Thanda Private Game Reserve in northern Zululand - a member of Leading Hotels of the World - has re-introduced a breeding pack of wild dog onto the Big 5 property - the first time that this has happened on private land in KwaZulu-Natal.
The two males were relocated from the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve to Thanda’s 6000 hectare reserve, 23 kilometres north of Hluhluwe, as part of a local drive in northern Zululand to find ways to benefit the wild dog in the area and indeed save them from being further endangered. The African wild dog is the continent’s most endangered carnivore.

“A comprehensive progress report is in place that monitors their well-being while they settle onto the property,” stated Alan Williams, Thanda’s wildlife manager.

The two females have been brought onto the property from Venitia in the north. One of the females is pregnant, and the pups are expected towards the end of June.

Wild dog are endangered mainly due to habitat loss and the misconception that they kill livestock and are therefore generally persecuted by farmers as well as being threatened by diseases brought into areas by domestic dogs, rabies etc.

Since its opening in May 2004, Thanda has invested R8-million in its ongoing wildlife introduction plan, in addition to the 460 bird species, insects and reptiles found on the reserve.

Thanda boasts nine luxury bush villas, four luxury tents, a wellness centre and the acclaimed Vula Zulu Cultural Experience in the midst of Big 5 territory. Vula Zulu is an extension of Thanda’s dedication to the local community and part of the recently launched JAC (an acronym for Jobs, Aids and Conservation) initiative - a long-term corporate investment and commitment initiative injecting a staggering R42-million into the area.
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