A Twinkle of Hope: Thandi’s Sixth Calf Has Been Named
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We have some very exciting news to share from the heart of Kariega Game Reserve!
Our extraordinary rhino poaching survivor, Thandi, has welcomed a new calf into the world. In a twist of fate, it is highly possible she gave birth on 2 March; the exact anniversary of the day she was poached all those years ago. To see Thandi transform a day of past tragedy into a day of new life is the ultimate triumph. We couldn’t be happier to see this little one exploring the Kariega Game Reserve.
Every new calf is a profound symbol of hope for this beautiful species, and we are absolutely thrilled for this new addition to the Kariega Family and the global fight for rhino conservation.
A Name Rich in History and Love
Thandi’s sixth calf has officially been named Twinks.
The name was chosen in honor of Twinks Rushmere, the beloved Matriarch of the Rushmere family and wife to the late Colin Rushmere, the visionary founder of Kariega Game Reserve. It is a truly perfect story, especially considering that one of our other rhinos on the reserve is named Colin. Now, just as in life, Colin and Twinks walk the beautiful landscapes of Kariega together.
From the moment she took her first breath, it became clear that baby rhino Twinks shares a profound connection with her human namesake. They share a vibrant spirit; both are energetic, deeply curious, and remarkably strong, with an unmistakable twinkle in their eyes.
Two Twinks, One Beautiful Spirit
As we watch baby Twinks navigate her days in the African bush, we cannot help but marvel at how her personality mirrors the wonderful characteristics of the Rushmere mom:
- A Powerful Presence: Both possess a natural magnetism. Their presence instantly pulls everyone in; not because they loudly demand it, but because they have a rare, quiet ability to spread love, create a sense of awe, and display a fierce, admirable sense of independence.
- Curiosity and Playfulness: Curiosity runs strong in both of them. They take on every single moment as a challenge to grow, learn, and conquer. When they are busy exploring, their playful nature creates an immediate environment of happiness, warmth, and pure sunshine.
- Instinctive and Aware: They are deeply in tune with the world around them. Blessed with great instincts, they navigate their environments with an innate wisdom and sharp awareness.
- Unshakeable Strength and Resilience: Life requires a brave heart, and both Twinks possess exactly that. Baby Twinks has already bravely conquered the recent harsh storms in the wild, just as Twinks Rushmere has spent a lifetime braving the storms of life with absolute fearlessness. They are strong in the truest sense; carrying both immense responsibility and deep love with unwavering courage.
A Legacy of Love and Survival
The birth of Twinks is more than a joyful moment for Kariega. It is a reminder of what conservation makes possible.
It is a reminder that when people come together to protect wildlife, lives are saved. It is a reminder that one survivor can become the beginning of generations. It is a reminder that hope is not just an idea, sometimes, it arrives on four small legs, full of curiosity, courage and a twinkle in its eye.
Twinks Rushmere’s life has been beautifully dedicated to raising five children and imparting boundless wisdom, love, and grace to 17 grandchildren and 8 great-grandchildren to date. Throughout her life, she has always connected her family deeply to nature and to the greater good.
We wish the exact same rich life and legacy for our baby rhino, Twinks. We hope for her a long, safe life dedicated to raising a family of her own; one that will contribute to the greater good and the ultimate survival of her species, following perfectly in the footsteps of her legendary mother, Thandi.
Welcome to the world, little Twinks. You are a beacon of light, a testament to resilience, and the perfect new chapter in the Kariega story.
Join us in protecting this legacy
Support rhino conservation through the Kariega Foundation and help ensure that calves like Twinks have the chance to grow, roam free and raise the next generation.
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