Conservation
“For most of history, man has had to fight nature to survive;
in this century he is beginning to realise that,
in order to survive, he must protect it.”
Jacques Yves Cousteau
From the very beginning, we have aimed to create ethical conservation and rewilding models for various endangered species. These models can serve as sustainable blueprints for similar projects across the globe. Kishindo itself is a land that has undergone intensive natural restoration. Now, semi-arid farmlands form an expansive wilderness where we protect some of nature’s most vulnerable species.
Rewilding Success
Rewilding at Kishindo started as our necessity to prepare the reserve for supporting endangered big cats; however, it has since evolved into a far-reaching natural phenomenon. The Blue Crane, Verreaux’s Eagle, Blue Korhaan, Black-footed cat, Aardvark, and Aardwolf represent just some of the rare species that have returned to the land and now find protection at Kishindo.
A Metapopulation Story
With ample grassland plains and a passion to expand our conservation efforts, Kishindo started its Cheetah Wild breeding project in 2014. In collaboration with the Endangered Wildlife Trust and The Cheetah Metapopulation Initiative, our reserve has produced many young adult cheetah. These cheetah have been successfully relocated to other selected game reserves throughout Africa.
The Ex-Situ Model
Our unique approach to tiger conservation drew inspiration from the pioneering efforts of renowned conservationist, Dr Ian Player. In the 1950s, he relocated rhino across Southern Africa to save the endangered species from extinction. Today, ex-situ rhino projects exist in Australia and America, acting as a major catalyst in the species’ success. Kishindo’s Tiger Canyon project employs a similar model, using land in Africa to bolster global efforts in saving the endangered Asian Tiger from extinction. Importantly, Tiger Canyon raises awareness and educates people about the plight of the tiger.
“No one will protect what they don't care about; and no one will care about what they have never experienced.”
Sir David Attenborough
Donate to help our Conservation Projects
Kishindo has not developed a non-profit trust yet, but we believe that conservation projects should eventually become self-sufficient through sustainable eco-tourism. This process takes decades and often lifetimes to achieve, Kishindo is still a relatively young eco-tourism destination and therefore appreciates donations for our conservation projects. Here is a list of conservation projects we need help with.
Re-introduction of new species onto the reserve. Including gemsbok, black wildebeest, mountain zebra, and vulture that are rarely seen on the reserve.
Construction of water holes in remote areas, and for our breeding blue crane population.
Control of alien and invasive plants.
Fencing of new areas of land to protect wildlife.
Purchase of new land to expand our conservation areas.