Hercules's Story

In October 2024, a tiny rhino calf named Hercules was brought to Care for Wild after surviving a brutal hyena attack. His small body was covered in deep wounds across his legs and face, with multiple fractures and crush injuries. For a calf so young, the extent of his trauma was almost unimaginable, it was a miracle he survived the attack at all. He was named Hercules for the extraordinary strength and courage he displayed from the very beginning.

Hercules was admitted straight into the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where he would spend the first six months of his recovery under constant supervision. His care required meticulous attention to detail and an extraordinary level of creativity. Pain management was critical: he received tailored analgesic protocols to keep him comfortable while allowing him to rest, recover, and begin moving safely. Daily veterinary assessments included careful wound inspections and advanced treatments, including localised antibiotic injections directly into injured joints to prevent infection and maintain mobility.

His recovery plan also incorporated plasma transfusions from the Rhino Blood & Plasma Bank at Care for Wild, a resource collected from older, healthy rhino orphans. These transfusions boosted his immune system and helped fight infection in his compromised body. In addition, the team developed innovative wound care techniques, using specialised dressings, protective padding, and creative positioning to encourage healing while preventing further injury to his fragile limbs. Every procedure required careful handling, patience, and adaptability, sometimes involving multiple team members working together to gently administer treatment without causing him stress.

Slowly, against all odds, Hercules began to heal. As his wounds closed and his fractures strengthened, he transitioned from the ICU into the larger rehabilitation facility. This milestone allowed him to be closer to other rhinos while continuing his intensive therapy. Through it all, Hercules’ gentle nature shone. He found comfort and companionship in Phil the sheep and Peggy Sue, an orphaned foal, who brought both emotional support and a playful presence during his long recovery.