stage other endemic species were reintroduced on the reserve such as rhino, giraffe, zebra, kudu and many other species.

Since 2007, an increase of over 9,000% in rhino poaching across Southern Africa, has greatly influenced the conservation of rhino. Zingela suffered a great loss of rhino to the poaching epidemic and thus, after multitudes of anti-poaching efforts, a decision was made to preserve the last remaining rhinos by transferring them to a wildlife sanctuary in Botswana.

Zingela is dedicated to establishing a world-class sanctuary for rare and endangered species of South Africa. The long term goal is to re-introduce elephants and lions, as well as relocating wild dogs to the reserve. Zingela is committed to the conservation of species endemic to the Limpopo Valley and will be expanding the reserve to form a corridor to the Limpopo River in the north.

Conservation is a huge part of Zingela and we encourage the public to partake in our conservation efforts by donating towards our various projects. Regular updates of progress on our conservation projects will be posted on social media platforms to ensure that donors are involved, every step of the way.

Introduction: What do we offer volunteers on the reserve? What accommodation will they be staying in, what will they encounter during their time at ZNR as a volunteer. What type of meals will they be provided with? Why should they choose ZNR are their volunteering destination?

Mention students that gain their practical year’s experience at ZNR – when did we begin with the student program and what are we able to offer students that do their practical year at ZNR.

Zingela community projects: – should we leave this out?

Bird Point Count Project: Mention of projects that volunteers will be involved with (hands-on approach to teaching about the importance of ecological practices on a Nature Reserve)

Water Hole Monitoring Project:
Camera Trap Project:
Game Breeding Project:
Habitat Assessment Project:

Closing statement and last encouragement for why they should join ZNR’s volunteering program as well as a contact us link needs to be available for the volunteers / students