Black Rhinoceros
Diceros bicornis bicornis
- Critically Endangered -
There are about 3600 surviving black rhinos The population crashed from 1970 to 1990 of about 65000 individuals to 2300. The major threat to the species is poaching.
A male black rhino can weigh up to 1400kg. Females have their first calves at around 6 years old and give birth every 2-5 years thereafter. Animals can live up to 50 years. Kuzikus holds nine black rhinos as part of the Custodian rhino re-introduction programme in Namibia.
Lappet-faced vulture Togus tracheliotus - Vulnerable -
Only a small, declining population remains and it major threats are habitat alteration and poisening. It is a very large vulture (up to 115cm) and is a sociable species congregating around carcasses. It builds its nest high up in Acacia trees and usually only lays one egg. Further ecological research is needed and more nesting areas need to be identified on this species. BRinK is happy to report that this rare bird breeds in Kuzikus.
Black-footed cat Felis nigripes - Vulnerable -
The Black-footed cat is a rare small cat that hunts on rodents and small birds. It is very sensitive to disturbance and seeks refuge quickly.
White-backed Vulture Gyps africanus - Near threatened -
The population of this vulture is declining.
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