Saving Private Rhino

Saving Private Rhino, an initiative established after two rhino were killed and dehorned on the Aquila Private Game Reserve in the Western Cape, has been set up to enhance the conservation of Africa’s rhino and wildlife heritage.
Aspects of this anti-poaching solution are being made available to private game reserves that require assistance defending their wildlife.
The founder of Saving Private Rhino, Searl Derman, has launched the first in a series of training courses designed to train game rangers and security teams in anti poaching tactics.
This 10-day course, normally offered at a cost of R13 000, will be provided free to two members from private reserves that are home to rhino. The course is designed to ensure those students qualifying, can return to their lodges with enough knowledge to implement basic security systems and train other staff.
The course will provide training and guidance in:
Suspect recognition
Legal aspects
Routine and clandestine patrolling
Map reading/GPS
Radio communication/signals
Ambush and counter-ambush tactics
Kit and equipment
Tracking
Poaching methods and how to counteract them
Observation points and hides
Deployment methods and clandestine infiltration/exfiltration
Crime-scene management
Training on hi-tech forewarning surveillance radar and thermal imaging systems
A 24-hour realistic operational “vasbyt” exercise
Small team tactics
Firearms competency (optional extra)

The first course is scheduled to start on November 11 and will run for 10 days at the Saving Private Rhino training facility in Touws River. The instructors have years of experience and have trained in anti-poaching tactics throughout South Africa.
Derman is determined to train two rangers from every game reserve around the country. “Funds for the training will come from donations to our Saving Private Rhino campaign or out of my own pocket but I will do everything I can to ensure that no-one has to experience the death of a butchered rhino” said Derman.
Those interested in the course can mail media@savingprivaterhino.org. All applicants must be reasonably fit and healthy, have no criminal record or have ever been accused of conservation crimes and must work for an establishment that has rhino registered with Nature Conservation.
The anti-poaching course as well as accommodation for the duration of the course will be at no charge for two members of private game reserve staff. Meals are for own account.