In 2007, poachers killed the last Eastern black rhino in the wild at Akagera National Park.

A decade of planning later, a reintroduction effort began in 2017 with the translocation of 18 black rhinos. The park now employs a team of trackers who locate the rhinos daily to provide protection and monitoring their condition and wellbeing as well as to combat the threat of poaching.

The Columbus Zoo's Involvement

• Our long relationship with Akagera National Park now extends to providing both uniforms and rations for the patrol units.
• The Columbus Zoo and Aquarium works with the park’s community engagement staff to build conservation awareness and support in the communities in the surrounding areas.