7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Kruger National Park South Africa White and Black Rhino Haven

Kruger National Park, a cornerstone of South African wildlife, has historically played a vital role in protecting both white and black rhinos. However, the park is struggling to maintain its position as a rhino haven. The white rhino population has suffered a dramatic decrease, falling by 75% since 2011, with estimates placing the current population at roughly 2,607 animals in 2022. Black rhinos have also faced a considerable decline, losing approximately 51% since 2013, leaving only around 202 individuals in the park as of 2022. Although there have been some signs of a slight recovery in the black rhino population, the overall trajectory for both species is still alarming due to persistent poaching. The concerning increase in rhino poaching throughout South Africa, with a 51% jump in 2022 alone, highlights the severity of the situation. Even though Kruger has a vast area, covering almost 2 million hectares, and could potentially support many more black rhinos, the poaching crisis severely hinders efforts towards rhino population growth. While it's commendable that the poaching rate decreased in 2018, the problem unfortunately remains a major conservation threat. The focus of poaching seems to have recently shifted from Kruger to KwaZulu-Natal, but that does not alleviate the threat facing rhinos in Kruger. Without intensified measures to combat poaching and secure the future of these endangered species, the long-term prospects for Kruger as a rhino sanctuary may be in jeopardy.

Kruger National Park, a vast expanse of nearly 2 million hectares in South Africa, has historically been a refuge for both white and black rhinos. However, recent years have shown a worrying trend of declining rhino numbers, particularly due to relentless poaching.

Data from 2022 paints a grim picture. The white rhino population, once boasting over 10,000 individuals in 2011, plummeted by roughly 75% to just over 2,600. Similarly, the black rhino population faced a decline of approximately 51% since 2013, leaving an estimated 200 individuals in the park that year. Interestingly, a subsequent survey in 2022 indicated a slight increase in white rhino numbers to 2,850 and 208 for black rhinos. The overall trend, though, remains disheartening.

While the overall population trend is concerning, it's worth noting that Kruger historically played a key role in the southern white rhino's resurgence, contributing to a significant population increase from just over 100 to over 18,000. Yet, the pressures from poaching continue, with South Africa experiencing a 51% increase in rhino poaching incidents in 2022. This trend, unfortunately, has also seen a shift in poaching hotspots from Kruger to other areas like KwaZulu-Natal in 2024.

Looking back further, in 1997, the estimated black rhino population in Africa was around 2,600, with a substantial portion inhabiting South Africa and Namibia. It is fascinating to note that in 2018, South Africa did see a reduction in poached rhino numbers to 769, falling below 1,000 for the first time in years. However, this decline is still deemed unsustainable.

With Kruger having the potential to support a significant increase in black rhino populations by roughly 2,500, it's crucial to address the underlying pressures causing this decline. It highlights the precarious nature of conservation even in such a vast and protected park, posing a significant challenge to ongoing efforts to safeguard these incredible creatures.

The park's capacity to support both species offers researchers and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to study both rhinos’ interactions and ecological niches. These studies can provide valuable insights for effective conservation strategies, but unfortunately, the threat of poaching continues to challenge this vital work.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Kruger National Park South Africa White and Black Rhino Haven
2. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Kenya Black Rhino Stronghold
3. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Matobo National Park Zimbabwe Rhino Recovery Success
4. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Etosha National Park Namibia White Rhino Viewing Spot
5. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania Black Rhino Observation Site
6. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Lake Nakuru National Park Kenya First Rhino Sanctuary
7. 7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Ol Pejeta Conservancy Kenya Last Northern White Rhinos

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Lewa Wildlife Conservancy Kenya Black Rhino Stronghold

Nestled within Kenya's Meru County, Lewa Wildlife Conservancy has become a vital sanctuary for black rhinos, covering a vast 62,000 acres. Since its conversion from a cattle ranch in 1995, the conservancy has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has played a critical role in safeguarding black rhinos. Currently, it shelters a remarkable 12% of Kenya's entire rhino population, highlighting its importance in the country's conservation efforts.

Lewa's commitment to rhino conservation has led to a strategic partnership with the Borana Conservancy. This alliance has effectively merged their territories, creating a contiguous expanse of 93,000 acres that provides a much-needed extended habitat for black rhinos. This move is a testament to the ongoing dedication towards protecting these animals and preserving their natural environment.

Kenya's black rhino population has displayed a promising upward trend. Their numbers have increased substantially since 1984, from a mere 240 to approximately 966 today. This growth, in part, can be attributed to the diligent efforts of Lewa and other conservation initiatives. However, ongoing challenges remain, and Lewa's commitment to wildlife corridors is a critical component in their approach. The conservancy's endeavors to reintroduce other vulnerable species, like the mountain bongo, demonstrate the broader biodiversity conservation goals that are at the heart of their operation.

While threats to black rhinos and other species remain a persistent concern, Lewa is a shining example of effective wildlife management and habitat protection in Kenya. The conservancy's dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the fragility of certain species and the crucial need for proactive efforts to secure their future.

Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, sprawling across 62,000 acres in Kenya's Meru County, is a remarkable example of successful wildlife conservation. It's a testament to the power of transformation, having transitioned from a cattle ranch in 1995 into a vital wildlife sanctuary. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's particularly notable as a stronghold for black rhinos.

One of the most impactful strategies implemented at Lewa has been the partnership with the Borana Conservancy. This collaboration expanded the available habitat by merging their territories, resulting in a combined 93,000 acres—a significant expanse dedicated to rhino conservation. This initiative highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in bolstering the survival of these endangered creatures. Currently, Lewa shelters around 12% of Kenya's entire rhino population, demonstrating its central role in securing their future.

Kenya's black rhino population has experienced a remarkable turnaround, increasing from a meager 240 in 1984 to an estimated 966 in 2024. This remarkable recovery positions Kenya as the third largest rhino population in all of Africa. This success story is partly attributed to projects such as the Rhino Sanctuary in Meru National Park, which provides habitat for about 25 black rhinos (along with other species). Interestingly, rhinos from Lake Nakuru were brought in to repopulate the area, further demonstrating that translocations can be effective tools for bolstering populations in suitable areas.

The conservation efforts extend beyond Lewa itself. The Kenya Wildlife Service, along with numerous partners, has managed to reintroduce 21 Eastern black rhinos into Loisaba Conservancy. The continued growth of black rhino numbers demonstrates that well-funded and well-managed initiatives can have a large impact on the fate of these species.

Lewa plays a critical role in maintaining wildlife corridors in northern Kenya, which are essential for the healthy migration patterns of not just black rhinos but other iconic species such as Grevy's zebras. Understanding how and why rhinos (and other species) move about the landscape is crucial to future conservation work, which is becoming increasingly important as anthropogenic development intrudes upon traditional migration routes.

Currently, Lewa is engaged in a project to reintroduce mountain bongo, a rare antelope, in collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service and Meru County Government. The project has the potential to help the population recover by providing a protected habitat to increase population size and ensure genetic diversity.

Finally, the removal of the physical barrier between Lewa and Borana conservancies is a significant step towards creating a vast contiguous sanctuary for Kenya's black rhinos. This will benefit rhino conservation as it allows animals to range more freely in the combined territories. Increased habitat connectivity allows for better genetic diversity and reduces chances of inbreeding depression. It is one of the best examples of large-scale habitat connectivity to enhance the chances of survival of endangered species in the landscape.

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Matobo National Park Zimbabwe Rhino Recovery Success

Matobo National Park, nestled in southwestern Zimbabwe, is a remarkable location for rhino conservation, housing both black and white rhinoceros amidst its distinctive granite hills. This park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has faced a difficult struggle due to rhino poaching, especially endangering the black rhino. Thankfully, organizations like the Dambari Wildlife Trust have stepped up their conservation efforts, resulting in strengthened protective measures, including designating Matobo as an Intensive Protection Zone for both rhino species. Visitors interested in wildlife encounters can embark on rhino trekking, getting up close and personal with these magnificent creatures in a relatively uncrowded setting. Matobo National Park is thus not only a haven for wildlife lovers but also a crucial site in the ongoing recovery efforts of rhino populations across Africa, showing the potential for success in the face of challenges.

Matobo National Park, situated in southwestern Zimbabwe, encompasses approximately 424 square kilometers and is renowned for its distinctive geological formations, notably the Matobo Hills sculpted by eroding granite. Zimbabwe, globally the fourth-largest habitat for black rhinos, boasts both black and white rhino populations within Matobo National Park.

However, the park has faced serious challenges, particularly from rhino poaching, which has jeopardized the survival of the endangered black rhino. Organizations like the Dambari Wildlife Trust have been diligently working on rhino conservation in Zimbabwe for more than a decade, reporting increasing rhino poaching cases in the Matobo National Park.

Despite the threats, Matobo is designated an Intensive Protection Zone for both white and black rhinos, strengthening conservation initiatives. Furthermore, its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Cultural Site underscores its diverse wildlife and historical significance. It's notable for having the oldest rock art in the world, ancient bushman paintings dating back millennia.

The park is a diverse ecosystem hosting over 175 bird species, 88 mammal species, 39 snake species, and 16 fish species. Tourists can participate in rhino trekking experiences, walking among these majestic animals in a relatively secluded setting.

It's interesting to note that Matobo's white rhino population was reintroduced from KwaZulu-Natal in the 1960s, while black rhinos were brought back from the Zambezi Valley in the 1990s. The successful recovery of the rhino population is evident in their growth and stable population. It suggests that given the right management and conservation strategies, these animals can successfully return to former territories. Even though the park's environment and capacity could theoretically allow for a substantially larger rhino population, poaching remains a persistent obstacle that hinders efforts to truly reach the park's full potential.

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Etosha National Park Namibia White Rhino Viewing Spot

Etosha National Park in Namibia stands out as a popular destination for anyone eager to see wildlife, especially white rhinos. This park covers a substantial area, about 22,270 square kilometers, and revolves around the large Etosha Pan. It's a key location for conserving both white and black rhinos. White rhinos have been successfully reintroduced, further solidifying its importance for rhino protection. One of the best places to see wildlife, especially during the dry season, is the Okaukuejo waterhole, where many animals, including rhinos, gather to drink. Viewing these animals at night, under floodlights, adds a special touch to the experience. Yet, it's crucial for travelers to be conscious of sharing pictures of endangered animals online. Doing so can unfortunately make them a target for poachers, which could threaten the wildlife these visitors are there to appreciate. While Etosha is a great spot for wildlife observation due to its unique desert setting and varied animal population, including other species like giraffes, cheetahs and a rare black-faced impala, there are issues that need to be considered during a visit to the park.

Etosha National Park, located in Namibia's Kunene region, is a vast expanse of about 22,270 square kilometers centered around the prominent Etosha Pan. It's one of Africa's early conservation efforts, established in 1907, and is known for its diverse wildlife, including the "Big 5," which are a focus for many tourists. While black rhinos are a notable draw due to their endangered status, white rhinos have been successfully reintroduced to the park, further solidifying its importance for rhino conservation.

The expansive salt pan, "Etosha" which translates to "Great White Place," plays a crucial role in attracting animals during dry periods, especially at waterholes like Okaukuejo, a prime spot for wildlife viewing, particularly at night with floodlights. The park's stark landscape, featuring salt pans and other diverse habitats, supports an array of wildlife including giraffes, cheetahs, and the unusual black-faced impala.

It's interesting to note the white rhino's population dynamics in Etosha, as it seems to be doing better than in other parts of Africa. Researchers use advanced tracking tools to monitor their movements, contributing to understanding rhino behavior in a natural setting. These insights can help shape the best conservation methods. Observing their natural habits, like mud wallowing to protect from sunburn, gives a fascinating perspective on the species' adaptations to its environment.

The presence of rhinos and other species within this unique desert environment attracts a significant number of tourists. This tourism is a key source of revenue and a large contributor to the ongoing preservation of the park, including rhino protection initiatives.

White rhinos are a fascinating study in behavioral adaptation. Unlike some other populations, they tend to stay in a relatively fixed area and have adapted their food-finding patterns to suit seasonal changes in the vegetation. They rely on the limited waterholes, making them relatively predictable targets for observing them in their natural habitat. These behaviors and adaptive strategies offer a chance to understand how wildlife can thrive in changing conditions. There is an ongoing concern about how the limited water resources can be managed during periods of changing weather patterns. Also, the park management team should remind tourists about the detrimental effect of sharing images on social media since this information could inadvertently lure in poachers. Overall, Etosha National Park, with its accessible and thriving white rhino population, provides a valuable and unique research and tourist destination and is a good example of how a natural environment can be conserved with a little help from dedicated park staff, smart planning and local economic factors.

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania Black Rhino Observation Site

Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site situated in Tanzania, presents a unique opportunity to witness black rhinos in their natural environment. Encompassing a massive 264 square kilometers, it's the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, a testament to Earth's geological forces. This natural wonder shelters a remarkable array of wildlife, with over 30,000 animals, including the elusive black rhino, making it a haven for wildlife observers. The crater floor is home to various habitats, like grasslands, woodlands, and even a seasonal lake, fostering a rich biodiversity that supports a healthy population of these magnificent animals. While luxury lodges, like the Ngorongoro Rhino Lodge, offer visitors comfortable access to the crater's rim and the chance to experience the breathtaking scenery and wildlife, it's crucial to remember that the crater's ecosystem faces ongoing threats. Unfortunately, the rising threat of poaching and the ongoing challenges of protecting the natural habitat present a constant worry. So, while visiting the crater offers a tremendous wildlife encounter, it's also important to realize that the park's dedicated conservation efforts are vital for the survival of the rhino population.

### Ngorongoro Crater Tanzania Black Rhino Observation Site

The Ngorongoro Crater, located about 180 kilometers west of Arusha City in Tanzania, is a truly unique environment. It's the world's largest intact volcanic caldera, a massive depression formed by a past eruption, spanning 264 square kilometers. The crater walls tower over 610 meters above the crater floor, containing a remarkably diverse ecosystem within its roughly 19-kilometer diameter. This enclosed environment makes it a hotspot for wildlife observation, especially the "Big Five," including the elusive black rhino.

While the crater supports a rich variety of habitats, from forests to grasslands and wetlands, its black rhino population has a fascinating and challenging history. Estimates suggest that in the 1970s, there were roughly 1,000 black rhinos within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Poaching and habitat degradation caused a severe decline, dropping the population to fewer than 100 by the early 2000s. However, dedicated conservation efforts have resulted in a slow but steady increase, reaching around 60 individuals in more recent times. This modest recovery is a testament to conservation interventions, but the relatively small population highlights the difficulties in establishing a long-term viable black rhino population in a contained environment.

The crater's compact nature provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors often spot rhinos from roadsides, offering an intimate viewing experience compared to larger parks where animals are more dispersed. However, this unique habitat also presents some intriguing facets to study. Rhinos within Ngorongoro have adapted their behavior to minimize risks from poachers. Their feeding habits and activity patterns have shifted towards nighttime, a clear adaptation to reduce human contact. Furthermore, the area's wildlife diversity, including other threatened species like wild dogs and a shifting population of lions, creates a complex web of ecological interactions within the confines of the crater. This makes Ngorongoro a fascinating site for examining predator-prey dynamics in a closed ecosystem.

Eco-tourism plays a major role in sustaining Ngorongoro's conservation efforts. It provides a crucial source of income that helps fund conservation initiatives. Yet, this tourism also poses a challenge. The increase in visitors means careful management is crucial to minimize the impact of human activity on the rhino population. Perhaps the most concerning challenge to the long-term viability of the Ngorongoro black rhinos is the restricted gene pool within the crater. Maintaining genetic diversity is essential for the population's health and resilience to diseases and environmental changes. Researchers are closely monitoring the population's genetics and health to address these vulnerabilities.

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area also serves as a powerful educational tool. Visitors can learn about the area's history, the challenges faced by black rhinos, and the critical need for effective conservation actions. The current focus on researching how these rhinos adapt to the crater's varied weather patterns is vital for understanding how they may cope with a changing climate. This research provides insights into how we can safeguard this valuable ecosystem for future generations.

Overall, the Ngorongoro Crater provides a glimpse into the ongoing struggle to balance human activity and conservation. While it offers a rare opportunity to witness black rhinos in their natural environment, it also serves as a reminder of the fragility of these magnificent creatures and the critical role of both research and effective conservation management.

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Lake Nakuru National Park Kenya First Rhino Sanctuary

Lake Nakuru National Park, designated a national park in 1968, holds a significant place in Kenyan wildlife conservation. It achieved early recognition as a conservation area in 1957 and a bird sanctuary in 1961, foreshadowing its important role in protecting biodiversity. In 1987, it became Kenya's first rhino sanctuary in partnership with the Rhino Rescue Charitable Appeal Trust.

The sanctuary's journey began with a small population of two rhinos already present within the park. This number significantly increased with the addition of 17 rhinos from a nearby Solio ranch at its official opening and later another 11, significantly boosting the local rhino population. Today, the sanctuary provides a haven for over 150 rhinos, primarily white rhinos, with a smaller population of black rhinos. It's widely acknowledged as one of Kenya's best spots to observe both white and black rhinos in the wild.

Lake Nakuru's diverse ecosystem, featuring a combination of bushy and wooded meadows, is enhanced by the presence of the euphorbia candelabrum forest, which contributes to the rhino sanctuary's suitability. Aside from its successful rhino sanctuary, the park is also a vital habitat for Rothschild's giraffes, a critically endangered species. This makes Lake Nakuru a double boon for conservation, protecting both rhinos and a rare giraffe population within the park's 188 square kilometer (73 square mile) expanse. In addition to these iconic species, it supports a wide range of wildlife, including four of the famed "Big Five" animals. Overall, the park has become a prime destination for those seeking to witness and appreciate the splendor of Kenya's biodiversity, particularly the rhino population.

**Lake Nakuru National Park: Kenya's First Rhino Sanctuary**


Lake Nakuru National Park, established in 1968, has a long history of conservation, having been recognized as a protected area as early as 1957 and a bird sanctuary by 1961. It's notable as Kenya's first official rhino sanctuary, a designation that came about through a partnership with the Rhino Rescue Charitable Appeal Trust in 1987. This early focus on rhino conservation is a testament to how quickly the importance of protecting rhinos from extinction became clear in the region.

The sanctuary began with just two rhinos already present in the park, but it was rapidly expanded. Initially, 17 white rhinos were relocated from a private ranch in Solio at its opening. Later, an additional 11 rhinos were added to the population, highlighting the early use of translocation as a strategy for population growth. Today, the sanctuary houses over 150 rhinos, mainly white, with a smaller group of black rhinos, representing a significant success story for conservation. This growth demonstrates that with focused and well-planned conservation, rhino populations can be rebuilt and thrive even in areas with human development.

Lake Nakuru is known as a prime location for rhino viewing, thanks to the combination of its existing population and the presence of both black and white rhino subspecies, making it a magnet for wildlife enthusiasts and researchers. The area itself offers diverse habitat—woody meadows, along with the distinctive euphorbia candelabrum forest, provide a varied environment and food sources that is well-suited to both white and black rhinos.

Beyond the rhinos, the park is known for having four of the "Big Five" as well as an extraordinary concentration of birdlife, making it a diverse ecosystem. The park's relatively small size of 188 square kilometers (73 square miles) allows visitors to observe a significant variety of species in a relatively short period of time. This makes it well-suited for visitors with less time available for safaris.


The park's success is not without its challenges. Like many African parks, it faces threats of poaching, which continues to be a concern for park managers and conservationists. There is constant need for research on the impact of poaching on rhino numbers to optimize and enhance current counter-poaching measures. However, efforts have been made to address this threat and work together with local populations to ensure the park's long-term success and economic contribution to local economies through tourism.


The presence of Rothschild's giraffes, an endangered subspecies, also adds to Lake Nakuru's appeal. This unique giraffe is an important part of the park's biodiversity and highlights the importance of this park for conserving animals whose survival is threatened in other parts of their range. It is clear that the park managers recognize the importance of a wide range of animals and work diligently to protect the entire ecosystem.

Lake Nakuru has certainly lived up to its early promise as a dedicated rhino conservation site. While conservation challenges persist, this success story demonstrates how thoughtful and targeted management can lead to population growth of endangered species, showcasing a compelling model for conservation efforts in other regions of the continent.

7 Top Rhino Conservation Sites to Visit in Africa and Asia - Ol Pejeta Conservancy Kenya Last Northern White Rhinos

Located in Kenya's vast landscapes, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy holds a somber significance as the last refuge of the northern white rhino. Najin and Fatu, the two remaining females, represent the tragic end of a subspecies due to their inability to naturally reproduce and the death of the last male, Sudan, in 2018. Despite the conservancy's attempts to use modern techniques, like in-vitro fertilization, to secure the future of this rhino lineage, the subspecies is functionally extinct. The challenges faced, particularly poaching and habitat degradation, underscore the precariousness of protecting vulnerable species. While Ol Pejeta's focus is on the last northern white rhinos, it is also a sanctuary for a significant number of critically endangered black rhinos (over 165). The conservancy places considerable emphasis on advanced monitoring systems to protect all its wildlife. This unique environment, with its intertwined history of both success and failure in wildlife conservation, makes it a crucial destination for wildlife observers and those concerned about the delicate relationship between people and nature. It emphasizes the necessity of persistent vigilance and consistent support for initiatives focused on wildlife preservation.

Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya holds a somber distinction: it's the last refuge for the northern white rhino. Only two females, Najin and Fatu, remain, representing the end of a species that once roamed across parts of Africa. Their limited genetic diversity means any future chance of bringing back this subspecies will necessitate sophisticated reproductive methods.

Scientists have embarked on an ambitious project using techniques like IVF and stem cell research in an attempt to reverse the northern white rhino's decline. A breakthrough came in 2019 when a successful IVF procedure used a northern white rhino egg, demonstrating a progressive approach to conservation that could potentially bring new hope to the species.

The security around these remaining rhinos is extremely high. Ol Pejeta utilizes cutting-edge technology and an armed anti-poaching team to confront the constant threat of poaching. This problem is fueled by the illegal trade in rhino horns.

The plight of the remaining northern white rhinos has become a powerful call to action across the world. Awareness campaigns use social media and other methods to raise support and funds for conservation efforts. Their aim is to address the bigger picture of wildlife trafficking and conservation.

Ol Pejeta has educational programs that help visitors understand poaching’s impact and the broader need to preserve biodiversity. This encourages a sense of responsibility for wildlife conservation and can turn tourists into advocates against the poaching threat.

The conservancy’s ecosystem is diverse, which is important for its conservation role. Besides its desperate fight to save the last northern white rhinos, Ol Pejeta also supports the black rhino, lions, and even chimpanzees.

Ol Pejeta makes use of innovative tourism practices, such as night safaris and guided nature walks, to provide memorable experiences while also securing necessary funds for conservation. This approach directly supports the protection of rhinos and other animals.

There's a large network of international partners supporting Ol Pejeta's conservation efforts. This collaboration produces a synergistic approach by sharing both the workload and expertise for dealing with complex conservation challenges.

The researchers at Ol Pejeta are very focused on climate change and how it's changing rhino habitats. It's essential to anticipate the impact of climate changes and to adapt their practices to minimize harm to the overall environment.

Even though the focus is on the last northern white rhinos, Ol Pejeta has also had successes in rehabilitating black rhinos. Over 40 of these rhinos have been released back into the wild, which shows that there is still a chance for the species to recover, if the circumstances are right. This, in turn, offers a glimmer of hope that efforts to fight animal extinction can be successful.