“All of our performance metrics improved, even as the pandemic progressed,” says Dr. Muntifering. “We look at three big metrics each year: the number of days that teams are out on patrol; kilometers traveled by foot [by the Rangers]; and number of total rhino sightings. Each of these went up significantly.”

All these metrics combined mean a better outcome for black rhinos. “Since August 2020, we haven’t seen any poaching events.” Further, for the first time ever, rangers accumulated over 4,000 rhino sightings in one year, a ten-fold increase from what was recorded over a decade ago, before the program started.

As the Rhino Rangers have increased their efforts, they continue to build an ever-increasing log of invaluable data. This information is critical to understanding this species, such as how they utilize the landscape, what threats they face, and how we can best continue to protect them. The rhinos in this portion of Namibia make up the last truly wild black rhinoceros population remaining in the world today. The more we understand about them, the better positioned we will be to protect them from extinction.

Recognizing and integrating the local human dimension in our efforts to save rhinos is perhaps even more critical than the direct rhino protection efforts led by rangers. Spending days on end in the desolate Namibian desert carries with it no shortage of risks – from brutal weather, physically demanding work, and remote locations. That’s why a new Ranger welfare initiative was created this last year, with the goal of providing Rhino Rangers with increased access to and knowledge of personal healthcare. Rangers now receive first aid training, as well as no-cost professional gear like boots, cargo pants, and sun hats. Further, Rangers can now access health screenings with a physician to improve their personal health and wellbeing.

As the Zoo’s first Animal Nutritionist, Kelly Kappen formulates healthy diets with specific nutrient targets and oversees feed acquisition and distribution logistics. She also stays up to date with the evolving field by conducting research and sharing information with zoo nutritionists around the world.

“Zoo animal nutrition is one hundred percent collaboration,” says Kappen. “I can formulate a “perfect” diet on paper, but I have to rely on feedback from animal care staff, as well as results from veterinary exams to make sure it’s working in the real world.”

Kappen works with staff across the Zoo to ensure that their priorities are considered in diet formulations. For example, veterinarians may have concerns about an animal’s medical or dental health that nutrition can help address. And keepers may need high-value treats for training and need to know what options can be provided. Kappen considers all of this so she can develop a healthy diet that meets nutrient requirements and addresses any concerns.

Visitors experience a small-scale example of what you may see on a larger farm – such as rolling pastures, quintessential red barns, and the oinks, chirps, and moos of farm animals. They also learn about the farming profession and where our food comes from.

As modern farming practices have significantly evolved since the Farm’s opening in 2000, a renovation was due to reflect the ever-changing industry. With new educational experiences, enhanced animal habitats, and updated interpretive messaging throughout, guests can access information about the important role that agriculture plays in our collective lives today.