Dehorning Programme

Project Overview

In 2017, Project Rhino launched the Rhino Dehorning Programme following urgent requests from our member reserves facing relentless poaching threats.  Our goal is to support the dehorning of approximately 200 rhinos each year across KwaZulu-Natal. Although dehorning alone cannot make rhinos completely immune to poaching, it has significantly reduced losses and, in many areas, successfully shifted poachers away from treated populations.

Project Purpose

To reduce the risk of rhino poaching by safely and humanely removing rhino horns under veterinary supervision, giving KwaZulu-Natal’s rhino populations a stronger chance of survival. GPS collars may also be fitted, helping reserves monitor their rhino movements.

How It Works

  • Led by individual reserves: Dehorning operations are managed by member reserves, with Project Rhino providing fundraising support wherever possible.
  • Tracking and sedation: Rhinos are typically located from the air and darted by a qualified wildlife veterinarian. A helicopter guides the animal safely away from hazards and ensures it is not lost after being darted.
  • Strict animal welfare protocols: Every precaution is taken to minimise stress and risk to the rhino. A veterinarian carefully monitors the animal throughout the procedure, while ground teams remain on standby to ensure its safety during and after dehorning.
  • Costs and resources: Dehorning is a costly operation, with expenses including helicopter support, veterinary fees, sedation drugs, and conservation teams on the ground. Costs can be reduced when multiple rhinos are dehorned in a single day.
  • Temporary measure: A short-term solution as rhino horns will grow back, provided they have been carefully removed. Dehornings should therefore be repeated every second year or so.
  • 100% funding-dependent: Dehorning can only take place when sufficient resources are secured, making ongoing donations and sponsorships critical to keeping rhinos safe.

How You Can Help

Dehorning remains a critical lifeline for KwaZulu-Natal’s rhino populations and is helping buy time in the ongoing fight to save this iconic species from extinction.

  • 🌍 Donate or fundraise for the cause: Support Our Work – Project Rhino
  • 🤝 Corporate involvement: Sponsor and, where possible, attend a dehorning — an unforgettable opportunity to make a direct impact on rhino conservation (subject to availability and strict security terms & conditions)
  • 📢 Spread the word: Follow Project Rhino on social media and share our posts to raise awareness about rhino conservation. Every like and share helps us reach new supporters.

More info: You can find out more from this short informational video