THE SELOUS RHINO TRUST
Thirty years ago, it would have been extremely disappointing if you didn’t spot at least one magnificent black rhino whilst on safari in the Selous Game Reserve. Today, the picture could hardly be more different. The once strong and healthy population of 3,000 black rhino that roamed here during the 70s has been decimated to no more than a handful. Ten years ago Richard Bonham, and Bimb & Lizzy Theobald , the creators and inspiration behind Sand Rivers Selous, set up The Selous Rhino Trust. Their aim was to save what was rapidly becoming one of the world’s most endangered species, from becoming extinct in their beloved Selous
Lizzy became the voice for the Selous’ Rhino and was instrumental in building the project until her death in 1997. Her family have since taken on the mantel and have continued to develop the Trust which is a lasting testimony to her dedication. Sand Rivers Selous has been a committed supporter of The Rhino Trust since, during which time 16 rhino have been positively identified in the area.
As caretakers for this part of the Selous, we feel we have a responsibility to help protect and conserve what is here, and as a Lodge operating in the area we all dream that one day, as the population begins to regenerate, we will be able to add rhino to the list of experiences that the Selous is able to offer.
On the ground, The Selous Rhino Trust Project Manager/Technical Advisor is Fraser Smith, who has 28 years experience in protected area management and rhino conservation. Dr Kes Hillman Smith, is the Scientific Advisor, with 32 years rhino and elephant conservation and monitoring experience. The project works in close partnership with the Division of Wildlife of Tanzania, and all the Rhino Rangers are Wildlife Division employees.