FreeMe update on the animals introduced to us over the past few weeks.
We introduced you to this Bushbuck recently and as can be seen from the attached photo - our little Bushbuck is doing well and growing. An interesting fact about these antelope is that the males are probably among the most feared by hunters. They back themselves into dense bush if hurt or cornered to protect their hind quarters and lie in ambush, darting out at any threat and doing terrific damage with their long, sharp horns. This is a little female which means that she is a much better candidate for successful rehabilitation and release then her male counterpart would be. She and Dinky, the duiker, have bonded really well and groom each other contentedly.
Unfortunately, the Secretary Bird did not make it. Our vet did a great job of cleaning the wing and we were very hopeful that it would make a full recovery, but obviously the infection from the wound had spread too far. After responding really well for a week, it started to lose ground. Thanks to the guys who sponsored the vet's bill. We really did have to try everything we could to save it.
Our four servals are growing fast and we are discussing possible releases and monitoring devices for them with a researcher from UKZN.
Other than that, we have had a rash of raptor rescues, as a lot of migrants return to the Midlands, and hungry after their flight back, they are inclined to hunt on the roads and high ways. Thanks to N3 Traffic Officials for helping Roz rescue one from the Centre Inland of the Highway just outside Howick. A mission not to undertaken lightly.
Thanks to all those who have made use of our donation sms line. Please continue to sms donate freeme to 48748 to donate your R 10.00, you cannot believe how much it is helping.
News and image kindly provided by FreeMe KZN