Arthur's Story

Arthur, affectionately known as “The Brave”, was just three weeks old when his world was torn apart. In the early hours of 20th May 2018, field rangers in the Kruger National Park reported gunshots in the Skukuza area. When SANParks helicopters arrived at the scene, they found a rhino cow lying dead, her horns brutally hacked away. At her side stood her tiny calf, frightened, wounded, but still by her side.

Arthur bore the marks of his courage. SANParks veterinarian Dr Peter Buss examined him and confirmed that his injuries, a deep machete wound across his back and a gash to his foot — were likely sustained when he tried to defend his mother from the poachers. Even at just three weeks old, this little rhino had already shown extraordinary bravery.

At 12:50 that same day, Care for Wild received the call: Arthur was being flown in by helicopter. His arrival is a moment forever etched in our memories. Wrapped in blankets in the back of the aircraft, weighing barely 80 kilograms, Arthur was so small he could be carried in his rescuers’ arms. Despite his size, he carried the weight of loss and unimaginable trauma.

On arrival, he was rushed to the ICU. Petronel Nieuwoudt immediately called in veterinary professionals and plastic surgeon Dr Nolene du Plessis to assist. Miraculously, Arthur’s spine was intact. His wounds were cleaned, dressed, and bandaged, and only hours later he took his first bottle of milk — a fragile but certain sign of hope.

From that moment, Arthur’s true character began to shine. Despite everything he had endured, he was full of energy, positivity, and playfulness. He trusted his caregivers quickly, showering them with the boundless spirit of a calf who refused to let darkness take away his light. His resilience and warmth became a source of inspiration to everyone around him.

While still in the ICU, Arthur was introduced to Summer, another orphan who had arrived at the sanctuary. Their bond was instant, and from that day on, they were inseparable. Arthur’s story of courage spread across the world, touching thousands of people. He was awarded a badge of bravery by the children of the Voortrekkers and received countless letters and cards from children everywhere who found hope in his story.

Arthur’s recovery was made possible by the tireless work of veterinarians, caregivers, sponsors, and supporters who rallied behind him. Every treatment, every night spent watching over him, every act of generosity from around the world formed part of his remarkable journey of healing. Arthur’s bravery continues to remind us all why every orphan deserves a second chance.