The two females and two males, have been flown from the Dvur Králové Zoo in the Czech Republic to Ol Pejeta, Kenya.  The transfer is aimed at providing the rhinos with the most favourable breeding conditions in an attempt to pull the species back from the verge of extinction. It is thought that the climatic, dietary and security conditions that the rhinos will enjoy at Ol Pejeta will provide them with higher chances of starting a population in what is seen as the very last lifeline for the species.

The transfer marks the beginning of the "Last Chance to Survive", a project by the joint efforts of the Dvur Králové Zoo, Fauna and Flora International, Back to Africa, the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy, the Kenya Wildlife Service and the Ol Pejeta Conservancy.

Currently listed as the most critically endangered rhino subspecies and the most endangered mammal species in the world, the northern white rhinos used to range over parts of Uganda, Chad, Sudan, Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of Congo. By 1960 more than 2,000 northern white rhinos still existed, but excessive hunting for their horn, hide and meat has caused extreme depletion of their numbers.

Ol Pejeta, which is East Africa’s largest Black Rhino Sanctuary, has been assessed to be the best possible location for the northern white rhino's breeding project. Besides its proximity to the northern white rhino’s environmental stronghold, Ol Pejeta also offers well qualified and experienced staff to care for these species. The rhinos will be fitted with radio transmitters in their horns to optimise security and monitoring.

Among many other wonderful wildlife experiences our Kenya Safari – Wildlife Adventure includes a visit to the Ol Pejeta Conservancy, and there may also be an opportunity to see these extraordinary mammals.