How did they save the rhino's eyesight in Zimbabwe?

Animal behaviorists used a novel eyedrop treatment plan, which involved coaxing the rhino into a confined space and desensitizing it to facial contact to administer daily medication.

What was the rhino's medical condition?

The rhino, named Thuza, suffered from a life-threatening, parasitic eye infection that caused bleeding and irritation.

Why was saving the rhino important for conservation?

Saving Thuza was critical because he was part of a pilot program reintroducing southern white rhinos, and a blind rhino would have jeopardized the entire initiative's future.

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Rhino's Sight Saved by Crazy Eyedrop Plan

18 Feb

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Summary

Animal behaviorists used a unique eyedrop method on an endangered rhino.
The rhino, named Thuza, had a severe parasitic eye infection.
The successful treatment protects the future of a vital conservation program.

Rhino's Sight Saved by Crazy Eyedrop Plan

An endangered white rhino in Zimbabwe, suffering from a severe parasitic eye infection, has been saved from potential blindness thanks to an unconventional treatment plan. Animal behaviorists from the Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society traveled to Africa in August to assist local conservationists with a male rhino named Thuza. The situation was critical, as a blind rhino would jeopardize a pilot program reintroducing southern white rhinos to communal lands.

The 'crazy' plan involved coaxing Thuza into a confined space and gradually desensitizing him to human touch and facial contact. Within two weeks, Thuza was receiving eyedrops directly into his eyes while tolerating the procedure. This novel approach, developed from lessons learned at the Palm Beach Zoo, was successfully transferred to the anti-poacher scouts.

The conservation status of southern white rhinos is listed as near threatened, with poaching and habitat loss posing ongoing dangers. This successful treatment ensures Thuza continues to receive daily medication, significantly improving his health and bolstering confidence in the conservation initiative's future. The rhinos are now thriving, and their eyes are protected.

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