The Last Two In the Wild: An Epic Tale of Survival and the Fight to Save the Northern White Rhino

LAST TWO in the WILD (Mosaic70Books)

by nancy vorkink machin

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2937 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	132 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

In the vast savannas of Africa, where nature reigns supreme, a tale of hope and heartbreak unfolds around the last two surviving members of a magnificent species: Sudan and Najin, the only remaining northern white rhinos on Earth. Their story is a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the urgent need to protect our planet's dwindling wildlife.

Sudan: A Gentle Giant

Sudan, a venerable bull, was born in 1973 and spent most of his early years in the wild in Sudan. In 2009, amid escalating violence and poaching, he was relocated to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya for his safety. Sudan became a symbol of resilience and hope for the preservation of his species.

Najin: A Determined Survivor

Najin, Sudan's daughter, was born in 1989. She lived a nomadic life with her family until the tragic loss of her mother and sibling to poachers. With Sudan, Najin embarked on a journey to find refuge and protection at Ol Pejeta.

The Ol Pejeta Conservancy: A Haven for Hope

Nestled in the foothills of Mount Kenya, the Ol Pejeta Conservancy is a sanctuary for endangered species. It is home to the last remaining northern white rhinos, meticulously guarded and cared for by a dedicated team of conservationists.

Facing Extinction

Northern white rhinos have faced a relentless decline due to rampant poaching for their horns, a highly coveted commodity in illegal wildlife trade. By the 1980s, their population had plummeted to near annihilation.

Desperate Measures

With the species on the brink of extinction, extraordinary measures were taken to preserve the northern white rhino's legacy. Assisted reproduction techniques, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) and surrogacy, became a glimmer of hope.

The Quest for a Surrogate

Finding a suitable surrogate to carry a northern white rhino embryo proved challenging. White rhinos and southern white rhinos, their closest relatives, were considered potential candidates. However, the complex physiological differences posed significant hurdles.

Unwavering Commitment

Despite the setbacks, the conservation community remained steadfast in their determination to save Sudan and Najin. They explored every avenue, collaborating with zoos, research institutions, and scientists worldwide.

A Glimpse of Hope

In 2019, a team of experts successfully collected eggs from both Najin and her daughter, Fatu. The eggs were fertilized with sperm from deceased northern white rhino males, raising hopes for the birth of a new generation.

Legacy Lives On

Even as Sudan passed away in 2018, his legacy continued to inspire conservation efforts. With only Najin and Fatu remaining, the urgency to preserve their valuable genetic material intensified.

Continued Challenges

The road ahead remains arduous. Assisted reproduction techniques have proven complex and demanding. The challenges facing the last two northern white rhinos are a stark reminder of the fragility of our ecosystem.

Call to Action

The story of Sudan and Najin is a clarion call for us all. It underscores the devastating consequences of poaching and the urgent need to protect endangered species. By supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that future generations have the opportunity to witness the magnificence of these majestic creatures.

As the sun sets on the African savanna, casting an ethereal glow upon Ol Pejeta Conservancy, the legacy of Sudan and Najin endures. Their story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of survival and the unwavering determination of those dedicated to preserving our planet's biodiversity. May their struggle inspire us all to cherish and protect the wonders of the natural world.

LAST TWO in the WILD (Mosaic70Books)

by nancy vorkink machin

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2937 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	132 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE